The 4 Best Glamping Spots in and Near Edmonton That’ll Make You Want to Camp Forever
I used to avoid camping altogether; bugs and I just don’t get along. But one weekend, my husband surprised me with what turned out to be one of the most unforgettable getaways of our marriage.
The magic? Glamping! I fell in love with the experience of staying in hotel-like tents, complete with cosy furniture, climate control, and all the amenities I could need—without sacrificing the beauty of nature.
If you prefer a little luxury in the great outdoors (like me), here are my top recommendations for the best glamping spots in and around Edmonton!
Elk Island Retreat
– Media from elkislandretreatcampground
Address: 54371 Range Rd 205, Fort Saskatchewan
Contact Details: +1 780 998 0708
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Friday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Rates: Starts at $229 per night
Just a little drive away from the city is Elk Island Retreat, one of my favourite glamping spots near Edmonton. One of the biggest highlights of this place is the spacious glamping geodomes that can fit couples and even small families.
You’ll find thoughtful amenities like a mini fridge, Nespresso machine, and ceiling fans. Outside, guests can enjoy a covered BBQ area, a picnic table, and a fire pit.
You can book a night here for just $229, which already includes the essentials and climate control inside your geodome.
Tips: For the best experience, schedule your stay during a new moon or peak Northern Lights season. Since the retreat is located within a dark sky preserve, you’ll be treated to breathtaking, unobstructed views of the night sky, free from the interference of city lights. Keep in mind that while you can book your stay online, check-in is only available during their designated office hours. Arrivals outside of those hours may not be accommodated. |
Refuge Bay
– Media from refuge_bay
Address: Range Rd 50, Lac Ste. Anne County
Contact Details: +1 780 717 9182
Check-In: 3:00 pm
Check-Out: 12:00 pm
Rates: Starts at $175 per night
Refuge Bay, as the name suggests, gives weary city people a place to just unwind, relax, and find sweet refuge under the stars a few miles away from the city. Here, guests can check in into geodesic domes equipped with massive infinity edge windows.
You can lounge inside the safe, cosy, and warm space of your dome while gazing out into the lush forest around you and the starry sky above. Plus, you also get access to the retreat’s wood-fired sauna, hot tub, and fire pit!
Tips: Note that rental fees apply if you wish to use the wood-fired hot tubs in the retreat. You can request to use it in advance during your booking, or ask the front desk upon arrival that you wish to use it during your stay. If you’re looking for other things to keep you occupied during your stay, the retreat offers a plethora of water and outdoor activities such as paddleboarding, snowshoeing, horseback riding, or even kayaking. Just indicate in your reservation what activities you plan to do! |
Obsidian Ridge
– Media from obsidianridge.oasis
Address: 20410 TWP RD 504, Beaver County
Contact Details: +1 780 803 7679
Check-In: 3:00 pm
Checkin-Out: 11:00 am
Rates: Starts at $250 per night
Obsidian Ridge, best known as a wedding venue, also offers glamping accommodations nestled in the scenic surroundings of Beaver County. Renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and picturesque views, it’s an ideal spot to unwind in nature’s beauty.
Their glamping tents and geodomes come fully equipped with air conditioning, coffee makers, showers, and spacious beds—everything you need for a comfortable and cosy retreat. Plus, you’ll wake up to countryside views right from the comfort of your bed!
Tips: If you want absolute peace and quiet, I recommend booking your glamping session outside the months of May to October. This is when the vicinity is mainly booked as a wedding venue, so you may be sharing some parts of the area with other guests. If you’re looking for absolute bliss, you can book the Premium Geo Dome that’s built with a Nordic sauna and cold dip tub! They can only accommodate couples at the moment, but it’s a great option to book if you’re planning a simple but relaxing escape with your significant other here. |
Secret Sanctuary Retreat
- Media from secret.sanctuary.retreat
Address: 463049, Range Rd 22, Westerose
Contact Details: +1 519 330 8477
Check-In: 3:00 pm
Checkin-Out: 11:00 am
Rates: Starts at $85 per night
Secret Sanctuary offers more than just glamping; it’s a place to recharge and reconnect.
Cosy geodesic domes with gas fireplaces make chilly nights feel magical, while wellness services like Reiki, chakra balancing, and mindset coaching add a restorative touch.
With rates starting at $85 per night, the retreat offers great value, featuring private toilets, kitchenettes, and tiny cabins with fireplaces. Plus, its near-off-grid operation ensures a sustainable, eco-friendly stay.
Tip: Some wildlife are known to pass by some of the glamping tents in the vicinity, so make sure to keep your tents closed and report to the management any wildlife sightings nearby. You don’t want llamas to say hello at your doorstep in the morning! |