Backpacking isn’t everyone’s cup of tea — and that’s perfectly fine.
If you prefer cozy beds over sleeping bags, real bathrooms over outhouses, or would rather cook in a full kitchen than over an open fire, glamping — short for “glamorous camping” — might be your ideal compromise. From yurts and safari tents to rustic cabins, these comfortable outdoor getaways let you enjoy nature without sacrificing convenience.
“Glamping can still feel elemental,” said Teresa Raffo, owner of Mendocino Grove on California’s northern coast. “But you can truly unwind — without needing days to recover from a tough camping trip.”
So, if hot showers, cozy beds, and being steps away from the outdoors sounds like your kind of adventure, here are six top glamping spots in and around the Bay Area to explore this season.
For Gold Rush History: Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park
Malakoff Diggins, once California’s largest hydraulic gold mine, now invites visitors to step into the 1800s by staying in one of three miner-style cabins located in the historic ghost town of North Bloomfield, north of Nevada City.
Though rustic, these cabins offer bunks for four to six people, potable water, wood stoves, fire pits, picnic tables, and bear boxes. Dogs are welcome throughout the campground and town.
“There are guided tours of the town on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays,” said park aide Deidra Hall. The striking man-made cliffs known as “the Diggins” are a top draw, but the area also offers excellent hiking and biking trails. Visitors can even pan for gold at a special spot on Humbug Creek using pans borrowed from the Visitor Center.
Pro Tip: Check fire conditions before your visit, as summer restrictions may prohibit campfires. Also, bug spray is a must!
For Peace in the Redwoods: Hendy Woods State Park
Just a few hours north of the Bay Area, Hendy Woods in Anderson Valley offers a serene escape among redwoods and vineyards. This warmer, sunnier alternative to coastal forests features four reservable cabins.
While bathrooms are shared, each cabin includes a wood stove, table, and full-size bunk beds.
“They book up fast on weekends, but there’s weekday availability all summer,” said Bo Venturi, a senior park aide.
Visitors can enjoy nature walks, hiking, canoeing, and kayaking. Dogs are welcome at the campground (though not on trails), and bikes are allowed on paved roads only.
Pro Tip: While each cabin officially sleeps six, “four people would be more comfortable,” Venturi added.
For Iconic Views: Steep Ravine Cabins in Mount Tamalpais State Park
Perched above the Pacific Ocean on rugged cliffs in Marin County, the nine Steep Ravine Cabins offer a classic yet hard-to-get glamping experience. These cabins are simple — no electricity or indoor plumbing — and share a communal bathroom area.
Despite the minimal amenities, their dramatic seaside location makes them one of the most sought-after glamping spots in the Bay Area. Due to high demand, a lottery system is now in place for reservations.
To enter, apply up to eight months in advance. If selected, you have 30 days to confirm your booking. Preference options like the number of nights or accessibility needs can be submitted during the application.
Pro Tip: Each failed lottery entry increases your chances in the next round, so keep trying!
For Oceanfront Luxury: Treebones Resort in Big Sur
South of Big Sur, Treebones Resort offers breathtaking views of the Pacific along with upscale glamping options. While a portion of Highway 1 is still closed, guests can access the resort via Nacimiento-Fergusson Road over the Santa Lucia Range.
“It’s a road people either love or hate,” joked Donna Heckert, Treebones’ guest relations manager of 20 years.
The resort features yurts with running water, fireplaces, and heaters, plus extras like a sushi bar, massage therapists, and more.
“It’s like staying in a hotel — but with the bathroom down the hall,” Heckert said.
Although it’s the priciest option on this list, its offerings make it ideal for a romantic getaway or special celebration.
Pro Tip: Visit nearby San Simeon or Hearst Castle and don’t miss the elephant seals lounging at the Piedras Blancas Rookery.
For Rustic Comfort on the Coast: Mendocino Grove
A few hours north of San Francisco, Mendocino Grove brings comfort to the coastal camping scene with about 60 safari-style tents, each with its own space and thoughtful amenities.
“Camping made comfy,” said owner Teresa Raffo. “It’s quiet, it’s peaceful, and we want guests to relax into the experience.”
With heated mattress pads, a dry sauna, complimentary breakfast, and personal touches like late-night hot cocoa on request, Mendocino Grove merges resort hospitality with natural charm.
The property sits near towering redwoods, open meadows for games, and the scenic Mendocino coastline. Guests can explore downtown Mendocino or relax on hidden beaches nearby.
Pro Tip: If weekend bookings seem full, call the office directly — last-minute cancellations are common.
For Family Fun: Inn Town Campground in Nevada City
Located near historic Nevada City, Inn Town Campground offers 21 glamping tents — many large enough for families — complete with beds, linens, fans, electricity, and optional cots for extra kids.
Owners Erin and Dan Thiem opened the campground after living in New Zealand and wanting to recreate the family-friendly holiday park vibe in their hometown.
Besides glamping tents, the site offers a pool, outdoor movie area, communal kitchen, and shared bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. It’s also pet-friendly and close to live music, art events, and local fairs.
Outdoor lovers can hike, swim, kayak, or visit nearby Empire Mine Historic State Park.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave without seeing the South Yuba River. “It’s spectacular year-round,” Erin said. “In spring, wildflowers bloom — in winter, the river rages.”
Whether you’re chasing Gold Rush history, forest stillness, or cliffside views, glamping lets you savor nature with modern-day comforts. So if roughing it isn’t your thing, these spots prove you don’t need to sacrifice luxury to experience the great outdoors.
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