Escape civilization by staying in the Eldorado National Forest, 20 minutes south of town. In a log cabin at this woodsy 165-acre resort, you can lie on a hammock beneath the aspens or sit in a rocker on your own front porch. All but three of the cabins have a kitchen and wood-burning stove or fireplace. Some cabins are close together, and the furnishings aren't fancy (think futons as sofas), but there's a wonderful summer-camp charm about the place that makes it special. There are also five modern homes that sleep six. The resort sits on the edge of the highway, which allows it to stay open in winter—a boon for skiers—but in summer, request a cabin away from the road. Pros: Gorgeous, rustic setting. Cons: Nearest nightlife is 20 mi away in South Lake Tahoe.
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