Return to Nature in Style--Best Glamping Destination

Glamping offers families the freedom to explore the outdoors without the hassles of roughing it

Each tent at Zion Wildflower Resort has a private porch that's purposely positioned to provide an optimal view of the sunset and the stars. (Courtesy of Zion Wildflower Resort)

If you’re wondering what “glamping” is, you’re not alone. Glamping—a compound word that combines “glamorous” and “camping”—has exploded in popularity over the past two years. It offers people the opportunity to enjoy nature, while also living in luxurious accommodations.

As families grew wary of being cooped up during the pandemic, they began looking for ways to get outside again. Factors fueling glamping’s popularity are the pursuit of wellness, settings that encourage natural social distancing, and a return to the wonders of slowing down and exploring the natural world.

Many glampers are also trying to make up for time lost. They’re celebrating weddings, anniversaries, and family reunions at sites across the United States. Here are four glamping sites for those who are curious:

The Ranch at Rock Creek

Jim Manley found his dream ranch in Philipsburg, Montana. After a group of friends stayed at Manley’s 6,600-acre ranch, they urged him to share it with the public. So, Manley and team had 10 canvas cabins built for glampers. They’ve also devised a series of immersive experiences that include fly fishing and respite spots, so that guests may enjoy all the ranch has to offer without feeling the effects of vacation burnout.

The ranch has glamping cabins that suit couples as well as families with kids. Pioneer wagons are also available, where guests will find a king-sized bed and twin bunks. (Courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek)

“We want folks to slow down while they’re here,” said Carol Ann Kelley-Elwell, vice president at Victoria King Public Relations, Inc. The Ranch also offers horseback riding “in the spirit of play.” That means they'd rather see you on a horse. They also offer guided sapphire mining at the base of Sapphire Mountain for you and your children.

“It’s become extremely popular,” Kelley-Elwell added. “We sold out last year, and it’s almost sold out this year. So, if you’re interested in joining us, check us out as soon as possible.”

Dunton Hot Springs

Dunton, Colorado, began as a small, unincorporated settlement in Dolores County in the 1800s. Christoph Henkel, a London-based billionaire of German descent, purchased the town in 1994, and began renovations.

Miners used to ease their muscles in the Dunton Hot Springs. The original spring can still be viewed from the highest point in town. (Courtesy of Dunton Hot Springs)

Today, Dunton Hot Springs is an intimate camp with 13 hand-hewn cabins, along with a few tents. Christy’s Tent comes with a king bed, a gas stove, and a shower with a view. The cabins have been refurbished with a keen eye for historic detail, comfortable furnishings and modern touches. Guests may head to the bathhouse, just steps from the cabins, to soak up the hot spring waters.

If that sounds like it’s too far away, try booking the pet-friendly Well House cabin, which has an en-suite hot spring and cold plunge. If you’re there in October, The Craft & Poetry of curing meat workshop looks fun and delicious.

Zion Wildflower Resort

If you’re planning on visiting Zion National Park, in Utah, Zion Wildflower Resort offers lodging just moments from the park’s entrance. They’ve got tents, cabins, and bungalows. For those seeking unique accommodations, they’ve got covered wagons positioned in a wagon circle.

Wagons are appointed with king beds for the adults, and bunk beds for the kids. They also have a sitting area and heating and cooling. Just steps from the wagon circle, you‘ll find BBQs, laundry stations, and firepits. Take a short stroll down a footpath lined with sagebrush and cacti, and you’ll arrive at well-stocked bathhouses and a grass lounging area.

But don’t get too comfy; the real attraction is Zion National Park. Being so close will help you beat the crowds to one of America’s most popular destinations.

Brush Creek Ranch

The 30,000-acre Brush Creek Ranch, in Saratoga, Wyoming, opened to guests in May 2011. They offer three distinct, all-inclusive accommodations: The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch, which is family-friendly; Magee Homestead, a Relais & Chateaux property for adults only; and the French Creek Sportsmen’s Club, which is specifically designed for sporting enthusiast groups and offers a private gun range and fly fishing.

(Courtesy of Brush Creek Ranch)

The Ranch also offers rock climbing, an epicurean tour of a working farm—which includes lessons at the bakery, greenhouse, and distillery, and cooking classes led by award-winning chefs. Stick around and you'll be treated to a private lunch.

In the winter, guests may ski, snowshoe, or hop on a snowmobile to explore the vast property. When the weather’s warm, they offer yoga, archery, and golf, as well as guided tours on foot or ATV.

“There is a renewed sense of wonder in domestic adventures,” said Alana Watkins of VOCA Public Relations. “I don’t think we realized how many unique adventures were to be found right in our own part of the world.”

This article was originally published on Radiant Life magazine.