YURT ABOUT THIS? A Different Way to Camp
you don’t have to go too far to try out a yurt-style rental
Don’t pigeonhole yourself: There are all kinds of getaways within a couple of hours of the Chippewa Valley, and we don’t just mean location. We’ve published our fair share of stay-cay options: roundups of unique area Airbnbs, local bed-and-breakfast businesses, and even a treehouse-style rental near Pepin. As it turns out, none of those included this type of build: yurts.
The traditional yurt (originally known as a "ger") is rooted in Central Asian culture, a primary style of home in places like Mongolia for thousands of years. A yurt is a portable, circular dwelling – made with flexible poles for structure and covered in felt or other fabric – with a wood-burning stove sat in the middle and a long chimney through the roof, as described by National Geographic.
The modernization of yurts in places like North America and Europe has resulted in another use: perhaps not as a structure to live long-term in, but for camping. On that note, here are a few yurt-style Airbnb rentals that can get you out of the city and off the grid.
Stone Moss Eco-Retreat Yurt
Cost per night: $140
Located an hour away from Eau Claire, this rental retreat is an off-grid option perfect for a solo trip or quiet getaway with a partner or friend (oh, and it’s dog-friendly). “Off-grid” means just that: there is no electricity or Wi-Fi, or running water. A semi-enclosed camp kitchen provides well water, a propane camp stove and grill, cookware, and more, while a composting toilet and wash area can be found on the other side of the deck. If you’re the adventurous type (which you kind of have to be to get the most of this rental), the location is great for hiking, birding, stargazing, and reconnecting with nature.
Driftless Yurt on Harmony Ridge
Two-night minimum: $262
About two-and-a-half hours away from Eau Claire and just outside of Viroqua, this yurt is big enough to accommodate a small group of friends or family, and is pet-friendly. Fitted with a wraparound deck, fully-stocked kitchen galley, and a nearby clearing with a fire pit for group bonfires, this yurt-style rental may be able to host more people, but it’s still off-grid: no Wi-Fi, cooking is possible with thanks to a wood-burning stove, and hygiene is covered by a manual shower and composting toilet. Located on 14 acres above the Bad Axe River valley, there are incredible views with hiking trails, trout fishing streams, and even a nearby lake.
Off Grid Rustic Mongolian Yurt
Two-night minimum: $183
Located in Almond (I’m finding out right now there is a town named Almond in Wisconsin), about two-and-a-half hours away from Eau Claire, this is the least “glamping” vibe of the bunch. Made with sheep wool insulation sourced from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, and a skylight (or “urg”). Inside, string lights illuminate the space, fitted with a full-size bed and futon, and compact kitchenette. Outside, a mini charcoal grill and propane camp stove are provided, plus a fire pit with chairs can host a small bonfire. Nearby, you can visit the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, Chain O’ Lakes in Waupaca, Hartman Creek State Park, and more outdoors sights.
Oxbow Glamping Tent
Two-night minimum: $242
Speaking of “glamping,” this Menomonie-area rental is set up just for that kind of experience. Located one mile north of Downsville, about a half-hour drive from Eau Claire, this campsite includes a queen bed with two nightstands, luggage rack, extra blankets and games, and a private fire pit with chairs. A porta-potty is located nearby, and you can rent an e-bike to use on the Red Cedar Trail. Plus, you won’t be far from Menomonie (or Eau Claire, for that matter).
