5 Glamping Destinations in the West
Get adventurous while indulging your more opulent tastes at these luxury resorts under the stars.
There’s something magical about camping out in the wilderness, but if you just can’t wrap your mind around sleeping on the ground, we’ve got the solution for you: glamping. Nestled in the redwoods or perched on the prairie, these luxury camping resorts will have you communing with nature while reclining on soft linens.
Mendocino Grove, Mendocino, California
For a more rustic, but by no means rugged, glamping experience, Mendocino Grove has you covered. With tent cabins forming small neighborhoods, the resort feels more like a standard campground, but with refined touches. Down comforters and wool blankets keep you snug on the cool coastal nights, and a bathhouse stocked with premium products offers steaming hot showers. Head to the Meadow Commons for a morning cup of joe or while away the day playing bocce ball or horse shoes with your besties.
Cozy up in an Airstream, tent cabin, or premium suite at AutoCamp Russian River.
AutoCamp Russian River, Guerneville, California
Towering redwoods provide the backdrop for AutoCamp’s souped-up Airstreams, lavish tent cabins, and fully-accessible premium suites. Borrow bikes for a leisurely ride to the nearby Russian River for a dip in the refreshing waters, or pop into downtown Guerneville for a tasty meal. And after a day of exploration and adventure, settle into a hammock in the redwood grove for a little R&R.
Escape to the coast and hide away at one of Costanoa's Tent Bungalows.
Costanoa, Pescadero, California
Tucked into the rolling coastal hills of Pescadero, California, Costanoa offers an outdoor retreat for all tastes. Choose the lodge or cabins if you prefer full comfort come night; select the tent bungalows or the KOA campground if you'd like to stay more in touch with nature. And whatever your choice, you’ll have access to the resort's comfort stations, specially designed bathrooms with heated concrete floors, private indoor and outdoor showers, dry sauna, and courtyard with a fireplace and Adirondack chairs for ultimate relaxation.
Light up the grill at El Capitan Canyon.
El Capitan Canyon, Santa Barbara, California
It’s easy to fall in love with the Santa Barbara coast of California. The perfect surfing waves in the shadow of the Santa Ynez Mountains provide a wonderful weekend escape. Head to El Capitan Creek (with a seasonal flow) and hide out in one of El Capitan Canyon’s cedar cabins or adventure yurts—all outfitted with creature comforts to have you resting in the lap of luxury after a full day of adventures. Hit the trails on a docent-led hike, pedal around on a beach cruiser, or spend the day splashing around in the heated pool. Cap off the day with an evening of live music, a complimentary feature for all guests on Saturdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Rest up after a day of exploring Yellowstone at Under Canvas.
Under Canvas, Yellowstone, Wyoming
Discovering the natural wonders of iconic Yellowstone National Park is awe-inspiring, but experiencing them up close while staying in a luxurious safari-style tent pushes it to once-in-a-lifetime level. Head just 10 miles from the park’s boundaries to a spread of tent cabins dressed to the nines, outfitted with lavish linens, organic bath products, and private decks with lounge chairs to rest your weary legs. Best yet, s’mores over the firepit await you in the evenings.
This article was first published in July 2021 and last updated in May 2023.