Ideas for Off-Grid STR

[Bruce Woodruff]

Hi All - I've been kicking around this possible concept in my head for a while now and can't come up with an answer...maybe some outside-the-box thinker can figure something out. Or maybe there is no answer...?

We moved from CA to AZ last year and have got 2 STRs in AZ going very well. We kept a piece of property in SoCal, way out in the desert, middle of nowhere. It's completely off-the-grid home, very funky in a nice way... everyone that's been there loves it and I think it would appeal to outdoorsy/environmentalist/nature lover kinda folks. If you know what Wonder Valley is, this is similar but even more remote and funkier....

I don't think it's an AirBnB or VRNBO kinda thing, but maybe there's another way. Main problem is that I wouldn't be able to get out there after every visit to clean and check up. There are no property mangers or other people available locally, nearest town of any size is 1 hr away. My son lives 2 hrs away and could check it once in a while but I don't want to put it on him.

Are there any sites/groups that have people that would bring their own sheets and towels, clean up afterwards etc...? I'm thinking Sierra Club, or similar. It would be worth it for the experience to the right persons. It truly is a one of a kind experience due to the location.

Or maybe it's just not doable? Too much risk? Don't need the $$, thinking more of getting visitors who would appreciate the uniqueness.

Thanks in advance for ideas....

[Keith Linne]

@Bruce Woodruff I’m in a group of friends who book an annual trip to just this type of property. We’ve booked yurts in Colorado (hike in only at high altitude, bring all your own stuff), remote cabins in Northern MN, etc. We routinely pay $100-$150/night, because the solitude and unique experiences are completely worth it. We (and others who appreciate these properties) tend to be very respectful of each property and always leave it better than we found it (think “leave no trace” principles). We bring all our own food, linens, etc, and typically don’t even have running water at these locations. I love the idea, and would likely become a guest as well. Like the way you’re thinking outside the box!