21 Treehouse Vacation Rentals That'll Whisk You Away on a Storybook Adventure
Childhood summers usually meant a few sure things: Trips to the pool, a vacation by the beach (if one was lucky or close by), playing outside until the porch light came on, and, of course, trips to the library. Few things were as thrilling as walking through those air-conditioned doors into the smell of old, probably germ-filled, plastic-covered books. It enveloped me in an enticing cloud and begged me to meander up and down the aisles, running my fingers along the spines until a title caught my fancy. I was the kid who wobbled out of the library with at least 20 books quivering under her chin, arms barely long enough to hold the stack. (The library limit is sadly now 10.) I would have taken every book that piqued my interest, but participating in the annual summer reading challenge always sweetened the deal. What child could resist a free, mini pepperoni pizza?
A series that I zipped through one year happened to be Magic Tree House, my imagination vividly carrying me along with Jack and Annie on their adventures with Merlin and Morgan le Fay. Those books always made me wish for an adventure in a real treehouse, which our small Japanese maple would not support. These treehouse Airbnbs are fulfilling all my Magic Tree House dreams—and with everything from luxury treehouse vacation rentals to treehouse cabins, there's something for everyone so you can embark on your own adventure.
Phenix City, Alabama
Aptly named the Magic Treehouse, this property inspires a little wonder on all of its 35 acres. Wander through the fields and woods on peaceful strolls, take long naps in the zero-gravity chair on the balcony, and enjoy the solitude. Though, if you wanted to bring a friend or four, the treehouse will easily accommodate a party.
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Hot Springs, Arkansas
Escape to the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where you're highly likely to run into a deer or wild turkey on your morning walk. Spend the afternoons wading through the clear waters of the creek and the evenings swinging on the porch swing or cozied up by the fireplace.
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Kissimmee, Florida
Deemed a paradise in the woods, this contemporary treehouse is accessible by a wide, sturdy staircase. Enjoy the sunset on the balcony, cozy up in the loft, or take a little jaunt to Old Town.
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Chickamauga, Georgia
Gather the girlfriends and steal away for the weekend to Le Petit Chateau, a French country dream house in a shade of pastel mint green. It is part of the Candlelight Forest Resort, a 200-acre area with mountain lakes, hiking trails, and a sports and games park, making it a fun family destination, too.
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East Point, Georgia
Nestled in a small community of tiny homes, this treehouse is perched atop a 400-year-old oak tree 25 feet in the air. Large windows give you a view onto the pond and gardens, and the veranda invites you to sit in the evenings with a glass of wine, watching the sunset.
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Kennesaw, Georgia
True to its name, Treasure Hunt Treehouse offers a bit of adventure as soon as you step foot on the grounds. Visitors must traverse the rope bridge to access the front door. Once inside, fling open the three French doors and let the sound of the trickling stream lull you into an afternoon nap.
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Savannah, Georgia
Treehouse living, composting toilets, and limited hot water not your thing? This property is the ideal compromise. Guests stay in suites in the main house, while the quirky treehouse, which sits under swaying Spanish moss, is a community area for all to enjoy.
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Campton, Kentucky
Feeling a bit daring? Perhaps you want to spend the weekend as a cliff dweller. These tiny homes are bolted above Red River Gorge, accessible by climbing several hundred suspended stairs. Dazzling, sweeping views are guaranteed—but it's not for the faint of heart.
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Stanton, Kentucky
At this rustic fairy hideaway, you can sleep among the stars—the deck is the prime place to look up and see the constellations. Spend your days wandering the forest in the Red River Gorge before climbing back up to the treehouse to catch a spectacular sunset over the mountains.
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Waveland, Mississippi
Curled right up in a live oak, this treehouse is a two-block walk from the beach, ideal for a couple or two friends looking for a little adventure by the seaside. When you've surfed, swam, and explored to your hearts' content, take a quiet moment on the balcony (morning is best) to admire the birds and butterflies that flit through the garden.
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Murphy, North Carolina
This treehouse gained fame after the Internet learned that it was the idea of a nine-year-old boy. Eli Sylvester built the treehouse with his own money and uses the profits to give back to his community. So, if you want to do some good without any effort, relaxing at this treehouse is the way to go.
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Canton, North Carolina
This treehouse can be neatly described as wonderous under the snow. Verdant in the spring. Basically, a marvel all year round. It is not, however, just for those looking to escape the bustle of a metropolis. The Superhosts require that every prospective guest submit a two to three paragraph statement about what calls them to the treehouse.
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Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
At the Sea Loft, you'll be surrounded by views of the marsh and in close proximity to Harbor Town. Enjoy the ethereal serenity of a misty morning sunrise before exploring the environs of the island. Â
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Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains are calling all artists and seekers of tranquility. Whether you pass the time curled up with a book in the sun-bathed living room or are inspired to create, the serenity of the mountains provides an idyllic haven to do whatever you'd like.
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Fredericksburg, Texas
Need something a bit lower to the ground? Wind your way up the short but charming staircase to this sapphire-blue treehouse, sitting amongst live oaks. It's a peaceful hideaway, but in close proximity to Main Street should you want a little liveliness.
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Fredericksburg, Texas
Looking for an artist's retreat? You'll find it at The Acorn, as you climb up the helical staircase and open the door to a light, airy little haven with vaulted ceilings, a rain shower, and plenty of whimsy. This might be the place where you finally start that manuscript or finish a long overdue art project.
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Bridgewater, Virginia
Towering between the pine trees, this treehouse is accessible by a winding walnut staircase and has a weathered charm, thanks to the salvaged barn beams and hammered copper sink. The house is in walking distance to the river, with views all around. The (possibly) best part? A copper tub sitting on the deck. It functions as a hot tub where you can relax and watch the stars.
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Richmond, Virginia
Searching for the best treehouse in Richmond? Look no more. Airbnb named it one of the top 20 places to stay in the entire state, among other awards. When you stay here, you're also supporting the local community—the Trailside Treehouse gives to non-profits in the area.
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West Palm Beach, Florida
Pine trees in Florida? You bet! This treehouse is snugly tucked between two said trees and is a great adventure getaway for the whole family. Kids will have a blast diving into the pool and exploring the property, and family meals are made easy with the picnic area complete with a grill. After you've wrangled everyone into their pajamas, give the kids the most epic bedtime story told on the deck under the stars.
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Shreveport, Louisiana
Experience Louisiana lake life at this treehouse idyll, surrounded by Cross Lake on Pine Island. Spend the days kayaking in the lake, evenings relaxing in the clawfoot tub, and nights marveling at the stars while sitting on the balcony.
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French Creek, West Virginia
Craving true seclusion? This treehouse sits on 130 undisturbed acres with just the animals to keep you company. Hunters are welcome and the treehouse comfortably fits two for a quiet weekend away in the woods.