Recently I wrote a post about glamping and it’s rising popularity. It’s definitely a future plan of ours, particularly after our fantastic time in Tanzania. Funnily enough, the Chief Revenue Officer for Under Canvas lives 3 blocks from me! We got together to discuss the corporation and why I think family travel with Under Canvas is so fantastic.

Under Canvas grew gradually. A high end hunting camp in Northern Montana turned into a larger idea of accessing the outdoors in a really comfortable and unique way.  A night under the stars combined with king size beds, wood burning stoves, and running water in-tent was the best way to achieve that vision, according to Merritt Hopper, Chief Revenue Officer.  That, plus having a true quest to drive environmental awareness and low impact on land, while utilizing resources at your fingertips every day (rechargeable batteries for lanterns, pull chains for water, solar power for lighting, etc.).

2012 debuted the first camp (in Yellowstone) and things snowballed from there.  Under Canvas now has seven camps – Grand Canyon, Moab, Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, Zion, Smokey Mountains and, just recently, Mount Rushmore!

I specifically wanted to know where the inspiration came from because I saw so many similarities with African bush camps and I truly think the whole concept is a unique idea. Merritt confirmed the inspiration for the design of the actual tents came from the experience one might have in a tent on a high-end luxury African safari, like we did this past November.  The bigger overall inspiration for Under Canvas came from the Founders (Jake and Sarah Dusek), and now, all 250+ employees, wanting to do their part in making the world a better place. Under Canvas is genuinely concerned with the environment.  When you recycle, pick up trash off the ground, and stay mindful about your energy output, you’re chipping away at playing a role in being more mindful about the environment, according to the Under Canvas founders. They take that mentality to a whole new level, utilizing 79% less water than the standard hotel, among other things.

Under Canvas is a unique Glamping opportunity as all camps are directly adjacent to some of the United States greatest National Parks!  Whether it be Glacier, Yellowstone, Arches, Canyonlands, Zion, the Blackhills and Badlands, Grand Canyon, or the Great Smoky Mountains, your Glamping experience is steps from some of the most beautiful landscapes the country has to offer. And, honestly the beauty of these tents is unparalleled. Beautiful beds, gorgeous bathrooms, unique furnishings and decor. The list goes on and on.

Currently, they’re in a very big growth phase. Glamping has become super popular…. connecting with nature and one another outdoors, and travel enthusiasts are craving this type of experience.  For that reason, they plan to open up next to several other National Parks. They also plan to situate themselves in locations that are simply fantastic travel destinations. Merritt tells me to look forward to 2019 and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.

Everyone has heard me extoll the virtues of a safari for a Family Travel experience and I love that we can do something similar here in the States. Out of all the glamping spots here, family travel with Under Canvas seems like the most obvious because they not only have tents, they have packages that include activities. They really stress a combination of relaxation combined with adventure. And so many different locations give a family so many different choices! Going to Zion? How does a beautiful tent, 3 days of breakfast, lunch and dinner, a day of Canyoneering and a guided hike sound? Under Canvas can do it. Yellowstone? Accommodations, food and drink, a day in Yellowstone, whitewater rafting and kayaking. The possibilities are endless. Generally, 3 nights at minimum is best to experience the area.

Interested in glamping with Under Canvas and their amazing locations? Contact me here and I can help you navigate everything. I have the inside scoop and connections there to help you plan the perfect vacation