What Is Glamping and Why Everyone’s Talking About It

From chic tents and cozy treehouses to luxury campers in the forest, glamping is changing the way people camp. But what is glamping? It is a style of camping that blends the adventure of being outdoors with the comfort and amenities of a boutique stay. 

At Breathing Trees Camp in Boulder Creek, California, that means waking up among redwoods, listening to the creek, and enjoying a real bed, hot shower, and morning coffee, = all while staying immersed in nature.

What Is Glamping?

Glamping is all about immersing yourself in nature without roughing it. Instead of bringing a tent and sleeping on the ground, you stay in a thoughtfully designed accommodation like:

• A glamping tent with real furniture and heating

• A treehouse suspended among the treetops

• An Airstream or vintage camper

• A luxury campground cabin or lodge with rustic charm and modern amenities

It is the best of both worlds with fresh air, starry skies, and nature trails without sacrificing a warm bed and good coffee. This style of camping has grown as part of the global glamping market, attracting glampers who want a safe and comfortable way to travel.

If you are new to outdoor travel, glamping is the easiest way to start. You will not have to pack as much gear, and you can enjoy the great outdoors even if you are not an experienced camper.

Glamping vs Camping: What Is the Difference

The difference between glamping and camping comes down to comfort. Camping is about survival and glamping is about comfort and luxurious camping.

 

Unlike traditional camping, where you bring everything yourself, glamping offers pre-set and sometimes lavish tents, canvas tents, or tents or cabins that are fully furnished.

At Breathing Trees Camp, for example, our Tree Tent is suspended among the redwoods but it is built with a deck, cozy bedding, and shelter from the elements. You are in nature but you are not struggling to pitch a tent in the rain.

Glamping Tents and Other Unique Stays

While “tent” is in the name, a glamping tent setup often feels more like a hotel room in nature. Glamping accommodations often feature solid floors, insulation, and decorative touches you would never find in standard camping.

Other popular types of glamping include:

• Safari tents with hardwood floors

• Geodesic domes with light filled spaces

• Treehouses for a magical forest vibe

• Airstreams and campers with modern comfort

• Cabin pods that are compact, cozy, and eco friendly yurt for those who want to connect with nature

At Breathing Trees Camp, we have gone beyond the usual. Our Fuselage cabin brings Scandinavian design to the redwoods, and our Airstream Globetrotter offers sleek modern comfort in a forest setting.

Luxury Campgrounds and Amenities

One of the biggest draws of glamping is the amenities. These can vary, but at a good luxury campground, you might find:

• Comfortable beds with real linens

• Private bathrooms or shared spa style facilities

• Electricity and heating or cooling

• WiFi for those who need to stay connected

• Kitchenettes for gourmet meals or communal cooking spaces

• Fire pits and outdoor seating

• Hot tubs or plunge pools at some locations

Many glamping sites provide a traditional camping experience with added comforts, and many glamping sites are located in scenic, private spots for a truly immersed in nature feel.

Before booking, check the amenity list. Glamping might mean different things and some glamp sites are rustic chic while others are high-end glamping with luxurious accommodations and full-service dining.

Why Go Glamping

People choose glamping for different reasons but here are the top ones:

1. Comfort without hassle because everything is ready when you arrive
   
   

2. Access to nature without having to haul gear
   
   

3. Perfect for all experience levels whether you are a seasoned camper or a first timer
   
   

4. Unique and photogenic stays like treehouses, yurts, or luxury tents
   
   

5. Eco conscious options with many sites including Breathing Trees Camp designed sustainably
   
   

For some, glamping and traditional camping is a way to compare the rustic charm of the old with the comforts of the new. For others, glamping is better because glamping provides the comfort and amenities needed for a successful glamping holiday.

Activities You Can Do While Glamping

Glamping is not just about where you sleep. It is about the outdoor activities you have. Depending on the location, you could:

• Hike scenic trails through forests or mountains

• Go wildlife spotting or birdwatching

• Swim in nearby lakes, rivers, or beaches

• Enjoy stargazing without city light pollution

• Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing

• Visit local towns for shopping and dining

• Roast marshmallows by the campfire

Glamping allows you to enjoy these activities without the exhaustion that often comes with regular camping or a long camping trip.

Always research nearby attractions before you go. At Breathing Trees Camp, you are close to Big Basin Redwoods State Park, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and hidden swimming holes like the Garden of Eden.

Check our guide about glamping in Santa Cruz, CA.

Essential Things to Bring for Glamping

Even with the comforts of a luxury campground, packing smart can make your stay better. Consider bringing:

• Layers for changing weather

• Sturdy walking shoes

• A reusable water bottle

• Snacks and drinks you enjoy

• A small flashlight or headlamp

• Personal toiletries

• A good book or journal for downtime

If your site has a kitchen, bring local ingredients to cook. Farmers market produce always tastes better outdoors and can make your glamping trip feel extra special.

FAQs About Glamping

Do you have your own toilet when glamping?

It depends on the site. Some glamping accommodations like certain cabins, Airstreams, or yurts have private bathrooms. Others have shared facilities designed to be clean, modern, and comfortable. At Breathing Trees Camp, some of our stays include private bathrooms while others use shared eco friendly facilities.

Is glamping suitable for kids?

Absolutely. The comfort level makes it easier for families to enjoy nature without the stress of traditional camping.

Can you go glamping year round?

Yes. Many glamping sites often operate all year though you will want to check for seasonal closures or weather limitations.

Ready to Experience Nature Without Giving Up Comfort

It is the art of enjoying the outdoors with a side of comfort. It is trading an air mattress for a real bed, a flashlight for soft mood lighting, and a cooler for a proper kitchenette.

Whether you choose a glamping site with a tent, a treehouse, or a luxury Airstream, glamping caters to travelers who want to connect with nature without losing comfort. It makes glamping the way to enjoy both adventure and rest.

At Breathing Trees Camp in Santa Cruz, we have made it our mission to create spaces where you can breathe deeply, recharge, and reconnect with nature without giving up the little luxuries that make travel special.