Glamping Is Gaining Popularity – Here Are Northern Minnesota’s Best Options

Northern Minnesota undoubtedly boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of America. One of the best ways to get out and enjoy this gorgeous region is to go camping. If you're someone who cringes at the thought of camping, there's good news! There are several options to get you out of the dirt and bugs, and into a more luxurious experience.

What is "Glamping"?

When you think of camping, what comes to mind? Are mosquitos buzzing in your ear? Are there dirt and rocks under your sleeping bag? Maybe your tent is damp from last night's fleeting rain shower or the dew of the early Minnesota morning. If you turn up your nose at the thought of heading into the great Northwoods to stay in a tent or camper, consider exploring a different option; glamping!

the activity of camping with some of the comforts and luxuries of home: Imagine glamping in a carpeted tent with a comfy queen-size bed.

One of the greatest benefits of glamping is that you can come in from the outdoors if you've had enough campfire smoke or a sudden downpour decides to move into the area. The Northland is quickly becoming a hub for glampers. Check out these options if you're looking to get a nice camping experience without the actual camping.

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North Shore Camping Co.

New to the area is the North Shore Camping Co. Offering cozy beds, fireplaces, and many other modern amenities, the North Shore Camping Company lies near Lake Superior in Silver Bay, Minnesota. Pets are welcome to join you on your glamping trip!

Outpost - Kettle River

With an onsite nature trail and magnificent white pines, these Outposts are a great option. Located only an hour and a half from Minneapolis or a quick 1-hour jaunt from Duluth, the Outposts are tucked away in Kettle River. There are 49 cabins on 96 acres. Your chances of seeing wildlife during your glamping trip are pretty darn good; your chances of rest and relaxation are too.

Safari Tent

Just 50 miles up the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior, you'll find the town of Beaver Bay. This area is full of the best of Minnesota. The Safari Tent experience offers an abundance of hiking and biking trails, as well as the Split Rock Lighthouse and the Gooseberry Falls State Park.

Pets are welcome and there's even a swimming pool if you're not into the typical dip in the lake that campers often take. They even provide a bear-proof food locker so that your meals stay out of the wrong paws.

Tall Pines Yurt

If you continue up the spectacular North Shore, you'll find the Tall Pines Yurt for a memorable winter glamping adventure. That's right, winter glamping. Winter in Minnesota has so much to offer and Minnesotans find creative ways to enjoy their longest season.

Winter glamping in Grand Marais is a perfect example of that. This Yurt is near the Banadad Ski Trail and lakes for ice fishing. As part of your stay, they offer one of the best ways to warm up in winter- a hot sauna (pronounced sow-nuh in Minnesotan). Now that's what I call glamping!

Glamping is the newer, more lavish way to enjoy the outdoors. The difference is that you can also enjoy being indoors.