8 breathtaking off-the-grid retreats in the US

In a world dominated by technology, finding a moment to truly unplug can seem nearly impossible. Yet, there are hidden gems where you can escape life’s pressures – all you need is to know where to find them.

Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you. Here are our top picks for cabins and lodges throughout the USA that let you unwind, reconnect with nature, and rejuvenate instead of focusing on your devices.

1. Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge, Alaska

To reach this coastal lodge on Fox Island in Alaska, you’ll need to take a 12-mile boat journey from Seward. The property features an eight-guest cabin and a main lodge nestled among the trees, situated between a serene pebble beach and a tranquil lagoon.

Powered by renewable energy with propane generators as a backup, the cabins lack electrical outlets, TVs, radios, and phones (but emergency communication is available if needed). Guests can hike, kayak, and explore the local marine life with guidance from on-site naturalists.

2. Osprey Cabin, Lake Metigoshe State Park, North Dakota

This backcountry cabin in northern North Dakota's state park is reachable via one of two routes: a two-mile hike or a 1.5-mile canoe trip followed by a short portage. Upon arrival, you’ll find a charmingly rustic setup, accommodating up to six guests with two full beds and two twin beds, along with a wood-burning stove, provided firewood, and a propane lantern.

Here’s the tricky part: in addition to lacking electricity and cell service, there's a vault toilet on-site, but you'll need to bring in your own water. Enjoy the fresh country air while exploring over eight miles of trails perfect for hikers and mountain bikers, and take a dip or boat in the nearby small lakes.

3. Glamping Getaway Goblin Valley Yurts, Utah

Nestled in southern Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park, you'll discover two yurts that are heated and cooled, seamlessly blending with the park's stunning rock formations as if they came from another planet. Available for year-round reservations, these tan yurts feature a porch, a living area, a single bunk bed atop a double bed, and a futon.

Don’t forget to bring a flashlight and candles, as the yurts have no electricity. However, this certified Dark Sky park offers plenty of adventures, whether you're wandering through the Valley of Goblins or canyoneering into Goblin’s Lair.

4. Taos Goji Eco-Lodge, New Mexico

Situated in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, just outside Taos, New Mexico, this eco-lodge is surrounded by inspiring forest views and serene landscapes. The cabins, built in the early 1900s, once welcomed writers like DH Lawrence and Aldous Huxley, the latter of whom constructed an outhouse that still stands today.

Heat is provided by wood-fired stoves, and while wi-fi may be inconsistent and cellular service limited, the property adds a touch of farm life with its organic goji berries, fruits, and vegetables, along with free-range chickens, goats, and alpacas.

5. Timberlock, New York

This camp-style getaway in New York State's Adirondacks offers a nostalgic atmosphere for those who cherish memories of summers spent in the woods with new friends.

The family-run property features charming cabins of various sizes, all boasting views of the shoreline of Indian Lake. Keep in mind that the cabins lack electricity; instead, propane is used for lighting and heating water, while a wood stove keeps things cozy on chilly nights.

Few visitors complain about the absence of wi-fi or TV, as they find plenty to do kayaking, canoeing, and enjoying other water activities, as well as biking or playing tennis.

6. Pioneer Cabins, Kumbrabow State Forest, West Virginia

Perched atop Rich Mountain on the edge of the Allegheny Highlands, this West Virginia state park offers guests the chance to stay in one of six pioneer cabins. These rustic treasures provide a welcome escape from the digital world, lacking electricity and running water, yet they include modern amenities such as gas lights, gas refrigerators, a kitchen, linens, a wood fireplace, and a grill. Showers are available at a central bathhouse, and outdoor toilets serve as restrooms.

7. Appalachian Mountain Club Maine Wilderness Lodges, Maine

Located in Maine’s 100-Mile Wilderness, this property features a collection of lodges and a trail system that offers a true off-the-beaten-path experience. Originally a private camp in the mid-1800s, the pond-side Gorman Chairback Lodge & Cabins boasts four deluxe cabins with private bathrooms, eight shoreline cabins equipped with woodstoves and gas lamps, plus a bunkhouse.

The Little Lyford Lodge & Cabins includes nine private cabins that combine double and bunk beds, complete with porches, wood stoves, and gas lamps. For an extra charge, dogs are welcome to join as well. Medawisla Lodge & Cabins (meaning 'loon' in Abenaki) offers five hilltop cabins and four waterfront cabins featuring electric LED lighting and wood stoves.

8. Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia

Access this backcountry inn in Georgia by hiking to Amicalola Falls State Park. Keep in mind that cellphones, radios, and nearly all electronic devices are prohibited (the park’s visitor center serves as an emergency contact point). The inn’s four main buildings contain 20 bedrooms equipped with fans or heaters, bunk beds, linens, and plenty of lighting.

In the dining hall, guests enjoy family-style breakfasts and dinners. After a day of hiking, unwind in the bathhouse or relax and socialize in the Sunrise Room. The inn also serves as a gateway to the Appalachian Trail and the moderate 9.8-mile Len Foote Hike Inn Trail loop.