I appreciate nature as much as anyone else. I enjoy hiking, soaking up the sun on the beach, and marveling at sunsets over majestic mountains. The serene expanse of the ocean often feels like a spiritual experience to me.
However, I sometimes suspect I’m more enamored with the idea of the great outdoors than the reality of spending time in it. The moment I find myself in the wild for an extended period, I turn into a total complainer. It’s either too hot or too cold, too windy or too sandy. At my core, I’m an indoor enthusiast who enjoys nature—just in small increments.
A morning hike? Absolutely! A day spent at the lake? Count me in! An afternoon picnic? If we can avoid ants, mosquitoes, and flies, I’m all for it!
But camping? No way. Not happening. There’s no chance I’m going to sleep on the hard ground with only a flimsy piece of fabric between me and the bugs or wild animals, not to mention the trek to the nearest restroom (which usually turns out to be an outhouse). Cooking over an open flame? Absolutely not.
Yet, as I mentioned, I do love spending time in nature, so what’s an indoor girl to do? Enter the delightful realm of glamping.
Yes, glamping!
If you’ve heard of glamping, you might picture wealthy millennials shelling out a fortune to stay in luxurious cabins that are bigger than my home while pretending to “rough it.” While that’s certainly part of it, there are also a myriad of affordable, no-frills options for those of us who appreciate indoor plumbing and perhaps even a WiFi connection.
The options for glamping are plentiful and cater to every budget and preference. I’m seriously considering exploring www.glamping.com for our next family adventure. Here are a few standout options:
Treebones Resort in Big Sur, California
Offering everything from traditional campsites to autonomous tents (essentially small cabins), Treebones Resort in Big Sur has something for everyone. They even have yurts—just saying the word “yurt” is a joy in itself! With stunning views of the California coastline, this eco-resort grows its own food, recycles almost everything, and even feeds their chickens with food scraps.
AutoCamp in Santa Barbara, California
AutoCamp in Santa Barbara provides a retro-chic camping experience where you can rent Airstreams equipped with modern amenities like running water and electricity, all while enjoying the campground atmosphere. Guests are responsible for their own meals (grills are available), making it a perfect choice for those who want the camping experience but with the comforts of home.
C Lazy U Ranch in Colorado
C Lazy U Ranch is an all-inclusive dude ranch that brings glam to glamping. With various cabin options, it’s perfect for family reunions or vacations with friends. Be prepared to splurge as this luxury ranch comes at a premium. If you’re seeking a unique experience that transports you back to the mid-1800s, this is the place—think Westworld without the rogue robots, and the views? Simply breathtaking.
Lost Lakes Resort & Campground in Oregon
At Lost Lakes Resort, you can enjoy the best aspects of camping—a boat launch, a secluded vibe, hiking trails, and a picturesque lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains—without the typical camping inconveniences. For the more adventurous, campsites are available, but for the rest of us, there are cozy yurts and fully-stocked cabins. Plus, a general store on-site ensures you won’t forget any necessities (because let’s be honest, we all forget something).
Sugar Creek Treehouse in North Carolina
What child wouldn’t want to stay in a treehouse? Bring the whole family to this delightful 600-square-foot treehouse nestled in the forest above a mountain stream with waterfalls. Located just 45 minutes northeast of Asheville, it offers easy access to numerous hiking trails. And the best part? You can enjoy a hot shower after your outdoor adventures. Don’t wait too long to book this treehouse, as it fills up quickly!
Yosemite Pines RV Resort in Yosemite
If you’re going to embrace the outdoors, you might as well do it right at Yosemite National Park. The Yosemite Pines RV Resort offers close-up lodging options for visitors while keeping you safe from wildlife and providing indoor plumbing. Plus, it has a petting farm and a swimming pool, along with some of the most stunning views—and LLAMAS! It’s also quite affordable.
Bar N Ranch at Yellowstone National Park
Located only six miles from Yellowstone National Park, Bar N Ranch in Montana offers cabins and guestroom lodging that feels less like traditional camping. Its prime location gives you an off-the-grid experience while still providing the comforts of home.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to start planning our next glamping getaway.
For more insights on family planning, check out this article on at-home insemination kits, which can be a valuable resource for those looking to expand their family. You can find more information on pregnancy options at Healthline, an excellent resource for understanding intrauterine insemination. Additionally, for a deep dive into family adventures, visit Modern Family Blog.
Summary:
Glamping provides the perfect solution for those who love nature but prefer not to endure the discomforts of traditional camping. From luxurious resorts to cozy cabins, there are numerous options available to accommodate every budget and preference. Whether you choose to stay in a treehouse or a retro Airstream, glamping allows you to enjoy the great outdoors with the comforts of home.