Although I grew up camping, it turns out I was actually born for something else … glamping. For a long time I believed I was an outcast. After all, I haven’t met many other native Oregonians who revile camping. Given the increased options for glamping in the Pacific Northwest, I’m realizing there are others like me out there.
Glamping is defined as “a form of camping involving accommodation and facilities more luxurious than those associated with traditional camping.”
Skamania Lodge, in Stevenson, Washington makes such a thing easy, with several newly built safari-style glamping tents. Situated in the middle of the forest, the setting feels rustic, but the accommodations are decisively modern.
What’s it like to glamp at Skamania Lodge? In a word, lovely.
Glamping Tents at Skamania Lodge
Each tent is spacious and set up with everything you need for a cozy stay. Sleeping tents have either one king or two queen beds. The tents have lounge chairs and coffee table. Other amenities include a Smeg mini-fridge, a microwave, a Nespresso machine, and a hot water kettle. You’ll also find a hot chocolate bar and a s’mores kit.
Each glamping site has private bathroom facilities. A luxurious bathtub, as well as a shower and toilet, are located in a smaller, separate tent.
On the large deck outside, chairs and a couch surround the gas fire pit.
We liked the extra attention to detail in things like lanterns for bedside lamps, a flashlight for walking around at night, cozy robes and slippers, and a stack of board games.
Take a photo tour of the glamping tents at Skamania Lodge by clicking though this slideshow:
We got the full Pacific Northwest glamping experience, as our visit took place on a chilly, rainy night. Fortunately, the wood-framed tents are waterproof and sit on platforms. We fell asleep to the pitter-patter of rain hitting the roof, but we didn’t get wet or cold. The heated mattresses were so effective that we didn’t need to use the space heater during the night.
The tents range in price from approximately $500 on a weekday to over a $1000 on summer weekends. Yes, the cost is considerably more than your average campsite, but no gear (or effort) is required for a great getaway and your stay won’t be ruined by rain.
As of now, the tents are available May through October, but that could change based on demand and weather conditions.
Treehouses at Skamania Lodge
The glamping tents are located within Skamania Lodge’s Treehouse Village. If you want to upgrade from a tent, we highly recommend that you reserve a treehouse. The treehouses opened in 2020, and are a whole different level of luxury. Check out our review of the treehouses.
Dining at Skamania Lodge
Whether you book a tent, treehouse, or a traditional hotel room, Skamania Lodge has an array of amenities for an enjoyable stay.
There are two restaurants inside the lodge, Cascade Dining Room and River Rock. Both have great food, craft cocktails and gorgeous views of the Columbia River Gorge. Look for special nights like “Taco Tuesday,” “Wing Wednesday” and the popular “Prime Rib Night” on Fridays and Saturdays.
If you want to venture out for a meal, the lodge is just a few minutes from downtown Stevenson, Washington and across the bridge from Cascade Locks, Oregon. Both towns have a variety of restaurants.
Activities at Skamania Lodge
As for activities on property, there’s an expansive fitness trail system. Golfing is an option, too. Skamania Lodge has The Gorge 9 which is a nine-hole short course, an 18-hole family-friendly putting course, and a disc golf course, too.
If you want more adventure, take the zipline tour. It has seven zip lines and three sky bridges. We’ve done it! It’s fun. You can practice your tree ninja skills at the Aerial Park which has 19 platforms and 22 elements. Or go full lumberjack with axe-throwing.
The resort has an indoor pool and hot tub, as well as a sprawling outdoor hot tub. Saunas are located in each locker room.
Skamania Lodge is located about 45-minutes east of Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington.
[ Related: Girls’ Getaway in Hood River, Oregon ]
