Are you a nature enthusiast seeking a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Look no further than Virginia’s stunning glamping destinations. Virginia offers a lot of beautiful natural scenery, offering the perfect setting for Instagram-worthy experiences whether the flora is summer green or draped in peak fall foliage. The state is home to the famous Appalachian Trail, buzzy Virginia Beach, and a slew of national and state parks, including Shenandoah, Natural Bridge, Assateague and Chincoteague Islands, and much more.
From mountains to beaches, Virginia’s got it all. Spend a night under the stars with the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains or head to one of the state’s coastal regions to dip your toes in the Atlantic Ocean. Read on for a list of the state’s top spots for a glamping getaway.
1. Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a prime glamping destination that offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, outdoor adventures, and luxurious camping experiences. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach provides an array of activities that will undoubtedly pique the interest of anyone seeking a glamping adventure.
Fun Things to Do
- Escape the crowds and head to Sandbridge Beach for a more secluded and serene experience.
- Stroll along the iconic three-mile-long boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
- For the history buffs out there, Jamestowne National Park, just outside of Virginia Beach, is a must-see. Jamestowne was England’s first permanent colony in North America, and a guided tour of this landmark provides loads of information about America’s origins.
If surf and sand are more to your taste, start your glamping adventure in Virginia Beach. Nestled at the point where the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean meet, this seaside city offers loads plenty of things to do. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, stepping outside your luxurious tent or RV to witness the sunrise over the ocean, and spending the day indulging in thrilling water sports and nature explorations.
Glamping Options
When it comes to accommodations, rest assured you won’t have to forgo five-star perks like Wi-Fi and queen-size beds on your Virginia Beach glamping trip. With massive RVs that have enough square feet to accommodate six, you’ll find a range of lodgings to suit every traveler’s tastes.
Situated in Virginia Beach, “Bettie” is a highly rated 2011 Coachmen Freelander that sleeps 10.
Not only do the owners offer all the accoutrements you might expect, but their linen packages include replacing sheets, mattress covers, pillows, blankets, towels, and sanitizing the entire vehicle before your trip begins.
2. Chesapeake Bay
Located along Virginia’s eastern shore, the Chesapeake Bay is a magnificent estuary that offers a perfect setting for glamping enthusiasts seeking a serene and scenic escape. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and fascinating history, the Chesapeake Bay promises a unique glamping experience that combines relaxation with exploration.
Fun Things to Do
- The Chesapeake is the country’s largest estuary and has a diversity of plants and animals — a kayaking trip is a great way to see them all.
- After a busy day, don’t miss the sunset over the famous Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
- While its name might not sound appealing, the Great Dismal Swamp in this area is well worth a visit. It’s been a National Wildlife Refuge since 1974 and features stunning scenery for photography.
Glamping at Chesapeake Bay provides an opportunity to stay in well-appointed accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surrounding area. From charming waterfront cabins to luxury tents nestled in the woods, each glamping site offers a unique experience that caters to every camper’s preferences.
Glamping Options
If you really want to make the most of your Chesapeake Bay experience, opt for a glamping spot close to the water. The town of Hampton is a great jumping-off point for your Chesapeake Bay adventures and offers a range of accommodation options. Maximize the possibilities for exploration by getting a mobile accommodation, like an RV rental.
3. Blue Ridge Mountains
Smack dab in the heart of the state, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer a breathtaking backdrop for a glamping adventure like no other. With their majestic peaks, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, these mountains provide a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts seeking a serene and scenic glamping experience.
Fun Things to Do
- With John Denver’s “Country Roads” echoing in your head, drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most scenic roads in America, and take in the views of the sloping mountains.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, hike part of the Appalachian Trail: the McAfee Knob Trail is an 8.8-mile hike.
- Immerse yourself in the beauty of the lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant wildflowers along the way.
Glamping in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a soul-enriching experience that allows you to immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur while enjoying the comfort of upscale accommodations. Whether you’re exploring scenic trails, stargazing under the vast night sky, or indulging in local wine and cuisine, the Blue Ridge Mountains promise an unforgettable glamping adventure.
Glamping Options
If you want to see as much of the Blue Ridge as possible, a luxury RV rental, like this 2018 Fleetwood Storm, is ideal.
Larger RV rentals include perks like kitchenettes, air conditioning, and full bathrooms. This way, you can tour a range of glamping sites while enjoying all the comforts of home. Or, if you’d rather ditch the home on wheels for a cabin, there are also plenty of Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals to peruse.
4. Shenandoah Valley
Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east and the Allegheny Mountains to the west, the Shenandoah Valley is a picturesque destination that boasts stunning landscapes, charming towns, and a wealth of outdoor activities. For glamping enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty, the Shenandoah Valley offers a myriad of unique experiences.
Fun Things to Do
- Explore the pristine wilderness of Shenandoah National Park, home to over 500 miles of hiking trails.
- Embark on a scenic drive along the breathtaking Skyline Drive that runs through Shenandoah National Park.
- Visit the renowned Luray Caverns, an underground wonderland with captivating stalactites and stalagmites.
From the heights of the Blue Ridge, head down into the Shenandoah Valley below. Drive along the famous Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, a popular spot for campers, RV travelers, and glampers alike. With miles of trails and 75 overlook points, this is a great spot to see the changing colors of the leaves in fall.
Glamping Options
Shenandoah Valley population centers include Winchester and Harrisonburg, and these are great spots to look for a glamping destination. Glamping Shenandoah is a great way to see this national park up-close and personal.
5. Richmond
Richmond, the capital of Virginia, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures, making it an exciting glamping destination for those seeking a mix of city life and natural beauty. With its vibrant arts scene, historical sites, and scenic landscapes, Richmond provides a perfect backdrop for a glamping experience like no other.
Fun Things to Do
- The highlight in Richmond for nature lovers is undoubtedly Maymont, a massive, 100-acre Victorian estate-turned-park with gardens, farms, and a petting zoo.
- Explore the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
- If you’re tired of outdoorsy attractions, head indoors to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
A short drive north will take you to Westmoreland State Park. Nestled on the northern stretch of the Potomac River, this park features stunning craggy cliffs and a nature-filled coastline that’s home to kingfishers, ospreys, great blue herons, and bald eagles. Or, head west to Roanoke and you’ll run into Natural Bridge State Park, which was formed by a collapsing cavern centuries ago and was reportedly sighted by the likes of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
Glamping Options
After a day of sightseeing, you’ll need a place to crash. Richmond offers plenty of fun options, including camper and RV rentals, such as this new Winnebago Revel.
Built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, the Revel is powered by a reliable three-liter turbo diesel engine and features four wheel drive for going off-road. You can bring your mobile camper van to a nearby campground, giving you access to bathrooms and fire pits.
Add Glamping Virginia to Your Bucket List
Glamping in Virginia is a great way to experience a diverse selection of geography, habitats, and activities for any adventure. If a little R&R matters more to you than a traditional camping experience, head over to our wide selection of amazing rentals at diverse price points, and start planning your next getaway.