To Glamp Or To Camp, That Is The Question

With the majority of Americans having completely full schedules, sometimes we need to get away where we can disconnect from technology and connect with nature and our loved ones.. Balancing work and family can be very difficult for some. Every once in a while what we all need is to breathe in some fresh air, enjoy the vitamin D soaking into our skin, and falling asleep to nature’s white noise. Camping (or glamping) is one of the best ways to achieve that peace and connectedness. Luckily, here in Texas, we have some of the best places to go camping and glamping. Many of them can be found right here in here in Austin’s backyard! According to Trips Discover , there are nineteen amazing places to camp and glamp in Texas, and these are only a few of so many possibilities. But before you pick a destination, you have to decide what type of outdoor activity you’re interested in, traditional camping or glamping.

Camping

Traditional camping is for the more rugged folks, people who are ready to become one with nature and the great outdoors. Traditional camping will allow you and your family to be totally unplugged, meaning No internet and quite possibly poor or zero cell reception. You can cook your own food over an open fire and enjoy other camping activities like swimming, hiking, singing and bike riding all while surrounded by the great landscape of the outdoors. You can take a moment and just slow down, enjoy the natural pace of life away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Traditional camping allows for a true opportunity to stop and smell the roses, or in this case the Texas bluebonnets. Just pitch a tent out in the middle of nowhere and be prepared to enjoy a spectacular view of the stars and no sound except for the quiet chirping of crickets. And of course, no camping experience would be complete without a heaping load of firewood to build into the perfect bonfire to last all night long.

 

Glamping

 

 

If something a little more glamorous is your style, you may want to choose a glamping excursion. What is glamping exactly? It is the marriage of glamour and camping! A style of camping that includes many amenities and, in some cases, resort style vacationing. Glamping is for our friends who want to experience the wonders of the great outdoors in a little more comfort. If you will be staying in a tent during your luxurious getaway, it will pitched for you and filled with comfortable furniture and amenities. If sleeping in a smaller, traditional camping tent is not really your style, try a Yurt on for size. A yurt is an ancient means of living. It is a portable, round tent used for dwelling, typically much larger in size than a traditional camping tent. While the idea of a Yurt may be ancient, it has been given a 21st century glam makeover. They now come in a variety of sizes and can be filled with things like running water, kitchens, etc. For some this is the perfect way for you to experience the comforts of 21st century amenities while enjoying the outdoors in a tent like structure. Some glampers even choose to rent out quaint tiny homes or rustic cabins to further enhance the experience. You will find that the options for glamping venues are pretty much endless. An extra perk is that you may even have running water! If you want something a little more high-end, you can find a glamping spot where entertainment is provided for you. Local folk singers and guests gather around the campfire for a mini concert. You can still enjoy traditional camping activities like hiking, horseback riding and bike riding, but you will also have spa and shopping activities at your fingertips.

 

What are some the glamping amenities we’ve been talking about? If you choose to go glamping, you will most likely have a comfy bed to sleep in, meals catered by local chefs, access to spa services, excursion guides, entertainment and peace. Just because you will have the ability to enjoy some of these modern comforts, doesn’t mean you won’t have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and take in the beauty of the great outdoors just as those who go traditional camping. You can still hike beautiful trails, swim in serene waters, and enjoy time with your family without the interruptions of a work email or unimportant text messages. Glamping amenities are there to provide ease and comfort but not to take away your ability to disconnect from your everyday stresses and reconnect with the outdoors and your family.

 

No matter which one you choose, you are sure to have an amazing time at one of these following destinations:

 

Seven Glamping Spots in Texas –

Sinya on Lone Man Creek, Wimberley – a glamorous tent located in the heart of the hill country.

The Texas Bell, Spring Branch – a beautiful tent surrounded by nature, conveniently located for day trips to San Antonio, Boerne, and New Braunfels.

Green Acres, Elgin – A unique yurt retreat, loaded with amenities to keep you both busy and relaxed during your stay.

El Cosmico, Marfa – Enjoy the desert climate of Marfa in your choice of a tent, teepee, yurt or trailer. Don’t forget to take a picture at the iconic Marfa Prada while you explore the city’s fascinating culture.

Living Waters on Lake Travis, Spicewood – Known for its many retreats, enjoy your stay in one of their eco-cabins or cottages. Nothing better than enjoying the lake with spa like amenities.

River Road Treehouses, New Braunfels – These amazing treehouses come complete with views, air conditioning, and wi-fi as well as kitchens and bathrooms.

 

Twelve Camping Spots in Texas –

Big Bend National Park, West Texas – One of the largest national parks in the United States. Filled with many opportunities to bike, hike, fish, kayak and much more!

Big Thicket National Preserve, Southeast Texas – Whether you’re canoeing on the waters or exploring through the pine forest, you are sure to have a great time.

Colorado Bend State Park, near Austin – Loaded with many areas to hike and explore along with a gorgeous 65 foot waterfall.

Garner State Park, Hill Country – The views are like a breath of fresh air. Enjoy them while tubing, hiking, or kayaking. You also have the choice of a traditional camping tent, cabin or screened in shelters.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Llano – Home of one of the largest natural rock formations. Spend time in the area’s shade while you hike and rock climb before cooking a traditional campfire meal.

Guadalupe River State Park, Spring Branch – Pitch a tent near the beautiful Colorado River where you can tube, canoe, kayak and fish. Don’t forget to take advantage of the many miles worth of hiking and biking trails.

Padre Island National Seashore – What is better than camping on the beach?! You get the best of both worlds. Enjoying the wonders of nature while relaxing by the beach. Get your firewood ready for some beach side s’mores.

Caprock Canyons State Park, near Amarillo – Home of the Bison herd with 90 miles of hiking trails for our campers that love exploring by foot. You can also explore via mountain bike or horse.

Lost Maples State Natural Area, near San Antonio – This picture perfect camping area is filled with canyons, wildlife and the Sabinal River. Primitive campsites are available as well as campsites with water and electricity.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, near Amarillo – The second largest canyon in the United States. Filled with places for tent camping as well as RV camping. There are also cabins available for rent. It is the perfect place for horseback riding but don’t be afraid to hike or bike these trails.

Inks Lake State Park, Hill Country – Beautifully blue waters framed in rocky landscape. The perfect place to swim, boat and even scuba dive! Many places to camp, cabins to rent and nine miles to hike. Enjoy both water and land at this park.

Davis Mountain State Park, West Texas – Scenic horseback riding trails with perfect spots for bird watching. Perfect spot for campers who love wildlife and mountain views.

 

Texas has blessed us with many beautiful campsites to choose from. Whether you’re enjoying the luxuries of glamping or the adventures of the great outdoors, you are guaranteed to have a fantastic time at these gorgeous Texas destinations. Now all you have to do is choose which style is best for you and your family.