Top glamping destinations perfect for vacations and staycations
The Alleghenies are home to some of the best views and finest camping experiences on the east coast. Thousands of explorers travel to the area every year to enjoy both beauty and adventure. A new kind of camping has emerged across the outdoor recreation industry, including right here in our region: “Glamping,” or “glamorous camping,” is a modern, elevated experience that offers an escape to nature without the inconvenience of building your campsite (or sleeping on the ground). People who prefer their outdoor living experiences bug-free, dirt-free, and hassle-free, are finding the perfect opportunity at these Alleghenies-based glamping spots:
Photo: Airydale Retreat
Airydale Retreat – Huntingdon County
This classic family-owned retreat in Mill Creek, Pennsylvania, offers the ultimate glamping experience. Airydale Retreat’s accommodations offer beds, heated outdoor showers, and comfy outdoor seating to create a perfect slice of comfort in the heart of the mountains. Sites include a selection of spacious canvas tents and domes, including a unique family-friendly tent complete with a spacious interior and twisty slide!
Photo: Riverside Chalet
Riverside Chalet – Somerset County
This cozy cabin on the edge of the Youghiogheny river in Confluence is a riverfront retreat. The beautiful interiors boast vaulted ceilings and a warm fireplace, while the outdoor deck leads to a spacious lawn for games and a private riverside beach. Swimming, fishing, relaxing, and long days in the fresh mountain air make the ideal getaway.
Photo: Campbell Farm Glamping
Campbell Farm Glamping – Somerset County
Country life is at the forefront of this comfortable glamping experience in Fort Hill, Pennsylvania. Campbell Farm Glamping’s romantic, secluded site for two features a canvas tent and outdoor cooking pavilion, complete with stove top, double-bowl sink, overhead lighting, and electrical outlets. The bathroom has a claw foot tub and hot running water, but nature is never far away.
Photo: Pitch Posh
Pitch Posh – Cambria County
Johnstown-based Pitch Posh will set up a personalized glamping experience in your own backyard. Pennsylvania’s first indoor and outdoor glamping delivery service lets you choose from a selection of luxury experiences for all ages, ranging from a romantic tent setup to a sleepover party palace for the kids. Packages can include a projector for your own movie night, an aromatherapy experience, a popcorn cart, or your own personal bar. Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors from the comfort and convenience of your own backyard.
Photo: River Mountain
River Mountain – Bedford County
This sleek glamping site in Everett is built for the modern explorer. River Mountain offers a wide selection of luxury experiences, including contemporary private cabins designed by an award-winning architecture firm, a cozy yurt with views of Black Valley, and a romantic secluded tent in the trees. All of their elegant experiences boast privacy, simplicity, and a getaway that brings you back to nature.
Photo: Green Valley Cottages
Green Valley Cottages – Fulton County
For those who aren’t sure about tenting, these sophisticated and secluded private cottages are situated by the lake in Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania. Each temperature-controlled cottage comes with a kitchen, a cozy fireplace, and an amazing escape to nature. Several cottages boast hot tubs and views of the nearby Green Valley Lake. Outdoor fun includes fishing, paddle boats, and peaceful walks with beautiful views.
Photo: Yurt Camping at Lake Raystown Resort
Yurt Camping at Lake Raystown Resort – Huntingdon County
Gazing through the skylight of this cozy yurt at Lake Raystown Resort will give you that ‘one with nature’ experience. The tranquil location is surrounded by trees and offers a walnut bathhouse. In addition to the comfy bed, these yurts are kid and pet-friendly. Each offers a deck, picnic area, and firepit for roasting marshmallows– a camping requirement.
Photo: Bloksberg Lodge
Guest Houses of the Inn at Solvang – Huntingdon County
This lodge and cabin are also available at Huntingdon County’s popular Lake Raystown Resort. The Bloksberg Lodge is a brand new space that houses a kitchen, washer and dryer and pool table. The luxurious accommodation has four queen size beds and incredible scenery. For a more intimate getaway, try the Stabbur Cabin. This tree-house style cabin is for up to three guests and offers a Norwegian feel. The rustic decor and secluded location offers peace and quiet and a private sauna.
Photo: River Golf Lodge
River Golf Lodge- Huntingdon County
Beautiful sunsets over the river, fishing, kayaking, and of course, golf, are highlights at River Golf Lodge. After being abandoned for almost 20 years, this 12-room lodge is newly renovated for riverfront getaways. In addition to the lodge, seven lovely campsites have been added for a more rugged experience. Anglers can wrestle with native rock bass and catfish on the Juniata River, also a great spot for kayaking.
Photo: Hideaway Ranch
Hideaway Ranch- Bedford County
In October 2022, Olde Bedford Brewing Company will begin offering glamping with a micro-beer twist (Contact Dave to book your stay!). The glamping tents will boast an outdoor firepit, benches and hammocks. The sprawling 65-acre ranch provides guests with countless opportunities to enjoy a cold beer, relax and explore the ranch. The ranch will offer a variety of activities such as picking hops, hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, Jeep rides and yoga. Hideaway Ranch is the perfect destination to enjoy the mountains and learn about farm-to-cask beer brewing.
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