A few weeks back, we shared the top places in Northern California to get your glamping on. Well, it turns out, we may just be able to add Angel Island to that list.
Glamping, or glamour camping, has seen an uptick in popularity as vacationers tend to want some luxuries even when escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life by heading to the wilderness.
The state Department of Parks and Recreation is heeding the call, having identified 750 potential sites is 51 different parks across California where they plan to build cabins. One such location is San Francisco's own Angel Island where thirteen cabins are slated for construction.
Though definitely not the Waldorf Astoria, the cabins are 216 to 290 square feet, sleep 5 to 8 people and offer beds, covered decks and some even provide wireless service and cell phone charging stations for this who want to unwind without unplugging. The other interesting option some locations may offer are discounted rides via Uber or Lyft.
These upgraded camping facilities appeal not only to seasoned campers who are tired of hauling all the camping gear, setting up a tent and sleeping on the ground but also Millennials, who are reluctant to leave technology and creature comforts behind. They want to 'escape' but still be connected and have the basic amenities of home.
Surveys have shown that the allure of tent camping has declined over the years and by offering alternatives, state parks are hoping to appeal to those who wouldn't stay in a tent to visit the state's various parks. The low cost of cabins as well as the freedom from having to own, store and haul camping equipment is something these surveys have found to be of interest to many who just don't want to 'rough it'.
California park officials worked closely with architecture students at Cal Poly Pomona to design 'wedge' cabins with a slanted roof that appeal to the younger generation. They are prefabricated and have a rustic yet modern, airy feel. Constructed off-site and transported to any location for 'installation,' each cabin costs about $25,000 and will cost about $100 per night to 'rent'.
The thirteen cabins planned for Angel Island's north shore won't include electricity but will provide much more protection from the fog and wind and will offer a getaway, outdoor experience with a bit more glamp than camp.
