Nourishing from the outdoors in
It’s the soft cushion of pine needles underfoot. The subtle scent of forest moss and pachouli. The sound of water babbling over river rocks and wind rustling redwood branches and lifting veils of Spanish moss.
There are many reasons people escape to Guerneville—the freedom from conventional routine and solace from busy life top among them. But it’s the quietude, the harmony with natural surrounds, the seasonal lifestyle, the proximity to the Russian River (and the joys of outdoor adventure that come with it) that make Guerneville a natural safe haven. So it’s no wonder creative designers, innovative hoteliers, curious naturalists and farm-to-table chefs have flocked to this peaceful enclave in the Russian River Valley and made it into one of the state’s most sought-after destinations for the “glamorous camping” getaway known as glamping. If you’re looking for travel that nourishes from “the outdoors in” this summer, then read on for our guide to the best of glamping in Guerneville.
DAWN RANCH
ENCHANTING is the word that comes to mind. Glimmering string lights illuminate pine-needle-strewn pathways through awe-inspiring redwoods, leading guests to shingled bungalows and erect canvas tents. Glamping is an undersell—these accommodations are honeymoon-level luxurious. With yoga, forest bathing, spa treatments and river activities by day, and craft cocktails with locally grown cuisine by night, guests can choose from a spectrum of opportunities to unwind and imbibe.
RIVER ELECTRIC
GUERNEVILLE’S NEWEST glamping destination, River Electric breathes cool air into its meadowed enclave alongside the Russian River. The mid-century modern architecture, redwood-shaded canvas tents, perfectly manicured lawn and shimmering centerpiece pool harken back to summer days of yesteryear— when sunscreen was an afterthought and bikinis had polka dots. With an upscale “pool club”–inspired menu offering poached salmon salads and vegan gyros, River Electric brings an elevated approach to poolside dining.
AUTO CAMP
IF YOU PREFER solid walls to fabric flaps, Autocamp may be the pick for you. With 25 custom-built Airstream trailers tucked between towering redwoods, guests can enjoy the private luxury of a fully outfitted trailer— kitchenette and bathroom included—for a quiet retreat, then meet up with fellow guests staying at the property’s tent encampment to gather at the string-light-encircled fire pit for true camp-style community. With essential artisan charcuterie and local draft beers onsite, you have all the tools for a true glamp experience at your fingertips.
THE HIGHLANDS COYOTE CAMP
THIS ADULTS-ONLY summer camp transports guests back to a time of fewer responsibilities and more fun. With canvas tent accommodations under a canopy of redwoods and farm-to-table dining at Boon Eat + Drink by renowned chef Crista Luedtke, Highlands strikes the perfect balance of back-to-basics and luxurious indulgence.
