The Best of West Coast Glamping.
For those looking to enjoy the outdoors but want a bit of luxury and comfort (read - cozy bed and hot showers!), than traditional tent comping, then glamping offers the best of both worlds. Camping has been particularly appealing during the recent pandemic as people wanted safe and drivable distance vacation options. But pitching tents, sleeping in bags, and using shared showers are not everyone’s idea of an outdoor family vacation.
Here is my list of the top glamping destinations from mid-century modern airstreams and industrial cabins to safari-style tents, beautifully situated along California’s coast, the wine country region, and iconic US National Parks.
I compiled this list based on the following criteria:
The selections are based on my actual family travel experience (and fully paid for by us!) + those that are on my bucket list and from friends and followers who have also experienced these destinationsFocused only on the destinations in the Western United States that capture the essence of its landscape - coast, desert, redwood forests, wine country, and national parksLooked at pricing for affordable luxury starting at $325/night (though there is one exception on the list!)
Enjoy this read and definitely leave a comment on what’s been your favorite glamping destination and what was your experience like!
Disclaimer: The links below for direct booking are there to make it convenient for the reader to get more information on the destination and also to book if you like. I have no affiliation and do not earn any commission from this list of recommendations.Autocamp, Yosemite (National Park Glamping)
Vista Cabin Suites and Airstreams - Autocamp, Yosemite
Why I like it
Great options for glamping styles all in one place - Modern Lux cabins, Airstreams, and luxury tents. They are perfect for a family of 3 (teenager or a toddler!) with cozy beds and a full kitchenette in addition to firepits for cooking
Beautifully and conveniently located just outside the iconic Yosemite National Park - it’s the best of both worlds!
Good to know
For larger families or groups, you can pair up a large canvas lux tent with an Airstream next to each other
The clubhouse has a fully stocked pantry, firewood - just in case.
Price Range $$ - $$$ (we stayed in the Vista Accessible Cabin Suite by the pond which was about $350/ per night including tax
Under Canvas, Moab (Desert Tent Glamping)
Photo Credit: Under Canvas
Why I like it
Sleeping under the stars in safari luxury tent-style desert glamping near a national park is the closest you can get to without getting on a plane and flying 10,000 miles to Africa to experience it! With incredible options for outdoor adventures ranging from Moab Red Rocks mountain biking, hiking to white water rafting, it makes this on the top of my 2021-22 travel bucket list!
Beautifully and conveniently located (7 miles) outside the famous Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park - 2 for 1!
Good to know
Opens between early March through the end of October. Remember to check their website for exact dates
Price Range $$ - $$$
Note: I have not stayed yet at Under Canvas Moab. This is just based on my desire to experience this type of glampingAutocamp, Russian River (Wine Country Glamping)
Premium Airstream Suite, Autocamp, Russian River, CA
Why I like it
Shiny silver, modern airstreams nestled among giant California Redwood trees - naturally social distanced
A whole new way to experience Sonoma - 90 min from San Francisco, and 5-minute biking to the charming town of Guerneville, beautiful wineries (La Crema, Korbel, Russian River Vineyards), river kayaking, and Redwoods hiking
No pitching tents or sleeping bags - warm cozy luxurious beds and spa-inspired bathroom - all in!
Good to know
For a secluded location, I recommend the Premium Suite Airstream or for larger families/groups you can pair up a large canvas tent with an Airstream next to each other.
Overall it’s a compact property, unlike the one in Yosemite. We loved it but some go thinking it's in the wilderness and it’s not!
The clubhouse has a fully stocked pantry, firewood - just in case.
Price Range $$ - $$$ (we stayed in the Vista $340/ per night including tax
Read more in my post about the Autocamp Russian River Experience
Getaway House, Portland (Escape to Nature)
Photo Credit: Getaway House (Photographer: Mikayla Herrick Photography)
Why I like it
You just need to show up! Modern tiny cabins are well equipped with beds, a kitchen, showers, firepits, grils..making them perfect for both couples and families with kids alike looking to unplug and refresh!
Smartly located in a remote wooded location within 2-3 hours from a major city enabling a no-brainer weekend or mid-week getaway
Good to know
Locations on West Coast limited to only Portland and LA for now.
Price Range $$ - $$$
Note: I have not stayed yet at any of the Getaway Cabins. This is just based on my desire to experience this type of glampingCostanoa, Pescadero (Coastal Glamping)
Photo Credit: Costanoa Lodge & Cabin, Pescadero, CA
Why I like it
Seriously this is a hidden gem, located on California Coast, just a 50-minute drive on CA 1 (South) from San Francisco. Many years ago, I had a small retreat for my company and their families (with kids) and everyone got to choose a different accommodation based on what they liked - Lodge, Cabin or Tent Bungalows!. It was a big hit!
Tons of activities to choose from - mountain biking, coastal hikes, spa, and several outdoor kids programs
Good to know
Kids camp runs from April through summer - Note: for 2021 due to Covid-19 they probably canceled it.
Nice Restaurant on-site and don’t forget pancakes breakfast, made just outside your tent bungalow
Price Range $$ - $$$
Ventana, Big Sur (Redwood Forest Glamping)
Photo Credit: Sheisnotlost (Travel Blogger)
Why I like it
Ventana Big Sur is arguably the most luxurious outdoor adventure destination in the United States. However, what’s most attractive is the Ventana Campground, which has options for well-equipped safari-style luxurious canvas tents for glampers! and the classic pitch your own tent camping.
You can enjoy the magnificence of Big Sur with a touch of luxury! Should be on anyone’s glamping bucket list destination.
Good to know
The campground has its own lux bathhouses, a snack bar, and Smokehouse!
Ventana Hotel amenities are not accessible to glamping or camping guests
Price Range $ - $$$$ (Campsites start around $80/per night, Glamping starts at $240/ night (weekdays) to $700/night on weekends
Note: I have not stayed yet at Ventana Big Sur. This is just based on my desire to experience this type of glamping. I suggest reading a wonderful experience and review by travel blogger - SheisnotlostSave This Post For Later On Pinterest
