It’s a great time to touch grass and appreciate the natural world around you, and what better way to disconnect from all the chaos than to sit small below a big, dark sky filled with stars? We can think of none.
Retreat away from the lights and noise to a place like Shenandoah National Park. While the camping at famed Big Meadows isn’t glamping, per se, SNP is one of the best stargazing locations in Virginia, plus you’re cut off from the outside world with no cellular or internet service.
To add the “glamping” aspect, book a glamping tent nearby with Front Royal Outdoors in Bentonville. Choose from three tents, each perched above the South Fork of the Shenandoah River and capable of sleeping five. Your pup is also welcome! To be clear, the night sky is just as amazing from the FRO tents, and the views include Massanutten Mountain. You won’t go wrong, whichever overnight option you choose. In fact, scroll on for more glamping options near Shenandoah National Park.
Join in a Ranger-led Big Meadows Star Party event at Shenandoah National Park
A more permanent yurt – and the most luxurious in this list – is the Shenandoah Yurt in Stanley. Wood construction, it’s an upgrade from glamping tents, and features all of the comforts of home, or more. EV charging, a hot tub, and even baby equipment are all accounted for.
If you’re looking for romance, Lakefront Luna Dome, Zen Dome, or Dream Dome in Luray or Sky Dome in Rileyville may fit the bill. They’re within the Luna Glamping portfolio, and the name says it all: luna = moon. These geodomes are all situated on platforms and include a full bath, climate control, kitchen, and WiFi. Each sleeps up to four guests, with Lakefront Luna Dome and Sky Dome each offering a loft to create two bedrooms.
Get cozy beside a fire ring in an Adirondack chair while the stars twinkle above when you book a yurt at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray. Again, pets are welcome, and the yurts include climate control, mini-fridge, gas grill, and a private bathroom with shower.
Faraway Camp, also in Luray, promises “modern farmhouse charm” in its geodomes. Perhaps the coolest part, in our opinion, are the skylights in the dome. Enjoy the stars from the comfort of a king bed as you drift off to sleep. Don’t worry, they’re not directly overhead to cause a premature awakening.
The seven yurts at Massanutten Springs – #1 Rock Tavern River Kamp – are on the Shenandoah River in Luray and offer “an eco-friendly, adventurous vibe” with direct river access. Bring a group to enjoy the experience together.
There’s no time like the present, so what are you waiting for? Get started with your getaway. Epic experiences await in the Shenandoah Valley.
Header Image: Luca Pfeiffer, NPS
