Author
Vivian Chung
Photo courtesy Timberline Glamping Company
Though many visiting Georgia head to Atlanta for music and a growing food scene, and to Savannah for its picturesque cobblestoned squares and antebellum architecture, this southeastern state is also home to a surprising number of natural landmarks, historic trails, and accessible outdoor adventure.
Georgia's terrain varies vastly, from coastal beaches and meandering rivers to boundless farmland and thick forests, making it an exciting destination for campers and outdoor adventurers. Access the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain, discover the history of Paleo-Indians at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, and explore the undeveloped beaches of Cumberland Island. Whether you’re thrilled by the possibility to kayak, canoe, fish, hike or just be outside, Georgia has endless outdoor recreation opportunities.
And for those who prefer to experience the elements from a base that offers a little bit of luxury, Georgia has become something of a glamping—aka glamorous camping—destination in the Southeast with upscale glampsites, shiny Airstreams, and boutique treehouses that elevate the outdoor experience with all the conveniences of an Airbnb: king-sized beds, air conditioning, WiFi, you name it.
Here, we round up the seven best glamping rentals you can check out for yourself during your next trip to Georgia.
7 Best Places to go Glamping in Georgia
Owl in the Oak Treehouse — Duluth, GA
Vibe: Off-Grid in the City
Though situated just five minutes from downtown Duluth, the Owl in the Oak Treehouse feels a world away, thanks to it being tucked in the woods at the end of a stone path and small footbridge. Its location above a small stream in a quiet valley lends this modern treehouse seclusion but also allows guests to embrace their inner kid.
With the absence of a TV, guests are encouraged to disconnect and bask in the views of the forest. For those who crave the urban experience, peruse the trendy restaurants, breweries and shops of Parsons Alley and discover the former cotton farm at McDaniel Farm Park in Duluth.
Rate: From $209/night
Clarks Hill Lake Glamping — Appling, GA
Vibe: Lakeside Sanctuary
Nestled on the 75-acre Wildwood Park outside of Augusta, this glampsite offers convenient access to Clarks Hill Lake. Aside from being a popular fishing spot, the 72,000-acre lake is great for boating, paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming. Sunbathe on the shore, or hike the historic Bartram Trail, then round out the evening by gathering around the campsite’s wood firepit for s’mores.
Various options for accommodations exist including bell tents and safari tents that sleep up to six, and each is equipped with a Keurig coffee maker, mini-fridge, and air conditioning and heating unit for a comfortable stay. The Timberline Glamping Company also operates in several other locations in Georgia state parks and in Florida, including at Lake Lanier, Amicalola Falls State Park, Hillsborough River State Park and Unicoi State Park.
Rate: From $104/night
Lookout Mountain Yurt — Rising Fawn, GA
Vibe: A Boho-Chic Yurt
Revel in serenity as you base yourself at the Cherry Blossom Yurt atop Lookout Mountain in north Georgia. Enveloped by mountains and oak, pine and cedar trees, soak in the endless views of the Chattanooga Valley from the large, picnic table-equipped deck, which is also a sublime spot to watch the sunrise.
From here you can spend your days exploring the network of trails at Cloudland Canyon State Park, just five miles from the property. Or, visit the two waterfalls along the two-mile Waterfalls Trail and spot hawks, vultures and deer along the way.
Rate: $125/night
Little Raccoon Key — Jekyll Island, GA
Vibe: Remote Luxury
A part of the scenic Golden Isles along the Atlantic coast of Southern Georgia, Little Raccoon Key provides campers with a rare bucket list experience and a unique Georgia glamping experience. This pristine 40-acre private island boasts plenty of birdwatching and wildlife spotting opportunities, so keep your eyes peeled for turtles and pods of splashing dolphins.
Take part in a lesson on ancient oyster reefs and spend your days hiking, kayaking, or fishing. For a more low key experience, take in the island’s natural beauty from the hammocks and Adirondack chairs. After taking an outdoor shower, arrange for a chef-prepared meal for the ultimate indulgence, and sink into a linen-lined memory foam mattress in the weather-proof Luxury Canvas Tent for a restful night’s sleep, or stay up and hang by the fire ring. With an emphasis on ecotourism, the glampsite runs on solar power (yes, there are electrical outlets for recharging your gear).
Rate: From $799/night
The Luna Loft Treehouse — Flintstone, GA
Vibe: A Real-Life Treehouse, Refined
With reclaimed barn wood interiors, a penny floor in the private bathroom and exposed copper piping, this boutique treehouse radiates rustic charm. Nestled in an old-growth forest on the side of Lookout Mountain, the Luna Loft treehouse is ideal for those who want to explore Chattanooga Valley’s hiking trails, as well as go rock climbing and bicycling while maintaining access to all the comforts of home.
After a day of adventures, schedule a relaxing on-site massage or indulge in the complimentary wine and snacks in the kitchenette while admiring the sweeping views of the Chattanooga Valley from this glamping getaway's floor to ceiling windows.
Rate: From $405/night
Airstream on the River — Hiawassee, GA
Vibe: Riverside Retro
Ideally situated a mile from High Shoals Falls and a 15-minute drive to Brasstown Bald, this vintage Airstream on the mouth of the Hiawassee River between the Nantahala and Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is the perfect base for a mountain getaway. With a sofa bed in the living area in addition to a queen bed, this Airstream can accommodate up to three guests. There’s a shared bathhouse with a toilet, shower, washer and dryer, and glampers also have access to the fire pit.
Hike the 1.2-mile High Shoals Trail to visit the five falls that make up the High Shoals Falls, or see Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest mountain at 4,784 feet. For a more relaxed getaway, indulge in some wine tasting at the nearby wineries.
Rate: $84/night
Glamping Geo Dome — Ellijay, GA
Vibe: Geodesic Delight
Based in Ellijay just down the road from the town of Blue Ridge, this unique geodesic dome has been turned into a glamping destination by its owners. You can leave the sleeping bags at home because this little compound has three beds, a fully stocked outdoor kitchen with picnic table dining table, a grill, an outdoor tub, and plenty of games. Carter's Lake is nearby for swimming and kayaking, and there's plenty of biking and hiking in the area too.
Rate: $154/night
Published 05-16-2022
