Best Destinations For Glamping In New York
It only took a matter of years until glamping hooked the interest of the general public. This comes as no surprise. Glamping is proof that we can enjoy life’s pleasures even in the most minimalist way possible. Gone are days of long trips to the campground. The drama of packing the car, unpacking the car and putting up tents. All the while anxiously checking the weather. A popular way to get away from the bustle of city life is to go glamping in New York. A fantastic relaxing vacation while you unwind and relax in nature.
With glamping, you only need yourself, a companion (if you wish), and a few of your things.
Where should you go glamping in New York?
As the world slowly returns to normal, what would be a better way to celebrate it than a glamping getaway? Treat yourself after months of working from home with the best glamping getaways in New York.
Need a break from the hustle and bustle? No need to leave, New York has it all
Sure, one of the most rewarding things about living in the big apple is how busy and dynamic it is. However, did you know that New York is also a green paradise? It is home to 22 national parks, 180 state parks, and more than 7,600 lakes!
However, if you’re looking for something fancy, you can try luxury camping in New York. New York has gorgeous nature, breathtaking hiking sites, and even scenic train rides. This makes New York the dream glamping destination. It has lots of authentic, charming, and creative glamping options. You don’t even need to think about anywhere else when looking for the perfect vacation.
Firelight Camps, for the safari-lover (★★★★☆)
Location: 1150 Danby Road, Ithaca, New York
Have you ever dreamt of sitting around a bonfire and looking at a blanket of stars as you fall asleep? If yes, then it’s time to pack up for a trip to Firelight Camps. Located on the grounds of La Tourelle Resort and Spa in Ithaca.
Glamping Accommodation
Glampers are greeted with fully-furnished platform tents with hardwood flooring. Featuring huge beds, private balconies, and safari-themed furniture.
Dining Options
Great mornings are guaranteed with a continental breakfast. Depending on your mood, you can expand your palate by dining out in The Bistro and Thomas Steakhouse.
Glamping Activities
Enjoy leisurely following the trails of Buttermilk Falls State Park. Relax after a long walk at August Moon Spa or in a hammock under the sky. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the restaurants, vineyards, and waterfalls of Finger Lakes.
Likewise, the night of your dreams is set to be a reality as the campfire starts at sundown. Let the tasty s’mores remind you of the good old days and even better days to come. Retreat to a comforting spectacle of the night sky on your tent porch. Bask in the company of your family, friends or significant other.
Collective Governors Island, for the best of both worlds (★★★★☆)
Location: Craig Road North Slip 7, New York
One of the great qualities of glamping destinations is being secluded in nature. However, Collective Retreats begs to differ. Its unique location gives you the best of both worlds. Sandwiched between a sprawling green space and the Manhattan Skyline.
image credit: Collective Governors Island
Glamping Accommodation
Collective Retreats is accessed by an 8-minute water taxi ride from downtown Manhattan. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with beautiful and cozy tents. The tents are accompanied by a gourmet restaurant and bar situated in a 172-acre field.Dining Options
As the night kicks in, try their seasonal menu items, and specialty cocktails. Remember the complimentary s’mores kit before gathering around a fire pit.
Glamping Activities
Make the most out of your city escape by exploring the rest of Collective Retreats. Relish their vast playing fields, surrounding historic buildings, to art installations. Looking for a more relaxed experience? Opt to sit through a grove of hammocks scattered in the area.
This is a must do glamping experience. Let the Manhattan skyline and the pristine greenery of New York relax into the evening. Surround yourself in peace and fall asleep in one of the most spectacular glamping sites in town.
Camp Orenda, for the adventure-seeker (★★★★★)
Location: 90 Armstrong Rd, Johnsburg, New York
Sure, glamping may be just luxury camping, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t try more remote destinations. If you’re looking for a rugged wilderness to unwind in, then Camp Orenda will be your best bet.
image credit: Camp Orenda
Glamping Accommodation
It is surrounded by a scenic mountainscape of the Adirondack Park. Camp Orenda offers adventure and luxury in a 40-acre private estate. Tired after a whole day of exploring? You can choose to settle in one of the four luxurious canvas tents Camp Orenda offers.
With the vast blanket of stars and the comforting wind lulling you to sleep. You can prepare to bed with two unisex restrooms with heated toilet seats or you can take a hot, open-air shower. As the night gets deepens retreat to your tent’s spacious beds. These are warmed by traditional wood-burning stoves and thick blankets. With the vast blanket of stars and the comforting wind lulling you to sleep.
Depending on your company, the glamping tents can fit 2-4 people.
Start your morning off by taking a refreshing outdoor shower.
Dining Options
Until your glamping trip is over, every morning will be a delight thanks to a free breakfast. Breakfast includes eggs, applewood-smoked bacon, and freshly-brewed coffee.
Meet fellow glampers around a relaxing campfire as you share toasty s’mores. Enjoy some other tasty flame-cooked snacks.
Glamping Activities
Start and end your day in nature by watching the sunrise and sunset. Relax amid lively campfires and amazing scenery. Make the most out of your trip by kayaking down the Hudson River. Or try canoeing along Garnet Lake .
Many glampers just enjoy hiking through the pristine woods. But there are also crystal-clear waters, endless mountains, and cascading waterfalls.
Mountain Horse Farm, for the nature and animal lover (★★★★★)
Location: 7520 W. Hollow Rd. (County Rd. 33), Naples, New York
Can’t decide between a farm and a glamping trip for your next weekend or holiday getaway? Why not just have both! Let the 33-acre Mountain Horse Farm remind you of the simple things in life. Surround yourself with animals, nature, and your loved ones.
image credit: Mountain Horse Farm
Mountain Horse Farm is a luxurious bed and breakfast. It is situated in the majestic Finger Lakes of New York. Be greeted by an enticing landscape of the Bristol Hills. Perfectly balanced by the waters of Canandaigua, Keuka, and Seneca Lakes.
Prepare yourself for a day of walking by starting with some wellness activities. Mountain Horse Farm has retreats such as:
- massage,
- yoga,
- meditation,
- mindfulness, and more.
Aside from connecting with nature. Mountain Horse Farm also allows you to interact with its resident cows and horses. Unwind and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. IGet to know these horses on a deeper level. Try their horse clinics with embodied horsemanship and horse speak.
While you’re there, make sure to check nearby attractions. Breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and wineries are just five minutes away. When the sun sets, let yourself retreat into the night. Relish your private rooms with fireplaces and hot tubs.
Before going back to the hustle and bustle of New York take time to savor the peace and serenity. You will take away fond memories of the animals and scenery from the Mountain Horse Farm.
Harmony Hill Retreat Center, for optimum healing (★★★★☆)
Location: 694 McKee Hill Road, East Meredith, New York
Has it always been your childhood dream to go sightseeing in a mountain chalet cabin? How about relaxing in a treehouse yurt? If yes, then prepare your wish to come true in Harmony Hill Retreat Center.
image credit: Harmony Hill Retreat
Glamping Accommodation
As you go back to your place, you are guaranteed a good night’s rest whichever room type you end up choosing. Breathtaking views of the surrounding farms and hills are present from your room. Whether you are staying in its suites or Mountain View rooms. Inside, enjoy Wi-Fi, private balconies, separate living and dining areas. They are complete with coffee/tea makers, blackout curtains, and walk-in showers.
Dining Options
Dining out? Try local dishes at many of their local restaurants.
Glamping Activities
Spanning 70 acres of private woodlands. This glamping destination offers a variety of activities to make your trip memorable. Even at any time of the year. You can enjoy such things as:
- go hiking on its trails,
- follow the 11-circuit fieldstone labyrinth,
- roast marshmallows all day,
- sit around a fireplace, or
- even do nothing.
If you happened to visit during the winter, you can also try skiing at the nearby mountains. Many glampers enjoy cross-country skiing on its trails.
Aside from the destination itself, Harmony Hill Retreat Center offers even more activities. Try some memorable activities in its surrounding area. During the day, you can:
- visit quaint towns and bookstore villages,
- go swimming, or
- kayaking.
If your schedule still allows, you can even attend concerts.
Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday, Harmony Hill Retreat will excel. The retreat combines luxury and comfort for a glamping experience like no other. It’s a glamping and day tour in one destination – what’s not to love?
1000 Islands Campground (★★★★☆)
Location: 42099 State Route 12 Alexandria Bay, New York
Do you love glamping and the waters? At 1000 Islands Campground, you can have the best of both worlds!
You will never run out of glamping space at 1000 Islands Campground. Thanks to the abundance of private and public campgrounds in the region. There are actually over 100.
image credit: 1000 Islands Campground
Glamping Accommodation
Choose between a standard tent, a trailer, or a Class A motorhome. There is something for everyone to match your desired glamping experience.
Glamping Activities
Aside from being a great glamping spot. 1000 Islands Campground has other amenities such as playgrounds, marinas, and retail facilities. Enjoy a boat or a wagon ride at the playground. Have a picnic at one of their picnic tables. Or gather around a fire ring for a campfire.
If you want the full experience, you can schedule your visit during the festival seasons. Neighboring areas, Alexandria Bay, Cape Vincent, and Clayton have a number of events. Such as:
- Pirate Week activities,
- weekly concerts,
- craft fairs,
- fishing tournaments,
- fireworks, and more.
The Outlier Inn (★★★★★)
Location: Upstate Catskills, Woodridge, New York
Can’t decide between a retro-inspired or a futuristic glamping experience? Well, The Outlier Inn has both.
image credit: Outlier Inn
Glamping Accommodation
Outlier Inn offers a transparent, geodesic dome as a retreat to its guests. Luxury awaits with a clawfoot bathtub, double hot showers outside. They also have a huge fire pit, outdoor grill, outdoor kitchen, refrigerator, and a sink.
Glamping Activities
Aside from the luxury dome for your glamping accommodation. The farm has several interesting destinations such as a fiber-arts workshop, a recording studio, and a vintage shop. You can also interact with the animals on the surrounding farm. Animals such as:
- alpacas,
- angora goats,
- free-roaming chickens, and
- merino sheep.
However, make sure to bring your own air mattress, camping pads, pillows, sleeping bags, and towels for a more comfortable rest.
Gather Greene (★★★★☆)
Location: 176 Levett Rd, Coxsackie, New York
For the past few years, the world has seen soaring popularity of tiny houses. Tiny houses aren’t only just space savers, but also cozy and peaceful. Experience life inside a tiny house without fully investing in one. Try them at Gather Greene Tiny House Glamping. This is a dream place to be!
image credit: Gather Greene
Gather Greene Tiny House Glamping is located in the middle of 100 acres of enchanting woods. Surrounded by open fields, and rolling hills. It is nestled between the Berkshire and Catskill Mountains.
It is home to an open-air pavilion alongside its 17 scenic cabins. Making this place ideal not only for glamping, but also for celebrations, getaways, and meetings.
It even comes with Wi-Fi, ample parking spaces, dining tables and chairs. There is a list of catering services for you to choose from.
Equally cozy meals and snacks are provided throughout your stay. Every cabin comes with a hidden door that reveals a beverage nook. Complete with cups, a hot water kettle, Kuju pour over coffee, milk, stevia, stirrers, sugar, and tea.
Adirondack Adventure Base (★★★★★)
Location: Nearby Higley Flow State Park, Adirondack State Park, New York
Many associate glamping with only tents and mountains. But how about having a quick getaway “floating” in the woods?
image credit: Adirondack Adventure Base
Glamping Accommodation
Located in the Adirondacks, The Magical Treehouse is unique. It is a circular treehouse perfect for two guests. Bask in its mountainous and scenic view. The Magical Treehouse is also close to other houses and an office building.
Guests may expect adequate parking spaces, restrooms, potable water, kitchen, and hot showers.
Dining Options
Meals in The Magical Treehouse are no problem either. You can cook your meals either in the nearby cookhouse atop a camp stove. Or have the complete glamping experience by settling in an open campfire. Linens and cookware are provided so you never need to bring your own.
Glamping Activities
Guests may expect adequate parking spaces, restrooms, potable water, kitchen, and hot showers. During the day, you can go hiking through its surrounding hiking and biking trails. Rest up on a special covered space with picnic tables and other dining necessities.
During the night, you can watch the stars along with a campfire.
The Magical Treehouse allows a minimum of two nights per stay.
Mariaville Goat Farm (★★★★★)
Location: 233 N Rd, Pattersonville New York
Staying in a treehouse secluded in the woods is already a unique experience by itself. If you’re looking for something to add to the experience, then Mariaville Goat Farm Tree House is ideal. It features goat-friendly activities that will surely pique your interest!
image credit: Mariaville Goat Farm
Glamping Accommodation
The treehouse features a rustic yet elegant vibe. You can start your day by grabbing your breakfast at the pantry. During the day relax, resting in the hammock, and you can get through the night, watching the stars.
Glamping Activities
Located in a spacious farm surrounded by trees and farm animals. Mariaville Goat Farm Tree House is perfect for the glamping and animal lover.
Aside from the treehouse and the amenities that come with it. A unique element of the Mariaville Goat Farm is their goat-friendly activities. This is a goat farm, after all. Enjoy cuddles with its resident goats. Attend therapeutic goat yoga to complete the experience. Who hasn’t wanted to try this! As you leave this serene glamping site, let the playfulness of these goats inspire you to be one yourself!
Other things to do in New York
New York isn’t known as the city that never sleeps for no reason. It hosts lots of hidden gems that a day wouldn’t be enough to explore all! Strolling around New York would complete any glamping experience.
During the summer, you can explore the magnificent water bodies of Upstate New York. Marvel at its waterfalls, lakes, and swimming holes. You can even go hiking near New York City if you’re up for an adventure.
During the winter, you can enjoy several winter sports such as:
- cross-country skiing,
- snowboarding, and s
- nowshoeing.
You can choose between its three major mountain ranges. These are the Adirondacks, Appalachian, and the Catskills Mountains. There is a lot of natural and green space to enjoy all year round.
What are the dos and don’ts of glamping?
Just like camping, glamping also has a bunch of unspoken rules. This is etiquette that every visitor should know. While these may or may not apply to your destination. It’s important to have an idea of the dos and don’ts of glamping – behavior-wise.
- Make sure to read the terms and conditions.
Get the most out of your glamping trip, make sure that you read the terms and conditions of the site you’re about to visit. Apart from your safety and comfort. This allows you to raise inquiries before your actual glamping date.
- Always bring a printed version of your booking information.
Sure, you may have it saved or screencapped on your phone. But you’ll never know when your phone runs out of battery or the place loses the network signal. To enjoy smooth sailing, make sure to have a printed copy of your booking information. You know, just in case. - Reporting a problem
During reception hours, you can always opt to report issues to the managers and/or owners. Unless it’s an emergency, gauge if your issue can wait until the morning. - Be mindful of your pets.
There are some glamping sites with specific walking paths for humans and animals. In this case, make sure to look after your pets and keep them on a leash. - …As well as your music
Some like to blast music in the open air, but first, check with your glamping accommodations if they allow it. However, aside from being considerate of the written rules. Be mindful of the possible noise it may cause to other glampers. - Follow the recommended number of persons allowed.
There’s a reason why most glamping sites provide a recommended number of persons allowed. Normally it is limited by the amount of bedding inside an accommodation – may it be a tent or a yurt. In this case, make sure to follow them to maximize your experience. - Be on time
Follow the booked arrival and departure times. You may even start packing the night before to save time. This is because the accommodation will have a limited time preparing for the next guests. You won’t want to spoil someone’s glamping experience; hence sticking to a schedule is a must. - Confirm if campfires are allowed
While campfires make glamping memorable, check if your glamping site allows one. If it does allow campfires, make sure that they’re well extinguished before going to bed. - Finding your way
Hiking and walking are two of the most common glamping activities. Immerse yourself in nature on your glamping getaway. However, always make sure that the footpath isn’t on private land. If it happens to be on one, check with the owners where you can and can’t traverse out of respect. - Know the people
While everyone might have their own tents, cabins, or yurts. One of the most fulfilling things about glamping is getting to know other people. People who share the same love for glamping as you. Introduce yourself to your neighbors and socialize a little. However, don’t get too carried away. Remember people come glamping to relax. Sometimes they might just want some alone time, so let them be and enjoy yourself instead.
Choosing The Ideal Spot For Glamping In New York
When you’re caught up with the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose track of its simplicity. Seek out glamping as a way to reconnect with nature. This allows you to physically, mentally, and emotionally heal from your daily lifestyle. All without depriving yourself of the comfort and luxury you deserve.
New York is commonly perceived as the “concrete jungle”. Where being busy is the norm. Who would’ve thought that these top glamping destinations are so close? Places where you can heal and recharge do exist near city? Whether you’re a local or a tourist of New York, make the most out of it. Experience glamping in the big apple at least once in your lifetime!
