10 Florida Glamping Destinations For a Bucket List Worthy Getaway
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If you love to explore the outdoors but do not want to sacrifice comfort, glamping might just be for you! With such diverse ecosystems and beautiful weather, Florida is the ideal state for glamping.
After visiting campsites, tentalows, and tiny homes throughout the state, I wanted to share some places to add to your glamping bucket list. This blog post will guide you through the best spots for glamping in Florida, how to prepare, and what to expect.
Tentalows for Glamping
This first section contains 4 options for tent glamping. The sites are often called tentalows and consist of a canvas tent with an elevated floor and a bed. This way you can sleep comfortably without having to deal with bugs or a sleeping bag! I will walk through my top options and what amenities you can find at each spot.
1. Comfy Camping at Alafia River State Park
- Location: Lithia
- Average Cost: $169/night
- Amenities: Canvas Bell Tent, Queen Bed, Solar Power, Fans, Lights, Charging Stations, Fire Ring with Cooking Grate, Picnic Table, Charcoal Grills, Dog Friendly, Bathhouse
- Things to Do: Hiking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Fishing, Swimming, Birding
Alafia River State Park is perfect for glamping due to its blend of comfort and natural beauty. The park’s plush accommodations, including cozy beds, allow guests to enjoy the serenity of the riverfront without sacrificing modern comforts and the scenic views of the Alafia River provide a peaceful backdrop.
2. Cypress Dome Tents at Colt Creek State Park
- Location: Lakeland
- Average Cost: $125/night
- Amenities: Queen Bed, A/C and Heat, Coffee Maker, Lamps, Sitting Area, Fire Pit, Charcoal Grill, Charging Station, Dog Friendly, Bathhouse
- Things to Do: Hiking, Fishing, Cycling, Kayaking (BYOP), Birding
Nestled within the park’s picturesque wetlands, the Cypress Dome Tents provide an immersive nature experience while ensuring guests’ comfort with features like comfortable beds and private outdoor seating areas. The surrounding environment teems with wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of Central Florida.
3. Timberline Glamping Safari Tents
- Location: Kissimmee Prairie State Park Preserve
- Average Cost: $169/ night
- Amenities: King Size Bed, Bunk Beds, Coffee Maker, Mini Fridge, Lamps, Diffuser, Electricity, A/C and Heat, Hammocks, Fire Rings and Picnic Table, Camp Chairs, Dog Friendly, Bathhouse
- Things to Do: Cycling, Birding, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Star Gazing
Located within Florida’s only Dark Sky Zone, this campsite offers a retreat from the city with wide open space to take in the great outdoors. This safari-style tent is furnished with stylish decor, including hammocks, so guests can relax and recharge. This blend of elegance and nature makes for a fun weekend of stargazing and biking or hiking.
4. Manatee Springs Glampsite
- Location: Near Cedar Key
- Average Cost: $120/night
- Amenities: Queen Bed, A/C and Heat, Coffee Maker, Lamps, Sitting Area, Fire Pit with Cooking Grill, Picnic Table, Charging Station, Dog Friendly, Bathhouse
- Things to Do: Manatee Tour, Kayaking, Hiking, Cycling, Fishing, Swimming
Manatee Springs Glampsites are ideal for glamping thanks to their well-equipped tents situated near the crystal-clear waters of the springs. Guests can enjoy activities like swimming, snorkeling, and manatee watching, just a short walk away from their cozy camp. The natural beauty of the area, combined with the luxurious accommodations, offers a relaxing and memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Tiny Homes
If you like the idea of glamping but can’t handle the idea of a shared bathroom you have to walk to, consider a tiny home stay! These unique accommodations offer a cozy, intimate setting while providing all the comforts of home, including bathrooms and usually some sort of kitchen.
I’ve seen a lot of these pop-up across Florida and offer a peaceful escape, often close to nature. Here are some of my favorites:
5. Shiva Tiny Home
- Location: Alachua
- Average Cost: $119/night
- Amenities: Queen Bed, Bathtub and Bathroom, Private Outdoor Shower, A/C and Heat, TV with Streaming, Coffee Maker, Electricity, Wifi, Kitchen, Hammock, Pet Friendly
- Things to Do: Hiking, Freshwater Springs, Kayaking, Exploring Gainesville
One of the best things about a tiny home is that it often feels more secluded than campsites filled with tourists. The Shiva Tiny Home in Alachua especially provides this with a serene location that feels close to the outdoors.
Not only does it have a loft sleeping area and a bathtub, but also a backyard complete with a hammock, firepit, and outdoor shower! This is perfect for Floridians looking to experience the nearby freshwater springs, but not deal with the campsites filled with college kids!
6. Lakefront Bungalow
- Location: Orlando
- Average Cost: $200/night
- Amenities: Queen Bed, Bathroom and Shower, Private Patio, A/C and Heat, TV with Streaming, Wifi, Refrigerator, Microwave, Coffee Maker, Hammock, Kayaks,
- Things to Do: Kayaking, Fishing, Exploring Orlando
Think you can’t go glamping in a city? Think again! Located on Lake Arnold, this tiny home has a whole bedroom and bathroom just steps from the water. With a dreamy private patio and kayaks included, this tiny home has all the camping upgrades you could ask for!
7. Cozy Bungalow in Destin
- Location: Destin
- Average Cost: $128/night (3 Night Minimum)
- Amenities: King Bed, Bathroom and Shower, Private Patio, A/C and Heat, TV with Streaming, Wifi, Refrigerator, Microwave, Coffee Maker, Fire Pit
- Things to Do: Beach Time, Swimming, Fishing, Birding, Exploring Destin Commons
For a beach cottage experience with air conditioning, the Cozy Bungalow Tiny Home provides an incredible Destin Getaway. Just a short walk from the beach, you can spend the day outdoors and then recharge inside with your own bed and bath. Don’t forget to make smores at night for the full glamping experience!
Oceanfront Glamping
This last section provides ideas for camping by the water, without being exposed to the elements. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape or a more rustic beachfront adventure, Florida’s glamping options cater to a variety of preferences and ensure a memorable experience by the sea. Let me know which of these three beach focused getaways you would prefer!
8. St. Andrews State Park Eco Tents
- Location: Panama City
- Average Cost: $159/night
- Amenities: Queen Bed and Twin Cot, Electricity, A/C, Fan, Ice Chest, Picnic Table, Grill, Wifi, Bathhouse
- Things to Do: Swimming, Kayaking, Fishing, Birding
Glamping Tents at St. Andrews State Park offer a premier beachfront glamping experience. The park’s location offers direct access to pristine beaches, where guests can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the coastal environment. Between this and the air-conditioned tents, you can experience the Gulf Coast with all the creature comforts of a beach vacation!
9. Shell Camp at Shell Key
- Location: Off the Coast of Marco Island
- Average Cost: $1495 for 3 nights/person
- Amenities: Sealed Tent with Cot, Retreat Experience, All Meals Provided, Bath Tent, Fan, Charging Spots
- Things to Do: Shelling, Fishing, Swimming, Birding, Star Gazing, Photography
For a unique glamping experience on a secluded island, consider booking a retreat to Shell Camp. This three-night experience is like summer camp for adults complete with well-appointed tents on the pristine beach. The remote location offers opportunities for shell collecting, kayaking, and wildlife observation, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a tranquil escape.
10. Floating Tiki Boat
- Location: Key West
- Average Cost: $699/night
- Amenities: Queen Bed, A/C and Heat, In-Room Shower, Toilet, Hot Water Tank, Hammock, Paddleboards, Snorkels, Mini Fridge, Sink, Electricity, Wifi
- Things to Do: Swim, Paddleboard, Explore Key West
Ending with the most luxurious option on the list, The Floating Tiki Boat! Though not technically glamping, I think sleeping on a houseboat off the coast of Key West is pretty close!
Guests can enjoy the gentle sway of the boat while relaxing in well-furnished spaces that include comfortable sleeping areas and outdoor decks. The experience of being on the water, coupled with the luxurious amenities, makes this a one-of-a-kind Florida experience!
Know Before You Go
Florida glamping is a wonderful experience that combines the comfort of a hotel with the adventure of camping. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie, glamping offers a new and exciting way to explore the Sunshine State. However, even though glamping is a more luxurious form of camping, there are still some things you need to prepare:
- Check the Weather: Florida weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
- Pack Light: Since most glamping sites provide the essentials, you don’t need to overpack. Bring comfortable and practical clothing, personal items, and any specialty items (like binoculars for bird watching or a swimsuit for the beach).
- Food and Drinks: Some glamping sites offer cooking facilities, but others might not. Check ahead of time and plan your meals accordingly. Don’t forget the marshmallows for roasting!
- Be Respectful of Nature: Make sure to bring trash bags to clean up after yourself and avoid disturbing the wildlife. You are guests in their homes here!
Have you been glamping before? Let me know your favorite place to go if you have!