Because camping is often too in-tents
It seems as though glamping, a catchy neologism for glamorous camping, is all the rage these days—right? Well, for good reason. An undeniable global trend, glamping presents a unique opportunity to retreat to nature while maintaining all the accouterments of luxury. Sure, we like to get our hands dirty every now and again, but the notion of camping with the frills of modern living is pretty ideal.
Luckily, California is host to boundless glamping hotstops that are, indeed, beginning to rival stays at high-end hotels. So, whether you wish to head up north or revel in a glampcation™ (you heard it here first), we’ve devised a list of glampsites up and down the coast to enjoy some good ol’ natural luxury.
The Joshua Tree House | Joshua Tree
Set within the magic of the hi-desert in Joshua Tree, California, The Joshua Tree House has become one of the most sought-after locales for modern-day dreamers to find respite. The property features a 1949 hacienda and two 1958 abodes, complete with an epicly simple bohemian vibe.
This glampsite doesn’t involve any tents, so you can rest assured that luxury is totally primo. But, it’s required that you slow down and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. Enveloped by silence, open desert views, wildlife and a breathtaking starry sky, you’ll find it remarkably easy to disconnect.
AUTOCAMP | RUSSIAN RIVER & SANTA BARBARA
AutoCamp presents a truly one-of-a-kind vacation experience. With glampsites in Santa Barbara and Russian Valley, AutoCamp features decked out airstreams, canvas tents with plush, modern interiors and sustainably-built Shelton huts. Each accommodation comes brimming with a chic midcentury feel, allowing guests to get off the grid without roughing it at a campsite.
Alpine Modern
And, for an even greater touch of luxury, both AutoCamp sites feature a sweet array of amenities. In Russian River (90 minutes north of San Fran), you have access to a fully-appointed clubhouse with fire pit lounges, local beer & wine (because real camping involves booze) and an adventure concierge. In Santa Barbara, all airstreams feature luxurious beds and baths (with boutique bath products, of course), kitchens, patios, lounge chairs and two beach cruisers. If it’s simplified adventure you’re looking for, this is it.
TREEBONES RESORT | BIG SUR
Of course, we all love Big Sur. But yurt camping in Big Sur? Total game changer. One of California’s premier glamping spots, Treebones Resort effortlessly blends the natural experience of outdoor camping with luxe amenities. Cantilevered over the hillside with far-reaching ocean views, Treebones’ yurts will majestically transport you to a state of complete zen.
Replete with snug beds, cozy comforters, well-appointed baths and generous redwood viewing decks with Adirondack chairs, each yurt reminds you of how life is supposed to be lived: slowly, simply and in harmony with nature. You can also stay in their Autonomous Yurt, which has garnered serious attention for its architectural singularity. Here, secluded on the edge of the resort with your own private deck and outdoor fire pit, you’ll experience some of the greatest sunsets in Big Sur.
You thought we were finished? Nope. Treebones Resort is also home to Wild Coast Restaurant & Sushi Bar. Strong emphasis on the sushi here. Now that is campfire cuisine totally redefined.
Mendocino Grove Tent Camp | Mendocino
Set within the coastal woodlands of Mendocino, this glampsite makes camping entirely comfy. Mendocino Grove features both safari tents and retrofitted airstreams, fully stocked with the amenities you need for an unforgettable glamping experience.
And, what’s even more impressive is that you’re located directly amidst Mendocino’s untrammeled beauty. Just beyond your modern canvas tent lie hundreds of hikes within the Redwoods while the area’s most gorgeous beaches are just five minutes down the road. Cook a delish campfire meal for breakfast then head into Mendocino’s charming downtown for dinner. Here, the luxuries that glamping and nature afford are limitless.
