Discover Glamping: 5 Must-Visit U.S. Destinations

What is Glamping?

We’ve all heard of camping, but what is ‘glamping’? Glamping is a term that combines the words 'glamorous’ and ‘camping’. It allows people to enjoy nature without sacrificing the comfort of a hotel stay.

The day-to-day experience at a glamping site is different compared to normal camping. Instead of arriving at an empty lot where you have to set up camp, you arrive at a campsite that is already prepared for you.

A glamping campsite will have a canvas tent large enough to stand in, with an interior designed to look like a hotel room—complete with working lights and possibly even a mini-fridge. Sleeping on the ground? Not when you’re glamping. You’ll be sleeping in a bed.

Each glampsite is different and some will provide more accommodations than others, but each is a unique experience with various landscapes that surround you.

5 Glamping Destinations Across the U.S.

1. Ventana: Big Sur, California
2. Skamania Lodge: Columbia River Gorge, Washington
3. Tammah: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
4. Under Canvas: Zion National Park, Utah
5. Asheville Glamping: Blue Ridge Mountain, North Carolina

Continue reading for a more in-depth review of each!
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1. Ventana
Big Sur, California

Surround yourself with California Redwood trees in the coastal mountains of Big Sur, California. The Ventana campground glamping site offers wood-burning and propane fire pits, power outlets, lounge chairs, and sleek restrooms on-site.

Choose between an easy-access site, or opt for an adventure and hike to your exclusive site.

Activities: Big Sur is home to the Redwoods which are known to be the tallest trees on earth, and where mountains meet coast. Hike amongst the redwood forest and explore the picturesque Pfeiffer Beach, Bixby Bridge or Mcway Falls all within a short drive.

How to get there:
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is close to three hours away from Ventana via car.
  • San Jose International Airport (SJC): San José International Airport (SJC) is located two hours north of Ventana.
  • Monterey Regional Airport (MRY): Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is located just one hour away from Ventana. This airport is smaller and will have limited arrival and departure options.
Cost: $240.00 Nightly Rate
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2. Skamania Lodge
Columbia River Gorge, Washington

Nestled in the Cascade mountains sits the Skamania Lodge Glamping site. Sleep in a safari-style tent overlooking the Douglas Firs while the soothing sounds of the Columbia River Gorge fill the background.

Each glamping site has a personal bathroom with a soaking tub that overlooks the views. While at the glamping site guests have full access to the resort amenities.

Activities: Hike in a region that has the highest concentration of waterfalls in the nation. Surrounded by greenery, fresh air, and the historical Columbia River Gorge enjoy numerous activities from wine tasting to freshwater fishing.

How to get there:
  • Portland International Airport: The Portland airport is a 45-minute drive from Skamania Lodge.
  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: The Seattle Airpot is a 3-hour drive from Skamania Lodge.
Cost: $169-$446 Nightly Rates vary depending on the season, and day of stay.
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3. Tammah
Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Stay amid the Wyoming fields with the Teton Mountains as your backdrop. Each geodome comes with a private restroom and shower. Each dome has heating and cooling, allowing for a comfortable stay during any season.

Activities: This is a call for outdoor enthusiasts. A stay at Tammah offers the opportunity to explore the stunning scenery of Yellowstone National Park, and Teton National Park. You won't get bored, from hiking to snowboarding to enjoying the onsite saunas, and late-night stargazing.

How to get there: ​​
  • Jackson Hole Airport (JAC): The Jackson Hole Airport is a smaller airport with limited flight and is a 30-min drive away from Tammah.
  • Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): The closest major airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) which is a 4-hour drive.
Cost: $250-$400 Nightly Rates vary depending on the season, and day of stay.
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4. Under Canvas
Zion National Park, Utah

Rest in the southwest deserts, with the vast walls of red rock and sandstone cliffs. These fully furnished tents, come with private bathrooms, stargazing roofs, and family-friendly spaces.

Activities: Begin your morning with a yoga session, then embark on a hiking journey through Zion National Park exploring the well-known sites of Narrows and Angels-Landing. End your day stargazing at the first DarkSky resort for breathtaking views.

How to get there:
  • Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS): Most visitors coming to the Park fly into Las Vegas, which is a 2 hour drive from Zion.
  • St. George Regional Airport (SGU): The St. George airport is a 50 minute drive away from Zion.

Cost: $200-$400 Nightly Rates vary depending on the season, and day of stay.
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5. Asheville Glamping
Blue Ridge Mountain, North Carolina

Embrace all that Blue Ridge Mountain has to offer with the Asheville Glamping domes. With multiple dome options from dog friendly to family friendly with an indoor slide, you will find the perfect accommodations.

Activities: Take a scenic drive on the historical Blue Ridge Parkway, known as America's Favorite Drive or hike the mountains during autumn to capture the remarkable foliage.

After, head down to the river and enjoy kayaking, rafting or fishing, then reward yourself with a trip to the local breweries. Asheville has been the winner of the Examiner's "Beer City USA" poll four years running!

How to get there:
  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL): The Asheville airport is a 50-minute drive away from the glamping site.
  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): The Charlotte airport is the closest International airport, and is a 2 hour and 30 minute drive away from the glamping site.

Cost: $119-$250 Nightly Rates vary depending on the season, and day of stay.
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Choosing a Glamping Site

The first aspect to consider is what type of nature experience you want. There are numerous options, and glamping sites are often near remarkable national parks or well-known sites that outdoor enthusiasts frequently visit.

Once you've narrowed down the region you want to explore, you can choose your glamping site. Be sure to read the reviews to better understand what your experience will be like. Check whether there are outlets available, if the restrooms are private or communal, and what the food options are.

Overall, glamping can be an amazing way to experience the outdoors. Although it is a more glamorous form of camping, it is still camping. Glamping tents are often made of thicker fabric, but the sound experience will be similar to a normal camping tent. Because they are not as enclosed, you will encounter more wildlife as compared to an indoor hotel room.

How to Pack for a Glamping Trip

Once you have chosen your destination, the packing begins!

Because glamping is an elevated version of camping most sites will have cooking appliances, food, and lanterns for you. It is best to check with where you are staying to know what they offer and what they don't offer. One thing we know for sure is that you will have to bring your own luggage.
The Travel Backpack from SANDMARC makes packing easy with various compartments for organization and an expandable storage option on the exterior. Pack clothes for 2-3 days, but if you need more than one bag, the travel backpack makes carrying two bags a breeze with the luggage pass-through for any glamping adventure.

Happy Glamping!
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