So you love the outdoors, but not the idea of “roughing it”? You’re not alone—which is why “glamping” has become such a hot trend in recent years.
A portmanteau of “camping” and “glamorous,” glamping lets you experience all the wonderful things about camping (fresh air, stargazing, s’mores), without a lot of the annoying stuff (setting up a tent, sleeping on a pad, schlepping lots of gear). Truly, the best of both worlds.
From culinary-focused resorts with luxury tents and spa bathrooms to minimal-chic Airstream parks with stylish communal spaces and unique activities, these seven glamping resorts prove you don’t have to sacrifice comfort in order to experience the great outdoors.
Under Canvas Acadia
Surry, Maine
Located 35 minutes from Acadia National Park on Maine’s craggy shoreline, Under Canvas is the ideal base for those looking to explore coastal New England’s wild beauty while still enjoying comforts found in an upscale hotel. After a long day of canoeing and antiquing – or devouring lobster rolls – you’ll find spacious tents back at camp, with en-suite restrooms and organic bath products. Under Canvas also features seasonal and locally sourced menus and extensive camp programming including yoga, painting and scavenger hunts. There’s even an experience coordinator to help plan unique activities like a Bioluminescent Kayak Tour or Pirate Adventure Cruise. If you’re traveling with a large group, check out their Cadillac Mountain Suite with room for seven. undercanvas.com
Collective Retreats Vail
Wolcott, Colorado
Culinary-focused glamping with gorgeous mountain views? Sign me up! Situated on a working ranch a short drive from Vail Village and featuring luxe western-inspired tents, Collective Retreats immerses you in rugged Colorado beauty. Thrilling outdoor adventures abound – from horseback riding (and pony rides for kids under 7) and fly fishing to guided whitewater rafting. But what really sets Collective apart are their culinary offerings, including curated BBQ baskets to grill on site and gourmet ranch-to-table tasting menus. For those not traveling with a budding foodie, kids menus are available on request. P.S. The complimentary Sage Social Hour at on-site eatery Three Peaks Lodge is not to be missed. collectiveretreats.com
Autocamp Yosemite
Midpines, California
If cool boutique hotels are your happy place, AutoCamp Yosemite’s modern take on glamping might be for you. Accommodations range from thoughtfully designed cabins and Airstreams with en-suite bathrooms to custom canvas tents with access to spa-worthy shared restrooms. In the expansive mid-century modern Clubhouse, which includes an on-site restaurant and general store, guests can grab a beer, play board games or cozy up around their show-stopping fireplace. And it doesn’t get more convenient than catching the local YARTS shuttle out front to witness the grandeur of Half Dome and towering sequoias of Mariposa Grove for yourself. Did we mention there’s a pool? autocamp.com
Bay Point Landing
Coos Bay, Oregon
If misty mornings and cool ocean breezes are on your wish list, don’t miss out on Bay Point Landing, a campground located along southern Oregon’s Coos Bay with modern cabins, sleek Airstream suites and DIY RV campsites. The jaw-dropping architecture of the Clubhouse, modern fitness center and bocce ball will keep the adults happy, while kids will love exploring the playground, Kids Den, and indoor saltwater pool. When hunger strikes, grab some fish and chips from the food truck to enjoy at the bayfront beach or stay in and cook up a meal in your cabin’s kitchenette. With off-site options including hiking, clamming, ATV tours, and dune-covered beaches, coastal Oregon will enchant you. And don’t forget your pup – this camp’s dog friendly. baypointlanding.com
Eastwind Hotel & Bar
Windham, New York
New Yorkers looking for a unique glamping experience will find a welcome respite in the Catskills at Eastwind Hotel & Bar. Their cozy Scandinavian-inspired Lushna Suites – cabins with room for four – have everything your family needs to unwind and nothing to distract. Whether choosing to stay on property to enjoy a yoga class and one of their wood barrel saunas, or heading out to visit one of the area’s many incredible restaurants and antique shops, there’s lots to explore. If you crave a bit more adventure, nearby Windham Mountain offers biking, snow tubing and skiing. eastwindhotels.com
Open Sky Zion
Virgin, Utah
Open Sky, situated just outside Utah’s Zion National Park, offers the ultimate in comfort and seclusion. Their luxury safari-style tents blend seamlessly beneath the nearby red rock formations and come with a wide array of high-end amenities like telescopes, heated bathroom floors, outdoor showers and hammock-equipped private decks. Their Star Seeker Luxury Camps boast roomy accommodations for four, featuring a soaking tub and sky lounge, perfect for stargazing. The entrance to the park is just fifteen minutes away, and the sought-after mountain biking playground, Guacamole Trail, is close by, bringing adventure to your front door. stayopensky.com
Alila Ventana Big Sur
Big Sur, California
There are few things more breathtaking than California’s Big Sur coastline. While accommodations in the area come with a steep price tag, Ventana’s rustic-luxe glampsites are a great choice for those looking for a refined yet (relatively) cost-effective stay. Surrounded by redwoods, the private canvas tents are fitted with custom mattresses and high-end linens and the spa-worthy communal bath house rivals that of many luxury hotels. From hiking, kayaking and kite surfing to catching sunsets at nearby Pfeiffer Beach, there’s something for both active and mellow travelers alike. Cap off a long day of exploration with s’mores on your private deck under the twinkling night sky. ventanabigsur.com
