If you like the idea of camping, but hate the actual camping part, you’re certainly not alone. Enter glamping, the perfect compromise for those who want to get in touch with nature for their next vacation, but in the most upscale way possible (read: no sleeping on the ground). Glamping (aka glamorous camping) resorts have begun increasing in popularity, so we’ve gathered some of the best places throughout the country to visit, which can potentially be just a short road trip away:
Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes
Friday Harbor, WA
Only accessible by seaplane or ferry, the San Juan Islands are the home to the perfect Northwest retreat—Lakedale. From luxurious cabins to traditional camping, Lakedale offers just about every summer camping option you can think of, but what really caught our attention is their neat glamping accommodations. Although the tents don’t have electricity or restrooms (unless you upgrade), they offer a few pieces of necessary furniture (such as a small eating table and a bed), and every glamping site comes with its own private fire pit. Don’t worry about bringing your campfire essentials along, either—their onsite store sells s’more kits, making it easy to whip up that camping classic.
The Resort at Paws Up
Greenough, Montana
The Resort at Paws Up doesn’t just offer some serious luxury when it comes to their accommodations, but their glamping options are also great for families that want separate sleeping areas. With capacity ranging from 2-5 guests and luxury rents available that are as big as 1,030 square feet, you definitely won’t be sacrificing comfort- in fact, you might even have more space than you do at home!
El Capitan Canyon
Santa Barbara, CA
If you’re trying to decide between a camping trip or a beach vacation for your next getaway, get the best of both worlds at El Capitan Canyon. The luxury safari tents are located in the beautiful Santa Barbara and not only do you get the true camping experience, but the beach is just a few minutes away!
Dunton River Camp
Cresto Ranch, CO
If you want glamping that offers all the comforts of home in pretty much every way you can think (i.e. soaker tubs, stoves, and Wi-Fi) then you might find exactly what you want at Dunton River Camp in Colorado. The stunning canvas cabins (you can choose a mountainside or riverside tent) are only open seasonally, so plan accordingly.
Conestoga Wagon Camping
The Rock Ranch, GA
Well here’s something you certainly don’t see everyday—camping in a wagon! (Wamping?) Not only do you get a pretty unique lodging experience, but you can also book some add-ons to make your trip really interesting—for instance, you can hire a storyteller for $65. For an hour of entertainment around the campfire, it’s definitely a small price to pay.
If you’ve gone glamping before, did you love it, or do you prefer traditional camping? We’d also love to know if you’ve been to any of the places on our list (or another awesome location that we missed) and how your experience was!
