• Blog
  • Home Decor
    • Rustic Home Decor
    • Cabin Home Decor
    • Cottage Home Decor
    • Western Home Decor
  • First Time Mom Tips
    • Family Activities
    • Raising Babies
    • Raising Toddlers
  • Event Hosting
    • Party Planning
    • Wedding Planning
    • Dinner Party Decor
    • Tablescape Ideas
  • Holidays
    • Christmas
    • Thanksgiving
    • Halloween
    • Easter
    • New Years
    • Valentine’s Day
    • Independence Day
    • Mother’s Day
    • Father’s Day
  • About
    • About Rachel
    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclosures
    • Contact Me

Romanticizing Rachel

First time mom trying to romanticize the mundane parts of life.

February 16, 2024

15 Gorgeous Cabin Backyard Ideas For Better Summer Nights

If you’re getting excited for those warm summer nights, then you’ve come to the right place for your cabin backyard ideas! Let’s explore 15 different decor options to make the most of your outdoor space this summer.

Last Updated: 8/21/24


There is nothing, and I mean NOTHING, I love more than nights spent outdoors in a cabin backyard. So many of my favorite memories in life are around bonfires, in hot tubs, and knuckles deep in garden beds.

I’m a huge advocate for the importance of spending time outdoors. Now more than ever, it is so easy to waste away our days indoors and never interacting with nature.

There is nothing more healing and thrilling than getting reconnected with the Earth and all its little creatures. The best way to encourage this in your own home is optimize your outdoor space!

These cabin backyard ideas are all ways to improve your backyard space and make spending time outside feel easy and inviting. You will be looking forward to getting in your backyard as much as possible with these easy decor ideas.

Get ready to make some beautiful memories of your own this summer with family and friends. I swear I can already smell the smoke on my clothes and bug spray on my skin!

15 of the Absolute BEST Cabin Backyard Ideas

cabin backyard ideas

Related to Cabin Backyard Ideas:

  • Rustic Front Porch Decor Ideas
  • 20 Creative Cabin Activities for the Entire Family
  • Nature Toys to Get Your Toddler Loving the Outdoors

1. Native Plants All Over

Credit: @rsrrealestate

A great way to seamlessly blend the beautiful woods into your cabin backyard is by using native plants for your landscaping.

Not only is this an incredibly healthy way to maintain biodiversity in the environment, but it also proves to be one of the best low maintenance landscaping options.

Your outdoor space will be stunning in the summer as your native perennials will attract all kinds of butterflies, pollinators, and birds. This is a look that will certainly not disappoint!

2. Natural Water Feature

cabin backyard ideas

Backyard water features like a man made pond or trickling stream make the perfect place to find the serenity of the outdoors in your cabin backyard.

​Water features add beautiful visual interest to backyard cabin landscaping as well as those lovely sounds of running water at night.

Just imagine yourself in the upcoming warmer months spending time pond side as the sun sets with a glass of wine in hand. Pretty tough image to beat, if you ask me!

3. Container Vegetable Garden

Credit: @thekiwihome

One of the best ways to incorporate these cabin backyard ideas is by adding a container vegetable garden as the focal point of your yard!

Container gardens are great because they require much less maintenance than a traditional garden and also add visual appeal depending on the container you use.

The ease of care, functionality, and beauty of a vegetable garden make them one of those timeless staples for any outdoor living space. Plus, you’ll have delicious food at your disposal during the hot summer months!

4. Wildflower Cottage Garden

cabin backyard ideas

Credit: @colorelles

If the maintenance required for a vegetable garden is not your speed, try a cottage garden consisting of beautiful wildflowers! I’m actually obsessed with wildflower gardens and how whimsical they look.

Adding a small garden of flowers into your landscaping plan will immediately brighten up your space and improve your mornings as you have something lovely to look at when you drink your morning coffee.

The best part is that wildflowers grow quickly and easily. They only require some watering here and there but without all the pruning, weed control, and pest control of vegetable gardens. They’re the easy way and beautiful way to go for these cabin backyard ideas!

5. Small Cabin Tree House

Credit: @treehouse_experts

If you have little ones in your family that can’t wait to play outside at the cabin this summer, surprise them with their very own log cabin in the trees!

​When I was a little girl, I would endlessly dream of having a tree house and would have played with one endlessly if I ever got the chance.

If you have big trees on your land that are close in proximity, a tree house is the way to go to add some fun into your own backyard.

6. String Lights on Log Poles

cabin backyard ideas

Credit: @cfunk44

It doesn’t take a landscape designer to know that using string lights in your cabin backyard ideas will instantly elevate the look of your space. 

The good thing about them is they have a dual purpose. The added light will extend the amount of time you can spend outside, and add a lot of beauty and coziness to your hangouts!

Outdoor lighting is my favorite way to spruce up a fire pit or backyard pool. Turning on the twinkly lights in my yard every night brings me so much joy!

7. Garden Hideaways

Credit: @curly_garden_designer

When designing your garden, I highly encourage you to locate the perfect spot for a cozy seating area with outdoor cushions. 

It’s always nice to have a hideaway in your backyard you can utilize to sit and read on a warm afternoon, or just escape to enjoy the wildlife and lush greenery around you.

Time at the cabin should always mean getting the opportunity to reconnect with nature. Take a moment to breathe and remember that we are all a part of something bigger than ourselves!

8. Rustic Outdoor Kitchen

One of my favorite cabin backyard ideas is to incorporate an outdoor kitchen into your space! 

There’s nothing better for outdoor entertaining than having a dedicated kitchen space for grilling hot dogs, chilling cold beers, and storing snacks.

If you have the outdoor room, this is an amazing investment into your space that you will love and use all the time. Plus, it will drastically raise the property value if you ever decide to resell!

9. Modern Fire Table

Credit: @cfunk44

All cozy cabins should have the option of a modern fire table in the backyard. Sometimes we just don’t feel up to getting a traditional fire started and maintained. 

The benefit of fire tables is all in their ease of use. It will encourage you to get out in your backyard more often for bonfires because it requires much less of a commitment!

If you install it under cover like the photo above, you can enjoy a fire during heavy rains and storms. Make the most of a small yard with a beautiful fire table!

10. DIY Benches

cabin backyard ideas

Credit: @cfunk44

Cabin backyard ideas don’t have to be expensive, sometimes they just take a little creativity and hard work. 

The benches seen above are not only full of rustic charm, but they can be crafted from all natural materials that you could probably source from your very own backyard!

I’ve always preferred benches to individual chairs for a bonfire because it encourages connection with the people sitting around you. So don’t be afraid to get a little crafty and take advantage of the organic material at your disposal.

11. Hot Tub Under the Stars

Credit: @mrcrowthers

If you have enough room and a big enough budget when it comes to renovating your cabin backyard, might I suggest considering a hot tub install!

The best thing about a hot tub is that no matter what time of year it is at your cabin, the hot tub can be used and enjoyed. 

There is no better way to sit underneath the stars and enjoy the many benefits of being in mother nature without some of the downfalls like mosquito bites and cold nights!

12. Cozy Spacious Deck

cabin backyard ideas

Credit: @cfunk44

If you’re lucky enough to have a large deck in your back or front yard, it’s worth putting the bulk of your design effort into making it as cozy of a space as possible!

Decks are a huge asset to summer fun and make the perfect hosting opportunities. 

You have the added benefit of very easy access to the indoors as well as less wear and tear from the elements. Because of this, a deck is the perfect place to add more textiles like pillows and rugs to make the space extra charming.

13. Adirondack Chair Fire Pit

Credit: @cfunk44

Adirondack chairs are one of those classic cabin staples making them one of the best cabin backyard ideas. 

They are effortlessly beautiful and surprisingly comfortable with their deep seats and tall backs. I love the look of these chairs, especially when the wood is given an opportunity to shine like in the photo above. 

They can sit on wood chips, pine straw, wood mulch, pea gravel, or any kind of fire pit base. This makes them an incredibly versatile and beautiful seating option.

14. Swinging Bench with Outdoor Rug

cabin backyard ideas

Credit: @cfunk44

If you’re looking for some unique cabin backyard ideas that you won’t find at your neighbor’s house, consider going the extra mile for some hanging seating. 

A hanging bench filled with comfy pillows is so cute and inviting. Also it’s a huge step up from a swinging hammock!

This is one of those easy ideas that packs a huge design punch. Your guests will love visiting to hang out on and get pics of your adorable back yard.

15. Beautiful Oasis with Natural Stone

Credit: @dirtandglass

Using natural stones and boulders in your cabin backyard ideas is a foolproof way to achieve an elegant and timeless look.

Using natural materials is always best when it comes to cabin interiors. I would argue that stone is the design king of the natural materials!

It’s gorgeous, durable, easy to clean, and absolutely unforgettable when used well. If it’s in your budget for your cabin backyard, stone is definitely the way to go.


Related to Cabin Backyard Ideas:

  • Rustic Front Porch Decor Ideas
  • 20 Creative Cabin Activities for the Entire Family
  • Nature Toys to Get Your Toddler Loving the Outdoors

cabin backyard ideas

What did you think of the cabin backyard ideas? What other ways are we looking to make the most of those warm summer nights?

Posted In: Cabin Interiors, Dinner Party Decor, Event Hosting, Home Decor

Trackbacks

  1. Breathtaking Cottage Garden Inspiration (23 Ideas to Elevate Your Garden this Spring) - Romanticizing Rachel says:
    March 1, 2024 at 9:26 am

    […] Cabin Backyard Ideas […]

About Me

About Me
28 year old first time mom and first time homeowner in South Dakota sharing rustic home decor, hosting at home, and first time momma life.

Search Keywords

Privacy Policy

Click here to read my privacy policy.

Instagram Feed

Rachel Louise

romanticizingrach

More than ever, small businesses need our support! More than ever, small businesses need our support!

Between tariffs driving up prices for business owners and consumers tightening their wallets more and more every day, it matters now more than ever where we spend our dollar.

Don’t get me wrong, I definitely understand the ease and often the affordability of Amazon, but I’ve learned some things in the 5 months I haven’t used Amazon. 

1. I never needed 80% of the things I was buying. I fell victim to the “must have” lists and “get it now while it’s on sale” posts ALL. THE. TIME. It was nothing that ever added value to my life.

2. I didn’t even end up liking half the things I bought. Forever my biggest argument for shopping local with clothes and home decor is that you CANNOT know if you like something until you hold it in your hands or try it on your body.

3. I learned to be patient with my purchases. When you’re shopping in person, you have the luxury of walking around the store. You spend time with the item, you consider it next to other items, and you give yourself time to put something back that you maybe didn’t need. 

4. I was BURNINGGGG through paychecks from small Amazon orders. My bank account has been THANKING me for the decision to shop small and secondhand. 

I have my own feelings about Amazon and its effect on the Earth and on local economies, but I hope that at least one of the reasons above can convince you to decrease your time on Amazon and increase your time in local stores. 

I know it can feel overwhelming to make the shift to small and secondhand, but that’s why I started posting content on this page in the first place!

To try and make that transition feel easy and exciting for everyone. So if you’re looking for tips or inspiration, be sure to follow @romanticizingrach!

I’ve found some AWESOMEEE secondhand pieces this weekend that I’ll be sharing in a haul tomorrow. You guys will be GAGGED. 

So what do you think? Are you on board?? 😍😍

#vintagehomedecor #smallhomeideas #shopsmall #shopsecondhandfirst #supportsmalbusiness #thrifthauls #homeimprovement
If you love nostalgia, cozy home content, thrift h If you love nostalgia, cozy home content, thrift hauls, and occasional silliness, then welcome to my page 🫶🏻

Inspired by @turnerbrit to try this trend so make sure to give her a follow!!

#vintagehomedecor #smallhomeideas #countryhome #cottagecoreaesthetic #simpleliving #secondhandhome #nostalgiacore
This Tiffany shade has been sitting in my garage f This Tiffany shade has been sitting in my garage for months because the top busted, but I couldn’t get myself to just toss it 😩

I come across broken Tiffany shades at secondhand stores constantly!! Always for pennies and always beautiful just with some glass missing or a broken piece.

It always hurts my heart to leave them behind, but now I will be grabbing every single one I find 🥲

Just imagine a garden filled with planters like these 😍

#vintagehomedecor #gardendecor #diygarden #countryhome #cottagecoreaesthetic #diyplanter
In honor of hitting 100K and this awesome @siouxfa In honor of hitting 100K and this awesome @siouxfallsstage issue being published on the same day, I thought I’d take the time to tell you guys more about me!

You all know my name is Rachel and I live in a charming 100 year old little cottage in South Dakota. What you probably don’t know, though, is how we got here or what I’m doing when not at home! Here’s some things to know about me in no particular order 😍

1. I grew up in the suburbs of Minneapolis! I love Minnesota with all my heart and am thankful to visit often as most of my immediate family still lives there ☺️

2. I studied musical theatre and dance at the University of South Dakota and have since leaned into a new role as choreographer in the Sioux Falls theatre scene! It has brought me so much joy to stay connected to this part of myself since becoming a mom. Sioux Falls theatre is the best 🫶🏻

3. I’ve lived in multiple states including New York and South Carolina, but have happily settled in South Dakota and I love this state with my whole heart 🦬

4. I started posting consistently last November and never could have guessed what an awesome community would have come from it! I’ve always been passionate about making my home a cozy and inviting space but never thought so many people would relate to my love for shopping small and secondhand 🥹

5. I work part time as a nanny/house manager for a wonderful family. It’s been the biggest blessing of my life to have a job that allows me to have Archer by my side everyday in his formative years. ❤️

I can’t express how grateful I am to have so many of you following along and giving me a place to be creative. Posting on this app has brought me so much happiness and has truly allowed me to find myself again after becoming a mom. 

If you want to learn more about Sioux Falls theatre and meet the other amazing artists featured in this issue, make sure to check out the latest issue of @siouxfallsstage ! It’s a huge honor to be included among so many talented artists.

All photography by the talented @peter_chapmandp 📸
Something has been BUGGINNNGG me about this room f Something has been BUGGINNNGG me about this room for ages 😩

I absolutely adore the paneling in this room, and I think in my efforts to feature the beautiful wood, I tried to go minimal with the decor.

But what I actually needed was something with enough contrast to make the wood really pop!

I’m a sucker for a jute rug and initially thought that’s what I would put in this space. I fell DEEPLY in love with this unique shag from @revival , though, and I’m SO GLAD I decided to trust my gut. It’s the Rojda Shag Rug in 5x8! 😍

It’s the perfect amount of color and texture so the wood paneling gets to truly SHINE. 

What do you think? Did I make the right call?? 🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️

If you’re looking to go bold in a certain room, use code 10OFF-ROMANTICIZINGRACH with the link in my bio for 10% off!

#Revivalrugs #Revivalpartner #cabindecor #countryhome #smallhomedecor #homeimprovement #rustichomedecor
Convinced summer thunderstorms are portals into th Convinced summer thunderstorms are portals into the past ⛈️

#simpleliving #countryhome #lowlife #nostalgiacore #nostalgic  #summerstorm #childhoodmemories
Added twinkle lights to the mirror and embarrassed Added twinkle lights to the mirror and embarrassed to admit how much joy it brings me 🤣

#simplelife #countryhome #junemoments #slowliving
YALL SICK OF ME YET?? 🤪🤪 #toddlermomlife #m YALL SICK OF ME YET?? 🤪🤪

#toddlermomlife #momhumor #parentinghumor #morningroutine #momvlog

Copyright © 2025 Romanticizing Rachel · Theme by 17th Avenue