10 Off-Grid Living Models That You Can Visit

Have you ever wondered what life is like disconnected from the relentless buzz of the grid?

Imagine waking up to the gentle symphony of nature, surrounded by self-sustaining practices that leave a minimal footprint on the earth.

Interested?

You're not alone.

Off-grid communities are a reality, and they are thriving.

You can visit eco-villages, farms, and sanctuaries that have embraced a lifestyle that is both sustainable and free from the grid's grasp.

Living off-grid isn't just for hermits and hippies anymore—it's a growing movement gaining momentum globally as more people seek sustainable living options.

By exploring off-grid models, you'll discover innovative ways to live in harmony with nature and learn how these communities operate on principles of ecological balance, renewable energy, and cooperative community ethos.

Get ready for an enlightening journey into a world where freedom, sustainability, and community are the foundations of everyday life.

Earthship Biotecture, New Mexico

Ever thought about living right off the grid?

Well, Earthship Biotecture in New Mexico could be your playground for a unique adventure!

Imagine homes that are not just eco-friendly but amazingly self-sufficient.

These are no ordinary homes; they’re Earthships—think of them as ships sailing the desert seas, totally off the mainstream grid.

Nestled in Taos, these Earthships aren’t just about quirky architecture; they are a testament to a sustainable lifestyle.

Built using upcycled materials like old tires and cans, they're designed to handle all of life’s essentials: shelter, water, food, and energy.

Want to know the kicker?

They even manage their own sewage!

Alright, let’s talk numbers!

Fancy a night in one of these bad boys?

It can be yours for ~$185 a night.

But hey, if you’re willing to go all-in, a fully furnished Earthship starts at around $275,000.

A bit steep, but consider the perks of a futuristic colony with almost no upkeep—it’s a slice of eco-friendly pie.

So you're curious and think, "Could this be for me?" Why not book a stay?

Many Earthships offer nightly rentals.

The Earthship community believes a stay can convert you to an off-the-grid advocate—perhaps you’ll even fancy switching for life!

Did you catch that tiny dome that costs as little as $2,000 to build?

Yep, sustainable living doesn’t always need deep pockets.

But if luxury is your thing, a spacious Earthship could set you back half a million big ones.

Opulence melded with sustainability—now that's living large, responsibly!

Feeling intrigued by carbon-free living?

Earthship Biotecture could give you a glimpse into a future where you're the captain of your own ship—a sustainable one at that!

Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage, Missouri

Have you ever imagined a lifestyle so harmoniously intertwined with nature that it almost sounds magical?

That's what you get at Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage in the rolling hills of Northeast Missouri.

This place is not just a home to its residents but a beacon for sustainable living enthusiasts.

Curious about permaculture?

Their organic gardens provide a perfect live demonstration of food grown in alignment with natural systems.

It’s a great way to witness sustainable agricultural practices up close.

And, if you’re into architecture with a twist, their natural buildings showcase eco-friendly design using materials like straw bale and cob.

Dancing Rabbit is all about renewable energy, and you’ll see it in action.

The community harnesses energy from the sun and wind, proving that off-grid living is not only possible but practical and replicable.

They've been at this for over two decades now, and their experience is your gain.

You can join them for a two-week visitor program that might just change your life.

Ever thought about self-governance?

They practice it here, putting community and consensus decision-making at the forefront of their operation.

But, let's get to the heart of it—the eco-living here is real.

By reducing their carbon footprint dramatically, residents of Dancing Rabbit are leading by example.

They've planted over 12,000 trees and cherish their 280-acre haven, which includes woodlands and ponds.

So, why not book a visit?

Whether you're eco-curious or a green living advocate, there's something at Dancing Rabbit for you.

Just imagine soaking in the tranquility of their small creek or walking the trails among newly planted trees—it's like the Earth thanks you with every step you take.

Would you give sustainable living a try?

Emerald Earth Sanctuary, California

Have you ever wondered what it's like to step off the grid and into a world where sustainability isn't just a buzzword, but a way of life?

Meet Emerald Earth Sanctuary, nestled in the heart of Mendocino County, California.

With 189 acres of natural splendor, this place isn't just about escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.

It's a community committed to the principles of sustainable living, simplicity, and environmental stewardship.

Imagine waking up to the serene beauty of redwoods and oak woodlands every morning – it's not a dream here; it's your reality.

Here's what you can find at Emerald Earth:

• Off-grid Energy: Say goodbye to traditional power sources! This sanctuary harnesses renewable energy to power its day-to-day operations.
• Organic Farming: Want to know where your food comes from? Dive into their organic gardens and learn how food can go from soil to plate without harming the planet.
• Natural Building: Ever seen a house built with earth? Discover unique construction methods that blend in with the landscape, literally.

You're not just a spectator at Emerald Earth; you're part of the experience.

Have a knack for learning?

They've got workshops that'll get your hands dirty in the best possible way.

Interested in insights on eco-living?

Join their tours and soak in knowledge that might just change the way you live.

Eight full-time residents currently share this space and are walking proof that a sustainable lifestyle can be both viable and deeply rewarding.

Whether you're eco-curious or a green guru, Emerald Earth invites you to explore a different kind of community.

So, are you ready to see sustainability in action and maybe, just maybe, take a piece of it home with you?

Earthaven Ecovillage, North Carolina

Have you ever wondered what it's like to live completely off the grid?

Let's take a peek at Earthaven Ecovillage in North Carolina, where a group of forward-thinkers have turned sustainability into a way of life.

Location: Nestled in the lush forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains, about a stone's throw from Asheville.

Founding Year: 1994

Size: Encompasses 329 acres of gorgeous mountain terrain.

Living Here:

• Community Service: A mere 4 hours a week. Talk about giving back!
• Fees: There's a one-off administrative fee of $25, and then it's $35/month per adult plus, if you've got wheels, $15/month per vehicle.

Housing: Fancy a short stay?

You can snag a room in a furnished apartment for a 3- or 6-month lease starting September 1, 2024.

Curious about what makes this place tick?

Earthaven is more than just a community — it's a classroom.

Imagine touring the place or diving into a workshop.

Even better, get some dirt under your nails with an internship to truly connect with off-grid living.

Feeding Time: Whether you're a veggie or a meat lover, Earthaven's got you covered.

Their diverse diet reflects the vibrant spirit of the residents.

So, you keen on a visit?

Whether it's a tour or a temporary home you're seeking, Earthaven offers a unique glimpse into a life that's both environmentally friendly and rich in community spirit.

Remember, it's not just about going off-grid; it's about weaving yourself into the fabric of a sustainable future.

Ready to take the plunge?

Twin Oaks Community, Virginia

Have you ever wondered what it's like to live off the grid?

Well, Twin Oaks Community in Virginia is not just a thought experiment, but a living, breathing example!

Nestled in central Virginia, Twin Oaks has been thriving since 1967.

Imagine being part of a community that fosters a sustainable lifestyle, all while nestled in over 350 acres of beautiful land.

Sounds like a breath of fresh air, doesn't it?

So, what's life like at Twin Oaks?

For starters:

• 90 adults and 15 children make up this vibrant community.
• They value self-sufficiency, producing their own food and using renewable energy.

Curious about how they manage it all?

Well, everything is run cooperatively.

From the way they manage land to how decisions are made, including sensitive topics like family planning.

It's all about transparency and community decision-making.

But here's the exciting part: you can see it all firsthand!

Twin Oaks boasts a structured three-week visitor program that tosses you into the mix – giving you a real taste of community living.

And if you're pressed for time, they offer tours that provide a sweeping view of their sustainable practices.

• Experience communal living
• Discover sustainable practices
• Embrace self-governance

Before packing your bags, remember, the community's doors are open, but you'll need a member to be your host.

Once you have that sorted, get ready to dive into an experience at 138 Twin Oaks Road that you won't soon forget.

Who knows, you might just find the off-grid living model that you've been searching for!

Tinkers Bubble, Somerset, UK

Have you ever imagined a life where your footprint on the planet is as light as a feather?

Well, Tinkers Bubble in Somerset, UK, is a place where such ideals are not just dreams but reality.

Located at Norton Sub Hamdon near Yeovil, this off-grid community has mastered the art of sustainable living.

Picture this: you’re waking up to the sound of rustling leaves, and your day involves tending to vegetable gardens and managing a thriving forestry business.

Sounds peaceful, right?

At Tinkers Bubble, residents make their living from the land in an eco-friendly way, turning away from fossil fuels and embracing renewable energy.

1. Sustainable Practices:

1. Horse-drawn farming
2. Woodland management
3. Apple juice pressing

The community also boasts planning permission for self-built houses, aligning with their dedication to living in harmony with nature.

It's a place for those who want to "slow life down" and escape the consumerist whirlwind.

Would you like a hands-on experience?

Tinkers Bubble offers tours and volunteer opportunities for those wanting a taste of off-grid life.

You could get involved with their day-to-day activities or learn a thing or two about living sustainably.

If you’re on the lookout for inspiring models of off-grid living, make sure to add Tinkers Bubble to your list.

It's marvelously magical and an example of how a community can thrive while keeping environmental impact at an absolute minimum.

Fancy a visit?

The Farm Community, Tennessee

Ever wondered how it feels to step away from the buzz of city life and into the tranquility of an off-grid community, where every day is about living in harmony with nature?

Well, The Farm Community in Tennessee might just be the escape you're looking for!

Established after a caravan journey from San Francisco, this place isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a thriving example of communal living done right.

Over 40 years have refined its purpose and now The Farm stands as a model of ecological and sustainable living.

Cool, right?

Imagine waking up to the sound of leaves rustling, fruit trees ripe for picking, and the sweet notion that your day will contribute to a healthier planet.

You can get a first-hand look at this lifestyle with a variety of tours and workshops they offer.

Here’s what you’ve got in store:

• Ecovillage Tours: Stroll through green meadows and witness sustainable living in practice.
• Hands-On Workshops: Get your hands dirty learning about eco-friendly farming techniques.
• Visitor Programs: Fancy trying out this way of living for a little longer? They have programs for that!

This community isn't just preserving green spaces; they're actively teaching others how to nurture them.

With a little elbow grease, they cultivate acres of fertile land without a hint of a carbon footprint.

Apparently, they've become quite the experts at off-grid living - which means you could be too, after a visit.

So, pack your bags, grab some comfortable shoes, and get ready to be inspired by a group of folks who are not just talking the talk but walking the walk of off-grid living.

Who knows, it could be the perfect spot for your digital detox retreat!

Lost Valley Education Center, Oregon

Have you ever been curious about off-grid living?

Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, surrounded by a lush forest, learning the ins and outs of permaculture and sustainability.

Welcome to Lost Valley Education Center in Oregon, where you can do just that!

Nestled in the scenic Pacific Northwest, this intentional community has been a beacon of sustainable living since 1989.

They're not just talking the talk; they walk the walk with:

• 87 acres of collaborative land stewardship.
• An inspiring mix of education and community.
• A comprehensive Internship Program that lasts 3 months.
• Diverse workshops brimming with practical skills.

Doesn't the idea of connecting with like-minded individuals sound fantastic?

Here, making new friends who share your passion for the environment is a daily occurrence.

Plus, if you're in a transitional period, this might be the perfect place to set roots and grow.

What can you expect from a visit?

• Tours: Get your boots muddy while exploring permaculture in action.
• Workshops: Roll up your sleeves for hands-on learning experiences.
• Internships: Dive deep into sustainable practices and systems thinking.

And best of all, they've been doing it well below market rates, as a deeply committed 501(c)3 non-profit.

Their doors are open at 81868 Lost Valley Ln.

Dexter, ready to welcome you into a world where ecology meets education.

Think you might be interested in living at Lost Valley?

Well, it's as inviting as the name suggests!

So, pack your curiosity and environmentally-friendly sunscreen, and head over to Lost Valley Education Center.

It's more than an educational experience—it's a stepping stone into a life in harmony with nature.

Are you ready for the adventure?

Ecovillage at Ithaca, New York

Have you ever wondered what it's like to live off the grid, but in a community that's buzzing with sustainable initiatives?

Let's peek into the Ecovillage at Ithaca, where communal living meets eco-friendly practices!

What's It All About?

• Founded in 1991, this pioneering community in New York State charts a path towards a sustainable future.
• It's all about a harmonious balance with nature: organic farming, renewable energy, and homes that make Mother Earth smile.
• With three thriving neighborhoods, bustling with life, they've nailed creating a cozy, close-knit community vibe.
• Fancy a peek into passive solar housing? Or maybe the lush organic gardens that dot the landscape catch your fancy?

Why Visit?

• Eco-friendly Architecture: Marvel at townhouses designed for minimal environmental impact.
• Sustainable Living: Learn how eco-heroes generate solar power and practice green farming on just 10% of their land — leaving a whopping 90% untouched.
• Educational Programs: Whether you're there for a quick tour or a deeper dive into eco-living, there's a wealth of knowledge waiting for you.

What Can You Do?

• Tour the Villages: Sign up for a tour and see sustainable living in action.
• Learn & Grow: Tap into the communal wisdom with their workshops.
• Connect: There's nothing like shared stories to make you feel part of the eco-adventure.

So, if your heart beats green and you're yearning for a taste of life with a smaller footprint, how about marking Ecovillage at Ithaca on your map?

Discover a place where every day is a stride towards a healthier planet, and you might just find yourself planting more than just memories.

Three Rivers Permaculture Farm, Oregon

Ever imagine yourself living off-grid, where your home is nestled in the natural beauty of the Rogue Valley?

That's what Three Rivers Permaculture Farm in Oregon is all about.

This place isn't just a picturesque escape; it's a hands-on example of sustainable living, showing you can harmonize with the environment.

What's the scoop on their practices?

• Renewable Energy: They harness solar power, saying goodbye to traditional utility grids.
• Organic Farming: Their gardens are a testament to working with nature, producing bountiful, chemical-free harvests.
• Natural Building: Structures rise from the ground using eco-friendly methods and materials, fitting right into the landscape.

Curious About Learning More?

• Workshops: Roll up your sleeves and dive into permaculture design.
• Tours: Take a walk and see permaculture principles in action.

Why Visit?

Here's the real deal – it's one thing to read about off-grid living, but visiting Three Rivers gives you a taste of the lifestyle.

Grasp the principles of permaculture that can be applied even in your own backyard.

Isn't it thrilling to think you could take home a skill or two?

Remember, it's not just about visiting; it's about experiencing a sustainable way of life.

So, how about planning a little trip?

Get ready to be inspired by a community that's thriving off the grid, with feet planted firmly on the ground and heads basking in clean, solar energy.

See you at Three Rivers Permaculture Farm, maybe?