If you’re like me, you enjoy being in the great outdoors where you can enjoy nature in all its beauty. But to really enjoy nature, it’s best to get off the beaten path like – say – when you’re camping. Typically, camping lacks so few of the amenities we cherish on vacation (like an ensuite bathroom with shower and flush toilet) that flashbacks of past experiences struggling to pitch a tent, light a fire, or having to use extremely primitive bathroom facilities haunt us. Never fear, there is a solution for those of us who prefer to not be bothered with setting up camp or cooking. Glamping or luxury camping is redefining what it means to be one with nature – and “roughing it” is not what it’s all about.
Here are five luxury glamping resorts that up the ante on style and comfort.
Super Luxe
Utah: Amangiri Camp Sarika – north of the AZ/Utah border near Lake Powell
This exclusive 10 tent camp is set amid a 600-acre landscape of slot canyons and towering mesas. Each canvas-topped one or two bedroom accommodation comes with a private plunge pool, private fire pit, telescopes for stargazing, ensuite bathrooms, and ample living space. Guests can enjoy all the camp has to offer plus the amenities of the nearby Amangiri Resort.
Luxe
Montana: Paws Up – 32 miles east of Missoula, Montana
Situated on the banks of the legendary Blackfoot River, the River Camp gives you the creature comforts you love while allowing you to connect with the great outdoors. Electricity, air conditioning, heat, wifi, ensuite bathroom with heated floor and double vanity – what’s not to love?
Montana: Ranch at Rock Creek – 101 miles south of Missoula, Montana
Nestled in one of Montana’s pristine valleys, this year-round resort offers a true ranch experience. The Canvas Cabins are brilliantly conceived and connect you with nature. They stay cool in the hot summer months and the stoves give off plenty of heat when it gets cool – perfect for the changing Rocky Mountain weather. The structures have little impact on the environment and can be easily removed, leaving no trace of their existence after a few months.
Featuring private baths, comfortable beds, and furnished in rustic “camp style”, you can hear the quiet murmur of the creek just outside your door.
Moderate Luxe
California: Ventana Big Sur Alila – 30 miles south of Carmel, CA
Dramatic cliffs, rocky coves, and rugged natural beauty define Big Sur. The summer morning marine layer is a tacit invitation to linger a few moments more in your comfortable bed in your safari style tent.
Arizona: Under Canvas Grand Canyon – 30 miles from the South Rim entrance to the Grand Canyon
Experience the high-country piñon and juniper forests of Arizona in modern tents that offer the creature comforts of home. There are four different tent types, three of which are furnished with a king-sized bed, luxury linens and ensuite bathroom with shower and flushing toilet. The Stargazer tent has a skylight above the bed so you can watch the stars as you peacefully drift off to sleep.
Under Canvas has glamping camps near other major national parks, including Moab, Zion, Yellowstone, Glacier, Mount Rushmore and the Great Smoky Mountains.
As we navigate the current situation with an eye toward safety and ensuring we have adequate space to protect ourselves and others, camping is one way we can become reacquainted with the beauty of the many diverse landscapes of our country.
Are you ready to experience the outdoors with some creature comforts? Then glamping is a fantastic choice! When you’re ready to hit the road and elevate your camping experience, I’m just a phone call or email away. 602-692-9379 or [email protected]
