Glamping, a combination of “glamorous” and “camping,” provides a unique opportunity to enjoy both cozy comforts and breathtaking nature. You can spend the day exploring California’s beautiful scenery and then return to a comfortable bed and the conveniences of home, such as a kitchen or a hot tub.
Whether you are new to camping or want to try a new way of enjoying the outdoors, glamping is a great way to experience California’s stunning landscapes. Use this guide to learn where to glamp in California for a luxurious and memorable getaway.
Best Glamping Destinations in California
When you choose Kampgrounds of America for your glamping experience, you can expect to have a peaceful and stress-free vacation. KOA glamping in California allows you to enjoy comfortable lodging while connecting with the Golden State’s captivating natural landscapes.
A few KOA locations, including Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA Holiday, San Diego Metro KOA Resort and Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday, offer spacious Glamping Tents. You and your loved ones can spend the day enjoying the outdoors, then return to a sturdy canvas tent and a comfortable bed for a relaxing night’s sleep. Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday also offers other unique lodging options, including teepees and covered wagons.
Many KOA locations throughout California offer Deluxe Cabins with a range of features. Some have a partial or full kitchen, though there are options with no kitchen if you prefer. All Deluxe Cabins have full bathrooms with showers. These lodging options can sleep multiple people, and they provide plenty of indoor or outdoor space to gather comfortably with your group. Depending on the location, Deluxe Cabins may come with these convenient amenities:
- TVs
- Wi-Fi
- Linens
- Fire rings
- A KOA Patio®
- Gas grills
- Picnic tables
- Air conditioning
- Accessibility features
Northern California Glamping
If you are looking to glamp while enjoying the breathtaking sites of the Redwoods, consider reserving a Deluxe Cabin at Crescent City / Redwoods KOA Holiday. Other KOA locations that offer easy access to beautiful mountain trails and lakes include:
- Burney Falls / Hat Creek KOA Holiday
- Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday
- Mt. Lassen / Shingletown KOA Holiday
- Trinity Lake KOA Holiday.
For visits to the North Coast, choose one of the following:
- Benbow KOA Holiday
- Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA Journey
- San Francisco North / Petaluma KOA Resort
If you are staying inland, you can reserve a Deluxe Cabin at Coleville / Walker KOA Holiday or Lake Tahoe KOA Journey.
Central and Southern California Glamping
When visiting Sequoia National Park or the surrounding area, reserve a Deluxe Cabin at Lake Isabella / Kern River KOA or Visalia / Sequoia National Park KOA Journey. For another Central Coast adventure, the Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday is an excellent option.
For your Southern California adventures a little way out from the Los Angeles area, choose a location such as Banning Stagecoach KOA Journey or Temecula KOA at Vail Lake.
If you want a more remote glamping experience, one of these Southern California campgrounds may be ideal for you:
- Barstow / Calico KOA Holiday
- Boulevard / Cleveland National Forest KOA Holiday
- Parker Strip / Colorado River KOA Holiday
- Santa Margarita KOA Holiday
Santa Margarita KOA Holiday also offers an exciting yurt experience that is perfect for sharing with family.
What to Know About Glamping in California
Glamping in California gives you a unique opportunity to visit exciting places while enjoying a more upscale camping experience. California offers endless opportunities for fun and exploration, allowing you and your family or friends to create lasting memories together.
Things to Do Outdoors in California
From awe-inspiring mountains and forests to sparkling beaches, California’s various landscapes provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer to surf or hike, you are sure to find exciting activities to do with your loved ones. Depending on where you go glamping in California, you can try out some of these outdoor experiences:
- Visit one of California’s nine national parks, including Yosemite, Redwood and Joshua Tree.
- Get on the water to raft, kayak, surf, swim, fish or whale watch on a boat tour.
- Golf and relax at an iconic Palm Springs golf course.
- Hit the abundant hiking trails on foot, bike or horse.
- Watch and photograph the wildlife.
Weather in California
California generally has mild and moderate weather year-round, making it a great place to glamp. Summers tend to be warm and dry, and winters are often mild and wet. If you choose to glamp along the coast, you can expect moderate and consistent temperatures, while inland locations tend to get hotter in the summer and colder in the winter. Northern locations can get colder in the winter, while southern locations are typically warmer throughout the year.
You will also need to think about altitude differences when planning your trip. Higher altitudes experience all four seasons, so if you want to spend time in the mountains, you can expect it to be colder in the fall, winter and spring. You may even need to wait until summer to access high-country locations.
Common Questions About the Best Glamping in California
California has some of the best glamping opportunities for solo adventurers, couples, families and friend groups. To make the most of your trip, review these common questions.
Where Is the Best Place to Glamp in California?
Several KOA locations throughout California offer exceptional glamping experiences. From Glamping Tents to Deluxe Cabins, the comfortable lodgings at these locations will make your trip truly relaxing. Most locations offer a range of options and features, allowing you to select the perfect lodging for your group’s needs and comfort levels.
Some locations may have convenient amenities on-site to make your glamping trip more comfortable and convenient. Depending on the location you choose, you may see these amenities:
- Laundry facilities
- Playgrounds and outdoor sports
- Clean bathrooms with hot water
- Swimming pools
- Dining options
- A KOA Patio
- A KampK9®
Can You Go Camping in Yosemite?
Yes, it is possible to camp in Yosemite, but it is highly competitive to find a campsite since the park is so popular. It can also be difficult to have an enjoyable glamping experience when staying in the park. Choosing a glamping location nearby allows you to spend your days exploring the iconic park and your nights in a comfortable bed.
Can You Glamp With Your Dog in California?
Yes, several KOA locations throughout California have dog-friendly lodging options, allowing you to glamp with your furry friend. Plus, every KOA campground has a KampK9®, where your pooch can run around off-leash in a secure, fenced area! Be sure to check specific campsites ahead of time when reserving to see if pets are allowed and if there are any additional pet policies.
Find KOA Glamping Options in California
When you want to enjoy luxury glamping in California, choose KOA. Whether you are vacationing on the coast or hiking in the mountains, you can find the perfect glamping location to make your trip comfortable, convenient and memorable. Book your stay at a KOA in California today!
About the Author: Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.
