If you’re an RV camper, chances are you already enjoy the comforts of sleeping off the ground, having a private bathroom, and sipping coffee at a real table each morning. When we first started camping, our grandkids laughed and called it glamping. At the time, I figured that it just meant we liked our own beds, TVs, air conditioning, and the ability to eat dinner inside without swatting flies. And honestly, I thought that was the whole definition.
But I’ve come to realize there’s a lot more to it. These days, a growing number of RVers are asking the same question we once asked: What is glamping? And it turns out, it’s not just about having home-style comforts in your camper—it’s about intentionally elevating the experience. Whether through high-end RV resorts with resort-style perks or small, meaningful upgrades inside your rig, RV glamping is changing how many people approach the road.
So today, we’re breaking it all down: what glamping means in the RV world, why it’s become so popular, who’s doing it, and how often. Let’s explore this cozy, comfort-first trend in camping—no tent stakes required.
What Is Glamping in the RV World? Understanding the Luxury Trend
Glamping is a blend of “glamorous” and “camping,” but for RV owners, it’s not about ditching the camper for a luxury tent. Instead, RV glamping refers to a style of RV camping that emphasizes comfort, convenience, and upscale touches—whether through high-end RV park amenities or thoughtful upgrades to your travel setup.
In simple terms, glamping is camping with extra comfort. For RVers, that could mean staying at parks with heated pools, saunas, wine tastings, outdoor movie nights, or private patios. It might also mean traveling with plush bedding, spa-quality toiletries, custom lighting, or even a mounted flat-screen TV for relaxing evenings.
When asking what is glamping as an RVer, think less about rustic and rugged—and more about resort-style ease blended with outdoor charm.
Why RV Campers Love Glamping: Comfort, Family & Fun
RV owners already enjoy the comfort of a rolling home, but glamping takes it further. It’s not about abandoning the spirit of camping—it’s about enhancing it. Here’s why more RVers are leaning into this luxury-meets-nature experience:
1. You’ve Done the Basics—Now You Want a Treat
After experiencing basic hookups and gravel lots, glamping offers a refreshing twist. Maybe you’ve explored state parks and national forests, and now you’re curious what it’s like to stay somewhere that offers a clubhouse, spa, pool, or evening events without sacrificing your own rig.
2. It Feels Like a Vacation
While regular RV camping is always fun, RV glamping introduces a bit of indulgence. It gives your trip a vacation-like feeling, especially when you stay at resorts with concierge services, hot tubs, or poolside cabanas. Some RV parks even offer firewood delivery, golf cart rentals, or guided local tours.
3. It’s Perfect for Multigenerational Trips
RV glamping is ideal when camping with grandkids, adult children, or friends who might not love the idea of roughing it. Everyone gets to enjoy the outdoors with the bonus of sleeping in their own beds (not lumpy hotel beds), Wi-Fi, and still having coffee with their cozy blanket.
Who is Glamping in RVs? From Families to Retirees
You might be surprised who’s embracing the trend. Wondering what glamping is attracting within the RV community? Based on industry research and campground trends, it includes:
- Retired couples and snowbirds are upgrading their lifestyle with longer stays at premium resorts
- Families looking for full-service parks where they don’t have to plan every detail
- Weekend warriors who want a peaceful, pampered escape from the daily grind
- New RV owners who were drawn to camping because of the comforts an RV offers—and who aren’t interested in going “backwards” to more primitive conditions
RV glamping fits across all age groups and experience levels. What unites them is the desire for nature without the hassle, and comfort without the hotel price tag.
How Often Do Campers Choose RV Camping Experiences?
According to Kampgrounds of America’s (KOA) 2023 North American Camping Report, nearly half of all campers said they prefer camping experiences that include comfortable accommodations and resort-style amenities—and RV owners made up a huge percentage of that group.
The same report found that more than 60% of RV campers plan at least two glamping-style trips per year, whether to luxurious private resorts or upgraded campgrounds with entertainment, water features, or spa services. Many RV glampers also extend their stays beyond a weekend, with some choosing to stay 1–2 weeks for a full reset.
This isn’t a one-time splurge—it’s becoming a preferred way to RV for many campers.
Top RV Glamping Features That Make Camping Luxurious
The good news? You don’t need a brand-new Class A motorhome or a five-star park to enjoy RV glamping. Glamping is about intention and comfort, not just price.
Here are a few common glamping features that RVers enjoy:
- Upscale RV resorts with pools, gyms, massage rooms, or lakeside cabanas
- Sites with full hookups, patio furniture, landscaped areas, and fire pits
- Personal upgrades like memory foam mattresses, soft lighting, smart thermostats, or espresso machines
- Entertainment options like outdoor speakers, movie projectors, or streaming-ready setups
- Pet-friendly luxury touches, such as shaded dog parks or grooming stations
So, when asking yourself, what is glamping, remember—it can be as simple as adding a little luxury to what you already love about RV.
Transforming the Camping Industry
Absolutely. As more RV owners prioritize comfort and convenience, campgrounds and resorts are racing to keep up with demand. From Texas to the Rockies to Florida’s coast, premium RV resorts are popping up everywhere.
According to industry data from the RV Industry Association (RVIA), the demand for RV sites with full-service amenities has outpaced traditional campground growth in recent years. This shows a shift in camper expectations—people want nature, yes, but not necessarily at the cost of air conditioning and a good night’s sleep.
The rise of RV glamping is also influencing RV design. Manufacturers include more luxury touches in even mid-priced travel trailers: think farmhouse sinks, electric fireplaces, slide-out outdoor kitchens, and touchscreen control panels. These features speak directly to the camper who’s blending adventure with comfort.
Final Thoughts: What is Glamping and Why It’s Worth Trying
So, what is glamping when you’re already camping in an RV?
It’s not just a buzzword. It’s a mindset—and a movement—toward more comfortable, personalized, and enjoyable RV camping. Whether it’s staying at a posh resort for a special occasion, adding a few upgrades to your rig, or simply choosing a park with scenic views and luxury amenities, RV glamping is about making your time outdoors as stress-free and rejuvenating as possible.
And here’s the best part: glamping doesn’t have to replace your regular camping trips. It can complement them. You might spend one weekend at a rustic state park and the next at a full-service luxury resort. The freedom to choose your level of comfort is part of what makes RV travel so rewarding.
Whether you’re just starting your RV journey or you’ve been pulling a camper for years, glamping might be just the twist you’ve been looking for to make your next trip feel new again.