Glamped Out

This journal entry is brought to you by our friend Mia Gralla, who blogs about her glamping experiences at Glamped Out. Make sure to check out her site for tips, tricks and secret spots for all your glamping needs.

It is often assumed that the term “glamping” equates to a luxury trip complete with someone setting up giant tents full of luxurious pillows and cooking three gourmet meals a day. But I’ve learned that glamping can also mean that camping does not have to be daunting, requiring a pre-requisite of expensive camping gear and extensive survival skills. Camping can be quite simple when you have the basics down and know the right places to go. And the right type of wine to bring.

One of the best glamping spots I have been to is Salt Point State Park on the Sonoma Coast. With wineries and beautiful hikes in close proximity, it doesn’t take much effort to create a luxury camping experience.

Drive a few hours north of San Francisco on the infamous Highway 1 and you will soon be rewarded with gorgeous coastline views, massive cliffs and open grasslands. Salt Point State Parkis right in the thick of this with campsites situated right near the ocean. While the ocean view is somewhat limited, you can still smell the saltwater and hear the faint crash of waves. What better scenery for glamping?

Since all the campsites are drive-ins, you can easily bring lots of food, blankets and gear. I love this vintage Coleman stove, which is perfect for cooking oatmeal in the morning and Glamping Paellain the evening. And keeping warm, since the Sonoma Coast can get quite chilly at night. Luckily, campfires are allowed at Salt Point, so packing chairs (like these comfy Alite Monarch Chairs) are also important.

In the morning, hop on the trail leading into the town of Sea Cliff. The views on this short hike are unparalleled and will take you right along the coastline with opportunities to spot whales, sea lions and gorgeous flowers. And in true accordance with my glamping guidelines, Sea Cliff is also very close to Healdsburg, so you can pop over for a post-hike for wine tasting and stock up for a night of glamping.

The best part about glamping is that there are tons of destinations just like Salt Point all over California. That’s where Hipcamp comes in- just pick your destination, follow my glamping tips, and enjoy!