5 Must Visit Glamping Sites In California

Glamping, it’s like camping, just glamorous. I’ve got three words for you: sign me up! While I love to get outdoors and experience all that nature has to offer, clamping is certainly way more of my style.

I mean, who wouldn’t love to experience all the amazing things campsite have to offer, like fire pits, outdoor dinners, embracing in nature. Except now you can find glamping sites that offer all of that plus a lot more.

I was actually inspired to purchase our sprinter van and convert it into a glamping motor home after doing research on campsite. I thought, how cool would it be if we could just pick up our family and drive away to an unknown place at any given time without any reservations. Doesn’t that sound amazing? You can read our van life journey here.

Back to glamping– if you haven’t experienced it before, it’s time to add it to your bucket list. Not only do these glamping sites give you an up close and personal experience with nature- they offer “high end” experiences with it.

If you’re looking for a glamping spot in California, look no further. I’ve rounded up some of the most popular and gorgeous campsites in California. Note that many of these book quite a bit ahead so be sure to plan accordingly for any travels. Best part? It’s one of the safest ways to travel right now!

Mendocino Grove

Photo c/o of Mendocino Grove

About a 2 hour drive from San Francisco on the Mendocino coast, you will find Mendocino Grove. We had a reservation back in May but due to flight restrictions, we had to cancel our reservation. We can not wait to re-schedule this trip because everything about Mendocino Grove looks amazing. Completely immersed in the forest- you can book a glamping tent for true privacy and relaxation. They also have games, campfires, yoga and much more available for camp guests.

Treebone Resort

Photos c/o of Treenbone Resort

Another gorgeous glamping site on the California Coast is Treebone Resort. Located in Big Sur, you will get panoramic views of the ocean and can enjoy accommodations and dining all in one place. They are know for the yurts- which is fancy tent that’s made of circular fabric and wood.

El Capitan Canyon

Along the Santa Barbara coast, you will find El Capitan Canyon. It’s the perfect combination of immersing yourself in nature, while getting that ocean breeze at the same time. They also offer a variety of different accommodations- from safari tents, to cedar tents, to yurts. All glamping sites come complete with a fire pit and picnic table, and shared restrooms are on site as well. The also have spa services and a market where you can dine or purchase food to go.

Ventana Resort

Another glamping resort located in Big Surprise is Ventana Resort. A full glamping experience complete with on-site dining, a market, a spa and much more. The site has a resort and glamping sites all in one so you can really experience the best of both worlds when it comes to your vacation. This is also at the top of my list for a future vacation.

Redwood Treehouse

Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, you will find the Redwood Treehouse. Available for reservations through Airbnb and comes with all the treehouse vibes- full views of the forest, a bridge to the treehouse, and surrounded by gorgeous hiking trails for a full nature experience.

When to travel?

Glamping is a great way to experience all of the many things that California has to offer. While the summer months tend to be a peak season when it comes to travel and camping, you may want to consider traveling in October or November. The weather is still considerable warm in many parts of the state and you’ll be able to travel with less crowds and lower prices.

How to book?

Many of the popular glamping sites book well in advance. Sometimes you can get lucky with last minute cancelations but now is the time to look into your 2021 travel plans. Be sure to put a couple of days aside to explore outside cities and neighborhoods and really experience all of the beautiful scenery nearby.

You can follow along on Instagram where I share more of my travel adventures or find top travel guides here.


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