Golden Years of Glamping: Camping Vacations for Seniors

Who is this for?

Seniors who want to reconnect with nature in their golden years.


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A group of people are sitting around a campfire while a man plays a guitar.

As you reach retirement age, you may think that camping is behind you. After all, sleeping on the hard ground, scavenging for wood to build a fire, and lugging heavy jugs of water to a site in the woods isn’t as easy as it used to be. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up camping entirely. If you want to be close to nature, but aren’t up for the stress of traditional camping, try glamping– the perfect camping vacation for seniors looking to balance comfort and the outdoors. 

An elderly woman is holding two yellow flowers in front of her eyes.

Benefits of Nature for Retirees


As we age, we may trust our bodies less and less. Osteoporosis, arthritis,  incontinence, and poor eyesight are just some of the concerns many older adults have about venturing too far from home. Ironically, nature is the remedy for many of these problems.


It’s no secret that nature is good for you. Sunlight, fresh air, and moderate exercise work together to promote better physical, mental, and emotional health. One study found that spending time outdoors had a positive impact on self-reported functioning, depressive symptoms, and fear of falling in adults aged 65 and older. 


So, how do we balance the benefits of nature with safety for aging bodies? The easy answer is glamping.

A woman is holding a green umbrella while walking down stairs.

What is Glamping?


The word “glamping” is a portmanteau of “glamorous” and “camping”. And that’s exactly what it is– glamorous camping. Glamping is all about combining nature with comfort, making it the perfect way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors. 


The best thing about glamping is that it’s a personalized experience. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. Your trip can be as simple or as elaborate as you want, based on your needs and preferences. Here are some basic glamping levels to give you ideas.

Levels of Glamping



  • Rustic Glam: This is traditional camping with added accommodations. Instead of a primitive site in the woods, you may choose a nice campground with amenities like public bathrooms and showers, picnic tables, and firepits. You may also elevate your sleeping arrangements to cots or even an RV.


  • Classic Comfort: A step above camping, this is where glamping truly begins. Instead of sleeping outside or in a camper, you would stay in a cozy cabin that feels like home. Cabin basics would include a private bathroom, a kitchenette, electricity, and a real bed.


  • Luxury Experience: This is what puts the glamour in glamping. Going beyond comfort, we are headed straight for luxury. Think fully-furnished lodgings with king-sized beds and fresh linens. Enjoy upgraded amenities like hot tubs and saunas, climate control, and more.


A group of people are sitting around a campfire at night.
A group of elderly people are walking across a wooden bridge holding hands.

Glamping Activities for Seniors


Vacations are all about the experience, and most experiences require some level of activity. If you are camping during your vacation, you probably want some time away from the city. With that in mind, here are some activities that are perfect for glamping retirees. 

Reconnect with Nature


  • Forest Bathing: Forest bathing, or spending time with nature, is becoming more and more popular. The concept is simple: just spend some time in a green space, breathing in fresh air, and soaking in the sunlight.


  • Animal spotting: Bird-watching is a cliche retirement hobby, but you shouldn’t knock it until you try it. Animal spotting of all kinds is like a scavenger hunt for adults; it's a great mindfulness exercise and fun game.


  • Star-gazing: There’s something especially peaceful about the stars. Star-gazing domes offer the perfect comfortable way to enjoy the night sky, without hurting your back by lying on the ground. 



  • Get inspired: Many artists find their inspiration in nature. Pick up a paintbrush or a camera to capture the scenery, or pick up a pen and write. Let nature spark your creative fire.
A man with a beard and a backpack is hiking in the woods.
A man and a woman are practicing yoga in a park.

Stay Active


  • Hiking: Hiking is a great way to get some exercise outside. It doesn’t require any equipment (other than a good pair of shoes) and can be as relaxing or strenuous as you want, making it perfect for all mobility levels.


  • Skiing: Looking for some winter adventure? Skiing is a great sport for snow lovers everywhere. You can try some downhill or cross-country skiing to enjoy the winter landscapes.


  • Horseback riding: Seeing the country from horseback is a great way to cover longer distances while enjoying fresh air. Most stables offer guided tours with skilled instructors for all experience levels. 


  • Low Impact Exercise: Simply stretching or walking can do wonders for the mind and body. Just adding a little, low-impact movement to your day goes a long way!

Rest and Relax:


  • Meditation: Nature offers the perfect setting to clear your head. Set aside time to sit outside, listen to the birds singing, and think about nothing at all. 




  • Spa Day: Feeling indulgent? Schedule a pampering session at a nearby spa. Come back feeling relaxed and refreshed to enjoy the world around you. 
A wooden plate topped with a variety of chocolates and snacks on a wooden table.

Make the most of your golden years when you vacation at Back Forty Glamping in Meaford, Ontario! Our luxury glamping domes are the perfect accommodations for seniors seeking comfort close to nature. 


Our resort offers stunning views of forests or meadows, out of sight from other guests.  Each of our climate-controlled domes features King-sized beds, private bathrooms, hot tubs, and wi-fi.  Guests also have access to well-maintained walking paths and an on-site sauna. 


See what camping in your senior years should be when you book today!

Stay at Back Forty Glamping

About the Author

Alyssa

Meet Alyssa, co-founder of Back Forty. Alyssa enjoys the day to day behind the scenes work of Back Forty glamping. With strong attention to detail and organization, her roles include website design and maintenance as well as booking platform management and reservations. Married to co-founder, Ben, and with their 3 young kiddos in tow, each new day holds limitless fun to discover!