8 Unbelievable Beautiful Glamping Spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Note: Advertising is how we keep this site free for you to enjoy, and we earn a commission from affiliate links that may be included in this post. Thank you for supporting Back Road Ramblers!

treehouse yurt hipcamp
Virginia glamping at its very best! Photo credit: Hipcamp

Far-reaching mountain vistas, hidden waterfalls, and a perfect mix of outdoor activities and cultural attractions in the Appalachian Mountains.

It’s time to drop everything and start planning your trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina.

Sunset from Cowee Mountains Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina
Sunset from Cowee Mountains Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina

Over 15 million people drive the Blue Ridge Parkway each year, making it America’s favorite road trip.

Along its 469-mile stretch through the mountains of Virginia and North Carolina, you will find abundant natural beauty and ways to enjoy it.

There are waterfall hikes, roadside vistas, cool historic sites, sprawling vineyards, and adorable mountain towns. You’ll hear mountain music wherever you go, and you can pitch your tent at one of nine campgrounds along the way.

Wait, what’s that you’re telling me?

Aren’t you interested in roughing it while embarking on America’s favorite drive? No worries! We’ve got another solution for you.

A Blue Ridge Parkway glamping road trip! 

There is incredible glamping in North Carolina and Virginia, and we’ve discovered some of the most gorgeous places to spend the night while exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Read Next: 7 Incredible Things to Do on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Most Incredible Glamping Near the Blue Ridge Parkway

Now that you’ve decided that you simply must plan a glamping trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway, here are some of the best glamping spots we’ve found in both Virginia and North Carolina. 

We will start north in Virginia and work our way south along the Parkway.

Tiny Cabin Rentals in Roanoke, Virginia

Sleeps: 4-6
Dogs: Some cabins are dog-friendly
Cost: $65+

Tiny cabins for rent in Roanoke, Virginia at Explore Park.
Tiny cabin at Explore Park in Roanoke, Virginia

If you want a glamping destination convenient to Roanoke, Virginia, one of our favorite spots is Explore Park off the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Because Roanoke is one of the major urban areas along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, its gritty charm has never been much of a secret, but in recent years, it has morphed into a renowned destination for young professionals, outdoor-loving families, and retirees.

Spend a few days glamping in Roanoke, so you have time to explore.

Outdoor lovers will be excited to learn that there are 55 parks within the city limits, eight recreation centers, five public plazas, two public pools, and two dog parks.

We’ve got a separate article about our favorite parks in Roanoke, Virginia, as well as the best things to do in Roanoke, indoors and out.

Explore Park was one of the highlights of my visit to Virginia’s Blue Ridge. The park encompasses more than 1,000 acres right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 115. It is managed by the Roanoke County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism.

Roanoke County is working with a variety of vendors to provide all kinds of cool recreation opportunities, including tubing, aerial obstacles, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and both rustic camping and luxurious glamping.

The cabins in Explore Park are tiny and so cute, with two beds and a little kitchenette. There’s also an outdoor picnic table and fire pit, plus a clean, spacious bathhouse. This makes a great home base for all of your explorations in and around Roanoke.

What we love about this Virginia glamping spot: Hiking, mountain biking, tubing, and ziplining without ever leaving Explore Park!

Explore Roanoke, Virginia

Give yourself a few days to explore this beautiful part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll find lots to do in Explore Park, where you’re staying. You can even relax at Twin Creeks Brewpub right inside the park. Be sure to visit the farmers’ market in downtown Roanoke, the Virginia Museum of Transportation, Black Dog Salvage, and the iconic Roanoke Star.


Secluded Glamping Cabin Near Roanoke, Virginia

Sleeps: 2
Dogs: Sometimes
Cost: $65+

A cabin available for rent near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Roanoke, Virginia. Photo credit: Hipcamp
Pond Haven near Roanoke, Virginia. Photo credit: Hipcamp

Because we adore Roanoke, we wanted to offer you another glamping option nearby. Pond Haven is rustic and charming in the best possible way.

The cabin is a 16 x 16 screened room with a front porch for relaxing. Pond Haven has no electricity or running water but does offer a composting toilet, drinking water, and a single-burner propane stove. Glampers enjoy a comfortable double bed with clean sheets — perfect for those who don’t mind being off-grid for a night or two.

The cabin is nestled at the end of a short street within walking or biking distance of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Pets are not considered on a case-by-case basis.

What we love about this Virginia glamping spot: The beautifully rustic interior of the cabin.


Read Next: 8 Perfect Things to Do in Roanoke, Virginia


Beautiful Yurt with a Hot Tub in Fancy Gap, Virginia

Sleeps: 3
Dogs: Yes
Cost: $130+

This beautiful yurt is just two miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway in Piper Gap, Virginia. The biggest draw here is the quirky indoor and outdoor space, not to mention the outdoor hot tub!

There are hammocks, a propane fire pit, and furniture on the lower deck, plus a hot tub on the upper deck. A huge soaking tub and tiled walk-in shower indoors mean you can pick the relaxation method that suits you best.

The yurt has heat and AC, plus a cozy propane fireplace to take off the chill. There’s a full kitchen and room for three, although I think it’s best suited for couples.

Nearby hiking includes Devil’s Den (3 miles away), Cumberland Knob, Buffalo Mountain, and New River Trail. Be sure to check out the nearby wineries, including Iron Heart, Chateau Morrisette, and Villa Appalachia.

What we love about this Virginia glamping retreat: The outdoor space, including the fire pit and hot tub.

Explore Fancy Gap, Virginia

There is a lot to do in this area, so give yourself a couple of days if you can. Devil’s Den Nature Preserve surrounds a  600-million-year-old cave and a beautiful trail system. The famous Blue Ridge Music Center is nine miles away, and Chateau Morrisette Winery is a pet-friendly winery in nearby Floyd.


Unique Treehouse on 72 Acres in Jefferson, North Carolina

Sleeps: 6
Dogs: Yes
Cost: $225+

A treehouse for rent on VRBO in Jefferson, North Carolina. Photo credit: VRBO
Gorgeous North Carolina treehouse. Photo credit: VRBO

Have you always wanted to live in a treehouse?

This one-of-a-kind North Carolina glamping experience is just what you need to relive those childhood dreams! This treehouse is an adventure for the senses, full of unique nooks and creative artistry.

Luxurious amenities include a clawfoot bathtub, a cozy woodstove, a full kitchen, and a beautiful balcony.

The treehouse is on a mountain farm with friendly animals that will appeal to kids and animal lovers of all ages.

There is hiking on the property, and New River State Park is just a short drive from the treehouse.

This is truly one of the most unique glamping destinations you’ll ever experience! The treehouse is recommended for children over 10, and pets are permitted too.

What we love about this North Carolina glamping spot: It’s a treehouse – what’s not to love?

Explore Jefferson County, North Carolina

The New River was named a National Wild and Scenic River in 1976, and it wildly winds through some of the best North Carolina mountain scenery.

Be sure to check out New River State Park. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, or tubes at Zaloo’s Canoes for a full-day river adventure.


North Carolina Glamping Near Blowing Rock

Sleeps: 8
Dogs: Yes
Cost: $105+

A glamping tent in Apple Ridge, North Carolina. Photo credit: VRBO
This glamping tent sleeps 8! Photo credit: VRBO

Located in Apple Ridge, North Carolina, this awesome glamping tent is perfect for a whole family, including the family dog.

The glamping tent includes beds for up to eight people, an indoor and outdoor sitting area, a composting toilet, and an outdoor kitchen Pavillion.

Right next to the glamping tent is a lovely patio with a fire pit and a small creek for cooling off, and it’s located on 22 acres of woodland, just a few miles from downtown Blowing Rock.

What we love about this North Carolina glamping spot: It feels very secluded but is close to Blowing Rock attractions.

Explore Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Blowing Rock is a small mountain town with unique shops and restaurants. It’s also close to historic sites on the Blue Ridge Parkway, like Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and The Blowing Rock, North Carolina’s first tourist attraction.

We spent a lot of time in Blowing R with our dog a few years ago and wrote an article about dog-friendly attractions in Blowing Rock.


1800s Log Cabin in Black Mountain, North Carolina

Sleeps: 4
Dogs: Yes
Cost: $120+

A log cabin you can rent for a North Carolina glamping trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo credit: VRBO
Stay in this rebuilt cabin from 1814. Photo credit: VRBO

The following few North Carolina glamping properties are all within a short drive of Asheville, which is one of the most popular destinations on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

This authentic log cabin is located in Black Mountain, just 20 minutes from Asheville. The cabin is beautifully furnished with a loft bedroom and two futons to comfortably sleep four people.

There is a small kitchenette, a woodstove to keep things warm and cozy, and the perfect rocking chair porch.

The cabin, combined with a few other fantastic vacation rentals, is located on 90 wooded acres near Lake Eden.

Some of the tallest mountains east of the Rockies tower in the distance. This gorgeous property makes a great home base for exploring Black Mountain and Asheville. Pets are permitted with advance approval and an additional fee.

What we love about this North Carolina glamping spot: Staying in the cabin is like stepping back in time!

Explore Black Mountain, North Carolina

This spot is about 12 miles from Asheville, which could keep you busy for many days!

If you want to explore more locally, check out the Black Mountain Center for the Arts, where you’ll find great exhibits and events. If you get a chance, grab some take-out from Cousins Cuban Cafe. What a treat!


Romantic Yurt with a Hot Tub in Asheville, North Carolina

Sleeps: 2
Dogs: No
Cost: $120+

A beautiful yurt available for rent in Asheville, NC for your glamping trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo credit: VRBO
A lovely spot for fall colors! Photo credit: VRBO

We love yurt glamping, and this beautiful little yurt is perfect for a romantic getaway to one of North Carolina’s most lovely areas.

This yurt is tucked away in the woods and feels very secluded, but in reality, you’re just a few minutes away from shopping, restaurants, and the Blue Ridge Parkway, and just 20 minutes from the Biltmore Estate and downtown Asheville.

The yurt is perfect for two people and features Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a hot tub, a full bathroom, and a small kitchen. The deck is perfect for enjoying your morning coffee, and the Mountains to Sea Trail is just a five-minute walk from the yurt. Pets are not permitted at this property.

What we love about this North Carolina glamping spot: The location is very convenient to Asheville!

Exploring Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is one of those cities that you will want to take some time to explore properly.

Not only is it a foodie paradise, but it’s also home to some of the state’s best breweries, cultural attractions, waterfalls, and hiking. We recommend exploring the downtown area, visiting the North Carolina Arboretum and the Craggy Gardens Trail off the Blue Ridge Parkway.


Glamping on a Private Island in Alexander, North Carolina

Sleeps: 2
Dogs: Yes
Cost: $145+

A secluded island cabin you can rent in North Carolina near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Photo credit: VRBO
Riverfront glamping in North Carolina. Photo credit: VRBO

This unique private island can be yours for a night or longer when you book this lovely little cabin on the river in Alexander, North Carolina.

This tiny house is located on the French Broad River and is perfect for up to three people. While the cabin is private and secluded, it’s just 25 minutes from downtown Asheville.

This rustic cabin features one room and a modified bathroom – perfect for anyone who just wants to get away from it all.

You have everything you need for a rustic vacation, including a queen-size bed, a small kitchen area, an outdoor shower, a gas grill, and a fire pit. Dogs are permitted for an extra fee.

What we love about this North Carolina glamping spot: Swimming in the river and total privacy!

Explore Alexander, North Carolina

Alexander is close enough to Asheville to take advantage of all that the city has to offer, but most people rent this island getaway to, well, get away!

There are tubes at the rental that you can use for floating, but the river does move fast, so caution is advised. If you want to practice your kayaking skills, visit Ledges Whitewater River Park, where you can also hike or picnic near the river.



Follow us on social media for more glamping ideas!

Read These Next!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *