California has lots to offer travellers, from exhilarating theme parks to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. It also boasts stunning landscapes and gorgeous natural beauty that can be best enjoyed through glamping. Glamping has gained traction over the past couple of years, as a fun and different way to spend your vacation. It’s when you skip traditional accommodations such as hotels or holiday rentals and stay amidst nature. The word “glamping” comes from the combination of the words “camping” and “glamourous”, and this new way of travelling gives modern people the best of both worlds – a unique experience, plus all the creature comforts we could possibly need.
Some of the best glamping experiences we at Trip101 have enjoyed were in California, USA. Since we want you to have the best holidays ever, as well, read on for our recommendations of the top glamping spots in California, USA!
What to look forward to in California for campers:
- Camping in California is a delightful experience, thanks to its diverse landscapes. Whether you're fond of the beach or the desert, you can find a campground to suit your needs. Visit the campgrounds in Joshua Tree for a unique desert vibe, the most popular being Jumbo Rocks Campground. For ocean vistas, head to the campgrounds on Santa Catalina Island. You can even camp with your whole family on this island, with campgrounds such as Hermit Gulch Campground providing necessary conveniences nearby.
Travel advisory:
- Make sure to check the weather in California before planning your visit, especially if you plan to enjoy camping or glamping, THe winters in the state are usually wet, so it's best not to plan your adventure during that time. While summers bring in lots of tourists, you can still find solitude in more natural settings.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, prices, availability of dates, decor, and a location that facilitates glamping or is close to glamping spots. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on July 26, 2024.
1. Eco-friendly yurt on the top of the redwoods; Watsonville (from USD 149)
Enjoy glamping in this newly-built private yurt that is tucked into a magnificent redwood forest in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Take some time to enjoy nature from the yurt, which has cosy living spaces lit by plenty of natural light that comes in from the eight large french doors. The attached bathhouse is also a great experience, as it is fully eco-friendly. You can enjoy a steaming hot shower under the redwood canopy, while standing on a bed of sustainably sourced river stones.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
this little place was perfect very cozy and gives you a great view of mtthe space was immaculate and huge - completely ample and comfortable for the two of usthe yurt is just as pictured very comfortable with the sounds of nature everywhereamazing place quiet and rustic yet modern and comfortablehad such a lovely night in this private and cozy stayCleanliness:
james and mary added all the thoughtful touches you could wish for and the space was so cleanthe yurt is fairly remote quiet extremely clean and quite comfortableclean place that is behind the owner's housethe yurt is cozy and clean and furnished very aestheticallyHost:
james is a wonderful hostlovely gracious host and wonderful hospitalitythe hosts are very lovely and helpfulowner was very nice and has yurt stocked with gamesjames and sarojini were so kind and loving hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
beautiful location in the redwoodsbeautiful location near mount madonna park and centerthis a unique location and well worth itnice cozy place ideal for a weekend getawaythe location is great if you want to get away from civilization for a bit
2. Sunset Yurt; Garden Valley (from USD 178)
The first glamping spot we highly recommend is the Sunset Yurt, located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Gold Country, Northern California. If you can, book this, their largest yurt, which is 200 square feet (about 19 square metres) of luxury. A queen-sized bed dominates the stylishly decorated space inside the yurt. It is fully insulated against the cold and heat of the mountains, with cosy blankets and heaters for the winter and fans for the summer.
The highlights of this glamping spot are the infinity saltwater pool and open-air hot tub, that let you enjoy breath-taking views of the sunset and woods!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
also very very little cell service and the wifi was pretty slow and spottythe beautiful pool and gorgeous views were definite highlightslovely escape with great views amazing pool and killer viewsthe pool and heated spa were great to catch the sunsetsgorgeous view and the hot tub /pool area is very niceCleanliness:
the bedding and towels were super clean without the sticky smell of a typical hotel sheetsclean quiet private and very comfortableplenty of supplies to clean up from bbq dinnerthe place was clean and the infinity pool was amazingi’m deeply concerned about the safety and cleanliness of this placeHost:
the hosts were extremely responsivebeautiful property and the hosts are greatdefinitely nice people and great hosts who anticipate the every possible need of their gueststamara was super responsivethey were very responsive with any questions we had and everything on the property was labeled very clearlyRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is beautiful and serenethis place is absolute paradiseamazing place in the middle of the forestbeautiful place plenty of places to hike and a very cute town close byit’s a perfect place to get away from the city and relax
3. Container home surrounded by vineyards; Sebastopol (from USD 485)
The Rising Moon Yurt is one of the most exclusive boutique glamping spots in West Sonoma County, California. From its Californian Modern architecture and furnishings that include Tuft & Needle beds to its locally roasted Taylor Lane Organic Coffee and wellness teas, those who are used to luxury will have a very good time here! Attached to the yurt is a deck and an outdoor cast iron hot tub, where you and your significant other can enjoy the views of the vineyards under a star-filled sky.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
also the bed as well as the couch were super comfywonderful views great attention to detail with all the amenities you could need cozy and uniquethe views were great and we had a comfortable expereiencefinal thoughts: excellent coffee beans and french press super comfy sleeping arrangements awesome vinyl collection best shower everthe yurt also has a heater/ac but we’re pretty comfortableCleanliness:
spotlessly clean too would definitely recommendeverything was very cozy clean and relaxingthe cleanliness decor amenities and personal touches were amazingsparkling clean with everything you might need and stylish would be the best way to resume it allthe yurt is super clean cozy and warm in perfect location and beautiful viewsHost:
ashley and justin are amazing hostsashley and justin were amazing hosts -- very responsive and caringashley & justin are such awesome hosts super responsive and thoughtfulthe yurt and it's hosts are thoughtful warm and invitingashley and justin thought of everything and were so kind and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
amazing unique spot in a great locationit really is magnificent and was the best location to spend our weekendawesome location - secluded while just several minutes from downtown sebastopolsuch a cute modern place to staywe wish we could've stayed longer in this surreal place
4. Glamping spot in the middle of the woods; Soquel (from USD 202)
Upgrade your wilderness experience by staying in this awesome spot. This is a premier glamping location for outdoor activities that you and your loved ones will surely enjoy! The host provides basic bedroom and laundry essentials, and a fire extinguisher for safety measures. You can grill your favorite steak because the host provides a barbecue grill. The host also commits to give you the best accommodation and enhance their cleaning process while conforming to the latest hygiene protocols.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
softer soft bed nice grill and ice chest to usethe deck was perfect for relaxing yoga and breakfastit’s really the perfect mix of rural camping with the amenities and touches to feel clean and cozyyou get the full on experience of camping yet the comfort of an actual bed and a toiletCleanliness:
everything was very clean and organizedthe bed was super comfortable and cleanno showers but a clean portable toiletHost:
natalie was such a gracious and accommodating host and we ver much appreciated her genuine kindnessthey are kind educated and helpful individualsa one of a kind experience only 10 minutes from the beachRead more reviewsLocation:
great place to get away too would come back againit would be a great spot for a big group as there is another yurt close bythis place is adorable the photos truly don’t do justice to just how cute and inviting this place isthe nearby parks and hikes were an amazing way to spend the daythis place was the perfect getaway from the city
California Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more
Tours by Stephanie
5. Luxurious tent for a romantic getaway; Carmel-by-the-Sea (from USD 179)
This is perfect for lovers wanting to find a place for a quiet and romantic getaway. You can have access to a hiking trail and a private pool to upgrade the experience of your vacation. The host provides amenities such as a basic bedroom and laundry, internet connection, and parking areas within the premises.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable and great amenitiesfun and cozy we stayed warm with the electric blankets providedloved our stay here beds were super comfy and electric blanket was so warm will definitely be coming backwe also loved that we could “camp” with all the amenities of staying in a comfortable hotelthe electric heater blanket works wonderfully and keeps you super warmCleanliness:
so clean and comfortablethe space was very clean and as listedclean comfortable and reasonably pricedlove that it was also very cleanalso a very nice pool and clean sanitariesHost:
the staff was friendly and exceptionally helpfulthe staff tent and facilities were amazingvery peaceful and the staff was very welcomingwe loved the fire pits and warm blankets friendly staff and neighborsgreat place to stay super chilled and lovely staffRead more reviewsLocation:
good location and nice tentcharming remote location yet not far from the main roadssuper great location and a wonderful priceno complaints this place is amazing great location bathrooms a walk awaywe did a day trip to big sur and it was the perfect location
6. Fabulous tent on a mountain side; San Luis Obispo (from USD 271)
Enjoy the mesmerizing night view of San Luis Obispo City from this mountain retreat. You can purchase wine on a wine-tasting activity and savor the drink as you watch the sun go down. The tent is housed on a raised deck with a patio that comes with teak chairs. Just 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from the retreat house you can visit the downtown San Luis Obispo, Bubblegum Alley, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, California Polytechnic State University, and a varied selection of restaurants. There is a full indoor kitchen with a stove, oven, and other cooking equipment. The host provides basic essentials and home safety along with access to parking.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
very comfortable amazing viewno wifithe view is unbelievable and the beds very comfortablethere is no tv or wifi access but it didn’t diminish our great stay at allwe really enjoyed the family time having no tv or wifi was really greatthe tent was great - cozy warm and definitely very glamorous for “campingCleanliness:
the space was clean and the hosts thoughtfully left dog bowls and dog treats for our poochthe house is exceptionally clean and the hosts were very dog friendlyclean spacious well appointed and stocked with all one needstheir glamping home is clean spacious and well maintainedrent the tent the bed is so comfy everything very cleanHost:
susie and jay were great hostssusie and jay are welcoming hostssusie and jay are great hostsjay and susie are amazing hostsjay and the kids were very friendly and welcoming but then gave us privacyRead more reviewsLocation:
amazing space close to downtownnice place and good location near slo downtownthis guest house is the perfect location to explore the central coastits a great location about 12 mins from downtown slothe location is perfect -- only 15 minutes from downtown slo yet it feels like a private ranch
7. Cozy abode between a forest and a seashore; Soquel (from USD 223)
This destination provides a glamping experience that is relaxing, comfy, and unique. The place is sandwiched between a mesmerizing beach and a forest. You have access to a basic bedroom, laundry essentials, and barbeque utensils. For safety measures, they provided a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit. For an upgraded outdoor experience, they provided a barbeque grill so that you can prepare a delicious dinner if you fancy. You also have access to parking within the premises.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the place was very clean and cozyloved this space very clean beautiful scenery and a great place to relax and unwindHost:
natalie is very responsive and will bring you whatever you need within minutesRead more reviewsLocation:
the tent is spacious and comfortable and the location is right in the forest
8. Hidden gem with a fire pit; Desert Hot Springs
This hidden glamping spot is great for a short getaway from town, as the deluxe yurts that you can book are on a private property located in Desert Hot Springs, California. As dusk falls, make use of the fire pit to keep warm and cook a simple meal. Dine under the sunset that envelops the desert and relax over some drinks. Oleander flowers or desert roses grow in abundance on the glamping site, creating an otherworldly vibe, where you can also view the stars in the desert with the hammock strung up on the property.
Desert Hot Springs, California, United States
578.5 km (359.5 mi) from Mt. Madonna County ParkSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
can get cold but there is a heater and heated blanket that helpsthe bed was so comfy and the views were amazingbeautifully designed space and super comfortable bedCleanliness:
extremely clean with gorgeous scenery and cozyvery clean comfortable and romantic hosts are amazingsuper clean and decorated cozy gorgeouseverything was clean and the privacy was perfectthe place is very clean and got so much detail in everythingHost:
-the hosts were so kind and informativediana and matt are wonderful hostsdiana and matt are great hostsdiana was kind enough to wait for me and help me get settledi truly appreciated the host’s hospitality and enjoyed meeting herRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect location about 15 minutes from downtown palm springsabsolutely loved our stay here the location to palm springs is perfectwe loved every minute of our vacation staying here very close distance from palm springswe just wish we’d had more time i highly recommend this placeperfect little getaway and it’s close to joshua tree
9. Boutique High Desert tent; Joshua Tree
The Lazy Sky Glamping Tent is situated in Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley – the High Desert region of California. You will be glamping on 10 acres (about 4 hectares) of private and exclusive land, with the best modern comforts available. A Tuft and Needle queen-sized bed and comfortable sitting area are provided in the glamping tent, which is decorated in Southwest style. A private patio with a fire pit and hammock sit just outside your tent for relaxation.
In addition, you only have to take a few steps from your glamping tent to be faced with the wild and beautiful scenery of the desert. At night, the clear desert air also lets you enjoy a spot of stargazing!
570.99 km (354.8 mi) from Mt. Madonna County ParkAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
everything about it was perfect- including the heater and heated blankets would love to come backawesome amenities including the fire pit bathrooms and heated blanket 10/10 recommendby sunset it was nice and cool -- and the fan provided was a nice addition :)the atmosphere was amazing the communal amenities were clean and stylish and the bed was super comfortablethe tent was larger than expected and extremely comfortableCleanliness:
very clean and cozyclean quarters and beautiful groundsclean tent & comfortable bedeverything was super clean and very well maintainedvery clean and easy check-in and check-outHost:
hosts were super responsive and helpful with recommendationsgreat owners very responsive and made sure we were well taken cared ofwe had such an amazing time the host are greatour hosts were great at communicating and joshua was excellent upon check-in and throughout our stayfinally there's super helpful recommendations for local food/activities in each tent that we tried on our way homeRead more reviewsLocation:
great location if you’re looking for a getaway from the citythis place is heavenly the location was perfect- quiet and relaxingwonderful place to stay far enough away from town to feel secluded in the desertgreat place to go to escape the city lifethis place is great 20 minute drive from the entrance to the park
10. Hilltop glamping spot; Lotus
Located on the South Fork of the American River in Lotus Coloma Valley, California, is this swanky glamping spot. Instead of canvas yurts, you can stay in a beautiful cedar yurt that is surrounded by native flora and fauna, for a magical experience like none other.
From within the yurt, enjoy the natural sunlight and starlight via a skylight built into the roof. For an even more indulgent experience, stroll along the flagstaff path that will take you through artfully landscaped grounds to the in-house spa that overlooks the magnificent American River that once contained gold during the 19th century!
Lotus, California, United States
212.32 km (132.0 mi) from Mt. Madonna County ParkAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
a beautiful and comfortable yurt with all the amenities and some nice extra touchesi could stay there for a long period of time and be completely comfortable with the included amenitiesthe bed is super comfortable with great sheetsit was very clean and had many kitchen amenities which made cooking a breezethey have thought of all the details to make it a wonderful and comfortable stayCleanliness:
so easy and clean and peacefulthe space is clean spacious and sereneit has everything you need and is very comfortable clean and nicely decoratedeverything in the yurt was clean & usefulthe yurt was very nice and clean perfect for a weekend of relaxation in the foothillsHost:
bob & faith were wonderful hosts and their yurt was an amazing escapethe hosts were very kind and helpfulthe yurt is a one of a kind experiencethey were very quick to respond to any questions that i had and very friendly hoststhe hosts were very friendly and knowledgeable of all the best placesRead more reviewsLocation:
amazing location and unique place to stayloved the location the hot tubvery peaceful and relaxing location right by the rivercool location and the hot tub is awesomethey can expect a relaxing time in a beautiful location
11. Cozy teepee with a hot tub; Topanga
Get closer than ever to nature with a glamping experience in Topanga State Park. Stay in an authentic teepee that is fully outfitted with modern comforts, such as a roomy bedroom with a queen-sized bed, a fully functioning bathroom, and a well-equipped kitchen. Enjoy waking up to the sounds of wild deer grazing near your tent and view the splendid sunset with a glass of wine in the hot tub. For the more active among us, you can also hike along the many well-maintained trails in the state park and see the Santa Monica Mountain skyline from the summit!
Topanga, California, United States
429.66 km (267.0 mi) from Mt. Madonna County ParkAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
andrea and tate’s teepee was pleasantly decorated complete with a large comfy warm bed a sofa and sageand delicious i ate breakfast at the beautiful patio table under a treethe hot pool outside is very comfortable and the photos can be beautifulthe tipi was cozy the hot tub was warm the back yard was relaxingthe bed was very comfortable and the blankets thick and warmCleanliness:
their tee pee is in excellent condition and very clean/spaciousexcellent tipi with beautiful decor clean living space cozy and beautiful locationbut the outhouse which is just a toilet was very clean and close byandrea and tate was really friendly and very kind person their teepee was wonderful very clean and comfortableHost:
andrea and tate were wonderful hostsandrea and tate were amazing hosts and made us feel at homeandrea the owner was telling me profanity words like fxxxx up fxxx this etcthe hosts are super responsive and clearly care a great deal about the guest experienceandrea and tate were wonderful and warm hostRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is perfectbeautiful location and a totally unique place to stayclose to a great hike just wish we stayed longer to explore morei love that the tipi feels very ca wilderness but is also super close to the beachall easily walkable or there are challenging hikes too
12. Rustic retreat amidst forests; Forest Knolls
Somewhere in the West Marin Forest, Point Reyes is a private yurt for an exclusive glamping experience. Comfortably furnished with a queen-sized bed, an indoor fireplace, a cosy sitting area, and a covered deck, this space is on the top of a hill, where you can enjoy the fresh air and peaceful forest.
It is also perfect for cookouts, as the yurt is connected to a heated and air-conditioned trailer with a fully equipped kitchen. What is also arguably a strong pro for this hideaway is its fully functional indoor bathroom with a shower, hot water heater, and toilet!
Forest Knolls, California, United States
142.71 km (88.7 mi) from Mt. Madonna County ParkAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the wifi was super fast for streamingboth bed and sofa bed were comfortablechris had the heater on and it was the perfect temperature inside for us upon arrivalbeautiful touches and a warm and cozy trailer for showers and coffeecomfortable peaceful tv-free stay with my teenagersCleanliness:
clean warm and peacefulit is clean quaint spacious and privatethe space is clean and the bed is extremely comfortablevery comfortable and cleanthe kitchen and bathroom were well appointed and clean tooHost:
chris was an awesome host with unbelievably quick response timechris provided excellent directions and was very responsivechris was a welcoming host and very responsive when we had questionsthe host even had that all prepared as wellchris is a wonderful hostRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is greatgreat food spots within a close driving distancegreat place for a quick retreat away from the hustle of the work week- great location and wonderful way to wake up in the morningthere was cute little touches that made the place fantastic
13. Lush oasis with striking sunset views; Joshua Tree (from USD 204)
Varied pricing, from luxury glamping to budget-friendly options.
Unique accommodations, including container homes, yurts, and guard towers. Room service available, outdoor showers, and fire pits for stargazing.
Convenient location near Joshua Tree National Park, offering stunning desert views and a peaceful, secluded atmosphere.
Option to order food and beverages, including pizza delivery and private movie nights. However, some guests found the pricing to be expensive.
The Castle House Estate is another glamping spot that is both unique and Insta-worthy! Located in Joshua Tree in California, you can choose from a luxury yurt, container house, or a guard tower suite for your glamping experience. Each spot is done up in signature desert-chic style, making OOTD (Outfit of the Day) Instagram selfies a must!
Pets are also welcome here, as the grounds of the Castle House Estate are spacious. You can choose to remain on the estate, as the friendly owners can provide food and drinks for a grill at the fire pit. For those who are more adventurous, this location is also near many hiking and biking trails!
The Castle House Estate
Address: 64278 East Broadway
584.81 km (363.4 mi) from Mt. Madonna County Park
14. Sky Bubble Suite; Cardwell Place (from USD 235)
This is one of the most romantic and innovative glamping concepts in California. Located high in the hills of Los Angeles, each Sky Bubble Suite is a glamping tent literally in the shape of a big bubble attached to a private deck. From the plush bed in the middle of each Sky Bubble, you can lounge with the sparkling LA night lights spread out beneath you.
As dawn breaks, you and your significant other can enjoy unparalleled sunrises over the clear desert skies. Hurry and book yourself a Sky Bubble today for that special occasion!
Sky Bubble Suite
Address: 2742 Cardwell Place
440.44 km (273.7 mi) from Mt. Madonna County Park
A different experience in California
For nature lovers, glamping is a great way to stay close to the wilderness while living in comfort! For your next getaway to Califonia, why not move away from the rush of the big city and head to the open landscapes for a completely different type of vacation? Do consider the various properties that we at Trip101 have listed as our top glamping spots in California, USA!
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
-
-
-
-
30 Popular Festivals In California, USASharon A. -
-
-
![Modern Container Home with Vineyard Views [NEW]](http://a0.muscache.com/im/pictures/hosting/Hosting-U3RheVN1cHBseUxpc3Rpbmc6Mjg2MzkzOTY%3D/original/5061e1b4-b3bb-40d7-b53a-e3d6c4659f25.jpeg?im_w=720)
Create an account to