Our Top 10 Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites in North America
Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites
What is Eco-Friendly Glamping? Eco-friendly glamping is your golden ticket to basking in the splendor of the great outdoors with a dash of luxury, all while minimizing your environmental footprint. Picture this: glamorous camping that harnesses the power of the sun and wind, reduces the use of harsh chemicals, and minimizes waste through smart strategies like sourcing food locally. Imagine staying in a yurt powered by sustainable energy, pampering yourself with organic bath products, and savoring fresh farm-to-table meals - that's glamping with a conscience! It's a win-win for you and Mother Nature.
Here's Our List of the Top 10 Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites in North America
#1 Desolation Hotel Hope Valley
Nestled in the heart of Hope Valley, CA, the eco-friendly and family-owned Desolation Hotels brand has established its second glamping haven. This expansion follows the successful launch of their flagship hotel in South Lake Tahoe in 2022. The Hope Valley site, previously recognized as Sorensen's Resort, boasts a rich history dating back almost a hundred years. The retreat features 28 bespoke cabins, each adorned with custom furniture crafted by local artisans and equipped with high-quality kitchen appliances. The cabins come in a variety of sizes, offering studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. In addition to the cabins, the property houses seven luxurious yurts and a meticulously restored 1951 Spartan trailer. For those seeking a more traditional camping experience, campgrounds are also available. The site is replete with amenities designed to enhance your stay. A wood-fired sauna offers relaxation, while telescopes invite guests to marvel at the star-studded sky. Fire pits and lawn games provide entertainment, and seasonal gear for outdoor explorations is included. This eco-conscious glamping site truly encapsulates the spirit of luxury outdoor living.
#2 Timberline Glamping at Hillsborough River
Near the bustling heart of downtown Tampa, the Hillsborough River State Park is a haven of natural beauty, offering miles of scenic trails and abundant wildlife. Here, Timberline Glamping presents an exceptional glamping experience with their generously spacious, fully furnished safari and bell tents. These accommodations are perfect for larger groups, featuring bunk beds to accommodate the younger adventurers. The park itself is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer hiking or biking through the wilderness, casting a line in the tranquil waters, navigating the river by kayak, or simply taking a leisurely walk along the river rapids, there's something for everyone. The park's suspension bridges also offer a unique way to explore the landscape. With Timberline Glamping at Hillsborough River, you're not just booking a stay, but an unforgettable adventure.
#3 Dunton River Camp
Immerse yourself in the rustic charm of Dunton River Camp, located in Dolores, CO. This glamping site, once an 1800s cattle ranch, offers a unique blend of history and luxury. Choose from either mountain or river glamping tents during the summer months, each offering a unique perspective of the stunning surroundings. But rest assured, rustic doesn't mean roughing it. Each tent is furnished with a king-sized bed, a cozy gas stove, and an en suite bathroom complete with a luxurious soaking tub. At Dunton River Camp, you'll experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort.
#4 Tennessee Glamping Dome
Immerse yourself in Southern charm with a stay at the distinctive Tennessee Glamping Dome. Situated in Nashville, the vibrant heart of Tennessee, this glamping site seamlessly blends luxury and eco-consciousness. Here, comfort meets sustainability, offering a memorable retreat for those seeking an environmentally friendly travel experience.
#5 Glamp Good Alberta, Canada
Near the bustling cities of Edmonton and Calgary, Glamp Good offers a tranquil retreat. Their geodome glamping experience is both pet and family-friendly, making it a perfect getaway for everyone. Alberta's only pet-friendly, boreal forest glamping vacation rentals: 3 geodomes (150 ft away from each other), 1 tree house cocoon (first and only in Alberta!), close to local businesses, craft distilleries/breweries, a meadery, beaches, lakes and more.
#5 Bolt Farm Treehouse
Bolt Farm Treehouse takes glamping to new heights. Their treehouses offer a unique blend of luxury and nature, providing an unforgettable experience. This luxury treehouse was designed by Seth Bolt (from the band NEEDTOBREATHE), who grew up on Bolt Farm. Larry Bolt (Seth's dad), proprietor, Eagle Scout and licensed custom home builder, has been building & remodeling homes for over 40 years in upstate SC. Larry and Seth both love creating masterpieces (they built our home from timber they harvested from our land) and this romantic, luxury treehouse is one of their finest works of art. Seth & Tori Bolt were married at Bolt Farm and honeymooned in the treehouse suite.
#4 Glen Oro Farm
Leave the noise from the world behind and tune in to the natural world at Glen Oro Farm. They have created an Eco-Retreat to focus on several key elements - sustainability, the importance of our natural environment, connecting with friends and family, and simply experiencing the world around us which often is muted by the rush of our daily lives. Slow things down… enjoy the simple pleasures of life in the country and tap in to your deeper self. All of our accommodations feature a King sized bed and are designed for 1-2 people. Having a fire is something that we find quintessential to camping in Canada, so outside of each accommodation is a private campfire pit for your careful use and enjoyment. Inside your unit you will find them heated by either an environmentally friendly wood-pellet stove or more traditional wood stove. We also have a cedar barrel sauna which is heated by a Finnish wood-stove - a sign-up board outside the sauna door allows guests to privately book their own sessions.
#3 Hinter
Hinter offers a unique and eco-friendly glamping experience. Their focus on sustainability and luxury makes them a top choice for eco-conscious travelers. we are a climate positive business. we are on a mission to give back more than what we take. each hinter space plants more than 1500 trees per year. regeneration is our only future. hinter is no traditional hotel, instead of traditional rooms, we look for different destinations where people can reconnect through nature and minimalism. we want to set a new norm on sustainability by giving more than what we take. we plant 10 trees per booking and we work only with companies that have the environment as their number one priority. the future of hospitality should be different, we are working on it.
#2 Fairy Stone State Park
Step into a world of enchantment at Fairy Stone State Park, renowned for its distinctively shaped stones that spark the imagination and are said to bring good fortune. Nestled just a stone's throw away from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, this park is a gateway to nature's wonders. Enhance your experience by staying in one of their yurts, each featuring a private deck area. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a morning cup of coffee while basking in the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountain landscape.
#1 El Capitan Canyon
Embrace the grandeur of nature at El Capitan Canyon, a premium glamping destination sprawled across 350 acres of pristine Southern California landscape. Opt for a stay in one of their cedar cabins, each thoughtfully equipped with bathrooms, kitchenettes, and plush bedding. Outside, a private picnic table, fire pit, and removable grill await for alfresco dining under the stars. For a unique experience, consider their yurts, each featuring a domed skylight perfect for stargazing. The property also boasts a heated pool and complimentary bikes, adding to the allure of this elevated outdoor retreat. At El Capitan Canyon, luxury and nature converge to create an unforgettable glamping experience.
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What to Consider Before You Book Your Sustainable Visit
Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites: Location
Choosing the right location for your eco-friendly glamping getaway matters. Why? First, sustainable glamping sites nestled in the lap of nature offer a unique opportunity to truly unwind and connect with the environment. Look out for these key characteristics when picking your ideal spot: Pure natural settings offering quick access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and other outdoor activities Environmentally friendly practices like solar-powered energy, compostable toilets, organic and locally sourced food Luxurious facilities that minimize environmental damage Remember, your luxury retreat can also make a positive impact on our planet. Always opt for responsible glamping.
Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites: Eco Glamping Pods and Other Accommodation
When you're eager for a glamping adventure, choosing an eco-friendly site is paramount. Your accommodation doesn't just add luxury, it makes a statement about sustainability. Consider these features in eco-friendly glamping accommodations: Alternative energy sources like solar or wind power Chemical-free and nature-friendly utilities Fresh food sourced from local farms Low power usage luxury offerings Minimal environmental impact
Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites: Amenities
Choosing the right amenities for your eco-friendly glamping adventure is crucial for an enjoyable yet sustainable trip. Select the best mix of luxury and eco-friendliness that suits your needs. Alternative power sources (solar, wind or water) Nature safe products in lieu of harsh chemical alternatives On-site fresh food provision Minimal power usage facilities Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites: Cost The cost of eco-friendly glamping sites is a significant factor to consider. It's vital to balance your desire to be eco-conscious with your budgetary constraints. Always align your budget with your ecological aspirations, ensuring you enjoy guilt-free, sustainable travel.
Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites: Energy Consumption
Considering energy consumption in your choice of eco-friendly glamping sites is essential. Remember, the lower the energy consumption, the more eco-friendly the site. Indeed, these sites frequently rely on sustainable power sources like solar or wind energy, significantly reducing carbon emissions. For instance, glamping in a yurt with solar panels outside is a relaxing holiday that doesn't tax the environment. By choosing such accommodations, you're participating in sustainable tourism, enjoying luxury while protecting nature. So always check the energy practices of a site before booking - it's your contribution to a greener planet.
Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites: Water Conservation
Water conservation plays a crucial role in eco-friendly glamping, ensuring a sustainable and mindful connection with nature. Recognizing this is vital to selecting the right glamping site that respects environmental boundaries. First, inquire about the glamping site's water management strategies. Do they have a gray water system or use water-saving appliances? Assess how they source water. Is it fetched from nearby natural sources without severe impact, or do they depend on rainwater harvesting? Lastly, observe the facilities. Are there low-flow toilets and showers in use, indicating conscious water use? By factoring in these elements, you're making a positive stride towards water-conserving and eco-friendly travel.
Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites: Waste Output
When choosing eco-friendly glamping sites, putting waste output in mind is crucial. Why? Every camping or glamping activity can generate waste, causing potential ecological harm if not managed well. Existing glamping trends aim for minimal waste. Hence, many glamping sites are conscious of their trash production. Think of the toilets around these sites. They're designed to be eco-friendly in their construction and function, reducing waste output dramatically. Sustainable glamping sites utilize waste management strategies, further minimizing environmental damage. These sites also frequently emphasize the 3 R's - Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle - to ensure a small ecological footprint. By choosing such glamping sites, you're helping support sustainable tourism, positively impacting the environment, society, and the economy.
Eco-Friendly Glamping Sites: Comfort
Choosing eco-friendly glamping sites doesn't mean you forfeit comfort! In fact, these locations blend luxury with sustainability, so you can relish the wonder of nature while also taking pleasure in some indulgences. Here are some prominent features that contribute to comfort:
Comfy beds
Private restrooms
Fireplaces and hot tubs
Outdoor dining spaces
Freshly-sourced meals from local farms
How about Some Eco-Friendly Activities, Too?
Choosing an eco-friendly glamping site often extends beyond accommodations to the activities that enhance your experience.
Here are some popular activities that eco-friendly glamping sites offer:
Engaging in renewable energy tours, where guests learn about solar, wind, and water power.
Participating in farm activities, contributing to a sustainable food source.
Experiencing luxurious, nature-friendly amenities, like a wood-fired bath.
Enjoying the natural seclusion, waking up to songbirds and lush vegetation.
Remember, the best activities are those that align with your personal interests while offering an educational and sustainable aspect. Choose wisely! Eco-friendly glamping is a win-win for you and the planet. Just remember, the key to successful glamping is preparation! Equip yourself wisely and be ready to embrace the sustainable lifestyle.
