Families are finally catching on to the college students' secret--for no-frills budget travel, nothing beats staying at a hostel. Dismiss outdated images of dingy dorms piled high with backpacks. Many hostels around the country now welcome families with simple, private rooms and even a few luxuries like hot tubs and pools. You'll also find homey common areas, fully equipped kitchens, washers and dryers and perks such as bike and boat rentals. What's more, a number are historic landmarks. Membership in Hostelling International-American Youth Hostels (free for those under 18; $28 for those 18-54; $18 for those over 54; $250 for lifetime for all ages; call 202-783-0717), an association that inspects and licenses all member hostels, is not always required, but it helps with peak season reservations and lower rates. For summer trips, reserve family rooms at HI-AYH hostels in spring.

Read on for one of our favorite spots, the Malabar Farm Hostel in Lucas, Ohio.

MALABAR FARM HOSTEL

LUCAS, OH:

Situated on a 914-acre working farm in Malabar Farm State Park, this hostel boasts cattle and sheep herds as well as a petting zoo, barn and sap house. Families stay in private rooms in a 1919 farmhouse built from a Sears, Roebuck and Co. catalog kit. The lush valley offers hiking, cycling and lake swimming. Themed special events are held in the park. Closed December 15-January 14. Nightly rates for members are $14 for adults and $5 for children under age 18; non-members pay $3 more per person. Call 419-892-2055.

Valerie Wolf Deutsch coauthored the newly revised guide THE BEST BARGAIN FAMILY VACATIONS IN THE U.S.A.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated June 2005.