Cabin Policies + Rules

Cabin Policies + Rules


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Before proceeding, be aware that PATC cabin rental policies and procedures are subject to change. Your understanding and cooperation is appreciated.

PATC maintains 47 cabins to provide hiking and outdoor experiences for its members and the public. These cabins extend from Charlottesville, Virginia through Maryland, West Virginia, and reach as far north as Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. Each cabin tells a unique, vibrant story; constructed by forest rangers, PATC members and benefactors, the Civilian Conservation Corps, or even Prohibition-era moonshiners.


Members-Only Cabins

 For PATC members-only cabins, the Renter of Record must be an active PATC member in good standing. Additionally, the membership must remain active through the entire duration of the rental period. If the Renter of Record of a members-only cabin is not an active member, annual PATC membership dues will be charged to the cabin reservation automatically. Membership dues are non-refundable.

 Guests have the option to add a membership when booking a cabin reservation online. Student Memberships do not apply to members-only cabin rentals because it is assumed that these members are under 21 years of age. Rental of these exclusive cabins is one of many benefits of membership. Click here for more information.

PATC Volunteer Rental Privilege

PATC member volunteers in good standing may make one cabin reservation at standard rates per calendar year, up to 67 days prior to the desired arrival date. To place a volunteer privilege reservation, contact the Cabin Coordinator at (703) 242-0315, ext. 108. Proof of volunteer service will be required.

Renter of Record

The Renter of Record is the PATC member or individual in whose name the reservation is made. He or she is accountable for abiding by the rental policies and is therefore responsible for the care and condition of the cabin during his or her stay. The Renter of Record must be 21 years of age, and agree to remain with his/her party for the duration for the rental period. This person must also ensure that all members of the party abide by the rental policies. Reservations may not be made in the name of a group or organization.


Proper & Improper Checkout

Each renter is required to return the Cabin Key and a completed Cabin Condition Report within about one week of the date of departure.* Lost Cabin Condition reports should be reported as soon as possible, so that the Cabin Coordinator may provide access to an electronic version of the report. Renters will receive confirmation of proper check out. Failure to abide by these guidelines will result in improper checkout. Multiple offenses will result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to the suspension or termination of rental privileges. *Dunlodge and Old Rag renters will submit an Electronic Cabin Condition Report, for which a link will be provided by email.


Damages

Damage to PATC property will not be tolerated, regardless of whether the damage occurs to cabins, items within the cabin, or the surrounding area. Structures such as fences and old buildings should not be defaced or dismantled. Any accidental damage should be reported immediately to the PATC Cabin Coordinator at cabincoordinator@patc.net upon your return. Any damage that may render the cabin uninhabitable or unsafe should be reported immediately to the maintainer listed on the Cabin Direction Sheet. Photographs are highly encouraged. Renters must accept responsibility for the cost of repairs, to remain in good standing.



Firewood

Each renter is expected to leave enough split firewood and kindling for one night's stay by the next renters. This includes kindling and split wood measuring about 16" in length and occupying an 18"x22" area. Cutting of standing timber or removing limbs from standing trees or shrubs is strictly prohibited, regardless of whether the tree is dead or alive. This is especially important in Shenandoah National Park and US National Forests. Fires must be contained within approved structures (wood stoves, fireplaces, fire pits, pre-existing fire rings, etc). New fire rings may not be constructed on PATC property. Outdoor fires are not permitted within the boundaries of Shenandoah National Park. Each cabin is equipped with basic tools, including bow saws, splitting mauls, and a saw buck, in order to facilitate firewood collection.


Trash & Cleanliness

 There is no trash or housekeeping service, meaning that renters must remove garbage and clean after themselves. Paper waste may be burned, but all other waste must be carried out. All items brought in must be taken out. “Donations” are not desired. Trash left by previous renters should be removed and/or reported. We cannot guarantee the return of any personal item left at a cabin. Outhouses are for human waste and toilet paper only. Baby wipes and feminine products should be carried out with other garbage.

PATC does not provide cleaning supplies or personal protective equipment; renters are expected to pack their own. It is the responsibility of each renter to clean the cabin, before departure. Many guests, however, may choose to sterilizes surfaces upon arrival, as well. If the previous occupants did not clean the cabin before departing, please photograph and report the evidence to the Cabin Coordinator.


Pets

Restrictions regarding pets must be strictly observed. Pets are not permitted in some PATC cabins. In cabins where they are permitted, they must be kept off of bedding, including blankets and mattresses in consideration of fellow renters with allergies. Pets are not allowed at Blackburn Trail Center, Catoctin Hollow Lodge, Dunlodge, Glass House, Highacre, Horwitz, Huntley, Old Rag, Olive Green, or Rosser Lamb. Exceptions for service animals will be granted where advance notice is provided, but the selection of a comparable alternative is preferred.


Neighbors

 Be respectful of nearby landowners. Please keep noise to a minimum and do not trespass on surrounding property. Please be mindful to abide by any specific parking restrictions noted in your cabin direction sheet to avoid being towed.


Motorized vehicles

Use of motorized vehicles is not permitted on any PATC property in areas off-limits or inaccessible to cars. All gates and/or signs must be respected. Motorized vehicles include, but are not limited to, automobiles, ATV’s, motorcycles and minibikes.


Firearms

The discharge of firearms on PATC property is prohibited. PATC also does not allow the use of any projectile-firing device (e.g. slingshot, bow-and-arrow, paintball gun) or explosives (e.g. fireworks) on Club property.s.


Chainsaws

Use of chainsaws and/or generators by cabin renters is expressly forbidden on any PATC owned or operated cabin property. Rental privileges for any guests found to be operating a chainsaw or generator will be immediately and permanently terminated. If a downed tree or limb blocks access to a cabin, renters can either report the issue to the cabin maintainer and hike-in or use a handsaw to clear the obstruction.


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