Few things in life are better for the soul than a few moments out in nature. And why not extend those moments into a few days filled with starry nights and restful walks?
Traditional camping is a wonderful way to fully disconnect from the hubbub of everyday life. But why not elevate your treasured moments in the sun with a woodburning stove, 1,600-thread-count sheets, and a hammock on your balcony?
Indeed, there’s no need to rough it when it’s time to commune with nature and absorb all of its healing virtues. Below, you’ll find a dozen options dotted across the great state of California, just waiting to welcome you home.
The Castle House Estate | Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree is special in its own right – and accommodations in the area abound. But, if you’ve been curious about glamping, you’ll be happy you tried it out here. The Castle House Estate blends the elegance of a castle with the natural world. When you step into your tent, you’ll find a queen-size bed with 1,600-thread-count sheets and electricity so you can read yourself to sleep at night. That’s quite the foray into this manner of R&R, right?
Mendocino Grove | Mendocino
Since you’re a little bit further up the line, guess what this glamping site has in store for you? Heated beds! At night, you can enclose yourself in a specious tent and, in the morning, savor a hot cup of tea from your redwood platform. If you’re here during a time of year that doesn’t require the use of the heated bed, you can make use of the outdoor showers with an offering of organic bath products. When you’re not exploring, you may also find yourself swaying in the hammocks, booking a yoga class, or trying your hand on the bocce ball court.
Sonoma Treehouse Adventures | Occidental
Ready to take things up a notch? How about we go all the way into the redwoods for a night or two? A stay here will live out your every fantasy. With panoramic views of the forest, every waking moment will be a treat for the eyes. And, when you’re not relaxing high up in the clouds, you can let your wild side run free with some on-site ziplining.
Ventana Campground | Big Sur
If you’ve ever marveled at the majesty of the redwoods, this is the spot for you. After a restful night in the forest, you’ll awaken with wonder as you pull back the flaps of your clean canvas tent and take in the canopy of leaves. Like most campgrounds, you’ll get to know your neighbors at the communal bathrooms. However, at Ventana, we’re talking teak showers, aromatherapy products, and heated floors. Not too shabby, right?
Safari Sunset Eco Glamping | Vista
Lovers of the outdoors – and sustainability – unite in this luxe campground when it’s time to escape from everyday life. Once you step inside your tent, you’ll find a heated stove, composting toilet, rack for your clothes, and sumptuous sheets to sink into at night. Whether you choose to relax after your morning hike in your rocker or hammock on the deck, you’ll savor every moment you spend here in paradise.
Beach Canyon Authentic Tipis | Topanga Canyon
For a truly authentic step back in time, you must visit Beach Canyon. This is an experience that will stay with you forever – and you don’t have to sacrifice a single luxury. Even though you’ll blend in with nature, you’ll still have easy access to hot showers, WiFi, a continental breakfast, and wine and cheese in a hot tub under the stars. This campground is well-situated because you’ll only be a few minute’s drive from the beach and steps away from glorious hiking trails. Everything about Beach Canyon is good for the soul – and you’ll feel it the moment you arrive.
If the idea of a night in a tipi really revs your engine, check out this list of 20 glamping spots in the U.S. for nature lovers.
Wildhaven Sonoma | Healdsburg
Are there any wine lovers at your party? If so, it’s off to Wildhaven Sonoma, and we go! The owners of this glamping site scored a major win when they bought this property because it’s close to some of the best wineries in a land flowing with wine. At night, you can read a book in a lamplight because these tents come with electricity. That is after you’ve spent some time around the campfire with your new friends and a bottle of wine. At the on-site market, you can even buy a s’mores kit to pair with your bottle of zinf.
Sequoia High Sierra Camp | Sequoia National Park
We’ve talked about many fascinating backdrops – from redwoods to wine country. But how about a dual view of Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks? To avoid the chill, this campground is only open from the middle of June to the middle of September. All 32 cabins feature pillow-top mattresses, down pillows, and easy access to a beautiful dining area. Three meals are also included in your stay, from a buffet breakfast to an al fresco dinner, opening the door to a host of new friends who share common interests.
Safari West | Santa Rosa
If you can’t get into Wildhaven for your desired dates, fear not. The Santa Rosa wine region is happy to accept you. Safari West really takes things up a notch. We’re talking en suite bathrooms, ceiling fans, rattan furniture, and sweeping decks to take in the world around you – and that world will fill you with wonder. Located on a 400-acre wildlife preserve, you’ll make all manner of furry friends – from a safe distance, of course.
Inn Town Campground | Nevada City
Taking on the look of a row of tiny houses, Inn Town Campground has everything you need for a luxurious glamping experience. Your home away from home comes with a queen-size bed, soft linens, electricity, and a private porch for your morning coffee on a camping stove. With beautiful views over the forest, you’ll enjoy your walks to the kitchen, showers, and onsite market to stock up on supplies.
Paradise Ranch Inn | Big Sur
Back to Big Sur for one more adventure! Actually, Paradise Ranch Inn is a luxe, eco-friendly ranch. But, on-site, they also have five-star gazer tents, and the luxury was extended well into each tent. Depending on which one you book, you’re looking at queen-size bedding, towels, sheep and cowhide flooring, a water filtration system, and a heated electric blanket. Here, they invite you to “dance with the moon,” and, boy, do they provide every opportunity to do so.
The Kosmic Tortoise | Twentynine Palms
Dare we say we saved the best for last? We’re heading back to where we began – Joshua Tree. Except, here, you’ll find domes that open up to a canvas of stars at night. Here, you can take in all of nature’s colorful displays, from sunrises to sunsets to starry, starry nights. Believe it or not, each of their domes is solar-powered and air-conditioned and comes with private bathrooms, mini-fridges, grills, fire pits, and an outside dining area. If you’re an astrophotographer, you’ll be quick to hit that book now button on their website.
A World Away
What do you say? Is it time to get a world away? You can do so without roughing it very much – if at all. Whether the desert or the lush forests are calling your name, you can have it all. Take a long weekend to plug into nature. You’ll return home revived.
Before you head to California, check out our library of destination guides. In case you want to add anything to your adventures, we’re here to help you craft the perfect itinerary. Until then, here’s hoping we meet you beside a fireside with a bottle of wine and a plateful of s’mores someday!