Camping! Glamping! What’s the difference?

There are some similarities, but a world of difference between the two.

Camping

On a September 2024 drive across Nebraska Route 2 we overnighted in our small tent in the Bessey area of the Nebraska National Forest. Out of the trunk, we hauled our sleeping bags and pads, tent, camp stove, dehydrated food, and lantern. Soon camp was set up. As daylight dimmed, we cooked dinner on a picnic table near our tent. We were CAMPING.

Marion dropped Rich off in Lincoln the next day and continued home. Rich and Cedar Rapids friend, Kurt, joined a group of bicyclists on a multi-day ride on two Nebraska trails.

Glamping

Three days after camping in the national forest, Rich and Kurt carried their small suitcases into a “tent” at Ashland Glamping between Lincoln and Omaha. Their “tent” was a large luxurious geodesic dome that included a full kitchen, a bedroom downstairs with another in the loft, a patio overlooking a small lake, and a restroom and shower. There was nothing to set up. It was comfortable and ready for a pleasant and comfortable stay. They were GLAMPING. 

Glamping is a somewhat new word that means glamorous camping. It is fun and far closer to overnighting in a full-service hotel than a rustic campsite. Glamping locations worldwide could include lodging in a tree house, yurt, or amazing cabin.   Staying in one is likely costly but is a unique and fun experience.

Find Glamping Sites

Click for a way to find a glamping location. Here is Ashland Glamping’s website.
It’s just off Interstate 80 in Eastern Nebraska and is a quick drive to either Lincoln or Omaha.