Top 8 Family Glamping Destinations in Northern California
Kid-Friendly Glamping Adventures Await!
“Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.”
"AUTOCAMP YOSEMITE" by suendercafe CC BY-SA 2.0.
What if you could combine the best parts of camping—fresh air, fire pits, starry skies—with the comfort of a real bed, hot showers, and even a private deck overlooking the redwood forests? Welcome to the world of family glamping in Northern California, where rustic meets luxury, and outdoor adventures come with cozy sleeping quarters, natural beauty, and maybe even on-site cafes and morning yoga.
Whether you’re toasting marshmallows beside your safari-style tent, relaxing in a hot tub beneath the stars, or waking up to birdsong and the smell of fresh pine, this is a better way to enjoy the great outdoors. Forget stiff sleeping bags and damp tents; these luxurious glamping sites offer comfortable beds, modern amenities, and easy access to some of California’s most iconic landscapes.
Ready to discover the best glamping spots for your next family escape? Let’s get started!
What Is Glamping?
Glamping is basically “glamorous camping.” It lets you enjoy the great outdoors in a more resort-like atmosphere with your family. You trade sleeping bags on the ground for comfy beds or the occasional cot in safari-style tents with private bathrooms! Plus, accommodation types aren’t just limited to luxury tents; you’ll also find spacious tepees, Conestoga wagons, cozy yurts, or even log cabins with king beds!
Depending on your chosen location, you may encounter en-suite bathrooms with organic bath products, a full kitchen, a wood-burning stove, redwood decks, and even air conditioning. The possibilities are virtually endless!
Why Northern California Is a Glamping Paradise
Northern California is rich in diversity. You can explore national and state parks, discover massive redwood trees, ride the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, and even enjoy wildlife. The Northern California cities of San Francisco, Monterey Bay, Fresno, and San Jose give you options for city exploration from the convenience of your campsite.
This part of the country offers cool nights, natural wonders, and the majesty of the great outdoors, all within a short distance of your cozy cottage or luxury tent. While most people consider summer the best time for glamping adventures, in Northern California, it's always the perfect time to go glamping.
Amazing glamping locations aren’t just limited to Northern California. For more family-friendly glamping location ideas, check out our Top 10 Kid-Friendly Glamping Locations post!
The Best Family Glamping Spots in Northern California
From canvas tents under the redwoods to safari-style adventures and Airstream luxury, these top glamping spots deliver unforgettable experiences for all ages. Whether you're after campfire memories, scenic hikes, or poolside relaxation, there's a perfect base camp waiting for your next adventure!
Mendocino Grove
Located just minutes from Mendocino and receiving 5-star ratings from Yelp and TripAdvisor, Mendocino Grove is a top choice for glamping in Northern California. With a selection of different-sized tents, you'll find just the right accommodation for your family's needs. All tents have heated beds, a fire pit, and a deck with butterfly chairs. There's even an on-call "Campfire Valet" who can get your fire started!
There's so much to discover within a few miles of this stunning location. Big River Beach is only a quarter mile away. Caspar Headlands State Beach is a five-mile drive, and Jug Handle Beach & Reserve is six miles away. You could head to Glass Beach, 11 miles north, and search for sea glass along the coastline. For kid-friendly activities, try taking the vintage Skunk Train from Fort Bragg for a scenic trip through the redwoods.
Some amenities you can expect to find in this park include free WiFi, a fire pit, and a picnic table at each campsite. Guests can relax in hammocks and enjoy activities such as board games, bocce ball, badminton, or horseshoes. In addition, you'll enjoy a sunset view at the Mendocino Bay Overlook, a scenic Loop Trail, and walkable access to the Pacific Ocean.
"Mendocino Grove - April 2024 - Sarah Stierch 01" by Missvain CC BY 4.0.
Inn Town Campground
This campground, situated just minutes from downtown Nevada City, offers a vibrant camping experience. It provides a variety of options, from tents and RV sites with full hookups to glamping in deluxe canvas tents. You can even pitch your own tent if you prefer a more traditional camping experience. There are 21 unique glamping tents offered, ranging from two-person options to a family yurt that can comfortably sleep a family of four.
The Nevada City area is rich in family-friendly activities, including hiking, biking, rafting, and other outdoor pursuits. The campground also offers entertainment throughout the year, including outdoor movies and events to celebrate holidays such as Easter, Halloween, Christmas, and more. Their website lists countless kid-friendly activities that families can enjoy during their stay.
While glamping tents are comfy, they do NOT include a private bath. Guests can look forward to onsite parking, private patios, and comfortable beds. All guests will also have access to The Commons, which includes bathrooms, a camp store, free WiFi, reading nooks, a BBQ area, and a seasonal pool.
AutoCamp Russian River
Set in the heart of the Sonoma redwoods in Guerneville, AutoCamp Russian River offers a luxury glamping experience. There are several lodging options, including their popular Airstream Suites and an accessible suite that can accommodate either three adults or two adults and two young children. The facility offers tours, including kayaking & hiking tours (additional fees apply).
Guests can expect to find a flat-screen TV and audio system in their accommodation, along with a kitchenette (with cooking essentials), a private bath with luxury products, and linens. You'll be treated to a daily breakfast of granola and coffee. Each site has a fire pit and dining area. Complimentary bikes are available, and many weekends include live musical entertainment!
"AutoCamp Russian River" by suendercafe CC BY-SA 2.0.
Huttopia Wine Country
Located in Lower Lake, about two hours from downtown San Francisco, Huttopia Wine Country offers luxury canvas tents in multiple configurations. A family of five can choose the Trappeur Pacific, which includes a kitchenette, two bedrooms, solar power, a private bathroom, an outdoor sink, a BBQ grill station, and outdoor dining on the deck.
Other park amenities include a swimming pool with a wading area, outdoor movies under the stars, free Wi-Fi, a camp store, S'mores nights, a kids' playground, and fun activities such as foosball, ping-pong, board games, and more.
Safari West
Nestled in Santa Rosa in Sonoma County, California, is a unique glamping experience. It has been rated #1 in the United States by USA Today and offers its guests an "African safari" experience within the United States. Guests can choose just to experience the Safari, or they can spend the night in a luxury safari tent surrounded by wildlife.
There's even an onsite restaurant: the Savannah Cafe. Tents can accommodate a family of up to four. If you have a larger family, a two-bedroom cottage can accommodate up to six guests, providing a more secluded experience. Continental breakfast at the Savannah Cafe is included with all overnight reservations.
The primary purpose of this glamping location is the Safari experience. The owners are dedicated to offering an authentic experience, with their revenue supporting education and conservation efforts worldwide. Since 2010, Safari West has partnered with organizations, including zoos and biologists, to help raise millions of dollars.
Safari excursions allow you to climb aboard a special vehicle and ride among a herd of giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and even wildebeest. Children must be over four years of age to participate, and most must be at least 45 inches tall to ride in a top seat.
Click on photo to enlarge and see descriptions.
Wildhaven Sonoma
Located in the Bay Area along a scenic stretch of the Russian River, Wildhaven Sonoma is just 10 minutes from Healdsburg and 1 hour and 15 minutes from San Francisco. This is a great family destination offering both comfort and fantastic amenities.
Depending on their family size, guests can choose from two styles of lodging. Air-conditioned cabins are furnished with a queen size bed, and kids can sleep on a futon or in an overhead loft with a mattress. Tents are available in a variety of configurations to meet guests' needs. You can choose one queen bed, two queen beds, or one queen bed with two bunk beds (sleeping a family of six).
Guests can look forward to coffee and tea each morning (with hot chocolate and marshmallows for kids). A covered outdoor cooking area featuring five gas BBQs with side burners, BBQ tools, a dish cleaning station (with soap & sponges), and picnic tables. This space is shared among all guests but offers plenty of space for several families to cook, eat, and clean up.
Each site features a fire pit, perfect for those who prefer a private dining experience. There's a camp store, free WiFi, a swimming hole, private riverfront access to the Russian River, and complimentary access to classes like morning yoga.
Ready to Experience Wildhaven Sonoma's Riverfront Magic?
Picture this: You're sipping morning coffee while your kids splash in the shallow Russian River just steps from your air-conditioned cabin. The smell of fresh pine mingles with the sound of laughter as families gather around the shared BBQ area. Later, you'll join the complimentary yoga class while the children explore the swimming hole.
This isn't just another family vacation; it's the kind of memory your kids will talk about for years.
Wildhaven Sonoma books up fast, especially during peak season (and for good reason). Smart families secure their dates early to avoid disappointment.
BOOK YOUR WILDHAVEN ADVENTURE TODAY!
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AutoCamp Yosemite
Discover the beauty of Yosemite National Park in style at AutoCamp. This luxury glamping resort features sleek Airstream trailers and modern cabins nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Families can explore the park's iconic landmarks, hike through ancient sequoia groves, or simply relax under a starlit sky by the campfire. With thoughtful amenities and stunning natural surroundings, AutoCamp Yosemite provides an unforgettable glamping experience for families of all ages.
Most accommodations include a flat-screen TV, a kitchenette, luxury bath products and linens, and a private outdoor space with a fire pit and dining area. Park amenities include a general store, complimentary WiFi, board games, outdoor games, and complimentary bikes, as well as live music on weekends.
"AUTOCAMP Yosemite" by suendercafe CC BY-SA 2.0.
Costanoa Resort
Located between the Pacific Ocean and the San Mateo Mountains, this resort offers a peaceful retreat to experience the natural beauty of the California coast. With lodging options that include tent bungalows, RV sites, cabins, and even a lodge, there is a place for just about every family size and interest (including options to bring along your pets).
When you're not exploring the nearby sites, there is plenty to do at the resort. Families will find a robust events calendar featuring family-friendly activities, including slime-making, geode cracking, bingo, painting, and S'mores night.
Nearby attractions include Pescadero State Beach, Pigeon Point Lighthouse, and Whitehouse Creek Beach & Tidepools. Guests can look forward to onsite hiking trails, access to the Pacific Ocean, an on-site restaurant, free WiFi, and a seasonal activity center. There are picnic and BBQ areas located throughout the park. While some lodging options include a private bath, six sauna/shower bath houses are located near the tent and cabin areas as alternative options.
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What to Do Beyond the Glampsite
Your glamping site may be lush, and your host may offer numerous activities, making it difficult to leave. But if you decide to venture off-site during your stay, Northern California offers a treasure trove of places to explore and things to do with your kids. Here are some of the places you could explore.
Epic Outdoor Escapes
How about a hike through an ancient forest or a picnic next to an alpine lake? These iconic parks deliver unforgettable adventures.
Yosemite National Park features stunning waterfalls, granite cliffs, and trails for all fitness levels.
Redwood National and State Parks are home to the tallest trees on Earth, including Hyperion, which stands more than 380 feet tall!
Lassen Volcanic National Park's boiling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and beautiful mountain lakes will make you feel like you're on a whole new planet.
Fern Canyon will make you feel like you're on the set of Jurassic Park. (It's literally one of the movie's filming locations!)
Lava Beds National Monument is where you can explore underground lava tube caves and see Native American petroglyphs.
"Basalt lava tube cave (Mammoth Crater Flow, Upper Pleistocene, 35 ka; Hopkins Chocolate Cave, Lava Beds National Monument, California, USA) 1" by James St. John CC BY 2.0.
Add Magic to Your Northern California Adventure
Napa Valley Hot Air Balloon Flight
Imagine floating silently above endless vineyards as the morning sun paints the valley in golden hues. Far below, the patchwork of emerald vines stretches to the horizon while you and your family share a moment of pure wonder, suspended between earth and sky. Gaze at Mount Saint Helena in the Mayacamas Mountains for an unforgettable panoramic view.
This isn't just a ride. It's the experience your older kids will never forget.
Your 1-hour flight over Napa Valley includes:
Breathtaking 360° views of world-famous wine country
A certified professional pilot narrates about the valley's history and landmarks
Perfect photo opportunities that will make your Instagram followers jealous
Coffee and snacks upon check-in
Important: Children must be at least 6 years old and 48 inches tall for safety reasons.
"We had a truly beautiful hot air balloon experience in Napa! Everything was so well organized and professionally run … A magical and serene way to see Napa Valley from above. Highly recommended and not to be missed!!"
– Alicia, verified booking customer
BOOK YOUR NAPA VALLEY BALLOON FLIGHT!
Free cancellation up to 2 days before flight
Small group sizes (max 9 passengers)
All safety equipment included
Duration 4.5 hours
Coastal Wonders
With crashing waves, tide pools, and sun-soaked beaches, Northern California’s coastlines are packed with natural beauty and wild adventures your family will never forget.
Point Reyes National Seashore is a great place to explore tide pools and see elephant seals at play.
Lake Tahoe is the place for beaches, boating, and year-round recreation.
Glass Beach (Fort Bragg) is a great place to search for sea glass along the rocky shore.
"Fort Bragg, CA Russian Gulch Falls, Point Cabrillo Light Station, Glass Beach" by ladynottingham CC BY 2.0.
Kid-Approved Educational Sites
Who says learning can’t be fun? These hands-on destinations combine exploration and education in ways that will wow even the most skeptical young traveler.
Monterey Bay Aquarium has world-renowned exhibits and stunning oceanfront views.
California State Railroad Museum is where train lovers of all ages can go to geek out!
Turtle Bay Exploration Park is a combination science center, zoo, and garden where kids can learn and explore.
The Children's Discovery Museum in San Jose has engaging exhibits for curious minds.
Habitot Children's Museum in Berkeley is perfect for kids under 6.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for rides, games, and even funnel cakes!
Sonoma Train Town, where you can ride a miniature train through kid-sized towns.
Skunk Train to ride the rails through the redwoods on a historic locomotive.
"Skunk Train" by Prayitno / Thank you for (12 millions +) view CC BY 2.0.
Glamping: Your New Family Tradition
Glamping is the perfect way to reconnect as a family. You'll swap screens for scenery and fast food for campfire pizzas and s’mores. Whether you're sipping cocoa around the fire pit, watching the kids explore beneath towering redwoods, or unwinding in a private hot tub, family glamping in Northern California offers the ideal balance of adventure and ease.
So, are you ready to trade sleeping bags for comfortable beds and dry cereal for an on-site café? We challenge you to try glamping on your next outdoor adventure. (You can even combine a stay at one or more of these locations with your family road trip this summer.) Which of these various glamping options caught your eye? Have you stayed at any of these luxurious glamping sites, or do you have a hidden gem to share?
We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your questions or glamping experiences in the comments below.
Not planning on visiting Northern California anytime soon? Don’t worry! There are numerous family-friendly glamping locations throughout the U.S. Check out our Top 10 Kid-Friendly Glamping Locations for the best glamping suggestions!
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