Sustainable glamping combines luxury with eco-friendly practices. It’s a great way to enjoy nature while minimizing your environmental impact. As outdoor tourism grows, more glamping sites are focusing on sustainability.
Eco-friendly glamping practices are designed to protect natural environments. They also support local communities and reduce carbon footprints. This guide will show you how to find and enjoy green glamping options.
What Makes a Glamping Site Sustainable?
Sustainable glamping sites focus on eco-friendly design and practices. These sites use renewable energy, conserve water, and reduce waste. They aim to protect the environment while providing a comfortable experience.
Solar Power is common at eco-friendly glamping sites. Many use solar panels to power lights and other amenities.
Water Conservation is another key practice. Some sites use rainwater harvesting or low-flow fixtures to save water.
Waste Reduction is also important. Composting toilets and recycling programs help minimize waste and plastic use.
Natural Materials are often used for construction. Many sites use recycled or sustainable materials to build their accommodations.
Best Sustainable Glamping Sites Around the World
Sustainable glamping is becoming more popular across the globe, with many eco-friendly sites offering luxurious and environmentally responsible experiences. Here are some of the best sustainable glamping sites, each focused on protecting the environment while providing a unique getaway.
1. Costa Rica: Eco-Luxury Tent Resorts in the Rainforest
Costa Rica is known for its commitment to sustainability and its rich biodiversity. Several eco-luxury glamping resorts in the country focus on rainforest conservation and use renewable energy sources.
Lapa Rios Lodge
Located in the Osa Peninsula, Lapa Rios Lodge offers eco-luxury bungalows and glamping-style accommodations. The lodge is powered by renewable energy and practices water conservation through rainwater harvesting. The site is set in a private nature reserve, offering wildlife tours, bird watching, and guided hikes through the rainforest.
Book a stay here: Lapa Rios Lodge
2. British Columbia, Canada: Yurts and Off-the-Grid Retreats
British Columbia, with its vast wilderness and focus on sustainability, is home to many eco-friendly BC glamping sites. Many are powered by renewable energy and strive to minimize their environmental impact.
Stay Wilder Eco-Glamping Resort
Located in Sechelt, British Columbia, Stay Wilder offers luxury eco-glamping domes set in pristine forest surroundings. The domes feature organic bedding, water-saving systems, and private washrooms. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, foraging, wildlife viewing, and more, all while supporting a sustainable tourism model.
Book a stay here: Stay Wilder Eco-Glamping Resort
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge
This luxury tented resort is located in Tofino, within the UNESCO-protected Clayoquot Sound. The lodge features 25 safari-style tents that are powered by a solar farm and equipped with eco-friendly amenities. Guests can experience ocean, forest, and mountain views while engaging in activities that promote environmental education and conservation.
Book a stay here: Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge
Bear Spring Eco Retreat
Bear Spring Eco Retreat in Nelson, BC, offers off-grid, eco-friendly glamping accommodations. With solar-powered lighting and a communal cooking area, this retreat emphasizes sustainability. It is perfect for guests looking to enjoy nature walks, hiking, biking, and swimming in a low-impact environment.
Book a stay here: Bear Spring Eco Retreat
3. New Zealand: Eco-Friendly Treehouses and Wilderness Lodges
New Zealand has long been a leader in sustainable tourism, and many glamping properties are designed with environmental conservation in mind.
Treetops Lodge, Rotorua
Treetops Lodge offers luxury treehouse glamping in New Zealand’s Rotorua region. Built using sustainable materials, the treehouses are equipped with energy-efficient systems powered by solar power. The lodge is part of a 2,500-acre private nature reserve, where visitors can participate in conservation programs, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
Book a stay here: Treetops Lodge
4. United States: Eco-Conscious Glamping in National Parks
Sustainable glamping is gaining popularity in the United States, with many properties near national parks and protected areas offering eco-friendly experiences.
Under Canvas Yellowstone, Montana
Located near Yellowstone National Park, Under Canvas offers luxury safari-style tents equipped with eco-friendly amenities like solar-powered lighting and water-saving fixtures. The site emphasizes sustainability with practices like waste reduction and energy conservation. Guests can enjoy activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the park’s geothermal features.
Book a stay here: Under Canvas Yellowstone
Treebones Resort, Big Sur, California
Treebones Resort is located along California’s rugged Big Sur coastline, offering luxurious glamping experiences with breathtaking ocean views. The resort features yurts, including solar-powered ones, as well as sustainable practices such as water conservation, waste management, and using locally sourced, organic foods. Visitors can hike the nearby trails, explore the Pacific Ocean, and participate in conservation-focused activities.
Book a stay here: Treebones Resort
El Capitan Canyon, California
El Capitan Canyon, located near Santa Barbara, California, offers a variety of eco-friendly glamping accommodations. The site uses renewable energy, recycles water, and focuses on reducing its carbon footprint. The surrounding environment is preserved through eco-conscious landscaping and the use of sustainable materials.
Book a stay here: El Capitan Canyon
The Wilds, Ohio
The Wilds is one of the largest wildlife conservation centers in the U.S., and it offers a sustainable Ohio glamping experience. The resort’s luxury tents are set in a natural, scenic landscape and are designed with eco-friendly practices. Powered by solar energy, the glamping tents are equipped with composting toilets and water-saving systems. Guests can enjoy wildlife tours, hiking, and animal watching while supporting a site dedicated to wildlife conservation and sustainability.
Book a stay here: The Wilds Glamping
Getaway House, Various Locations (U.S.)
Getaway House offers tiny cabin glamping in remote locations across the U.S. Each site is designed for eco-friendly travel, with cabins equipped with solar-powered lighting, efficient heating, and water-saving systems. The cabins are located in beautiful natural areas, from forests to lakesides, and offer guests a chance to disconnect while minimizing their environmental impact.
Book a stay here: Getaway
Campground at The Lodge at Woodloch, Pennsylvania
Located in the Pocono Mountains, The Lodge at Woodloch offers glamping options in an eco-conscious setting. The luxury tents are equipped with sustainable amenities and are part of a larger resort that focuses on wellness and sustainability. The lodge is committed to eco-friendly practices such as water conservation, green building, and recycling.
Book a stay here: The Lodge at Woodloch
5. Australia: Sustainable Glamping in Iconic Natural Settings
Australia’s diverse landscapes offer some of the most eco-friendly glamping experiences, from tropical rainforests to coastal retreats.
Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island
Southern Ocean Lodge, an eco-luxury lodge on Kangaroo Island, focuses on sustainability and environmental preservation. The lodge uses natural ventilation and passive heating, as well as locally sourced food. Guests can enjoy tours focused on wildlife conservation and the region’s unique ecosystems.
Book a stay here: Southern Ocean Lodge
These sustainable glamping sites offer eco-conscious travelers a chance to stay in luxury while supporting conservation efforts and reducing their environmental impact. By choosing these green accommodations, you contribute to the preservation of natural areas and support sustainable tourism worldwide.
Eco-Friendly Glamping Practices for Your Stay
When you choose to go glamping, it’s important to minimize your impact on the environment. There are several eco-friendly practices you can adopt to ensure your trip is as sustainable as possible.
Pack Light and Smart
Packing light is a simple yet effective way to reduce your environmental footprint. The less you pack, the less fuel your transportation uses, whether you’re driving, flying, or taking a train. Focus on packing only what you truly need and choose eco-friendly gear. For example, bring a reusable water bottle to avoid buying bottled water. A solar-powered charger can also help you stay connected without relying on electricity from non-renewable sources. If your glamping site provides linens or towels, there’s no need to bring your own. The lighter your bag, the less waste you create.
Leave No Trace
One of the core principles of sustainable travel is “Leave No Trace,” which means minimizing your impact on the environment. Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging plants or disturbing wildlife. When using a glamping site, clean up after yourself, including picking up small litter that can easily be overlooked. Avoid using disposable items like plastic cutlery, cups, or plates—opt for reusable alternatives instead. If your glamping site has a campfire, ensure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving and that any firewood is sourced sustainably. The goal is to leave the environment in the same, if not better, condition as when you arrived.
Use Eco-Friendly Products
Many glamping sites provide eco-friendly amenities like biodegradable soaps, shampoos, and compostable toilet paper. If not, consider bringing your own sustainable products. Look for shampoos, soaps, and detergents that are free of harmful chemicals, and ensure that they are biodegradable. Also, avoid single-use plastics like plastic water bottles and disposable food containers. Instead, bring your own refillable water bottle, reusable coffee cup, and containers for food storage. If the site provides reusable utensils, use them instead of disposable ones. These small changes help reduce plastic waste and minimize your impact on the environment.
Support Local Communities
One of the best ways to support sustainability during your glamping trip is by shopping locally. Purchasing food from local markets or dining at locally owned restaurants reduces the carbon footprint associated with imported goods. It also supports the local economy and helps preserve the culture of the region. Look for opportunities to engage in community-driven activities, like guided hikes or wildlife tours, which often promote environmental education and conservation efforts. Many glamping sites also partner with local artisans to offer eco-friendly souvenirs made from sustainable materials. By supporting local businesses, you contribute to the preservation of the area’s unique natural and cultural resources.
By implementing these eco-friendly practices, you’ll ensure that your glamping experience remains enjoyable and low-impact, helping to protect the environment for future generations.
Green Certifications to Look For in Glamping Sites
When searching for eco-friendly glamping options, it’s helpful to look for certifications that show a site is committed to sustainability. These certifications ensure the site follows strict environmental standards and is dedicated to reducing its ecological footprint.
Green Key Certification
The Green Key certification is a global eco-label for sustainable tourism. It is awarded to hotels, resorts, and glamping sites that meet high environmental standards. Green Key sites must show they are committed to reducing energy and water consumption, waste management, and promoting environmental awareness. If a glamping site has this certification, you can trust that it’s making significant efforts to be sustainable.
EarthCheck Certification
EarthCheck is a leading environmental certification for tourism and hospitality businesses. It focuses on sustainability practices in areas like energy use, waste management, and community involvement. To earn this certification, a glamping site must demonstrate continuous improvements in its environmental impact and meet rigorous benchmarks. EarthCheck is recognized worldwide, making it a good indicator of a truly eco-friendly glamping experience.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
LEED certification focuses on sustainable building practices. Sites that earn this certification have met specific criteria for energy efficiency, water conservation, and reducing their carbon footprint. LEED-certified glamping accommodations are built using environmentally friendly materials and designed to minimize energy consumption. Whether it’s solar-powered cabins or yurts built with sustainable materials, LEED certification ensures that your stay is in line with green building standards.
The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) Certification
TIES is a leading global authority on ecotourism. Their certification program focuses on ensuring that tourism operations, including glamping sites, promote sustainable practices and conservation efforts. Sites certified by TIES support responsible tourism that benefits local communities and protects natural resources. If you’re looking for an ecotourism experience, choosing a TIES-certified glamping site is a great way to ensure that your stay contributes positively to the environment and local culture.
Rainforest Alliance Certification
Rainforest Alliance certification is awarded to businesses that demonstrate strong sustainability practices in the agriculture, tourism, and forestry sectors. For glamping sites, this certification shows that they support sustainable tourism practices that help protect biodiversity and natural ecosystems. It also indicates that the site works closely with local communities to ensure the health of the environment.
Looking for these certifications when booking a glamping stay helps ensure that your trip is genuinely eco-friendly. These certifications provide peace of mind, knowing that the site is committed to sustainability and responsible tourism practices.
Sustainable Glamping Gear and Accessories
To make your glamping experience more eco-friendly, the gear and accessories you bring along play a big role. By choosing sustainable items, you can minimize your environmental impact while enjoying the great outdoors.
Eco-Friendly Tent Options
When selecting a glamping tent, look for ones made with sustainable materials. Many glamping sites provide eco-friendly tents made from organic cotton, recycled fabrics, or natural fibers. If you’re bringing your own tent, choose one made with eco-conscious materials that are durable and designed for long-term use. Avoid single-use, disposable tents that contribute to waste.
Reusable Cooking Gear
Opt for reusable cooking gear to reduce waste and keep your glamping experience green. Stainless steel or bamboo utensils, plates, and cups are great alternatives to disposable plastic. A portable stove with refillable gas canisters is another eco-friendly choice. Avoid single-use packaging by bringing reusable containers to store food and snacks.
Solar-Powered Gadgets
Solar-powered gadgets are an essential part of sustainable glamping. Solar lanterns, phone chargers, and even solar-powered showers can help reduce your reliance on electricity. These devices work efficiently without relying on non-renewable energy sources, making them perfect for eco-conscious travelers.
Biodegradable Cleaning Products
Using biodegradable soaps and cleaning products helps protect the environment. Regular cleaning products can pollute waterways and harm wildlife, but biodegradable alternatives break down naturally and are safer for the environment. Choose eco-friendly dish soap, hand soap, and cleaning wipes to use while glamping.
Sustainable Clothing and Footwear
When it comes to your clothing, choose durable, sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, or recycled polyester. For footwear, look for brands that use sustainable materials and ethical production methods. Also, consider packing clothing that can serve multiple purposes, reducing the need for excessive packing.
By bringing sustainable gear, you’ll not only make your glamping trip more eco-friendly but also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of outdoor tourism. Choose products that are built to last, minimize waste, and support environmentally responsible companies.
Benefits of Sustainable Glamping for the Environment
Sustainable glamping isn’t just about reducing your carbon footprint during your trip; it has lasting benefits for the environment and local communities. By choosing eco-friendly glamping options, you’re contributing to the preservation of natural areas and supporting green initiatives.
Preserving Natural Habitats and Wildlife
Many sustainable glamping sites are located in protected areas where conservation is a priority. By staying at these eco-conscious locations, you help protect the surrounding wildlife and ecosystems. Glamping operators often work closely with environmental organizations to preserve the natural habitats of native species. Your stay supports these efforts and ensures that these areas remain protected for future generations.
Reducing Carbon Footprints
Sustainable glamping sites often use renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, many sites have energy-efficient buildings and water-saving systems that lower overall energy consumption. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations, you can reduce your own carbon footprint while still enjoying modern comforts.
Supporting Green Businesses and Eco-Tourism
By booking sustainable glamping sites, you’re supporting businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility. Many eco-friendly sites focus on local sourcing, waste reduction, and fair trade practices. This helps stimulate local economies while promoting ethical tourism. Supporting these businesses encourages others to adopt greener practices, creating a positive cycle of environmental and economic benefits.
Encouraging Responsible Travel Habits
Sustainable glamping encourages travelers to become more mindful of their environmental impact. The practices you adopt while glamping, such as reducing waste, conserving water, and supporting local businesses, can translate into more responsible habits in everyday life. It also raises awareness about the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship in the travel industry.
Opting for sustainable glamping benefits the environment, wildlife, and local communities. It’s a way to enjoy nature responsibly while supporting eco-conscious businesses. The more travelers choose eco-friendly options, the greater the positive impact on the planet.
Sustainable glamping offers the perfect balance of luxury and environmental responsibility. By choosing eco-friendly glamping sites, using sustainable gear, and practicing green habits, you can enjoy nature while minimizing your impact on the environment. Whether you’re exploring a remote rainforest, a desert, or a national park, there are plenty of ways to glamp responsibly.
As eco-conscious travel becomes more popular, glamping is an ideal way to experience the outdoors while supporting conservation efforts and local communities. The next time you plan a glamping trip, consider making sustainable choices that benefit both you and the planet. It’s a rewarding way to enjoy the beauty of nature and contribute to its preservation.
FAQs
1. What is the cost of sustainable glamping?
Sustainable glamping can vary in price depending on the location and amenities. While some eco-friendly sites may cost more due to their sustainable practices, many offer competitive rates. The added value of sustainability often includes better overall experiences, such as immersion in nature and supporting green businesses.
2. Are there eco-friendly glamping options in my area?
Yes! Many regions are embracing eco-tourism, and there are likely sustainable glamping options near you. You can search for glamping sites that emphasize green practices or check for certifications like Green Key or EarthCheck. Websites like ours and Hipcamp often list eco-friendly glamping accommodations.
3. How can I make my own glamping site more sustainable?
If you’re planning your own glamping setup, focus on using sustainable materials like recycled fabrics or natural fibers for your tent. Incorporate solar-powered lights, water-saving systems, and composting toilets. Bring eco-friendly gear, such as reusable containers and biodegradable products, to minimize waste. Finally, choose a location that aligns with your environmental values, such as near protected natural areas.
Full-time World Travel Writer who runs multiple websites and social media accounts. I have spoken at various conferences around the world. Some of my hobbies include adventure, fitness and new technologies. I am also a trekkie!