Locked in a Shipping Container within the Dark Forest
“At night the doors locked and we had no option other than to drift off until the morning light of the sun awoke us”
Ok, ok it sounds scarier than it actually was. We locked the doors ourselves and gladly awoke to the rising sun! Let me tell you about our stay in the “Forest Container” nestled into the forests of Deerwood, MN.
I’m all for unique stays and the “Forest Container” promised an unforgettable adventure for myself and my family. Found on Hipcamp, our night stay in this remarkable shipping container turned tiny home would become a cherished memory for me as a Mom. Filled with exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable moments.
As we approached the container the excitement in the car was palpable. Surrounded by towering trees, our kids could hardly wait to jump out and begin the adventure. The Forest Container was situated in a secluded spot which further enhanced my 4 & 3 year olds explorative minds. We felt truly immersed in nature.
The container itself was gorgeous. It was a dark neutral color that blended with the earthy green and browns that surrounded us. As if it were literally apart of the forest itself. The wrap around deck with a tree growing straight through the middle served as the perfect vantage point to admire the woodlands around us.
Unlocking the container was an eery feeling itself. Truly something that seemed straight out of a nightmare, until the inside was revealed through the large front looking window. The cozy comfort aesthetics palpated us instantly and the clever design had transformed what seemed like a tiny shipping container from the outside to a spacious living quarters that was anything but cramped on the inside. The living area included a soft and comforable couch, the perfect place to relax and gaze out the large picture window. There was even a small workspace and reading nook tucked within, seemed as though it would be an ideal remote work location or a inspiring writers retreat.
One of the highlights of the Forest Container was the luxurious bedroom. The bed was invitingly dressed with soft linens and plump pillows. A large window surrounding the side of the bed ensured we could wake up with the breathtaking sunrise and forest surroundings. It felt very welcoming!
The bathroom in the container turned tiny home was a pleasant surprise. It was small, but hosted all the amenities we needed. Including my favorite, a hot shower. The shower itself was what felt like a almost spa like experience, especially after a day exploring the woods and smoky filled air from our late night bonfire. Hot water flowed generously and we savored the feeling of warm water washing away the fatigue from a busy day. It was honestly astonishing how a shipping container could house such comfort in a little space.
One of the most memorable features for the Mom in me was the outdoor coffee bar. The morning in Deerwood was rather chilly and the forest air was crisp. We couldn’t resist brewing a fresh cup of coffee and enjoying it on the what felt like a tree house deck. The smell of the forest mixed with the aroma of my coffee was the perfect way to start the day!
Leaving the most magical part of our journey for the end of the story let me back track to the sun dipping down the previous night when the forest took on a whole new mysterious look and feel. Our bonfire became the focal point of the evening. The container had its own fire pit, allowing us to gather around and cook hotdogs over an open flame. Something the kids thought was exhilarating!
The fire crackled and popped while we shared “spooky stories” with our kids. The forest, with it’s shadows and rustling leaves was the ideal backdrop for tales of forest animals and mystical creatures lurking around us. The kids were both terrified and thrilled, and our laughter filled the night. It was a family experience that brought us closer together.
After storytelling, we played a game of tag with the kids. Running through the forest at night, only the moon and stars lighting our way. It was something the kids would continue to talk about for the months to come. The Forest Container provided a unique home base for our nighttime adventures with its warm interior and cozy bed creating a soft and comfortable experience.
Our night stay in “The Forest Container” in Deerwood. MN was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. It allowed us to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday lives and connect as a family with the simple pleasures provided by nature. A true reminder of the beauty and wonder that can be found in the most unexpected ways, such as a Shipping Container in the heart of a forest.
So what do you think? Has being locked in a shipping container gone from everything nightmares are made of to dream come trues? I know in this case, it had!
