Glamping in California

If bugs and dirt aren’t for you, go camping in the lap of luxury at these California glamping hot spots.

Perhaps Girl Scouts was the last time you set foot off the paved path. Perhaps sleeping in a tent in your backyard was the last wilderness experience you encountered. Whatever the case, a handful of camping aficionados have made it their goal to welcome you back to the woods with luxurious accommodations. Say hello to these four gorgeous glamping options in the Golden State.

Perched along the famed Highway 1 with the Pacific as a backdrop, Treebones Resort is the quintessence of glamping in California. We love this place for its conscious efforts to blend five-star views with earth-friendly packages, keeping with the California vibe of connecting with the environment. Guests can escape to the privacy of their own yurt or take in the scenery via nearby hiking or yoga classes along the property. If you’re feeling daring, opt to stay in their Human Nest, offering phenomenal views and a snug layout with room for two people.

The area may be known for hot summers, but Discover Cynthia’s tipis are well worth the extreme weather. Retreat to one of the Native American-inspired accommodations and find yourself indulging in serenity near Death Valley National Park. With 20-foot tapered walls, an in-room fire pit and heating/air conditioning, these tipis are equipped to meet all your glamorous needs. The resort even offer breakfast baskets and dining packages. What’s more, Discover Cynthia’s location offers perfect conditions for stargazing; the best time to go is in the spring, when temperatures are mild, and the Big Dipper is right overhead.

Santa Barbara has long been heralded as the perfect balance of outdoor glamour and vintage charm. With similar elevation, climate and landscape as the French countryside, El Capitan Canyon resort lodging captures the best of the city and nature. Indulge in amenities such as an in-room massage and Champagne delivered to your front door while staying in one of their Safari tents. For a more adventurous alternative that combines resort living with back-country fare, we recommend booking their fireside dinner package during your stay, complete with their famous Canyon S’mores kit.

Situated in the heart of California’s Giant Sequoia National Monument, the Sequoia High Sierra Camp offers a luxurious alternative to the traditional hike-in/hike-out, stay-in-a-tent type excursion. Although a mile-long hike into camp is required, guests can snooze in a canvas cabin, surrounded by colossal trees and striking scenery, and enjoy all the amenities of a hotel, like Pendleton wool blankets, daily maid service, premium linens, towels and toiletries. You can sleep easy knowing all your meals are included, and you can feast on a five-course meal for dinner after a refreshing day in the wilderness. Picnic lunches are also offered if you opt for a day excursion. The only thing you’re missing is the hustle and bustle of crowds, leaving you more time to hike and relax in complete solitude.

More glamping goodness

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10 Tips for luxury camping
How to plan a romantic summer camping trip