Ryhmäkodat

Ryhmäkodat are communal shelters used in Finland for outdoor education and recreation. The term combines ryhmä (group) and kota (hut), indicating that the structures are intended to shelter several people at once rather than for private use. They are typically wooden huts with simple interiors; many examples include a central or alcove fireplace or wood-burning stove, benches around the walls, and a doorway. Some designs are open on one side or have a semi-enclosed layout to accommodate larger groups.

Ryhmäkodat are commonly located in nature reserves, national parks, camp centers, and school or scout sites. They serve as shelter from weather, as cooking and gathering spaces, and as a base for group activities during field trips or camping. The capacity varies by site, from a few to a dozen or more people, depending on the design and regulations.

Access and use are determined by the managing authority, such as municipal parks, forest management organizations, or educational institutions. In Finland, everyone has the right to roam and to enjoy public land, but huts may be subject to local booking systems, fees, or restrictions, especially during peak seasons. Fire safety guidelines apply: use only designated fireplaces, keep fires small, and extinguish them completely. Maintenance is typically the responsibility of the land manager or sponsoring organization, and users are expected to leave the shelter clean and undamaged.

Ryhmäkodat are an integral part of Finland’s outdoor culture, offering prepared space for groups to gather, learn, and experience nature with a minimal environmental footprint.