Rustic Cabin: The Perfect Fall Getaway
BY JULIE THOMAS, Ph.D.
I recently spied a “Rustic Cabin” scented candle while waiting in a check-out line. I lifted the candle to my nose and hoped for the Minnesota-lake-smell of a rustic cabin my family visited every year. That cabin provided adequate sleeping arrangements for the six of us and an open kitchen/living/dining area. Pull-string light switches and a single faucet at the kitchen sink completed the cabin amenities. Restroom and shower facilities were a short footpath away. In a word—that rustic cabin was perfect. Dad had access to fishing, Mom had two reading chairs (indoors and outdoors), and we kids had a safe, outdoor play area.
Our days were defined by a few rules—though we essentially had resort-wide freedom—and our parents seemed as excited about those sandy feet and nature collections as we were. These were the glory days of my childhood.
While your children and grandchildren might expect a commercialized vacation—with rides and shows—what if they grow up with no expectation of a “Rustic Cabin” scented candle? As parents and grandparents, we have a legacy opportunity to insure our children’s excitement about the natural world and fond memories of outdoor experiences. There’s no need to wait until next summer—when there’s potential for a Fall getaway in one of Nebraska’s state parks. Three state parks are located within an hour or two’s drive from Lincoln: Eugene Mahoney State Park, Platte River State Park, and Ponca State Park. All three parks boast colorful fall foliage, a range of cabin options (rustic and modern), hiking/biking trails, wildlife viewing, and safe outdoor play areas. Check outdoornebraska.gov to make cabin or camp site reservations and to see about additional activities (such as catch-and-release fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, or special naturalist programs).
You may find that an outdoor Fall getaway to encourage your children’s sense of wonder will also renew your own delight in nature.
Julie Thomas, Ph.D., is a retired science education professor from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a contributing writer for 55+.