The popularity of glamping has soared, with nearly 8 million people, or 9% of all campers, embracing this luxurious form of camping in 2023. According to The Dyrt’s 2024 Camping Report by the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, 42% of these glampers were experiencing it for the first time.
Sarah Smith, founder of The Dyrt, notes that glamping provides an accessible entry point into camping.
“Glamping remains the perfect foray into camping for the tentative non-campers out there, it’s kind of like camping with training wheels, where people can get a feel for it without sacrificing all the comforts of home. For others, it’s a luxurious alternative to the tent camping they’re used to,” Smith said.
Campgrounds have been quick to respond to the growing interest in glamping. In 2023, 22.1% of property owners who already offered glamping increased their number of glamping sites. In comparison, RV camping saw a slightly higher expansion rate, with 26.2% of properties adding more RV sites.
However, the rate at which new glampsites are being introduced has slowed. While 10% of properties added new glampsites in 2023, this is a decrease from 2022, when 44% of properties introducing new camping options chose glamping, according to a press release.
Ward T., a camper from California, shared his memorable glamping experience on a Big Sur mountainside. “I’m biased but glamping (and camping) doesn’t get any better than on a California cliff overlooking the ocean,” he said, highlighting the unique locations glamping can offer.
The Dyrt’s third annual Glampy Awards, announced in March, recognized the most unique and innovative glamping destinations across the U.S. Loving Heart Retreats, offering upscale domes and tents in Texas Hill Country, took top honors for 2024.
Other notable mentions included a furnished shipping container at a Nevada desert music festival and an octadecagon yurt-style cabin in the Washington woods.
Kevin Long, CEO of The Dyrt, points out that property owners are becoming increasingly creative in their glamping offerings.
“It’s not just about king-size mattresses on a platform covered by a canvas tent. Property owners are getting super creative. Two of the strongest human desires are to try new things and to be comfortable. Glamping gives you both in spades,” he said.
As glamping’s popularity continues to rise, the demand for unique and luxurious camping experiences shows no signs of slowing down. The combination of comfort and adventure attracts a wide range of campers, from seasoned outdoor enthusiasts to those new to camping.
The trend toward glamping is not only a boon for campers but also for the outdoor hospitality industry. Campgrounds that invest in glamping accommodations are tapping into a lucrative market, catering to guests who seek both novelty and comfort in their outdoor experiences.
Glamping’s appeal lies in its ability to blend the beauty of nature with the comforts of home, making it an attractive option for many. As more people discover this luxurious form of camping, it is expected to continue drawing in first-time campers and experienced adventurers alike.