Glamping combines the best of outdoor adventure travel with modern-day comfort in resort-like accommodations that come ready-made with cozy king-size beds, modern furnishings, and complimentary organic bath products, just to name a few. An abbreviated term for “glamorous camping”, this boutique style of camping in sought-out, scenic destinations has spiked in popularity over the years for its ability to provide an immersive outdoor experience without the need for expensive camping gear, making the outdoors more accessible, and way comfier.
The glamping experience can be traced back to a time when monarchs traveled the globe in lavish, palatial tents and wealthy Brits and Americans stayed in the classic canvas tent while on safaris in Africa. Today, the safari-style canvas tent is still just as popular along with bell tents, yurts, treehouses, and even converted Airstreams or tiny homes. Some glampsites have established “glampgrounds” that offer on-site dining, activities, and all the creature comforts you could need for a relaxing vacation in some of the most beautiful places.
Although California’s San Francisco Bay Area is home to over seven million people, it’s not hard to find plenty of pristine outdoor places to explore and find adventure. It’s most famous for the giant redwood trees, dramatic coastline and stunning beaches, and of course, the world-famous vineyards of Sonoma and Napa Valley (not to mention the Eastern Sierra). There’s hiking and biking, surfing and sunbathing, climbing, paddling, and so much more when it comes to outdoor activities, however, the natural beauty alone makes for the perfect spot to recharge for a long weekend. Surrounded by National Forests and a 3 three-hour drive from the world-famous Yosemite National Park, there's plenty to do just outside the area, too.
Skip the crowds and the heat by visiting the California Bay Area from September through October when it’s pleasantly warm and sunny—most importantly, this is also harvest season at its many vineyards, wink, wink. Scroll through our list of the best glamping in the Bay Area of San Francisco to find your perfect place for a weekend getaway.
[Prefer more guaranteed sunshine? Check out our top picks for the Best SoCal Glamping Spots.]
—
Field Mag's Best Glamping in the Bay Area
Mendocino Grove — Mendocino, CA
Waldhaus Retreat — La Honda, CA
AutoCamp Russian River — Guernerville, CA
Running Springs Ranch — Ukiah, CA
Treebones Resort — Big Sur, CA
Boon Hotel and Spa — Guerneville, CA
Ventana Big Sur — Big Sur, CA
The Preserve at Chalk Bluff — Nevada City, CA
The Pinecone Treehouse — Bonny Doon, CA
Wildhaven Sonoma — Healdsburg, CA
