Field notes
The 25 Best Glamping Stays in the US, Period
The host’s handwritten note on the pillowcase read, “Watch for the green flash at sunset—it’s real.” I’d rolled into the Florida Keys expecting another glammed-up tent with a mosquito problem and a mini-fridge stocked with $12 kombucha. Instead, I found a canvas outpost bolted to a private dock, the Gulf lapping six feet below. A wood-fired hot tub steamed in the dusk, and the bed was so crisp I checked for a hotel tag sewn into the sheets. That’s when I stopped treating glamping as a photo op and started asking what the hell else I’d been missing.
This is my biased, honest ranking of the 25 best glamping stays in America. Not the Instagram stars—the ones where I woke up rested, warm, and already planning my return. I judged on location (remote vs. connected), design (memorable or just canvas?), service (someone there when you need them?), and value (worth the splurge?). Let’s get into it.
#1 The Resort at Paws Up (Montana) – The gold standard. Their “tents” are luxury cabins in disguise: heated floors, claw-foot tubs, king beds with Frette linens, and a personal butler who builds your fire and brings cider after horseback riding. The 37,000-acre cattle ranch is stunning, with the Blackfoot River cutting through. I saw a grizzly from my deck. Dinner is a multi-course affair with wine pairings. At $2,000+ a night, it’s the only place I’ve felt truly pampered while zipping a tent flap.
#2 Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge (British Columbia) – Yes, it’s Canada, but it’s a 40-minute seaplane from Seattle. All-inclusive, a flotilla of white canvas tents on a remote inlet. Each has a wood-burning stove, heated floors, and a private composting toilet. The food is world-class—I still crave the Dungeness crab linguine. Activities: bear watching, kayaking, spa treatments in a tent over water. $2,000+ per night, but worth every penny for a bucket-list trip.
#3 Under Canvas (Multiple Locations) – The best “glamping chain,” hands down. Properties near national parks (Zion, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Yellowstone) deliver consistency: spacious canvas tents with wood stoves, private flushing toilets, and a central tent for meals and coffee. I stayed at Under Canvas Zion in spring. The red rock views are insane, and stargazing is unmatched. Rates: $300–$500.
#4 Treebones Resort (Big Sur, California) – The OG glamping spot. Perched on a cliff over the Pacific, Treebones has yurts, a sushi bar, and an infinity hot tub. I booked a “human nest”—a hand-woven willow structure that took three months to build—and spent an afternoon watching whales breach. Downside: shared bathrooms (except in the Autocamp units). But the vibe? Unmatched. $200–$400.
#5 The Y (Idaho) – A hidden gem on a private island in the Salmon River. Only accessible by jet boat. Canvas tents with real beds, a common lodge serving gourmet meals, plus fly fishing and hiking. I caught my first fish here—the chef cooked it for dinner. $1,200 all-inclusive.
#6 Collective Retreats (Multiple Locations) – I’ve stayed at their Hudson Valley and Yellowstone outposts. “Summit Tents” come with king beds, private bathrooms (some with soaking tubs), and an in-tent coffee bar. The Hill Country location in Texas is my favorite for wildflower views. $400–$800.
#7 Terramor Outdoor Resort (Maine) – Glamping meets resort. Their “Safari Tents” have queen beds, mini fridges, and private patios with Adirondack chairs. The on-site restaurant (lobster bisque—yes) and guided hikes are the draw. I loved the “Moonlight Paddle” on the lake. $250–$400.
#8 AutoCamp (Multiple Locations) – The best choice for Airstream lovers. Properties in Yosemite, Russian River, and Zion feature custom 31-foot Airstreams with king beds, wet baths, and outdoor kitchens. I booked a “Classic Suite” in Yosemite and spent evenings cooking over a campfire with ingredients from the on-site market. $250–$500.
#9 The Ranch at Rock Creek (Montana) – Another all-inclusive luxury dude ranch with canvas cabins. The “Glamping Cabin” has a wood-burning fireplace, a private porch, and a copper sink in the bathroom. Activities: fly fishing, shooting, hiking. Dinner is family-style with other guests. $1,500+ per night.
#10 El Cosmico (Marfa, Texas) – More artistic than luxury. Vintage trailers, yurts, and tents on 21 acres of high desert. The pool is a concrete basin that feels like a mirage. I stayed in a “Safari Tent” with a queen bed and a communal bathhouse. Perfectly quirky. $150–$250.
#11 The Resort at Long Shadows (Washington) – A newcomer on Lake Chelan. Their “Glamping Suites” are canvas tents with heated floors, king beds, and en-suite bathrooms with rain showers. Lake views are gorgeous. $300–$500.
#12 Dunton River Camp (Colorado) – Part of the Dunton Hot Springs resort. Eight canvas tents along the West Fork of the Dolores River. Each has a wood stove, a claw-foot tub on the deck, and a butler who brings breakfast. Hot springs are a 5-minute walk. $1,200+.
#13 The Oasis at 5 Sisters (Florida) – Rare beachfront glamping on Siesta Key. Their “Safari Tents” are elevated on platforms with memory foam beds, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. I woke up to a sunrise over the Gulf. $250–$400.
#14 The Farm at Yellow Hill (Arizona) – A sheep farm turned glamping retreat near Flagstaff. Their “Shepherd’s Wagons” are tiny houses on wheels with full kitchens and outdoor showers. The stars are incredible—zero light pollution. $200–$350.
#15 The Canyons at Black Mountain Ranch (Utah) – A glamping outpost near Zion. Their “Canyon Tents” sit on private decks with hot tubs overlooking red rock. I hiked the Narrows one day and soaked in my private tub the next. $400–$600.
#16 Mendocino Grove (California) – Solid mid-range option with spacious safari tents on the Northern California coast. Beds are comfortable, the communal fire pit is lively, and they offer yoga classes. Shared bathrooms are spotless. $200–$350.
#17 The Wyoming (Jackson Hole) – A collection of “Safari Tents” on a sprawling ranch with Teton views. Tents have wood stoves, king beds, and outdoor showers. The property has a hot tub and a communal lodge. $400–$600.
#18 The White Moose (New Hampshire) – A family-run spot with canvas tents and log cabins. Tents have real beds, a mini fridge, and a deck. Owners offer s’mores kits and a farm tour. $150–$250.
#19 The Yurt at Sky Mountain (Colorado) – A single yurt on 40 private acres near Durango. Wood stove, full kitchen, hot tub on the deck. No Wi-Fi, no neighbors—just you and the elk. $200–$300.
#20 The Treehouse at the Lodge at Spruce Peak (Vermont) – Custom-built treehouse with a king bed, wood stove, and wraparound deck. The resort has a spa and fine dining, but you feel like you’re in your own world. $500–$800.
#21 The Oasis at Death Valley (California) – Glamping in the extreme. Their “Canvas Tents” have air conditioning, real beds, and private bathrooms. The setting is otherworldly: salt flats, sand dunes, the hottest place on Earth. I went in December. $250–$400.
#22 The Yurt at Harmony Ridge (Oregon) – A handcrafted yurt on a lavender farm. The bed is a futon, but the outdoor bathtub and lavender fields more than make up for it. $150–$250.
#23 The Tippy Canoe (Michigan) – A collection of “Tippy Tents” (tipi-inspired) on the Betsie River. Each has a queen bed, wood stove, and private canoe. I spent a day on the river and came back to a fire. $200–$300.
#24 The Train Caboose at the Reed Cottage (Pennsylvania) – A restored caboose turned glamping unit with a queen bed, kitchenette, and wood stove. In the Poconos, near hiking trails. $150–$200.
#25 The Treehouse at the Tree Hotels (Georgia) – A three-story treehouse with a king bed, kitchen, and screened porch. The property has a swimming hole and a farm. Rustic but beautiful. $200–$300.
A few notes: I skipped some famous spots (like 29 Palms Inn) because they didn’t meet my comfort or service standards. And I’ve ranked these purely on my own experience—your mileage may vary if you’re allergic to dogs or hate river noise. But if you want the best glamping in America, start here.
Before booking, think about your priorities: adventure (Montana, Utah) or relaxation (Maine, Florida)? Shared bathrooms (Treebones, Mendocino Grove) or private suite (Paws Up, Clayoquot)? And always check the season—many places close in winter, and “summer” can mean 90°F or 40°F at night depending on elevation.
For more inspiration, browse our full collection of glamping destinations and camping tips. I’ll be adding new reviews as I sleep in more tents—hopefully none of them leak.
Frequently asked questions
What is the #1 glamping stay in the US?
For pure wow factor and service, I’d give the top spot to The Resort at Paws Up (Montana) – their tents have heated floors and a butler. Second place is Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge (British Columbia, but accessible from Washington).
How much does glamping cost on average?
Expect $200–$600 per night. Entry-level glamping (canvas tent, shared bath) runs $150–$300; luxury treehouses or safari tents with private bathrooms and gourmet meals can hit $1,000+.
What should I pack for a glamping trip?
Bring warm layers (nights get cold even in summer), a headlamp, reusable water bottle, and a sense of adventure. Most glamping sites provide bedding, towels, and basic kitchen gear.
Is glamping good for families?
Absolutely. Many glamping resorts offer kid-friendly activities, cots for children, and proximity to hiking or stargazing. My top picks for families: AutoCamp Yosemite and The Ranch at Rock Creek.
When is the best time to book?
Book 3–6 months ahead for peak season (May–October). Off-season can be cheaper and quieter, but always check if utilities (heat, water) are winterized.
What’s the difference between glamping and camping?
Glamping means you sleep in a bed with real linens, often with electricity, a private bathroom, and sometimes even a hot tub. Camping typically involves tents, sleeping bags, and communal bathrooms.
Can I find eco-friendly glamping?
Yes. Look for properties with solar power, composting toilets, and locally sourced food. My favorites: The Y (Idaho) and Treebones Resort (California) prioritize sustainability.