Ever wanted to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort? Glamour camping, or glamping, blends the thrill of adventure with upscale amenities. It’s perfect for those who love nature but prefer a soft bed and running water.
KOA leads the way with over 1,000 glamping options across the U.S. Choose from cozy cabins, spacious yurts, or even safari-style tents. Each stay keeps you close to nature while offering modern conveniences like electricity and private bathrooms.
Whether you’re new to the outdoors or a seasoned explorer, glamping makes it easy. Since its official recognition in 2018, this trend has grown fast. Now, you can experience the wild without roughing it.
Key Takeaways
- Glamping combines outdoor adventure with luxury comforts.
- KOA offers 1,000+ upscale lodging options nationwide.
- Options include cabins, yurts, and safari tents with modern amenities.
- Ideal for all experience levels, from beginners to experts.
- Gained popularity after being added to the dictionary in 2018.
What Is Glamour Camping (Glamping)?
Glamping turns roughing it into a relaxing retreat. Born from the blend of “glamorous” and “camping,” it swaps sleeping bags for plush beds and campfires for wood-fired saunas. Today, it’s a favorite for those who crave nature without sacrificing modern luxuries.
Defining the Glamping Experience
Unlike traditional camping, glamping prioritizes comforts like electricity, real furniture, and even Wi-Fi. Think safari tents with chandeliers or yurts with heated floors. KOA’s deluxe cabins take it further, offering kitchenettes and private KOA Patios®.
Originally for the elite, glamping is now more accessible. Options range from refurbished 1971 Airstreams with coffee bars to treehouses with panoramic views. The goal? Make the outdoors feel like a five-star hotel.
How Glamping Differs from Traditional Camping
- Sleeping Arrangements: No thin sleeping bags—glamping means memory foam mattresses and linens.
- Climate Control: Forget sweating in a tent; many units have AC or heating.
- Unique Touches: KOA’s safari tents include rugs and lighting, while some sites offer stargazing domes.
Fun fact: The term “glamping” earned its spot in the Oxford Dictionary in 2018. Now, it’s a booming trend for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Why Choose Glamour Camping?
Why settle for roughing it when nature can meet luxury? Glamping blends the thrill of the outdoors with the comforts of home, making it perfect for everyone—from stressed-out parents to romance seekers.
Comfort Meets Adventure
Trade leaky tents for king-sized beds and solar-powered showers. KOA’s Deluxe Cabins offer private bathrooms—a lifesaver for midnight kid emergencies. At Backland Luxury Camping, stargazing beds bring the cosmos to your doorstep.
Studies show that spending time outdoors reduces stress. With amenities like Wi-Fi and AC, you get nature’s benefits without sacrificing convenience. Over 28 million annual KOA guests prove this hybrid experience works.
Ideal for Families and First-Time Campers
Mosquito-netted tents at Sandy Pines Campground and lobster rolls by the fire make trips hassle-free for families. Romantic getaways? Beverly Wilshire’s chandelier tents include Champagne flights.
Accessibility matters too. Many sites offer ramps and minimal physical demands, welcoming all ages. Whether it’s your first campout or fiftieth, glamping ensures everyone feels at home.
Types of Glamping Accommodations
From safari tents to vintage trailers, glamping offers unique stays for every traveler. Whether you crave wide-open skies or cozy woodland retreats, these accommodations blend adventure with luxury.
Safari Tents: Luxury in the Wild
Think king-sized beds under canvas ceilings. Safari tents, like Timberline Glamping’s 400sqft units, feature hardwood floors and USB ports. For more space, Dunton River Camp’s 1,300sqft tent-cabins include private decks.
Yurts: A Circular Escape
These round retreats combine tradition with modern perks. El Capitan Canyon’s yurts have stargazing skylights, while Firelight Camps adds heated blankets. Perfect for those who love open layouts.
Treehouses and Cabins: Elevated Comfort
Capitol Reef Resort’s two-bedroom cabins offer national park views. Some even include hot tubs. For a bird’s-eye view, Collective Governors Island’s treehouses frame the Statue of Liberty.
Vintage Trailers: Retro Charm
The Vintages Trailer Resort showcases 36 restored trailers, some with soaking tubs. Each one mixes nostalgia with modern comforts—like a 1971 Airstream with a coffee bar.
Pro tip: Pet-friendly options, like West Beach’s safari tents on Orcas Island, let you bring furry friends along.
Top Glamping Destinations in the U.S.
Discover the most breathtaking glamping spots across the U.S. where luxury meets adventure. From rugged mountains to serene deserts, these destinations offer stunning views and unforgettable stays.
Desolation Hotel, Hope Valley, CA
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, Desolation Hotel blends eco-conscious design with rustic charm. Choose from seven artisan-crafted yurts or cozy cabins, all equipped with seasonal gear like snowshoes or kayaks.
Each stay includes locally sourced breakfasts and access to private trails. It’s perfect for those who love sustainable travel without skimping on comfort.
Backland Luxury Camping, AZ
This Arizona gem features glass-walled tents with telescope stargazing. By day, enjoy chef-prepared meals in their sky-view restaurant. By night, gather around the firepit for s’mores under the stars.
- Guided kayaking on nearby lakes
- Heated floors and rain showers in every tent
- Pet-friendly options for furry companions
Collective Governors Island, NY
Just minutes from Manhattan, this retreat offers en-suite bathroom tents with skyline views. Wake up to sunrise yoga sessions or unwind with gourmet farm-to-table dinners.
For added fun, book their “Stargazer” tent with a retractable roof for bedtime celestial shows.
Hidden Gems
- Windy Hill Farm, TN: All-inclusive retreats with beekeeping classes
- Camp Sarika, UT: Private plunge pools in the desert
Pro tip: Book early—these spots fill fast, especially during peak seasons!
How to Plan Your Glamping Trip
Ready to blend adventure with comfort? Start with smart planning. Whether you’re eyeing snowy retreats or summer hideaways, a few key steps ensure your trip is seamless. From packing hacks to booking timelines, here’s how to make the most of your luxury outdoor experience.
Choosing the Right Season
Timing is everything. KOA’s campground directories highlight seasonal options like heated pools at Camp Long Creek for winter stays. For snowy escapes, pack fleece blankets and plan for firepit evenings.
Summer calls for saltwater pool access at spots like Sandy Pines. Pro tip: Book early—popular sites like Kentucky Castle sell out fast for peak-season horse farm views.
Packing Essentials for Glampers
Skip the guesswork with this curated list:
- Lighting: Battery lanterns (Firelight Camps’ pick) for cozy ambience.
- Hydration: Insulated bottles for hikes and water breaks.
- Gourmet touches: Portable coffee kits for sunrise views.
Location matters too. Fairy Stone State Park’s mountain weather demands layers, while desert sites like Backland Luxury Camping need sunscreen.
“The best glamping trips happen when you prepare for both comfort and adventure.”
Glamping on a Budget
Who says luxury has to break the bank? With smart choices and a little creativity, you can enjoy glamping without overspending. From wallet-friendly cabins to DIY upgrades, here’s how to experience nature in style.
Affordable Glamping Options
KOA’s camping cabins start at just $79/night—perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Compare this to high-end spots like Camp Sarika ($2,500/night), and the savings add up fast.
Look for value-packed options:
- Camp Wandawega: Free beer van and BYO food policies cut costs.
- Capitol Reef Resort: Tipis and covered wagons under $150/night.
- Sandy Pines Campground: Off-season discounts up to 30%.
DIY Glamping Tips
Transform your home setup or campsite with these easy hacks:
- Lighting: Hang string lights for instant ambiance.
- Sleep Upgrade: Add memory foam toppers to air mattresses.
- Entertainment: Portable projectors turn tents into outdoor theaters.
“Luxury is in the details—Turkish towels and artisanal s’mores kits cost little but elevate the experience.”
Glamping Activities to Elevate Your Experience
Turn your outdoor escape into an unforgettable adventure with these unique glamping activities. From celestial wonders to culinary delights, luxury camping offers more than just comfortable beds—it creates lasting memories.
Stargazing and Campfire Stories
Backland Luxury Camping takes night skies seriously with telescope setups and astronomy guides. Time your visit with meteor showers at Timberline Glamping for celestial fireworks over river rapids.
Gather around crackling campfire pits for storytelling sessions. Some sites like Camp Aramoni provide seasonal s’mores kits—even gold-dusted versions at Beverly Wilshire tents.
Outdoor Yoga and Gourmet Meals
Start mornings with lakeside yoga at West Beach Resort or sunrise sessions at Collective Governors Island. These wellness routines blend perfectly with nature’s tranquility.
For foodies, Windy Hill Farm organizes farm-to-table dinners using fresh onsite ingredients. The Ranch at Rock Creek ups the ante with cattle drive experiences before gourmet meals under the stars.
- Seasonal adventures: Snowshoeing in winter, kayak tours in summer
- Creative workshops: Beekeeping classes or artisan craft sessions
- Group activities: Lawn games and gear loans at family-friendly sites
“The magic happens when luxury meets adventure—whether it’s spotting constellations or learning to make honey.”
Eco-Friendly Glamping
Luxury meets responsibility in eco-friendly glamping. Today’s travelers crave immersive nature experiences without harming the environment. From solar-powered yurts to zero-waste policies, sustainable stays are redefining outdoor luxury.
Innovative Sustainable Accommodations
Desolation Hotel leads with solar-powered cabins and seasonal gear rentals. Dunton River Camp preserves history using 1800s ranch restoration techniques. These efforts reduce carbon footprints while enhancing authenticity.
Look for green certifications like KOA’s Eco-Kampgrounds program. Backland Luxury Camping uses low-impact tent foundations to protect native soil. Even small touches—Firelight Camps’ solar lanterns—add up.
Leave-No-Trace Practices for Glampers
Respect nature with these practices:
- Waste reduction: Collective Retreats offers compostable toiletries.
- Energy use: Opt for sites with renewable energy sources.
- Trail etiquette: Stay on marked paths to preserve flora.
| Eco-Certification | Key Features |
|---|---|
| KOA Eco-Kampgrounds | Recycling programs, energy-efficient lighting |
| LEED-Certified Sites | Water-saving fixtures, solar panels |
“Sustainable glamping proves you don’t have to choose between comfort and conservation.”
Glamping with Kids: Tips and Tricks
Planning a family getaway? Glamping makes outdoor adventures easy and fun for kids. With cozy beds, private bathrooms, and ready-to-use gear, it’s the stress-free way to introduce little ones to nature.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Choose spacious setups like Desolation Hotel’s 3-bedroom cabins or Camp Long Creek’s kid-sized tents. Sandy Pines adds bunk beds and s’mores kits, while Timberline Glamping’s child-proofed designs ensure safety.
For meals, The Vintages Trailer Resort’s Airstream food truck solves picky-eater dilemmas. Need rainy-day plans? Sandy Pines’ board game lounge keeps everyone entertained.
Keeping Kids Entertained Outdoors
Book activity-packed sites like Camp Wandawega, where archery and embroidery classes spark creativity. Other activities to try:
- Scavenger hunts with nature-themed lists
- Stargazing with Backland’s telescope setups
- Campfire storytelling with glow sticks for ambiance
| Site | Kid Perks |
|---|---|
| Camp Long Creek | Heated pools, mini golf |
| Sandy Pines | Lobster bakes, movie nights |
“Glamping lets kids explore freely while parents relax—everyone wins.”
Conclusion
Glamping redefines outdoor stays by blending nature’s beauty with hotel-like comforts. It’s perfect for those who crave adventure but love coming back to a cozy home under the stars.
Try different stays—yurts, treehouses, or vintage trailers—to find your favorite. KOA makes it easy with 1,000+ options nationwide, from budget cabins to luxury tents.
With more affordable choices and eco-friendly designs, this experience is now accessible to everyone. Ready to explore? Start planning your trip with KOA’s campground directory today.