California State Park cabins designed to attract younger, hipper crowd

A dozen architecture graduate students from Cal Poly Pomona recently took on the ambitious task of revitalizing camping. They spent two weeks researching the project and then another two weeks designing cabins based on specifications for size, portability and price. The designs for the cabins weren’t allowed to include electricity or running water.

The students created more than ten distinctively different cabin designs. At least one model they worked on is expected to be placed in a state park, but the hope is that it will prove so popular it will become the new standard for camping throughout California.

Students took the lead in designing a cabin that would boost interest among groups that are not typical campers, such as younger people and minorities. One of the designs, the Wedge, is a 145-square-foot cabin with a unique roof that sits at a 22.5-degree angle. It incorporates wood and glass for a modern look and can fit one full-size bed and one twin-size bed inside. It also features a porch where occupants can relax in the shade on a sunny day.

Other finalists included the Skyline, a 180-square-foot cabin with windows that provide natural light and views from two sides, areas for beds and storage, and an L-shaped porch. The Revo Pod is a design spread over 150 square feet that was inspired by the classical lifeguard structure. It is lightweight and easy to transport, is large enough to house one to three people, and provides elements of the traditional RV experience.

The C Pitch+ consists of wood and steel, with a generous amount of interior floor space that allows for multiple beds and plenty of storage. This cabin also has large wrap-around windows so campers can fully enjoy their natural surroundings.

A prototype of The Wedge cabin was on display at this month’s California State Fair in Sacramento, and the selected cabin could be ready for use in state parks by the end of the year.

Cal Poly Pomona