Gal getaways: glamping
Want the fun camping with the gals, but the comfort of something a little more upscale? Try mountain “glamping.”
From luxurious tents to treehouses, there’s a glampsite in West Virginia for your girls’ getaway:
1. Unique options in Great Cacapon
Three Otters Eco Retreat in Great Cacapon has a luxury yurt right on the Potomac River with a queen-size bed, a queen-size sofa bed and portable bunk beds, which sleep up to 6 glampers. Don’t leave gal’s best friends at home! Dogs can stay in the yurt, too (for an extra fee).
For something a little more daring, but just as relaxing, Three Otters also has 3 floating tree tents that hang 3 to 4 feet off the ground. It’s like snoozing in a hammock, but roomier and with a roof (which thankfully is transparent, so you can enjoy the stunning views.). Each tent sleeps up to 3 people.
For a more traditional camping experience, there are also 2 bell tents with screened windows to allow fresh air in while keeping bugs out. Each bell tent can accommodate eight to 10 people. They also have a tented cabin that sleeps 8.
Whichever glampsite you choose, you can spend your days exploring the retreat along the nature trails, or hop aboard a boat or tube and float lazily down the river. You’re also not far from Berkeley Springs, the nation’s first spa town, where you can soak in natural mineral waters or enjoy the local arts scene.
2. Deluxe tents in Waiteville
The glamping experience at Crump’s Camp is set against the backdrop of Peters Mountain in Waiteville. Complete with a private bathroom, this spacious high-ceiling deluxe tent can be configured with either a king-size bed or 2 twins.
Enjoy the large sitting area, gas fireplace, satellite TV, direct phone line and an additional outdoor shower. Relax on the outdoor deck overlooking the corn fields and Potts Mountain, or on your own private pond with an extra deck and Adirondack chairs.
3. Treehouses in historic Bluefield
Treehouses aren’t just for kids! Enjoy peace and quiet, fresh air and spectacular views. The treehouses at Buffalo Trail Cabins have 2 sets of bunk beds and spacious private decks. Grab some free firewood nearby and light up a cozy nighttime campfire.
On-site, meet the resident buffalo or grab a bite and house-brewed beer. Or head out to explore Mercer County’s Certified Arts Communities: the historic rail towns of Bluefield, Princeton and Bramwell.
4. Treehouse in Beaver
Two treehouses are available at The Cabins at Pine Haven in Beaver. Each includes a flat screen TV, electric heat and air conditioning and a hot tub.
And even though you’ll have your own pampered, secluded retreat, you’re also only 15 minutes outside of Beckley, where you can shop, dine and explore. Tamarack is the place to find the “Best of West Virginia” gifts and artistry. Spend a soothing day at Daniel Vineyards, or kick off a night on the town at Raleigh Playhouse (and its speakeasy tavern downstairs).
5. Treehouses in the New River Gorge
From the moment you pass through the double-French-door entry at The Holly Rock Treehouse at Country Road Cabins, it’s bliss. Windows make it easy to take in the view from the top. Don’t worry, you won’t have to climb a ladder to get in. Stroll across a short canopy bridge to reach this treetop treasure. Outside, there’s a wraparound deck that leads to a viewing balcony for an up-close look at nature.
Since you’re right in the middle of the New River Gorge, there’s more nature to explore. If the world-class whitewater, mountain biking and rock climbing are a little too fast-paced, take a peaceful hike. You can even follow up your night in the trees with a day in the trees with a canopy zipline tour.
This post was last updated on March 16, 2022