In the scenic woods of Mariaville, Maine, Lee Crockett has built a $10K tiny A-frame that has become a standout glamping rental and an inspiration for those dreaming of affordably building their own tiny house.
Lee and his wife Peg retired in 2021, turning their property into a glamping destination. With a background in innovative builds, Lee’s A-frame cabin displays his ingenuity and commitment to affordability. In this interview, we dive into the story behind this charming A-frame tiny home on wheels, its impressive features, and the lessons Lee learned along the way.
Lee Crockett and his $10K Tiny A-frame Cabin in Maine
Images © Lee Crockett
Q: What inspired you to build the A-frame tiny house?
Lee: After retiring in 2021, Peg and I decided to use our property in Maine as a glamping vacation rental. We started with three glamping tents, but I wanted to add something more unique. I built the A-frame on an old boat trailer in the spring of 2023, drawing from my experience building two previous tiny A-frames. During its first summer, we offered it as a tent/A-frame combo rental. By 2024, it became a standalone rental and turned out to be our most popular option.
Images © Lee Crockett
Q: Can you tell us more about the design and layout of the A-frame?
Lee: It’s compact—only 8×16—but it’s thoughtfully designed. Inside, there’s a bathroom with hot water and a flush toilet, a kitchenette, and a cozy double bed. The outdoor deck features an additional outdoor shower facing the lake, giving guests a serene glamping experience. Despite the small size, it feels open and functional.
Images © Lee Crockett
Q: How much did it cost to build?
Lee: The total cost was less than $10,000. The basic shell, including doors, windows, and the roof, came in at about $5,000. For comparison, a traditional tiny house costs anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000, and building a cabin can run you over $150,000. This A-frame is an affordable alternative, especially for someone looking to start a glamping business.
Images © Lee Crockett
Q: What challenges did you face while building it?
Lee: One of the biggest challenges was figuring out how to make it a kit that others could assemble easily. In September 2024, I tried creating a kit version, building the components in my garage in St. Louis and transporting them to Maine. Unfortunately, the pieces were too bulky and heavy, and the assembly process wasn’t beginner-friendly. The kit idea is currently on hold, but I’m still open to building more A-frames or helping others create one for glamping rentals.
Images © Lee Crockett
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in building their own A-frame?
Lee: If you have property in a vacation market, this is an excellent retirement project. The economics make sense—you’re investing much less than you would for a traditional build, and it attracts a lot of interest. Just keep the design simple and functional. It’s all about creating a unique experience for guests.
Images © Lee Crockett
Q: What’s next for you and your glamping business?
Lee: The glamping season in Maine runs from Memorial Day through mid-October. During the off-season, we’re back in St. Louis. Many of our guests have expressed interest in owning an A-frame like ours, so I’m brainstorming ways to simplify the kit idea further. In the meantime, I’m enjoying hosting guests and helping others discover the joy of tiny living.
Images © Lee Crockett
Q: Where can people find and book your A-frame rental?
Lee: You can book it on Airbnb here, VRBO here, or directly through our website at glampingdowneast.com. We’re also on Instagram at @glampingdowneast.
Conclusion
Lee Crockett’s tiny A-frame is more than just a glamping rental—it’s a gateway to sustainable, affordable living and an inspiration for retirees and entrepreneurs alike. With its clever design and unbeatable price tag, this tiny home proves that big dreams can come in small packages. Whether you’re looking for an affordable way to build a tiny house or considering starting your own glamping business, Lee’s story offers plenty of inspiration.
Our big thanks to Lee & Peg for sharing!🙏
You can share this using the e-mail and social media re-share buttons below. Thanks!
If you enjoyed this you’ll LOVE our Free Daily Tiny House Newsletter with even more!
You can also join our Small House Newsletter!
Also, try our Tiny Houses For Sale Newsletter! Thank you!
Explore More: Tiny Houses | Builders | THOWs | Park Model Tiny Houses | Communities | Modern Tiny Houses | Real Estate | Reviews | Tiny Cabins | Tiny Cottages | Tiny Homes With No Lofts | Tiny House Interiors | Tiny House Living | Tiny Houses For Sale | Tiny Houses For Rent
The Latest: Go Back Home to See Our Latest Tiny Houses
- Bio
- Latest Posts
Alex
Latest posts by Alex (see all)
- Interview with Lee Crockett and His $10K Tiny A-Frame Cabin – December 4, 2024
- The Rockne 20ft Container Office – November 30, 2024
- Escape Black Friday Tiny House Sale – November 29, 2024
