Camping has never been considered a luxury vacation. Somehow, not showering, eating out of cans, and watching out for bears don’t compare to cruise voyages and nights in five-star hotels. With “glamping,” or glamorous camping, however, getting in touch with nature has taken on a new appeal.

As a vacation category, camping has taken off, and more and more people are booking spots at public and private campgrounds. To meet this demand, along with higher visitor expectations, many park managers are turning their properties into resort-like spaces, with food delivery, espresso bars, carnival booths and, in the case of NY’s Jellystone Park, water playgrounds. Accommodations also vary, from visitor-pitched tents and RV sites to air-conditioned cabins and lodges.

For those that prefer pampering in the highest form of comfort and luxury, outdoor adventure resorts are popping up in every corner of the globe, from Jordan to Chile to Switzerland. Visitors still sleep in canvas tents (albeit on cushy mattresses and fine linens) but enjoy daily excursions, fine food, and spa treatments.

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand
FourSeasons.com
If an once-in-a-lifetime experience is something you’re looking for, Four Seasons Golden Triangle is it. With only 15 tents in the midst of bamboo jungles, Four Seasons offers the ultimate in luxury and adventure. Explore the jungle while riding elephants or take the river boat excursions to meet local tribes during the day.

Banyan Tree Maldives Maldivaru, The Maldives
BanyanTree.com
This secluded resort is accessible only by seaplane and allows a maximum of 18 guests. Each villa has three canvas tents (for sleeping, living, and bathing). Campers can snorkel, dolphin watch, night fish, or simply enjoy the clear blue water.

Greystroke Mahale, Tanzania
Greystroke-Mahale.com
This Tanzanian camp, located in a secluded area on the edge of Lake Tanganyika (so secluded, there is no address), offers safari-like excursions in the tropical forest and kayaking in the lake. Accommodations are in luxurious thatched huts, all with sunset views.

El Capitan Canyon, Santa Barbara, California
ElCapitanCanyon.com
For a closer-to-home glamping experience, visit El Capitan Canyon, a resort nestled between the Pacific coast and forest. The wide range of activities covers all interest areas, from hiking to kayaking to horseback riding to yoga. Canvas safari tents and cedar cabins are both available.

With glamping, you don’t have to rough it to enjoy the great outdoors.