Roosevelt Cabins, built by CCC in the 1930's Chisos Mountain Lodge is the only non-camping option in the 800,000 acres, of Big Bend National Park. There is a "newer" lodge building, but we were pretty thrilled to reserve one of the 5 Roosevelt Stone Cottages. They were constructed by the Civil Conservation Corps, in the late 1930's. What's Different? Very little has changed since the cottages were built. The fireplaces are no longer used for heating. Open windows are still the only means of cooling! The cars that bring the guests look a little different now, but the scenery remains the same! Room 105 Our cottage duplex had cozy covered porches with bouncy metal chairs. I do love a screened door, especially a blue one that matches the window trim and chairs! 2-Room Cottage The main room in the cottage, had 2 full-size beds and a sitting area. There's obviously been some updating over time, with a little western style decor and a fridge and microwave. I kept searching for hints of the original cottage. The white painted stone wall was trying to hide the old fireplace and side door. I so wish I could have seen what it looked like in the thirties. What's Original? I'm pretty sure this old floor must be original. The floor and the thick walls keep the cottage a little cooler in the warm months. Bathroom Surpises The bathroom was quite amusing. The old wooden door was covered with important messages (?) and there was a big old water heater, taking up a bit of space. The shower and soap dispenser were pretty much what you'd expect, for a State or National Park. Very functional. Music in the Cottage There was a hallway with shiny wood paneling, leading to another room. Probably a lot of families make good use of this 2-room set up. But I can just hear the kids now, "But where's the TV?" Luckily we brought our own entertainment. Nothing like a few tunes on the ukulele, when your hanging out in your cottage! What's Notable? There's nothing luxurious about staying in a CCC cottage, but who cares?You're sleeping in history and you're surrounded by one of the most unusual landscapes in the world. You can step out your door and walk a couple minutes to see "The Window", which is a dramatic opening in the rocks. Or, if you have the kind of clout that only President Roosevelt might have had, you can attempt to reserve Cottage #103! It's the one pictured with the fog lifting! It has a porch that gives you a sunset view of The Window, which means everyone wants to stay there! The Window I'm glad we got to see (and pose with) The Window. We'll have to come back and enjoy this view at the perfect time of year, when the sun sets in that perfect opening... maybe from our cottage porch!
3 Comments
11/27/2018 11:35:12 pm
I can feel that if I will be given the chance to go in Chisos Mountain Lodge, I will definitely have a great time there. By just looking at the photos you posted, it's a perfect location for a non-cozy, low-key, and simple vacation where you will find the moment you need for yourself! I am looking forward to experience having a vacation there because I've been fed with a lot of problems lately. I think, it would be good to see the beauty of Chisos Mountain Lodge at least now!
Reply
Beth Zienty
11/28/2018 06:39:19 am
Winter is a great time to visit the park and lodge! I hope you get the chance!
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
![]() Ninety Notable
Nights My New Year's Resolution for 2014 was to start documenting some of the memorable overnights I've had in some very odd and curious motels and hotels. Like the adventures in my Dining Blog, I have learned to enjoy the surprises that happen when you step out of the comfort zone, far away from the well-known chains. I began with a few entries recalling my very first home away from home memories from my youth. Then, I started sharing about some of the quirky and unforgettable motels, hotels and inns that my husband and I have discovered in recent years. The best part about this challenge was making some lists with Don and getting on the road in search of new overnight adventures. I gave myself a 2-year goal to write up 90 stories and the goal was met. Now we just keep on adding! Archives
December 2024
Categories
All
|