Ever need to get away?

The Northwest Adventure Center on Joint Base Lewis-McChord Lewis North offers a way for service members and their families to enjoy vacations without dealing with the hassle of travel.

Nestled along a corner of American Lake is a small community of log cabins. The cabins are out in a picturesque, wooded area but patrons are still very much connected to civilization with flat-screen TVs, basic cable and telephones.

"It's a way to get away without having to drive a long distance or put forth a big investment," Rick Kivett, NAC adventure program manager, said. "Even though we are on (base), you get out here and you're on a lake and it feels like you're not in the same place."

The cabins supply everything a family needs for a getaway including a full kitchenette with stove, microwave and pots and pans. There is also dining room, living room and bedroom furniture.

There are four types of cabins available for rent: studio ($60 daily fee), one bedroom ($75), two bedroom ($85) and three bedroom ($150). The three-bedroom cabin can sleep eight adults, the two-bedroom cabin accommodates six adults and the one-bedroom can sleep four adults.

The cabins are available year-round, including during major holidays, and reservations can be made up to 90 days out. During the summer months the cabins fill up fast.

Being at the lake opens up a variety of activities to enjoy while staying at the cabin including fishing, boat rentals, kayaking and canoeing.

"Most people will got out and play out on the water and come back to a nice comfortable cabin," Kivett said.

The NAC also offers adventure programs and is convenient to a paint ball range open year-round. The cabins serve not only as a vacation spot, but also as an alternative to families waiting for housing and who would rather not to stay in a hotel.

For those who prefer to rough it while outdoors, the campground is also on American Lake and includes tent sites and RV hookups.

For more information or to make a reservation call 967-7744 or 967-8282 between 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

PHOTO: NAC cabins offer a cozy cottage feel, but also include modern amenities, like a flat screen television. Scott Hansen/JBLM PAO