Love the idea of camping but not so much the sleeping bag on the ground part? Glamping — short for “glamorous camping”– gives you the best of both worlds: time outdoors with the comfort of a real bed, a roof overhead, and often a few fun extras. While it’s often marketed as a luxury splurge, you don’t really have to spend big to try it.

Budget glamping is growing fast, and plenty of stays across the U.S. prove you can do it for around $150 a night or less. Just think yurts, Airstreams, safari tents, or even tiny houses…spaces that bring comfort without cutting you off from the natural setting. Many spots include basics like fire pits, shared or private bathrooms, and sometimes kitchens or hammocks, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors without roughing it.

We’ve rounded up some of the best affordable glamping stays in the U.S., where you can hike, stargaze, or just relax in comfort without draining your wallet. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway close to the city or a quiet base near a national park, these budget-friendly glamping sites make adventure easy!

Gril glamping

Glamping: This is How You Do It

If you’re looking to stretch your glamping budget, a few smart moves can make a big difference. Start with timing. Traveling midweek or during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall usually means lower rates and fewer crowds.

When searching on sites like Hipcamp or Airbnb, use filters to set your budget and narrow down options by type of stay, amenities, or location. If you don’t mind bringing your own bedding or choosing a site with shared bathrooms, you can often find even cheaper rates. Another easy way to save is to book directly with a host or campground whenever you can. Many properties list on booking platforms but also take reservations on their own websites, which helps you avoid extra fees. Combine these strategies, and you’ll find that budget-friendly glamping is more accessible than you might think.

Now that you know the basics, it’s time to explore a few amazing places you can’t miss if you intend to glamp your way across the country.

Tennessee: Sulfur Ridge Vintage Airstream

Just an hour outside Nashville, near the town of Cookeville, you’ll find one of the most special budget glamping stays in Tennessee. The Sulfur Ridge Vintage Airstream is a fully restored 1960s trailer that blends midcentury-modern style with cozy comforts, starting at about $139 a night. Inside, you’ll get retro vibes with thoughtful details, including a live vinyl record player that sets the mood for your stay. Step outside and you’ll find a fire pit perfect for evening hangouts, plus a clawfoot tub under the stars that turns a simple soak into a memorable experience.

The Airstream’s rural setting means peace, quiet, and a real sense of escape, while still keeping Nashville’s restaurants and music scene within easy reach. It’s a great example of how glamping doesn’t have to be expensive to feel special…you get a stylish retreat in nature without blowing your budget!

woman glamping with dog

Sage Creek Campground — Badlands National Park, South Dakota

If you want rugged beauty on a budget while visiting South Dakota, Sage Creek Campground in Badlands National Park is tough to beat. Camping here is free, and you’ll likely spot bison wandering nearby as you take in wide-open views and incredible stargazing. For travelers who want a little more comfort, you can find low-cost glamping upgrades with rates typically between $65 and $125 a night.

One standout option is Badlands Basecamp, where raised tent platforms and cozy touches make the experience more comfortable without losing the wild setting. You’ll still feel immersed in the park’s dramatic landscape, but with a few welcome extras that take the edge off roughing it.

This mix of free camping and affordable glamping shows why the Badlands are such a great fit for budget-minded adventurers: you get the thrill of sleeping under some of the clearest skies in the U.S., plus the chance to customize your stay based on how much comfort you want.

KitFox Desert Retreat — Santa Fe, New Mexico

Just 20 minutes from downtown Santa Fe, KitFox Desert Retreat offers a minimalist desert escape starting at about $95 a night. This retreat in New Mexico sits in the La Tierra Trails area, making it a prime spot for hikers and nature lovers who want easy access to scenic paths while staying close to the city. The setup features solar-powered canvas tents with clean, modern design that blends into the landscape. Each tent keeps things simple but comfortable, offering the essentials you need without unnecessary extras. The emphasis here is on sustainability and connection to the land, making it a great fit for eco-conscious travelers.

With wide desert skies overhead and the culture of Santa Fe just down the road, KitFox gives you the best of both worlds: immersion in New Mexico’s natural beauty and easy access to restaurants, galleries, and historic sights when you’re ready for a change of pace.

Friends glamping

Ozark Glamping Dome — Eminence, Missouri

Set in the heart of the Ozarks near Eminence, this geodesic dome offers a unique way to experience Missouri’s wild beauty for about $125 a night. Inside, you’ll find a queen bed and cozy furnishings, while outside you have direct access to the Current River and the surrounding Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

The dome is designed for simple comfort with big views—perfect for stargazing at night after a day of hiking or floating on the river. The mix of structure and natural setting gives you a glamping stay that definitely feels adventurous without being overwhelming.

Tiny House Village — Mt. Hood, Oregon

At the base of Mt. Hood, you’ll find Tiny House Village, a cluster of seven small-but-stylish homes at Mt. Hood Village RV Resort. Rates start around $119 a night, making it an affordable way to try out tiny living while staying close to one of Oregon’s most iconic mountains. Each home has its own theme and personality, from rustic cabin vibes to brighter, more playful designs. Despite the small footprint, you’ll have the essentials for a comfortable stay, with easy access to trails, alpine lakes, and, in winter, snowy slopes.

Whether you’re traveling to Oregon as a couple, with family, or even solo, the village offers a fun, flexible base camp. It’s a glamping option that balances affordability, charm, and location, all just a short drive from Portland.

Women glamping

Escalante Yurts — Escalante, Utah

Located near Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, Escalante Yurts offer comfort in the middle of some of the most dramatic landscapes you can find in Utah. Rates start at about $138 a night, giving you a stylish and convenient home base for exploring the region.

Each yurt is designed for year-round comfort, with heating, air conditioning, full beds, and private bathrooms. You’ll get the glamping feel without sacrificing modern conveniences, making it easy to recharge between days of hiking, canyoneering, or scenic drives. Besides, its location puts you right within reach of southern Utah’s big-name sights and hidden gems alike.

Green Acres Glamping — Bastrop, Texas

Just 45 minutes from Austin, Green Acres Glamping brings a stylish retreat to the Texas countryside. Rates run about $130–$150 a night, putting it right in the sweet spot for budget-friendly comfort. The property features safari tents with vintage-inspired design touches, giving you a cozy space that feels both rustic and chic. Outside, hammocks hang under pecan trees for lazy afternoons, and a small herd of alpacas adds plenty of charm to the setting.

With its close-to-Austin location, Green Acres makes it easy to pair city adventures with quiet nights under the stars. It’s a fun, affordable escape that combines personality, comfort, and a bit of Texas quirkiness in one spot.

You Might Also Enjoy: The Latest U.S. Camping Trends

Playing guitar at glamping trip

Yurt at Bear Creek Cabins — Red River Gorge, Kentucky

For under $100 a night, the Yurt at Bear Creek Cabins offers a simple but comfortable way to experience one of Kentucky’s most popular outdoor areas. At about $95 a night, it’s one of the most affordable glamping stays on this list. The yurt sits in the Red River Gorge area, close to Natural Bridge State Park, making it an ideal base for climbers, hikers, and anyone who wants quick access to the trails and sandstone arches. While you’re surrounded by forest peacefulness, you won’t have to deal with the hassle of a full tent setup.

It’s a back-to-basics kind of glamping stay — quiet, affordable, and well-located — giving you the comfort of a solid roof and a real bed while keeping you immersed in the natural beauty of the Gorge.

FAQs:

Q: Do I need to bring my own bedding for glamping?
A: Most glamping stays provide bedding, but some budget sites may require you to bring sleeping bags or sheets. Always check the listing details before booking.

Q: Are pets usually allowed at glamping sites?
A: Policies vary. Some hosts are pet-friendly, while others don’t allow animals due to wildlife or property rules. Look for “pet-friendly” filters when searching.

Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: Popular spots near national parks or cities can sell out months ahead, especially in summer. For midweek or off-season trips, you’ll usually find more flexibility.

Q: Do glamping sites have electricity or Wi-Fi?
A: It depends. Many budget glamping stays offer limited or no Wi-Fi to encourage disconnecting. Electricity may be available, but it’s not guaranteed—check amenities before booking.

Q: Is food included in the nightly rate?
A: Generally no. Most budget glamping sites are self-catered, with fire pits, grills, or small kitchen setups available. Some hosts may offer add-ons like breakfast baskets.

Q: What should I pack for a glamping trip?
A: Pack as you would for camping: layers for weather, sturdy shoes, toiletries, and a flashlight. Even if you’re in a yurt or dome, outdoor conditions still matter.

Q: Are bathrooms usually private?
A: Some budget glamping spots have private bathrooms, but many rely on shared bathhouses. Listings usually specify, so double-check if private facilities are important to you.

Have we piqued your interest about glamping? Are planning on going to any of these spots? Let us know in our comments section below!

About The Author