How to Go from Camping to Glamping
First and foremost…
What is Glamping?
Glamping is a word mashup of “glamour and camping,” which refers to outdoorsy getaways that incorporate more luxuries than you would have tent camping. When it comes to transforming a camping trip into a glamping trip, you have a couple of options:
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First, you can rent an established glampsite, already set up with beds and other modern amenities. Such accommodations can be found in several state parks across the country, typically at a much lower price than better-known glamping locations.
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Or, you can use existing camping gear and throw in some additional comforts to create your own glampsite at any campground. Check out our suggestions below for how to turn camping into glamping for your next trip!
Option 1: Book an Already-Established Glampsite
The first and easiest option for glamping is to find a campsite that is already tailored to your fabulous glamping style; a glampsite, if you will. Checkout these great campgrounds with glamping accommodations, cabins, and more.
1. Watch Hill Fire Island, New York
Rent a glamping tent on platforms complete with a bed, charging area, and deck with Adirondack chairs and a cooler. The sites are in a protected area alongside primary sand dunes and the ocean.
2. Stephen C Foster State Park, Georgia
Nine two-bedroom cottages are available with all the comforts of home, including a full bath and kitchen. The state park is at the edge of the legendary Okefenokee Swamp and renowned for its biodiversity.
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3. Willard Bay State Park, Utah
Two renovated glamper trailers with full kitchen and baths can be rented, as well as three new cabins. Rooms with a view - the shaded campgrounds front a wide freshwater reservoir.
4. Black Moshannon State Park, Pennsylvania
Treat yourself to a deluxe cabin including heat, electricity, and small kitchen complete with a charming porch to have a morning cup of coffee. Take in the surrounding sights and sounds of the forest. The cabins are a great basecamp to hike and explore the park.
5. Castle Rock State Park, Idaho
The premium cabins and yurts (round, semi-permanent tents) boast partial kitchens and baths, and offer sweeping views of the meadow and nearby peaks. Nestled at the eastern slope of the Rockies, Castle Rock State Park is in the heart of a pinyon pine forest.
6. North Shore Park, Texas
Five Airstream campers are available for comfort in any season. Each one can accommodate up to four people, and includes a stylish sleeping area, heat and A/C, shower, restroom, kitchen, and grill. The park offers watercraft rentals, picnic areas, and multiple trails for hiking and biking.
Option Two: DIY Glamping at a Campsite
With some effort, packing skills, and creativity, you can design a relaxing, comfortable, and cost-effective glamping experience on your own. Here are some DIY glamping ideas:
Go Big with the Bed
Say the word camping and a comfortable night’s sleep probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. So, the first item on our DIY glamping list is to recreate your comfortable bed from home at your campsite. It’s easy! Bring an air mattress, your favorite sheets, a soft comforter, sleeping pillows, and throw pillows. (Hint: the throw pillows take the look and feel of your sleeping to the next level)
Make the Tent Homey
Extend the idea of recreating your bed at the campsite to the entire tent. Bring a small pop-up table to serve as a nightstand. Stick an item or two from home on it - a favorite photograph or a little succulent. Lay down a mat or portable rug to spiff up the tent floor. Hang a trinket from the tent poles. Most importantly, bring nice lighting. String lights, like fairy lights, inside the tent to transform the ambiance to cozy and welcoming. There are several options on the market for battery-operated lights.
Get Gourmet
With some planning and meal prep at home, the sky’s the limit when cooking at your glampsite. The basics for any glamping kitchen are a portable multi-burner stove, a cooler, saucepan, and a cast iron skillet, or Dutch oven. And don’t forget your French Press and favorite coffee!
Chill in the Lounge Zone
Really soak in the outdoors by creating a lounge zone at your campsite. Bring quality camping chairs and add throw pillows and blankets. Take it to the next level with a hammock. Set up a few tables, small and large, around the lounge zone. (Most campsites don’t have enough picnic table surface space to keep drinks, food, and other objects out of the dirt.) Finish it off by stringing lights around the campsite and putting candles (real or fake) in jars on tables and the ground.
Refreshment Stand
Just about everyone loves a refreshment stand. Set one up at your campsite with a cooler stocked with your favorite drinks, and include plenty of cups, and ice. Add a nice little refreshments sign and a decoration or two. Score big glamping points with a drink theme - maybe a tropical one if it’s warm, or an apple cider stand if it’s chilly.
That’s Entertainment!
Give your peeps something to do besides hiking, fishing, and relaxing fireside. Pack entertainment that doesn’t involve phones and brings the group together. Try cornhole, bocce ball, board games, and card games.
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state's latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.