Gone ‘Klamping’: Where to Camp Luxuriously (With Kids)

You’re probably familiar with the term “glamping,” a clever little portmanteau that conjures up relaxing, stress-free, luxurious camping. But what about stress-free, kid-friendly camping? Is there even such a thing? We coined our own little term to describe all the perks of glamping with kids…klamping! Here are four kid-friendly places not far from the DMV that promise to deliver all of the amenities of home on a great, wild adventure. Happy klamping, everyone!

Photo: Blue Moon Rising via Facebook

Blue Moon Rising
If your kids dream of taking up permanent residence in a doll house or playhouse, they will love these tiny, eco-friendly cabins perched near Deep Creek Lake. The property features 16 unique structures built from recycled materials. Each unit is equipped with a kitchen and bathroom. Near by, Swallow Falls State Park offers family-friendly hiking and stroller-accessible trails where visitors can view five different waterfalls. The Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center, a must for kids 8 and under, features a birds of prey exhibit complete with live hawks, owls and eagles!

Cost: Friday and Saturday, $299/night; Weekdays, $249/night
89 Blue Moon Rising Way (McHenry, Md)
240-442-5287
Online: bluemoonrising.org

Photo: Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad

Castaway Caboose
All aboard for a totally unique camping experience in a shiny red, refurbished caboose!  Hop on the Durbin Rocket, a historic train built in 1910,  for a scenic train ride into the wilderness; once you’re a good two miles from civilization, the train crew will unhook the last car leaving you and your family to enjoy an evening in the woods. Each caboose is outfitted with a refrigerator, gas range and a restroom.

Cost: $275 for four people
315 Railroad Ave. (Elkins, Wv)
304-636-9477
Online: mountainrailwv.com

Photo: Massunutten Springs

Rock Tavern River Kamp
So, Junior has his mind set on a yurt. You won’t disappoint here, where the tiny, house-like tents can be found sprinkled on a picturesque Shenandoah Valley site. Booking a yurt stay here means you don’t have to sacrifice refrigerators, microwaves, coffee pots, toasters, comfortable bedding, propane gas grills, or even a picnic table. It’s all here!

Cost: $110/night
1912 Egyptian Bend Rd. (Luray, Va)
540-843-4232
Online: massanuttensprings.com

Photo: National Aquarium via Facebook

Sleepover at the National Aquarium
If a night under the stars sounds, well, too buggy, consider a night in an aquarium. It may not be camping in the truest sense of the word, but you will need your sleeping bag! There are two programs to choose from—cuddle up to the dolphins or rub noses with the sharks. The camping experience includes meals, a movie and a private tour. Participants must be at least 8 years old.

Where: Baltimore, Md
Cost: $120/per person
Online: aqua.org

Have you ever been klamping? Tell us about it in the comments section below. 

—Meghan Meyers and Ayren Jackson-Cannady