Glamping Takes the Stage: Luxurious Outdoor Escapes for the Discerning Adventurer
For those seeking a retreat into nature without the harsh realities of backcountry camping, glamping is the answer. This trend has gone beyond simple tents and cots, offering luxurious experiences in treehouses, tricked-out tents, geodesic domes, and even vintage Airstreams. From the heart of Texas Hill Country to the breathtaking landscapes of Utah and the Catskills, glamping destinations are redefining the experience of outdoor getaways, offering comfortable accommodations and unique amenities.
Key Takeaways:
- Glamping is no longer about roughing it: Forget sleeping bags and portable toilets. Glamping destinations offer king-size beds, en suite bathrooms, rain showers, and luxurious amenities like memory foam mattresses and heated mattress pads.
- Immerse yourself in nature: These destinations are conveniently located near national parks, forests, and mountains, offering unparalleled views and access to scenic hikes and outdoor activities.
- Unwind in style: Many glamping spots feature on-site cafes, bars, and gourmet food options, including wine tastings and cocktail kits, allowing you to indulge in the finer things while enjoying nature’s beauty.
- Comfort and adventure go hand in hand: These destinations provide a perfect balance of comfortable accommodations, access to exciting outdoor adventures, and unique features like on-site movie nights, stargazing, and even hot air balloon rides.
Stonewall, Texas:
The Stonewall glamping resort in Texas Hill Country offers 22 climate-controlled tents equipped with king-size beds, en suite bathrooms, wraparound decks, fire pits, kitchenettes, and minibars. Amenities like an outdoor bar serving local wine and beers, a cafe for light bites, and a country store for provisions create a luxurious and convenient experience. Explore the nearby Hill Country’s trails and wineries, or enjoy a short drive to the legendary dance halls of Luckenbach and Albert.
Mariposa, California:
Nestled near Yosemite National Park, Wildhaven offers a unique blend of cabins and tents. The premium tents feature heated mattress pads, larger decks, and gas fire pits for added comfort. Communal bathhouses and barbecue areas make for a social experience, while cabins provide privacy with kitchens, bathrooms, and private outdoor seating. The clubhouse serves as a central hub for food, wine, and cider, with s’mores kits readily available. The property boasts a nature trail offering stunning views of the Sierra mountains, hills, and Mariposa.
Escalante, Utah:
Ofland Escalante, formerly known as Yonder Escalante, delivers panoramic views of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument from various accommodation options, including vintage Airstreams, tiny cabins, and deluxe cabins. The newly added deluxe cabins are the most spacious, offering queen beds, sleeper sofas, bathrooms, private outdoor showers, and fire pits. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area with hikes in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, or relax by the pool, soak in the hot tub, or enjoy movie nights under the stars in the nostalgic drive-in theater setting.
Whitwell, Tennessee:
Escape to the serene Glamping Hub in Tennessee where luxurious domes, cabins, and treehouses await. The "honeymoon" treehouses provide stunning views, private hot tubs, porch swings, and even pizza ovens. The property’s geodesic domes offer 1,175 square feet of space, while the "mirror cabins" with glass walls offer a unique and reflective experience. Indulge in spa treatments, hike through scenic trails, or enjoy the peaceful evenings with stargazing.
Bethel, New York:
The historic Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, site of the iconic 1969 Woodstock festival, has embraced the glamping trend, offering a combination of luxury tents and basic bell tents for eventgoers. These accommodations come equipped with beds, bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and outdoor decks, ensuring a comfortable stay before and after concerts at the Pavilion amphitheater. The Museum at Bethel Woods provides a fascinating journey through the history and legacy of Woodstock.
Few & Far Collection
This new initiative from the founders of Under Canvas takes glamping to a new level, offering private group experiences in stunning locations like Africa, Chile, and near national parks. The Grand Teton Luxury Tented Camp offers an unforgettable experience, starting with a cocktail reception and Western hat-making before enjoying dinners outdoors. Explore the Grand Teton National Park through activities like fly fishing, mountain biking, paddle boarding, horseback riding, and hot air balloon tours.
The rise of glamping offers a fresh approach to outdoor adventure, bridging the gap between comfort and nature. Whether you’re seeking a weekend retreat or a longer getaway, glamping provides a unique and luxurious way to experience the beauty of our natural world.
