Amidst the growing popularity of outdoor retreats, many individuals are drawn to the serene experience of camping, which involves sleeping beneath the stars and waking to the soothing sounds of nature.
However, not everyone finds comfort in traditional camping accommodations. For those who appreciate nature but prioritize comfort, glamping—a blend of glamorous camping—offers an enticing alternative.
Glamping enables adventurers to connect with the great outdoors while indulging in plush amenities such as real beds and modern bathrooms, all without sacrificing the natural experience.
California boasts a remarkable range of glamping options that cater to various preferences, from basic upgrades on camping to fully luxurious experiences. Many glampsites provide essential services like wifi and electricity, while others allow guests to disconnect with minimal technology.
Here are some of California’s best glamping spots to explore this summer, promising both comfort and connection to nature.
**AutoCamp Sequoia, Three Rivers**
AutoCamp has established a solid reputation in the glamping community, particularly due to its stunning, custom-built Airstreams that feel more like luxurious hotel rooms than traditional camping trailers.
Each 31-foot Airstream at AutoCamp Sequoia features a full bathroom, a kitchenette with appliances, and a plush queen-size memory foam bed, complete with a pull-out futon for extra guests.
With amenities including both heating and air conditioning, guests enjoy convenience, alongside an outdoor seating area and a firepit for evening relaxation.
Nestled in Three Rivers, this glampsite offers direct access to Sequoia National Park, ensuring guests have plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.
In addition to its scenic setting, AutoCamp provides complimentary electric vehicle charging and strong wifi connectivity throughout the campground.
**28 Palms Ranch, Twentynine Palms**
Located near Joshua Tree, 28 Palms Ranch stands out with its ten unique Mongolian yurts, providing a distinct glamping experience.
These yurts retain warmth even during chilly nights, featuring cozy beds, air conditioning for hot days, and additional bean bag seating that converts into beds.
Guests will find outdoor facilities including a biogas toilet system and a hot water shower, as well as a grill and seating area perfect for stargazing.
While wifi access is limited and cell service is spotty, guests can still charge devices thanks to available electricity.
**Mendocino Grove, Mendocino**
For those willing to embark on a picturesque road trip, Mendocino Grove offers an unforgettable retreat on 37 acres of stunning coastal bluff.
Here, well-equipped tents provide an optimal glamping experience, with mattress heating pads to ensure a cozy night’s sleep.
While bathrooms and showers are communal, guests can gather in the common area for complimentary coffee and breakfast, enhancing the nostalgic summer camp atmosphere.
Outdoor activities abound with hiking trails and onsite kayak rentals, alongside a spa offering massages for ultimate relaxation.
**Postcard Cabins Big Bear, Running Springs**
Postcard Cabins presents a collection of modern tiny cabins designed for those seeking a cozy escape close to nature without sacrificing comfort.
Located just three hours from San Diego, the Big Bear outpost features cabins with expansive windows that provide beautiful forest views, alongside amenities such as comfortable beds, heating, air conditioning, and a bathroom.
Outdoor spaces include firepits, grills, and picnic tables for enjoying leisurely meals in nature.
With no wifi, Postcard Cabins encourages guests to unplug during their stay.
**Flying Flags Avila Beach, Avila Beach**
Originally an RV resort and campground, Flying Flags has expanded to include stylish glamping options, including jupe tents that overlook Port San Luis.
Each tent is furnished with a queen-size Nectar mattress, allowing guests to enjoy ocean views from the comfort of their accommodations.
Outside, a small deck with chairs offers a delightful spot for relaxation.
These solar-powered tents lack heating or air conditioning, but Avila Beach’s agreeable climate provides a perfect natural escape, while wifi is accessible throughout the campground.
**Huttopia Paradise Springs, Valyermo**
The recent opening of Huttopia Paradise Springs marks a rejuvenation of the area previously known as Paradise Ranch, once a favorite retreat for Hollywood stars in the 1920s.
This glamping site features a range of accommodations modeled after European-style nature villages, complete with larger tents that provide ensuite bathrooms and smaller tents that share communal facilities.
Guests can enjoy onsite dining at the restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, alongside a range of activities utilizing the large swimming pool and meeting spaces available for group retreats.
**Under Canvas Yosemite, Groveland**
Scheduled to open on July 1, Under Canvas Yosemite represents a leading luxury glamping option, situated just a short drive from the park entrance.
Every tent is equipped with an ensuite bathroom, ensuring privacy and convenience in the outdoor setting.
During chilly nights, in-tent heaters and heated blankets provide warmth, while fans and misters keep the space cool during hot days, though there is no air conditioning available.
Under Canvas encourages visitors to unplug by not providing electricity or wifi, but guests can still charge devices using the battery-powered lanterns and fans equipped with USB outlets.
**Alila Ventana Big Sur, Big Sur**
Alila Ventana epitomizes luxury in Big Sur, blending high-end resort experiences with the joys of glamping.
Set in a semi-private area along Post Creek, the canvas tents come with premium mattresses and linens similar to those found at the resort.
While every tent features an outdoor sink with hot water, guests need to utilize the communal bathhouse for toilet and shower facilities.
Wifi and electricity are available within the tents, and guests can purchase daily resort passes to access additional amenities like the famous Japanese onsen, though it is advisable to reserve in advance.
**Alter Experiences, Mt. Laguna**
For those in San Diego searching for a quick escape, Alter Experiences offers vibrant tents close to nature at Mt. Laguna, featuring two private campsites at Laguna Campground and two at Burnt Rancheria Campground.
Each campsite is outfitted with colorful bell tents, ideal for families or groups enjoying an outdoor retreat.
While these tents lack electricity and wifi, guests have access to solar-powered lanterns and propane heaters, along with a kitchen area equipped with a portable stove and grill.
Public restrooms are available at the campgrounds, enabling guests to enjoy outdoor experiences without the burdens of traditional camping.
**La Quinta Resort & Club’s Camp’d Out, Joshua Tree**
Lastly, La Quinta Resort & Club offers a unique glamping adventure with its Camp’d Out package, which combines a resort stay with a night of camping in Joshua Tree.
Following a night at the resort, guests are transported to a pre-set tent with luxurious bedding and a gourmet meal prepared by the resort’s very own culinary team.
This enriching experience includes a butler service and coffee in the morning, allowing visitors to enjoy both the luxe comfort of the resort and the intimate experience of glamping.
For anyone looking to combine the beauty of California’s natural surroundings with the comforts of home, these glamping destinations provide an excellent escape into the great outdoors.
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