Author
Vivian Chung
Known for its proximity to Washington DC and cities like Richmond and Virginia Beach, the state of Virginia is also a true destination for outdoor adventure. The Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park, and the colorful fall foliage that carpet its many rolling hills regularly draw crowds throughout the year—much of the state’s 16 million acres of forested land take the form of national forests, national and state parks, and recreation areas. Plus, with 544 miles of the Appalachian Trail winding through Virginia, this eastern state on the Atlantic coast is rightfully one of the most sought-after destinations for visitors looking to get outside.
A trip to Virginia doesn't have to be leisurely—though driving the Blue Ridge Parkway or 105-mile Skyline Drive, widely recognized as one of the US's most picturesque routes, are great ways to channel that. Adventure junkies can opt instead to navigate the challenging Class I, II, and III rapids while whitewater rafting on the New River, cruise through the coastal trails near the Chesapeake Bay on a mountain bike, or set off on the many hiking trails of the Appalachian Mountains in search of waterfalls and mountain views.
[Ed Note: Looking for more epic escapes in the Midwest? Check our top picks for the best cabin rentals in Indiana, top treehouse in Minnesota, and most dreamy glamping sties in Wisconsin.]
No matter what your itinerary includes, glamping is a great way to get the most out of your getaway. The glamping experience brings the comforts of home into lodging more rustic than your typical Airbnb—think canvas safari tents, yurts, geodesic domes, and more. Instead of tents and sleeping bags, glamping includes fresh linens, hot water, and private bathrooms. If you're camping curious but don't want to fully commit to roughing it, go glamping.
And if you want to go glamping in Virginia, base yourself at one of these eight stylish glamping destinations.
The 8 Best Glamping Spots Around Virginia
Shenandoah Yurt — Stanley, VA
Vibe: Bohemian Modern
This luxury, pet-friendly yurt enjoys a secluded mountain top location thats's surrounded on three sides by the endless forests of Shenandoah National Park. And if you think yurts are rustic, think again: this place has an expansive living room with velvet couches, vaulted ceilings, a full kitchen, full bathroom, two queen-size beds, a workspace, and windows that offer ample natural light and sweeping views. Soak in the hot tub, have dinner at the picnic table outside on the spacious deck, challenge your friends to a game of pool, or reach Skyline Drive in 15 minutes by e-bike, which you can rent from your hosts.
Rate: $757/night
Cooper’s Hawk Treehouse — Meadows of Dan, VA
Vibe: Living Out Your Childhood Dreams
Sleep among the treetops at the Cooper’s Hawk Treehouse at Primland Resort in Meadows of Dan. Its 440 square feet of living space is built for two, which is perfect for whisking your sweetie away on a romantic weekend getaway. Situated atop a mountain, its private, 564-square-foot deck affords panoramic views from its overlook above the Dan River Gorge and Kibler Valley where, surrounded by 12,000 expansive acres, you can discover the resort’s winding trails, go mountain biking, or study the stars from the on-site observatory.
Rate: From $729/night
Shenandoah Valley Cozy Sunrise Glamping Tent — Harrisonburg, VA
Vibe: Rest and Recharge
If a sunset view from bed is something you're seeking, base yourself at this cozy glampsite rental. Hand-built and designed by the hosts and furnished with pieces constructed from wood cleared in the area, the space is cozy, charming, and Virginia glamping at its best. The fully equipped canvas tent invites you to embrace the simple luxuries with a kitchenette, queen-size bed, and hangout space inside (the bathhouse is outdoors). Outside, you can roast s’mores around the firepit or hang in the hammock.
The tent's location affords convenient access to many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking and fishing. It’s 32 miles from the Swift Run Gap entrance of Shenandoah National Park, and 15 minutes from the shops and museums of downtown Harrisonburg, should urban exploration be on your itinerary.
Rate: $220/night
Swift Run Bell Tent — Elkton, VA
Vibe: Out-Of-Office
This 16-foot four-season canvas tent provides ample space for campers to relax. Its remote mountaintop location means there’s no WiFi here and unreliable cell reception, making it a real off-grid experience. But don't let that scare you off—place is furnished with a wood stove, queen-size memory foam bed, and seasonal heated outdoor shower. On-site, relax in Adirondack chairs on the deck by the fire pit, or head to Shenandoah National Park, an easy 10 minutes away. Alternatively, see Luray Caverns and organize a canoe or kayak adventure on the Shenandoah River.
Rate: $319/night
Airstream Retreat Farm Stay — Cape Charles, VA
Vibe: Silver Bullet Retreat
This 1969 Airstream is hidden in the woods on a 16-acre working organic farm. Recently converted into a contemporary studio, it welcomes adventurers with a hot shower, air conditioning, a full(ish) bathroom, and heck, even a TV. A network of trails radiates from the property, guiding you through the woods and orchards. Collect farm-fresh eggs from the chickens, pick wild blackberries, and greet the on-site goats, chickens, and pigs. For an urban experience, head 10 minutes away to Cape Charles for its restaurants and shops.
Rate: $180/night
Creekside Camp — Paint Bank, VA
Vibe: Secluded Escape
Creekside Camp and the other glamping sites at Depot Lodge (you can even stay in a caboose) is the perfect base for fly fishing, float trips on the Greenbrier River or accessing the Appalachian Trail via two nearby entrances at Dragon’s Tooth and Cherokee Flats thanks to its location in a picturesque valley on the border between Virginia and West Virginia.
On-site, bask in the luxuries that this place affords, including a 360° wrap-around porch that boasts panoramic views of Potts Creek, a full bath and a gas fireplace. The interior is homey and simple, and its furnishings, like its rocking chairs and floral printed bedspreads, give it a cozy and vintage feel.
Rate: From $129/night
Cair Paravel Farmstead Yurt — Stanardsville, VA
Vibe: Mountaintop Luxe
Glampers looking for a mixed farm and woodland retreat should consider a stay at this yurt, set 2,000 feet atop the Blue Ridge Mountains on 60 acres. The 30-foot diameter glamping spot comfortably accommodates six, and its circular space is equipped with a full kitchen and full bathroom as well as a gas grill, outdoor covered deck, and access to a shared pool and hot tub via a short wooded path. Conquer Old Rag, widely considered one of the most strenuous trails at Shenandoah National Park, take a half-day trip to Luray Caverns, the largest in the eastern US, or visit the trendy wineries and breweries of Charlottesville.
Rate: $185/night
Luxury Tiny House on Homestead and Wildlife Habitat — New Castle, VA
Vibe: Country Livin'
This idyllic tiny home on over 70 acres of farmland invites its guests to embrace simple living. Custom designed and built by the host, the living area and kitchen is linked to a sleeping loft by a ladder. Explore the property’s ponds and marshes or head out for a stroll on its many trails. There are striking views of the mountains and verdant forests in every direction, and New Castle's natural landscape means there are ample opportunities for bird watching, kayaking and fishing.
Rate: $219/night
Published 06-20-2022
