California is known for a lot of things… the fame and fortune of Hollywood, the economic powerhouse of Silicon Valley and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Franscico… but it’s also home to some of the most incredible natural landscapes in the USA.
Towering mountains, crystal clear lakes and endless stretches of farm land… escaping into California’s natural wonderland is the tranquil oasis you didn’t know you needed.
Imagine looking up to a sky filled with stars, toasting s’mores over the fire place and waking up to the sound of birds… sounds a bit like like camping, right? But what if you didn’t have to pitch your own tent or sleep in a scratchy sleeping bag?
Well, my friends, let me introduce you to glamping! If you love a bit of nature, but not the “roughing it” that comes along with it, you’re going to love glamping… and let me tell you, California does it bloody well.
In this article, I’m going to take you through the BEST spots for glamping in California. From budget-friendly stays to tents to fit the whole fam, there will be a tent for you.
So, let’s get into it!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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What is Glamping?
Ahh glamping… a phenomenon that is taking the world of camping by the balls and flipping it on its head. No more damp sleeping bags, thin floor mats and lost tent pegs, the word of tenting is levelling up – in a BIG way.
Glamping is a term for glamorous camping and guys, there are some bloody UNREAL luxury camping stays around. A hot shower? Yes, please…
A plush, comfy bed? Now you’re talking!
An on-site spa? SIGN ME UP.
In the past, diving into nature and getting “off the beaten path” has been reserved for those who enjoy roughing it – a pack up a tent and head into the woods kinda thing. But the rise of glamping has created space for everyone to connect with nature in a way that is comfortable for them.
What to Expect from Glamping in California
When travelling in California you can witness some pretty spectacular sights. From the mighty mountains of Yosemite National Park to the endless stretches of vineyards in Napa Valley – there’s a buttload of diversity when it comes to the natural world beyond in California.
Depending on what you’re into, you can find a glamping place that suits you and your interests. After a taste of wine? Stay on a vineyard.
Want to gaze up to a sky packed with stars? Stay in the desert! Or, maybe you want to hang out with cute farm animals? Stay on a farm.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Glamping in California can come with all the bells and whistles… I’m talking hot showers, flushing toilets, huge swimming pools and even a saloon bar! However, it depends on how much you want to pay.
If you’re after a simplistic glamping stay, you may not have a spa or movie theatre at your disposal… but you also won’t have the mighty bill that comes with those fancy extras. However, if you have the budget, there are some pretty wildly luxurious options out there. You may even forget you’re “camping” at all.
The term glamping has expanded to include all sorts of accommodations. However, in this article, I’m going to stick to the camping roots and take you through the best luxury camping tents – I’m talking safari tents, yurts, tipis and even a wagon-style tent!
Cali really does have it all, baby… Head out on a road trip in California and explore what Mother Nature has to offer!
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIThe Top 12 Spots for Glamping in California
When it comes to glamping sites in California, there is no shortage of options. The glamping scene in California has absolutely exploded with people travelling across the whole USA.
Cool little yurts are popping up all over the show. But the big question on all of our minds… which ones are the BEST?
Well, I’m here to share with you the creme da la creme when it comes to glamping in California. From treehouse tents to urban retreats… let’s find one to suit you!
Treehouse in Vineyard – Los Gatos | Best Overall Glamping in California
Glamping in a tree on a vineyard?!?! If that is not a childhood dream, I don’t know what is.
This place is INSANE. Built on giant Douglas Fir trees, looking over the Lago Lomita Vineyards and the ENTIRE Monterey Bay… this glamping place in California is nothing short of incredible.
Climb up the tree with the ladder to your own tent stocked with a cosy queen bed, electricity and Wi-Fi! Yep, you’re “off-grid” but don’t worry you can still post pics to Insta of this epic spot.
If you’re after a unique adventure in nature, with the comforts of a warm bed, a heated bathroom and some of the most amazing views I’ve ever seen… this glamping treehouse in California is where you’ll want to stay.
KOA Resorts – Petaluma | Luxury Glamping in California
Discover true luxury camping in California’s stunning wine country at Petaluma KOA Resort. Just a short drive from San Francisco, Napa Valley, and coastal beaches, this RV Park resort is the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Campers here can enjoy a range of accommodations, from spacious RV sites to cozy deluxe cabins with full kitchens. All KOA Patio Sites come with 250+ square feet of private patio space and fully furnished outdoor seating areas.
Beyond the resort, Petaluma offers easy access to iconic attractions and hidden gems. You can easily venture through San Francisco for a day of exploring the Golden Gate Bridge or indulge in a peaceful ferry ride across the bay. The coastline’s sandy beaches are only 20 minutes away, inviting you to enjoy ocean views and local cuisine. Alternatively, rent a bike and explore nearby vineyards, visit the largest Indian gaming casino in Northern California, or hike through the towering redwoods of Muir Woods.
One of the great things about KOA Resorts is their consistent quality throughout the country, and those further south can find another KOA Resort just 15 minutes away from downtown San Diego.
Blue Sky Center – New Cuyama | Best Budget Glamping in California
If you’re travelling solo in the USA or just a couple who love to be snuggly and close… this glamping spot is for you. The tents are pretty small but you know what? I’ll take a little less space for the price they are charging! This glamping is an absolute STEAL.
Surrounded by nature, as far as the eye can see, the entire front wall of the cabin tent is glass. So, you can really take it all in straight from your bed. Enjoy the star gazing from your patio area and appreciate a slice of tranquil reprieve from our crazy little lives.
The campsite has a shared kitchen, outdoor shower and cowboy pool for you to enjoy during your stay. You are in the desert and temperates can fluctuate (to say the least). There is no air conditioning, however, in the winter the hosts offer heated mattress pads to keep you cosy!
The Castle House Estate – Joshua Tree | Over-the-Top Luxury Glamping in California
Ok, guys. This property is RIDICULOUSLY COOL. Located in the middle of the desert, the Castle House Estate offers up some of the coolest accommodations for miles.
It should be the most luxurious of those listed… right? But the prices are fairly reasonable in comparison to other spots around.
Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and the vast desert view in your luxury camping oasis. It feels like it’s just you and nature. If you’re into saunas and movie nights, these can also be arranged for you (for an extra cost).
This glamping in California is located in the heart of Joshua Tree, minutes from one of California’s best National Parks. It’s the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comforts. If you’re in California, or heading there soon, staying here should be firmly on your bucket list!
Tipi at Wishing Well Mini Ranch – Vista | Family-friendly Glamping in California
If you’re looking for the ULTIMATE family escape in California, Wishing Well Mini Ranch is where you’ll want to be. Let the kids get to know the friendly farm animals including Nigerian dwarf milking goats (yes, they are as cute as they sound!), miniature horses, llamas and chickens.
The tipis come with two twin beds and a queen, so the whole family can squeeze in! Ever dreamed of having a hot shower, mini kitchen, Wi-Fi, washing machine and spa while camping in California? These guys don’t skimp when it comes to the glamping luxuries.
The tipis are spacious and colourful, designed with both adult comforts and kids’ fun in mind. Pick fruit from the trees, milk some goats, enjoy fresh eggs for breakfast and truly dive into the farm stay life. It’s a little slice of paradise, that the kids will no doubt be begging to go back to.
Here at The Broke Backpacker, we love freedom! And there’s no freedom as sweet (and CHEAP) as camping around the world.
We’ve been camping on our adventures for over 10 years, so take it from us: the MSR HUBBA HUBBA is the best damn tent for adventuring…
View on REI Read Our ReviewMore EPIC Glamping in California
If those didn’t tickle your fancy, don’t you worry! Here are eight more INCREDIBLE glamping spots in California to choose from.
Huttopia Paradise Springs – Valyermo
Nestled between the mighty mountains in Valyermo, this glamping spot is ideal for those travelling as a couple or bigger groups of up to five. Huttopia has a few different-sized tents available, so you can book the one that suits you best!
Huttopia Paradise Springs reminds me of the campgrounds that I grew up at. The grounds are packed with so many activities, from hanging out at the gorgeous swimming pool and enjoying a BBQ to sipping coffee at the on-site cafe and marvelling at the incredible views.
If you’re after a perfect mix of camping… yep, there is an outdoor fire for roasting marshmallows and singing songs. But you’re also craving a lovely abode to hit the hay at the end of the day. Look no further. The tents are spacious and have SUPER comfy beds… now that’s my kind of camping!
There is no Wi-Fi at the camp, so take some time to shut off from the busy world we live in. Soak in the sunset views, marvel at the stars, cook delicious food, stroll through the forest and breathe in the pines. Life slows down here, enjoy it.
Mendocino Grove – Mendocino
Minimalistic, spacious and clean. The luxury tents at Mendocino Grove are exactly where my mind takes me when I think of glamping.
A beautiful tent in the middle of the woods. Not toooo many bells and whistles but simple, pure comfort as you (comfortably) travel into the wilderness.
Although the campsite makes you feel like you’re completely off-grid… you are actually only five -minutes away from Mendocino Downtown and the beach at Big River. So, don’t worry, if you’re missing civilisation, you’re not far away.
Showing off fireplaces and incredible sunsets, you really get the camping atmosphere here without the admin of having to pitch a tent yourself!
The campground offers tea and coffee, plus they have a decent range of board games. And my personal favourite, the morning yoga classes! Who doesn’t love a good yoga retreat in California? This place is an absolute dream.
There are 60 tents available at Mendocino Grove that can fit between two and four people, so choose the size that works best for you.
Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground – Buellton
The luxury tents at Flying Flags Campground made me feel like I was on a luxury safari! The wooden interior features and large canvas tent made me feel like I’d be walking out into the Sahara… alas, it was just a campground in California. No tigers or elephants in sight.
However, this is not just any campground. These guys take glamping seriously… offering three outdoor pools with hot tubs, cabanas and a splash pad – you could spend all day chilling under the palms by the pool.
Not only that but you’ll find a store on-site, a playground to keep the kids busy, bocce courts, a nearby fitness centre and a restaurant with fireside seating… yep, this is still classified as a “campground” but it’s starting to sound more and more like a hotel to me!
This campground truly makes camping comfy! No rustly sleep bags or nature toilets in sight. If you’re travelling with kids, this is another great option for ya.
Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping – Healdsburg
This is literally a wild haven… welcoming guests into their cosy luxury tents in the woods. Although the location feels like a secluded forest getaway, the facilities feel five-star. There ain’t no roughing it here, my friends.
Wander down the gorgeous path and enjoy a dip in the river. This is one of my favourite things about this glamping spot – a chilly dip to start the day! Depending on the season, you may be swimming Wim Hof style…
To add to the camping flair, the picnic tables, BBQ, the porch area and the fire pit – all added to the camping ambience. There are loads of tents on the campsite, so if you’re up for a bit of socialising, why not chat with your camper neighbours next door?
If you’re wondering where to go glamping in California with your furry friends in tow, this is the place you’ll want to park up. Welcoming two-legged and four-legged guests, I think you’ll both be pretty cosy here.
Cascade Dome Surrounded by National Forest – North Fork
Nestled in the woods, this dome stay will be just the peace and quiet you’re seeking. Yes, my friends, I said dome stay! This tent is designed rather uniquely in the shape of a dome, with INCREDIBLE windows to soak in the starry nights and the lush green views.
When booking this dome stay, you not only get to hang out and relax in your insanely cool dome but you also get access to a whopping 140 acres of property to explore. You’ll find fishing ponds, epic California hiking trails, an organic apple orchard and some of the best mountain views ever.
These domes are designed with comfort at their core – they have insulation liners that magically keep them cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
You will get to have the unique experience of a composting toilet here! But don’t worry, even if you’re a first-time user, they are pretty easy to get the hang of. And come on, it’s still camping… right?
28 Palms Ranch – Twentynine Palms
The star-gazing yurts at 28 Palms Ranch are the PERFECT glamping getaway. Home to comfortable beds (the joys of luxury camping), a grill, a private bathroom and solar lamps! The yurts are perched up in the middle of the desert with some of the best stargazing in Cali.
Sit back and relax by the fire pit or enjoy the indoor dining area in the cooler months. The yurts come with a heater and lots of extra blankets to keep you cosy once the sun goes down.
The silence at night is so refreshing when coming from the bustling city. The campground is super close to the national park and to two small towns with delicious restaurants and grocery stores. So although it feels like you’re camping in the remote desert, you’re not too far from a few comforts if you need them.
La Boheme Living – Los Angeles
This one is for you city dwellers who don’t want to venture too far from the big lights of staying in LA but still want to have that taste of adventure. La Boheme Living has a magical atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery including succulents and huge fig trees.
Hidden from the city, this private escape is carefully curated in a funky bohemian style. The magnificent tent and the porch areas are what glamping is all about. The bed is one of the comfiest in the world… you’ll be in for a bloody good night’s sleep.
The host, Hilary, is one of the most caring humans in the world and goes above and beyond to make sure you’re happy. The cute cats are also a big bonus! Every inch of this place is a fairyland.
All of that, but you’ll still have direct access to the metro and adventure in and out of LA. Quirky, cool and convenient – a triple whammy! Who would’ve thought you could go glamping in central California?
Luxury Covered Wagon – Thousand Oaks
Here’s a quirky one for you, my friends! Ever wanted to stay in a covered wagon? This one is not quiiiiite a tent but it is covered with canvas… almost like a circular tent. So, I’m going to roll with it as some of the best glamping in California.
This covered wagon reminds me of Hermione Granger’s bag… from the outside, it doesn’t look like much but the inside can hold so much. With super cosy beds, the wagon is incredibly comfortable and has the perfect temperature. An absolute oasis.
Make s’mores around the fire bit, enjoy tea and hot cocoa in the morning and enjoy some time out to truly relax. The grounds are amazing, you can hang out in the saloon or have a picnic at the table underneath the big old oak tree.
The grounds are home to horses, dogs, cats, goats, bunnies and more! So if you love animals, this place is for you.
FAQs About Glamping in California
Here’s what people usually ask about glamping in California… If you have any questions of your own, drop them in the comments below.
What to Pack for California
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a glamping stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your California Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to California.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Glamping in California
So, as you can see, California doesn’t muck around when it comes to glamping. From magnificent yurts to tiny tipis, there are a shit load of options to choose from. Glamping is a marvellous way to experience the natural world of California… without skimping on the comforts.
I hope that you found your perfect glamping paradise among my top picks. I tried to focus on a range of options to suit all kinds of travellers – whether you’re travelling with kids in tow or after a romantic getaway.
If you’re still not sure which glamping is the BEST, I’d recommend going for my absolute fav: Treehouse in Vineyard. It’s never a bad idea to stay in a tent, in a tree looking over a vineyard and the ocean, right??
Wherever you choose to stay, I hope you make the most of the natural world that California has to offer. Once you get out of the busy centres, there is a lot to discover. Enjoy <3
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our ultimate guide to travelling around California.
- Continuing the adventure? Check out the best road trips in California next.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of California.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the USA too.
- Then there are the most epic beaches in California for the beach bums.
- Our in-depth backpacking USA guide has heaps of info for your trip.
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