Not all outdoor adventures call for roughing it. Glamping – or “glamourous camping” – is a fun alternative to traditional camping or RV stays while being close to nature. Cabins, yurts, tiny homes, and treehouses across the country provide a sense of seclusion without sacrificing modern comforts.
Fireside Resort Cabins, Wyoming
Enjoy the outdoors sustainably without compromising comfort at Fireside Resort Cabins in Wilson, Wyoming. The 25 LEED-certified individual cabins offer modern luxuries in a rustic setting near the mountain town and ski slopes of Jackson Hole. Each cabin features:
- Hardwood floors
- Craftsman-style décor
- Native American artwork
- King-sized Tempur-Pedic bed
- Walk-in rain shower
- Living room with fireplace and kitchenette
The atmosphere of a wooded campground is complemented by a private campfire and hot tub, with famous parks like Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park nearby.
Moab Springs Ranch, Utah
Located just minutes outside Arches National Park, the Colorado River, and Canyonlands National Park, Moab Springs Ranch is a locally owned, eco-friendly resort. The resort offers:
- Studio-style stand-alone bungalows with private porches
- Spacious townhouses with up to three bedrooms for family accommodation
It backs up to Moab’s majestic red rocks, providing access to walking, biking, and hiking trails, along with a relaxing garden featuring hammocks and waterscapes.
Tiny Town Cabins, Colorado
As there are no accommodations inside Rocky Mountain National Park, the bustling city of Estes Park serves as a favored base for most visitors. This energetic town is filled with eclectic restaurants and shops, conveniently located at the doorstep of the National Park, just 90 minutes from Denver.
For a traditional Colorado-style cabin experience, consider staying at Tiny Town Cabins at Trout Haven Resorts outside the park. Located alongside the trout-filled Big Thompson River, the 19 cozy cabins blend modern amenities with historic architecture, and are dog-friendly.
Lazy Z Resort, California
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Sonora, California, Lazy Z Resort is a family-owned retreat offering 13 cabins and cottages spread across 40 acres of pines, cedars, and oaks. Key features include:
- Private kitchens and decks in expansive rooms
- A rustic clubhouse filled with family heirlooms
- A relaxing swimming pool in a natural setting
This mountain retreat is ideal for nature lovers seeking peace and tranquility, with easy access to Yosemite National Park.
Treetop Hideaways, Georgia
Situated at the border of Georgia and Tennessee, Treetop Hideaways offers luxurious and sustainable treehouse accommodations. Made of reclaimed wood and copper-lined whiskey barrels, these two treehouses provide:
- Climate control
- Heated floors
- Walk-in rain-head showers
- Ultra-fast internet
These treehouses deliver an exceptional glamping experience while immersing you in nature. Nearby, you can explore Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, the first and largest national military park in the country.
Glacier Bay Lodge, Alaska
The rustic Glacier Bay Lodge is the only hotel accommodation available within the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in this remote area of Alaska. It offers spectacular views and easy access to Bartlett Cove and the Fairweather Mountain range, perfect for embarking on adventure day cruises to witness:
- Snow-capped mountains
- Magnificent glaciers
- Wildlife like humpback whales and brown bears
Sunshine Key Tiny House, Florida
Sunshine Key Tiny House Village features all the comforts of home cleverly designed within a fascinatingly small space. The brightly decorated tiny homes are located on the 75-acre island of Ohio Key in the lower Florida Keys, offering:
- Comfortable sleeping accommodations
- A kitchenette
- A full bathroom
- A flat-screen TV
Just steps from the beach, it is perfect for ocean activities or simply relaxing at the water’s edge.
Falling Waters, North Carolina
Inspired by ancient Mongolian design, the yurts at Falling Waters Nantahala provide a unique alternative to standard cabin rentals. Scattered across 22 acres in the Smoky Mountains, these yurts feature:
- A comfortable queen-size bed
- Refrigerator and coffee maker
- A private deck with picturesque views
Falling Waters is conveniently located near Nantahala National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Castle House Estate, California
Situated just outside of Joshua Tree National Park, The Castle House Estate is a unique glamping site resembling a medieval castle. Visitors can choose from various lodging options, including yurts and guard towers, while enjoying incredible stargazing in one of California’s designated International Dark Sky Parks.
Shash Diné Eco Retreat, Arizona
Shash Diné Eco Retreat is one of the few glamping bed-and-breakfasts located directly on the Navajo Nation. The accommodations include:
- Homey Bell Tents
- Cabins and shepherd huts
- Two traditional Navajo Hogans
Each site features a fire pit, perfect for making s’mores under a star-studded sky, with easy access to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Grand Canyon National Park.
Tips for Glamping
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When planning your outdoor adventure, always check the property ahead to confirm opening status and safety measures in place. This includes sanitization protocols and available amenities.
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Many national parks now require advanced reservations, so ensure you have your confirmation printed for entry during the allotted time.
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Due to limited cell phone reception in the parks, downloading maps and planning hiking trails in advance can enhance your travel experience.
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Avoid peak hours on popular trails, and pack your snacks and drinks to prevent reliance on park facilities that may be closed or limited. Always carry personal protection products for added safety.
