Camping always sounds like a good idea, until you get to the site and try to set up your tent on ground that’s harder than concrete, you realize you forgot your sleeping bag and, after a ten-mile hike, you really want a shower. If you’d like to add a little luxury to your next outdoor adventure, here are three “glamping” (glamorous camping) destinations in Sonoma County that will do the trick. Click through the gallery above for all the details.
Where to Go Glamping in Sonoma County
Longing to be one with nature but reluctant to forgo your morning cappuccino? Here are a few Sonoma County "glamping" sites that will add luxury to your outdoor adventure.
AutoCamp, Guerneville: When you arrive at AutoCamp in Guerneville, the first hint that you're not staying at a regular campground is the midcentury modern clubhouse. From then on, it only gets better: luxury appointed Airstream trailers, luxe tents, wine and s'mores kits and, of course, plenty of showers. (Photo by Christopher Chung)
AutoCamp Airstreamers come with a private patio, Casper beds with hotel quality linens and a bathroom with fluffy bathrobes and Malin+Goetz luxury beauty products. Rates vary depending on season, $180 - $250 per night. (Photo by Christopher Chung)
If you choose to stay in an AutoCamp tent, you'll have to use the bathrooms in the clubhouse, but you'll still have lighting, a patio complete with fire-pit, and a comfortable queen-size bed to sleep on. Rates vary depending on season, $180-$320 per night. (Photo by Christopher Chung)
There's no need to build a fire in the cold night at AutoCamp. For cold hands, hot dogs, and s'mores, there's a communal fire pit. Don't want to socialize? Each Airstreamer and luxe tent is equipped with a private pit. (Photo courtesy of AutoCamp)
Tired of cooking your own meals at the AutoCamp site? Head a mile down the road to Guerneville for some seasonal cuisine at Boon Eat + Drink and Big Bottom Market, or seafood at Seaside Metal. Order tequila at El Barrio (pictured), wine and ice cream at the Bank Club, and beer at Stumptown. (Photo by Chris Hardy)
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The Russian River is less than a mile away from AutoCamp. Spend an afternoon canoeing, or leisurely floating down the river, or go hiking and explore the river area. AutoCamp also has bicycles if you'd like to venture a little further. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)
Safari West, Santa Rosa: Dreaming of an African wildlife safari, minus the airfare and additional costs? Spend a night at the "Sonoma Serengeti" for an African adventure close to home. Safari West is not only host to herds of exotic animals, like giraffes and zebras, it also has a selection of luxury tents for the ultimate glamping experience. (Photo courtesy of Safari West)
While the Safari West tents have canvas walls, the inside resembles a hotel room with polished wood floors, private bathrooms and custom wood furniture. The rates are seasonal and range from $260 to $425. (Photo by Chris Hardy)
Spend the morning at Safari West watching the animals as they start their day. You'll be staying in an environment closely resembling the animals' natural habitat. This is the kind of wildlife experience you'd want when camping - wild animals within close proximity, but at a safe distance and definitely not in your tent! (Some of the animals can get a little noisy at night, especially the flamingos and the Sirus crane, but hopefully you'll find the wildlife sounds soothing.)
If you like to share your vacation experience with Facebook and Instagram friends, there's plenty of photo opportunities at Safari West. (Photo by John Burgess)
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Terra Glamping, Annapolis: Dreaming of deluxe camping on the Sonoma Coast? Head to Terra Glamping, nestled just off of Highway 1, near Sea Ranch. The property has ten safari-style tents, all with ocean views and porches, allowing for whale watching and stargazing, or just drinking a beer while staring at the sea. (Courtesy photo)
Terra Glamping offers a "camping" experience fit for primadonnas, complete with hot showers, memory foam mattress and flushing toilets (rates start at $250). But there's no wifi, only cell phone service, so use this as a good excuse to unplug and enjoy the scenery and sunsets. If you need a little extra luxury, you can reserve an oceanside massage. (Courtesy photo)
Hiking, golf, and horseback riding are some of the many activities that the area around Annapolis offers, and nearby Gualala has a handful of art galleries showcasing Sonoma County artists. Take a scenic drive to Annapolis Winery to pick up a bottle of Zinfandel for sipping with campfire s’mores in the evening. Or dine out at the eccentric St. Orres in Gualala or have some bar bites and beer at Black Point Grill at the Sea Ranch Lodge (pictured). (Photo by Chris Hardy)
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