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Glamping at KOA
Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a spontaneous adventure or just want a unique way to celebrate a significant life event, a glamping trip is an ideal way to create a memorable experience. Learn more about what glamping is, what goes into planning a successful trip and everything you need to know about taking advantage of this unique outdoor experience at KOA Campgrounds.
What Is Glamping?
“Glamping" is a term created to mean “glamorous camping." It refers to a type of camping trip that is elevated by an extra level of comfort. A glamping trip is a unique blend of outdoor adventure and luxurious touches of home. The idea is to have a peaceful and stress-free trip while still connecting with nature in a way you simply cannot get at a hotel. You can transform any normal camping site into a glamping experience, no matter your preferred way to camp.
Glamping at KOA
KOA is any glamper's dream because of the wide variety of campsite and lodging options available, as well as the variety of campground features and amenities.
Glamping Options at KOA
KOA has glamping options for every type of camper. For an even more elevated glamping experience, look for campsites with a KOA Patio®. Glamping options at KOA include:
Camping cabins
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Deluxe Cabins
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Unique Lodging
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Premium Tent Sites
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RV Sites
Read More +Who Should Consider Glamping?
Traditional camping trips are exciting and adventurous, but sometimes campers want a little more luxury. Everyone can benefit from an ultra-relaxing getaway, but glamping is especially ideal for:
Honeymoons and romantic excursions
Girlfriend getaways, including bachelorette parties
Families seeking a unique experience
Travelers who want a comfortable overnight stay
Glamping is also the perfect way to recharge after a long day of sightseeing, hiking or enjoying the outdoors. Imagine waking up each morning, feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day's agenda.
KOA Features & Amenities
KOA is proud to offer a number of convenient features and amenities that will help you get the most out of your glamping trip. At every KOA you have clean bathrooms with hot water, access to laundry facilites, playgrounds, access to the KOA store for last-minute items, KampK9® dog park, and friendly KOA staff to answer any questions you have.
Many KOA Campgrounds also offer additional features and amenities, including those shown on the right.
To inquire about campground-specific features or amenities, unique glamping options offered or pet policies, choose a KOA location and contact them for more information.
Find a KOA
Swimming pools
Hot tubs
Kid-friendly activities, like Jump Pillows & Splash Pads
Sport courts
On-site food options
Bike, boat & kayak rentals
Fishing spots
Outdoor movie screens
Themed weekends & planned events
River tubing
Gyms
Hammocks
Meeting centers & group facilities
Dog parks
Glamping Destinations
No matter where you choose to visit, there are many different exciting glamping places to discover all across North America:
Coastal Beaches
Whether you prefer the west or the east, coastal beaches are excellent glamping destinations. Spend all day enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean, splashing in the waves and relaxing on the sand before heading back to your comfortable KOA lodging and a cozy campfire.
New England Foliage
Looking for an autumn getaway? There is no better place to experience the vibrant colors of fall than in the Northeast. The New England states are praised for their autumnal beauty and provide plenty of festive recreation, like apple picking, fall festivals, pumpkin patches and more. Spend chilly mornings sipping hot cider on the porch of your rustic glamping cabin, enjoying the colors of the changing leaves.
Southwestern Deserts
For a desert adventure, look no further than the Southwest. Explore sand dunes and desert mountains, see cacti and enjoy the star-speckled sky from the comfort of a unique lodging option, like a yurt or teepee.
Mountain Views
Mountain vacations call for hearty meals, breathtaking views and days spent hiking, fishing and sightseeing. You can find mountain ranges scattered across North America, and each region boasts its own wildlife. No matter the mountain range or the time of year, a glamping trip to the mountains is an excellent way to reset, refresh and reconnect with the world around you.
Midwestern Countrysides
If you are looking for an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the simpler parts of life, why not plan a trip to the countryside? The Midwest is full of rolling hills, vast fields and endless skies. The Midwest is also home to several of the country's top urban destinations for those looking for something a little more fast-paced.
Southern Charm
The South is full of landmarks and rich history. It has a little bit of something for every type of outdoor enthusiast, including coastline, mountains and bayous. No matter the area, your glamping adventure will likely include a few sightseeing tours and plenty of homemade sweet tea.
When to Glamp
Each season has something unique to offer glampers:
Spring
Springtime glamping means fragrant blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures for outdoor recreation and sightseeing.
Summer
Summer is prime camping weather for swimming, boating and fishing. With so many recreational opportunities, you will likely work up quite an appetite — it is a good thing summer also provides great grilling weather!
Fall
Glamping in the fall is the very definition of cozy lodging. You will love experiencing the beautiful changing colors, cool breeze and hearty campfire meals.
Winter
Winter glamping calls for warm blankets, cocoa and unbeatable scenery. It is the perfect time to slow down and have a "staycation" glamping trip.To choose the best time to go glamping, consider what your ideal picture of comfort looks like. Is it cozying up with a mug of cocoa around a fire, or swimming in crystal lakes under the hot summer sun? Once you know what kind of trip you would like to have, reserve your stay ahead of time so you don't miss out on the perfect campsite.
Why try glamping?
Everyone should try glamping at least once — but chances are, once will not be enough. Glamping is an upscale, comfortable experience that combines luxury and the outdoors. It is something you cannot easily find elsewhere. If trying new things is your favorite pastime or craving a unique getaway, give glamping a try.
How to Plan a Successful Glamping Trip
With a little bit of preparation, you can take your glamping trip from fun and memorable to extraordinary and unforgettable.
Planning Your Trip
Follow these simple steps for stress-free planning:
- Set your budget: Before you choose your destination and type of lodging, you and your traveling group should establish a budget so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about the cost. Your budget will guide your planning, helping you determine where to go, the food and accessories you bring and the length of your trip.
- Pick a destination: Gather your fellow adventurers and decide where you want to hold your glamping experience. How far do you want to travel? What activities do you want to participate in or experience? No matter where you choose to visit, each region of the United States has something interesting to offer.
- Choose your lodging: Once you know where to go glamping, it is time to choose your lodging. Choose lodging that suits your personality and needs. For example, if you want your glamping experience to be as immersed in the outdoors as possible, a Tent Site or unique lodging option may be best. If you would like to experience the sights and sounds of nature without sacrificing any level of comfort, opt for an RV Site or a Deluxe Cabin.
- Make a packing list: Before you head out, make a detailed packing list that includes all of the basic camping necessities as well as glamping essentials. A packing list is the best way to ensure nothing important is forgotten. To make it easier, divide the packing list among your group, so everyone is responsible for bringing some of the essentials.
What to Pack for Your Glamping Trip
When deciding what to bring on your glamping trip, you do not have to be too selective. Whereas a rustic camping trip may require you to fit all your items in a backpack or to carry tents or other items to and from your vehicle, glamping venues tend to be more easily accessible. All you have to do is pack your car or RV with the things you want and drive to your desired destination. Just like any other camping trip, there are several must-have items you should bring along, like firestarter and matches, flashlights and a first aid kit. However, when planning a glamping trip, there are some additional items to consider.
Check out this list of glamping gear — both essential and luxurious — to maximize your enjoyment during your glamping vacation:
- Ambient lighting: Glamping is all about the ambiance. Set the mood with a variety of indoor and outdoor lights, including LED candles, warm string lights and old-fashioned lanterns.
- Fun and relaxing items: Bring along items that help you relax and unwind, like your favorite snacks, a comfortable robe, warm slippers and a playlist of your favorite music. Use your glamping trip as an excuse to unplug from the day-to-day and focus on spending quality time with your loved ones. Bring along plenty of fun and games for you to enjoy together, including yard games like ladder ball and cornhole, as well as indoor entertainment like card games and board games. Bring along musical instruments or a book of your favorite campfire stories to keep the fun rolling well into the night.
- Bed linens and towels: Unless your lodging includes linens, make sure you bring along bed sheets, a comforter and a few additional soft blankets for comfort. If you have booked a Deluxe Cabin or certain other glamping options, your lodging may include a bed and linens. You are welcome to supplement these with an extra-fluffy comforter and a mattress topper. If you are camping somewhere without a bed and would like a more comfortable sleeping experience, bring an air mattress with a built-in pump so that you won't be sleeping on the ground. You will also want to pack plush towels and plenty of pillows.
- Food: Select campsites include an area to cook. As you will be on vacation, take this opportunity to cook that gourmet meal you have wanted to make, but maybe have not been able to. Also, remember to bring beverages and plenty of water.
- Clothes: Before leaving on your trip, find out whether your chosen location has laundry facilities, which will help you determine how much you should pack. All KOA locations have self-service laundry facilities. One great thing about glamping is that you can take a large suitcase full of clothes if you would like, so you will not have to spend time picking out the outfits you want to bring. The only thing you need to consider is the current climate of your destination, which will help you decide whether you should bring a coat or a swimsuit.
- Earplugs and sleep mask: While the sounds of the great outdoors are interesting, they may make it difficult for you to sleep. If so, bring along a pair of earplugs to ensure a night of good rest. If you are sensitive to light, bringing along a sleep mask is a good idea as well in case you decide to sleep in past sunrise.
- Bathroom essentials: When glamping, you will not have to be selective with your bath supplies. Bring whatever you want to get the most out of your glamping experience.
Glamping Tips & Resources
As you plan your trip, follow these tips, tricks and glamping ideas for some inspiration:
- Stay caffeinated: Did you know you can brew coffee over the campfire? Bring along a portable coffee maker — like a French press or percolator — and your favorite camping mugs for a cozy morning treat.
- It is okay to relax: Do not feel pressured to pack your glamping trip full of recreational activities or experiences. Sometimes, a relaxing vacation is the best way to slow down and refresh.
- Check the forecast: Always check the weather forecast to see if you need to plan for rain, especially if you plan to sleep in a tent. To keep warm and dry, make sure you bring along rain boots, parkas, umbrellas and plenty of extra socks.
- Bring along some creative work: Glamping is the perfect excuse to disconnect from technology — but it is not the only way to have a successful glamping trip. Bring along your notebooks or a sketchbook to transform your glamping trip into a creative retreat. A change of scenery may be just the thing you need to spark some inspiration or overcome a new work project.
- Preplan the menu: Plan your glamping menu ahead of time. Remember, glamping is supposed to be indulgent — no recipe should be off-limits. Use this as an opportunity to try something new or to try your hand at a classic family recipe. To save time, consider pre-chopping or peeling tricky ingredients at home and sealing them in airtight containers until you are ready to cook them on your trip. Depending on where you choose to stay, you might bring along specialty kitchenware items from home, or opt for disposable options.
- Be creative: Your glamping vacation can be anything you want it to be. Maybe you prefer a snowy winter escape over a spring or summer trip. Or, if you do not want to limit yourself to a single destination, you can go on a glamping-inspired road trip to multiple different places. This is your time to be as creative as you want to be.
- Try new things: Glamping vacations are a great time to try out things you wouldn't usually do. Whether it's an activity offered near the campsite — like horseback riding or archery — or finishing that novel or puzzle, glamping is a great time to do it.
How to Go Glamping
There is no “right way” to go glamping — that is what makes it so much fun! That being said, there are a few things you can keep in mind as you decide the type of experience you want to have:
- Avoid overplanning: You probably want to incorporate recreational activities, sightseeing, games and other fun into your glamping trip — just be careful not to over plan. Rather than having a scheduled list of events, brainstorm a few ideas and key things you want to try while you are away. This way, there is no pressure to hurry through one activity to make it to the next, and you can make decisions based on the way you and your family or friends feel like in the moment.
- Challenge yourself to disconnect: Most of us spend a large portion of our everyday scrolling through social media, checking emails and taking phone calls. Make your glamping trip a screen and technology-free zone and focus on spending time with your friends and truly living in the moment.
- Bring a group: Check your campground’s group-site options or consider renting multiple adjacent sites to bring along your friends or family. While you are having fun and making memories, you can also split responsibilities and packing to make your trip even easier. When glamping with a group, remember to include everyone in the planning and decision-making process, so each person has a great time.
- Go above and beyond: Going the extra mile is what differentiates a regular camping trip from a glamping adventure. Fill your trip with unforgettable meals and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
To help you plan the best glamping trip possible, KOA has several helpful resources, including the KOA Trip Planner, a breakdown of each lodging option and a collection of delicious camper-friendly recipes. Find a KOA near you or learn more tips for a memorable glamping experience.
Plan Your Next Glamping Adventure at KOA
Getting away and enjoying nature does not mean you have to rough it — unless you want to. When you camp at KOA, you have plenty of options to create your own perfect glamping adventure. Choose from Camping Cabins or Deluxe Cabins, or find Teepees, Glamping Tents, Airstreams and other unique lodging options at some of our locations. Of course, you can also pitch your tent in one of our Tent Sites if that is more your style.
At each KOA Campground, you will have access to clean bathrooms with hot water, laundry facilities, a KOA Store and a KampK9 dog park for your dogs to run free — and with more than 500 locations throughout North America, you are sure to find a KOA near you. If you are ready to experience an unforgettable glamping trip, find a KOA today.