Staying in one of Beavers Bend’s luxury cabins means that packing for a short getaway—or even for a full-blown family gathering—can be as easy as tossing a few things in a backpack and filling up the tank. Here’s a guide to basic packing for a winter escape around the Beavers Bend.
Bend Basics
Pack for a trip in Beavers Bend just like you’d pack for an overnight trip in a hotel.
Bring along those must-have toiletries—favorite face-and-body washes, shampoos, a toothbrush, toothpaste and razors. If you happen to forget an item like contact lens solution or sunscreen, just remember most necessities are available in town just a short drive away.
The cabin kitchens (stocked with dishes, cooking supplies and utensils) and ideal dining settings provide an empty canvas for any meal you’d like to create and share—plus a full-sized refrigerator just waiting to be filled.
To this end, there are grocery stores nearby that stock all the staples: milk, hamburger and hot dog fixings, ice, and other groceries are available at Pruett’s Food in Broken Bow, while steaks, sausages, bacon and other meats (plus other specialty items) can be found at Mountain Man Meat Market & Catering in nearby Hochatown.
Be sure to pack any specialty items (fancy cheeses or weird personal favorites) in a cooler in advance, as there’s no guarantee you’ll find it at area grocers. Same goes for specialty spirits and vintage wines—the area is home to a handful of liquor stores, but there’s no guarantee they’ll have that signature scotch you’re looking for, so if you’re picky pack ahead. If you’re a beer geek, you’re bound to find something you like from one of the local craft breweries.
Though lazing away in a luxury cabin is hardly ‘roughing it,’ there are some items you won’t want to leave home without. A flashlight or two will always be helpful, whether making the short trip to retrieve something out of the car or to discover a whole new roster of woodland creatures on a night hike.
Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center to pick up brochures, information and maps about the area and to get your bearings.
Walking (Hiking and Fishing!) in a Winter Wonderland
Even during winter, it rarely gets too cold for outdoor fun, just be sure to pack the right attire to fit the temp: thick sweaters, scarves, gloves, and the right footwear.
Waterproof boots and thick socks will ensure you can commune with nature for longer, and more comfortably.
Long, moisture-wicking layers (starting with thermal underwear if its extra cold) will keep you warm and toasty whether you’re exploring the hiking trails or blissing out on the porch watching the stars twinkle or snowflakes fall.
It might sound counterintuitive, but don’t forget to pack a bathing suit—many cabins are equipped with hot tubs, a luxurious way to warm up after a chilly day of exploring.
For the angling adventurer, trout fishing is hopping year-round, so be sure to pack your rod and all-weather waders.
Hunting season is in full swing, so be sure to wear orange when you’re out hiking and always stay aware of your surroundings.
If you plan to hunt yourself, check with the Wildlife Department for a full listing of dates, necessary licenses and designated hunting areas.
Entertaining Ideas: Indoors and Out!
The weather outside might be frightful, but the Wi-Fi inside your cabin is so delightful. To keep all those media machines up and running, be sure to pack phone/tablet chargers, USB plugs, ear buds, Bluetooth speakers, and all other accouterments necessary to keep your movie, shopping or online gaming going strong. Smart TVs are available in most cabins and are compatible with most gaming systems.
Read your favorite book or magazine while nestled next to the fireplace—or bring along your e-reader to finally finish that novel you started this summer.
A deck of cards is a low-tech way to show the family how to “Go Fish” while indoors…unless a game of Texas Hold ‘Em is more your family’s style. Board games and card games don’t require a screen and are always perfect for a friendly competition among friends and family alike.
But you didn’t come to Beavers Bend just to sit inside for three days. Bring along a pair of binoculars for bird-watching, leaf-peeping, and sasquatch-spotting, whether from the comfort of your cabin’s deck or during a hike through the woods.
At night, the sights on the ground give way to the sights above—a velvety black canvas perfect for star gazing. The lack of light pollution in the area means pristine views of the evening sky. Whether viewing through a simple pair of binoculars or a high-powered telescope, exploring the stars can be an exhilarating experience that pairs nicely with hot cocoa.
Save Room for the Return
Lastly, be sure to leave enough room to pack your trip takeaways, souvenirs and mementos—like Hochatown t-shirts, Bigfoot stickers, collectible cups, that special leaf you want framed, or anything else you might find along the way. A trip to Beavers Bend creates memories that last a lifetime, and you’ll want to bring a little piece of Beavers Bend back home with you.
