Where to Book Winter Cabins in California This Year

Disclaimer: California.com is not receiving any type of compensation for reviewing any of the products or services mentioned in this article.

Sipping on hot cocoa in a snowy cabin in the woods while listening to the crackling sounds of the fire and snuggling by the window just sounds like heaven—doesn't it? Luckily, the Golden State has plenty of places to rent a cabin in the winter to make your frosty dreams come true. 

The Best Places To Rent A Cabin In The Winter

California perfectly captures the magic and beauty of the cold—from mountaintop escapes to lakeside cottages, there are more than enough options for you to unwind in nature and admire the scenery. So, pack your sweaters from your newly created winter capsule wardrobe and enjoy the final days of the year at these winter cabins where you’ll forget about real life for a minute. 

Lake Tahoe Winter Cabins

1. Black Bear Lodge

Location: 1202 Ski Run Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe

Dreaming of a snug, snowy retreat by the slopes of Heavenly Ski Resort? Black Bear Lodge is your top spot. This cozy mountain sanctuary has the best Lake Tahoe winter cabins you can think of—it offers guests the opportunity to unwind while indulging in the luxuries of the area. With jetted bathtubs, gas fireplaces, and private garden patios, Black Bear Lodge is the ideal place for a romantic winter escape.

The boutique hotel is also within walking distance to awesome restaurants such as Cafe Fiore and Shangrila Himalayan Kitchen. You can even enjoy glamping in Northern California at this adventure-packed retreat in Lake Tahoe. 

2. Rustic Cottage Resort

Location: 7449 North Lake Boulevard, Tahoe Vista

Rustic Cottage Resort offers gorgeous Lake Tahoe winter cabins for people seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, the resort consists of 19 Tahoe-style cottages equipped with everything you need for a perfect winter cabin getaway. Each of the cottages has its own unique charm. The winter cabins are also conveniently located—they're only moments away from a sandy beach, the coolest ski resorts in California, and delicious dining options. Who wouldn’t want to spend a weekend or two at this winter wonderland?

3. Cedar Glen Lodge

Location: 6589 North Lake Boulevard Box 188, Tahoe Vista

A hot tub, sauna, putting green, firepit, sandy beach across the street, and seasonally heated pool—you'll find all of these luxurious amenities at Cedar Glen Lodge, where the coziest Lake Tahoe winter cabins await. The Eco-Friendly Award-winning resort also has pet-friendly rooms, so your four-legged friends can join you for this fun retreat. Surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders, Cedar Glen Lodge is the ideal destination for a romantic winter cabin getaway. You don’t have to drive too long to find outdoor activities; there are countless skiing, sledding, and cross-country snowmobiling opportunities nearby. 

Yosemite Winter Cabins

1. Yosemite West Reservations

Location: Yosemite National Park 

Have you ever met someone who didn't want to escape to a snowy haven in Yosemite National Park? Find a temporary winter home with Yosemite West Reservations; admire the magnificence of the park during the colder months. Guests can seek refuge in gorgeous vacation homes, cozy winter cabins, and peculiarly captivating cottages close to Badger Pass, Glacier Point, Wawona, and Yosemite Valley. Each unit has a distinctive feel, but one thing that these Yosemite winter cabins have in common is their snug and rustic ambience. Experience a digital detox with your special someone and soak in the beauty of the natural world. 

2. Yosemite Sunset House & The Red Door Apt

Location: 7381 Yosemite Park Way, Yosemite West

Sunset House Vacation Rentals is located inside the park in Yosemite West— only half an hour away from the most scenic areas of the park. Guests can either stay in the Yosemite Sunset House or the Red Door Apartment. The units are conveniently located close to the park's splendors; you’re only 12 miles from Yosemite Valley, 16 miles from Glacier Point, 16 miles from Wawona, and 20 miles from the Big Trees at Mariposa Grove. So, what are you waiting for? Cleanse your body and soul from crowded areas and recharge at one of the lovely Yosemite winter cabins. 

Snow-Covered Big Bear Cabins

1. Big Bear Cool Cabins

Location: 40375 Big Bear Boulevard, Big Bear Lake

Dreaming of a snowy cabin in the mountains with a hot tub to relieve you of your troubles? Seems like you’re looking for an escape at Big Bear Cool Cabins. Undoubtedly one of the best places to rent a cabin in the winter, this vacation destination is only a few hours away from Los Angeles and Orange County. This SoCal wonderland has all kinds of cozy winter cabins to satisfy your needs: luxurious lakefront homes, woodsy cottages, hot-tub cabins—you name it. With over 350 properties to choose from, finding the perfect one for you is an easy job. Spice up your romantic winter cabin getaway, and embark on a Southern California adventure with your one and only.    

2. Cienaga Creek Ranch

Location: 43630 Rainbow Lane, Angelus Oaks

Although Big Bear Lake is a four-season vacation destination, wintertime here is pure bliss. The perfect place to view the best of the region is at Cienaga Creek Ranch, where guests can explore undisturbed nature with their loved ones. Offering multiple cozy Big Bear cabins for a private retreat, the ranch's rentals are located on 40 acres in the San Bernardino National Forest—an unparalleled secluded retreat in SoCal. Pets are also welcome to stay with you; take them on a hike along the nearby trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, leash-free. After you enjoy the day hiking and going on ski tours, spend the evenings cuddling and snuggling in your idyllic winter cabin. 

Lake Arrowhead Cabins

1. Saddleback Inn

Location: 300 State Highway 173, Lake Arrowhead

Want to take the family to a snowy cabin in the woods this weekend? The Saddleback Inn definitely doesn't disappoint. Providing luxury resort lodging near the wonderful Lake Arrowhead, the inn offers fantastic winter cabins nestled in the pines. The premium resort is a local favorite—featuring queen and king beds, gas fireplaces, double jacuzzi bathtubs, multiple pet-friendly cottages, and a delicious restaurant to satisfy your cravings, this locale will have everyone feeling like they’re in seventh heaven. Saddleback Inn is also a short walk away from Lake Arrowhead Village, a historical communal hub for local residents and travelers alike. Spend one weekend here, and you may never want to leave. 

2. Arrowhead Tree Top Lodge

Location: 27992 Rainbow Drive, Lake Arrowhead

The moment you set foot at Arrowhead Tree Top Lodge, you’ll immediately notice the scent of pine trees and crisp mountain air—you’re instantly recharged. The gorgeous retreat is nestled amongst pine forests on four acres of lush grounds. Whether it’s a family vacation you seek or a romantic winter cabin getaway, the lodge has everything you desire. Enjoy an invigorating stroll on the private nature trail. Forget about your everyday routine for a while, and rediscover yourself at this relaxing mountain getaway.