Sometimes, you need to get out of New York City for a while. After spending day after day pounding the sidewalks and breathing in undiscernible fumes, you deserve a break in nature with fresh air and green trees. However, camping is not up everyone’s alley, and glamping provides a more approachable experience for groups, families, and those with less outdoor experience. We’ve gathered a list of the best glamping near New York City, ranging from the metro area to the Finger Lakes.
What is Glamping?
For the less adventurous campers who need a little extra padding at night, glamping is the more luxurious version of camping. The term became popular in recent decades and can apply to camping in a camper with running water or having a designed tent in an open space with high-quality service.
While it’s easy to make fun of glamping, the experience makes camping easier and more accessible for certain groups. It’s also great for first-time campers who have not wrapped their head around sleeping on the ground and cooking everything over a campfire. Children, older campers, and those with limited mobility can experience camping in a glamped-out setting.
New York City Metro Area Glamping
For those times when we need an escape but can’t be too far outside of the city, the metro area provides some relaxing retreats.
Collective Governors Island
Head to this popular spot on Governors Island to escape Manhattan but still have it in sight. Full of great views, amazing amenities, and even some five-star restaurants, this glamping experience gives you access to the entire island for a few days at a time. Luxurious tents come equipped with a private porch, high-end bath products, and even a continental breakfast delivered right to your door. There are even fancier, temperature-controlled shelters, with king beds and deep soaking tubs. When you camp here, you have access to all the activities the island offers, and you can purchase an inclusive package ahead of your stay.
Hudson Valley Glamping
Hudson Valley offers appealing glamping options right outside the city lines when you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway. Guests can use the Metro-North to get to some of these locations, making it an easy destination from Grand Central or Harlem.
Hutton Brickyards
Located in Kingston, New York, this spa retreat offers a glamping experience that is serene and rejuvenating. There are several cabin experiences available. Queen Cabins have a private porch, apothecary-style shower supplies, a bed, and an extra futon. The King Cabins have everything the Queens have, and a full window wall looking out into the beautiful forest. The Cottage is just a full house you can rent for a few days. The Brickyards are also a full spa, with catered meals and amenities that can’t be missed. This is the perfect vacation spot for large groups or just a few friends.
Gatherwild Ranch
Connect with the elements at Gatherwild Ranch, which includes eight curated spaces for guests. The ranch offers varying accommodations, from tents to campers to bungalows. The tents provide stargazing access and provide a full outdoor glamping experience. Around the common grounds, guests can use the new bathhouse with a sauna and cold plunge or participate in activities like egg collecting, rock painting, and biking. Adventurous travelers can also access walking paths or explore more of Germantown’s community and natural hotspots.
Glamping in the Catskills
When you’re ready for a modest trip upstate, you can head toward the Catskills. This mountainous region offers numerous glamping locations and gives you the opportunity to truly unwind.
Eastwind Hotel
The Eastwind Hotel now offers three locations for guests in need of a relaxing getaway. With spots in Windham, Lake Placid, and Oliverea Valley, there are plenty of opportunities to unwind. This spot boasts Scandinavian-style rooms, including varying tiers of Lushnas with cabin features and nature views. Once you’re checked in, experience all that the hotel has to offer, including a wood barrel sauna, fire pits with smores, and the hotel bar and lounge. This spot is pet-friendly at an additional charge, and guests can spend the day relaxing on site or exploring the Catskills.
Woodstock Meadows
Those looking for more of a tent experience should consider the safari-style accommodations at Woodstock Meadows. Guests can choose from one of two furnished tents, equipped with a bed, towels, robes, and access to amenities. This stay is an appealing option for those who want to have plant of outdoor activities, as guests can choose from tubing, biking, hiking, fishing, and interacting with local animals.
Bellfire in the Catskills
An artist family owns Bellfire, an outdoor inn with numerous sections for guests. The inn features four sleeping areas, including two tents and two cabins, each with its own atmosphere and unique decor. The rest of the Catskills await and provide ample opportunities for fishing, hiking, biking, ziplining, and kayaking. Located in Roxbury, guests can also head to the town to find restaurants, shops, and farmers markets.
Autocamp Catskills
Find the glamp in glamping with this series of outdoor suites that appeal even to the least outdoorsy of guests. This Saugerties location features tents, Airstream suites, and cabins, including an accessible suite. Indoor accommodations include modern luxuries like central heating and cooling, high end products, and a modern spa-inspired shower. Outside of their rooms, guests can book a guided hike, or choose from a selection of local activities like spiritual practices, arts and crafts, and baking. This location is an ideal spot for those dipping their toes into nature, or looking for a relaxing vacation against a beautiful landscape.
Finger Lakes Glamping
Ready to really get away from the city? You’ll need a car and a full tank of gas to get to the following locations, but their glamping opportunities make the trip worthwhile.
Scotland Yard Farm
Scotland Yard Farm is one of Ithaca’s numerous glamping retreated, complete with cottages, tents, and even a hobbit house. The property resides on a farm with a ton of animals, including pigs and miniature horses. This upstate grounds includes plenty of options for outdoor adventures like swimming, feeding the Koi fish, and swinging in a hammock. Guests can participate in local activities like the Ithaca Farmers Market, dining at local restaurants, and exploring museums near the Ithaca College and Cornell University campuses.
Climbing Vine Cottage
Those traveling in groups can also book their stay at the Climbing Vine Cottage, which is an oversized yurt that sleeps six people. Guest will also find a large pond on the property surrounded by fields and forests. This stay is appealing to a large group of friends or an adventurous family. The yurt includes a full kitchen, a television, and WiFi. After relaxing on the property, guests can venture into Ithaca to experience the local businesses and nature.
Conclusion
Glamping has a strong presence in New York state and offers plenty of opportunities for city residents who need a break from the concrete jungle. Depending on the length of your stay, how far you want to travel, and your overall budget, you can plan accordingly based on our organized list of glamping hot spots. The next time you’re feeling sick of the city, consider glamping near New York City, especially if spending time outdoors is still out of your comfort zone.
