Embark on an extraordinary escape where the rustic charm of camping meets the sophisticated comforts of a resort stay. Our recent adventure took us to the breathtaking San Juan Islands, where Lakedale Resort provided an unparalleled glamping experience. It was a journey into luxury camping that left us thoroughly refreshed and absolutely enchanted by the natural beauty and thoughtful hospitality.

Unforgettable Glamping in the San Juan Islands: A Lakedale Resort Experience

Are you curious about “glamping” and what makes it such a sought-after travel trend? Glamping, a delightful fusion of “glamorous” and “camping,” redefines the traditional outdoor experience. Imagine all the exhilarating joy and connection with nature that comes with camping, but without any of the usual inconveniences. Instead of wrestling with sleeping bags and air mattresses, you unwind in a sumptuous queen-size bed, guaranteeing a restful night’s sleep amidst the tranquil sounds of the wilderness.

Gone are the days of waking up with a stiff back, poked by unseen rocks beneath a thin foam pad. Glamping at Lakedale Resort transforms rustic nights into comfortable retreats, allowing you to fully embrace your adventure without sacrificing comfort. It’s an ideal solution for those who love the idea of the great outdoors but appreciate modern amenities and a touch of luxury. And yes, after experiencing it firsthand, I can wholeheartedly declare my love for glamping!

Our stay at Lakedale Resort was perfectly split between two distinct experiences. We began our San Juan Islands adventure in a charming two-bedroom cabin, which provided a cozy and luxurious base. The transition to a glamping tent for our second night was an exciting change, and admittedly, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Moving from a fully-equipped cabin to a tent in the woods might sound like a downgrade, but Lakedale Resort’s glamping tents are anything but ordinary. It was an absolutely spectacular shift that truly rocked our expectations.

The glamping tents at Lakedale Resort are meticulously appointed, ensuring you have every conceivable comfort for your stay. Stepping inside, we were greeted by a plush queen-size bed, adorned with crisp linens and inviting pillows, alongside a comfortable futon perfect for lounging or accommodating additional guests. The attention to detail extended to a thoughtful selection of amenities, including high-quality shampoo and conditioner, soft towels for showering, and extra blankets to ward off any evening chill. Essential outdoor items like a cooler, a lantern, and a flashlight were also provided, simplifying our packing list. Moreover, for a quintessential camping experience, our first night’s firewood and starter were ready and waiting, ensuring a hassle-free campfire.

This level of provision far exceeded my initial expectations. I had envisioned a more rustic setup, but Lakedale delivered a truly glamorous camping experience that instantly won me over. It wasn’t just a tent; it was a beautifully curated outdoor sanctuary, blending the thrill of nature with the ultimate in comfort and convenience. Each element seemed chosen to enhance our stay, proving that glamping can indeed be both adventurous and indulgent.

Lakedale Resort truly excels in anticipating every need of its glamping guests. The provision of shower supplies within our tent was just one example of their meticulous planning. The shared showers and bathrooms, impeccably maintained and always clean, were a short and pleasant walk from the glamping tents. This convenient setup ensured that even while immersed in nature, modern comforts were always easily accessible. The balance between rugged outdoor charm and essential amenities is perfectly struck, making for a truly relaxing stay.

I must confess, however, that one early morning walk to the bathroom turned into quite an adventure. At 4 AM, with the darkness still enveloping the resort, I bravely ventured out alone, reassured by the knowledge that the San Juan Islands are free from large, predatory animals. Usually, when traditional camping, I’d insist on my husband, John, accompanying me, just in case something “scary” lurked in the shadows. Yes, I openly admit to making him get out of bed for these nocturnal excursions! As I navigated the path, trying to fully wake up, avoid tripping, and maintain a quiet composure, a sudden, loud commotion erupted to my right. In that split second, my mind, fueled by sleepiness and a touch of irrational fear, jumped straight to thinking it was Big Foot. Don’t ask me why; it was an instantaneous, primal reaction!

For a moment, I stood frozen, hands instinctively raised as if caught in a mischievous act. The silence that followed felt deafening, amplifying my racing heartbeat. Then, much to my relief and eventual amusement, a graceful deer, affectionately resembling Bambi, gracefully bounded out from the bushes and darted across my path. The realization that my “Big Foot” encounter was, in fact, a gentle deer, brought a wave of relief and a hearty laugh later when I recounted the tale to John. His amusement, as you can imagine, was boundless. It was a charming, albeit slightly terrifying, reminder of the abundant wildlife that quietly coexists around the glamping tents.

Our glamping tent boasted a fantastic view of the serene lake, a picturesque backdrop for our relaxing escape. Inside, beyond the comfortable queen bed, a versatile futon offered extra seating, complemented by a small table and chairs. We found ourselves spending peaceful moments lounging on the futon, simply soaking in the tranquil vista, watching the light dance on the water, and enjoying the quietude of our surroundings. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the San Juan Islands, offering a private haven where nature’s beauty was always on display.

No glamping or camping experience is truly complete without the quintessential campfire and the joyous ritual of making s’mores. On our first night, John took charge of building a magnificent fire, effortlessly lit thanks to the generous supply of firewood, kindling, and paper provided by Lakedale Resort. It was a thoughtful touch that truly enhanced our initial evening, allowing us to immediately settle into the relaxed pace of glamping.

Should you require additional firewood or any other supplies throughout your stay, Lakedale Resort’s general store is fully stocked with everything you might need. They even offer pre-made s’mores kits, a fantastic convenience for those who might forget an ingredient or simply want to indulge without the fuss. Gathering around the crackling fire, under a canopy of stars, with the sweet scent of roasting marshmallows in the air, created unforgettable memories.

I must wholeheartedly admit that there’s nothing quite as satisfying as s’mores, still warm and gooey from the campfire. That perfect blend of toasted marshmallow, melted chocolate, and crisp graham cracker is an absolute delight. Enjoying these sweet treats while gazing out at the serene lake, soaking in the last rays of the sunset, was pure bliss. During our trip, I shamelessly indulged in more than just a couple of these delightful concoctions. After all, it was a vacation, and I firmly believe that calories don’t count when you’re immersed in such an incredible outdoor setting, watching the sun dip below the horizon.

One evening, after a full day of exploring the charming attractions of San Juan Island, we returned to our glamping tent to find a delightful surprise awaiting us on the steps. The thoughtful team at Lakedale Resorts had placed hot water bottles outside our tent, ready to be slipped under the blankets. This small but incredibly considerate gesture was designed to ensure our toes stayed perfectly warm and cozy throughout the night, adding an extra layer of comfort to our luxurious outdoor stay.

I was absolutely captivated by the thoughtful inclusion of hot water bottles from Lakedale Resort. This simple yet brilliant amenity elevated our glamping experience to a new level of comfort. The warmth they provided under the covers was so inviting that I even found myself kicking off the blankets at one point during the night, a testament to how effectively they worked. The next morning, to our delight, the hot water bottles were still wonderfully warm, proving their lasting comfort. This inspired me; I’m now seriously considering adopting this cozy practice at home during the colder winter months!

Mornings at Lakedale Resort’s glamping area were equally delightful, thanks to the dedicated “mess tent” set up specifically for breakfast. Here, friendly Lakedale Resorts staff were always on hand, ensuring every guest had everything they needed to start their day right. A particular highlight was the fantastic pancake machine. Watching it in action was almost as fun as eating the results: simply push a button, and out glides a couple of steaming hot, perfectly cooked pancakes directly onto your plate. It transformed breakfast into an interactive and thoroughly enjoyable experience, perfectly complementing the relaxed glamping atmosphere.

The breakfast tent truly offered a little bit of everything one could desire to fuel up for a day of island adventures. Guests could choose from a fresh array of seasonal fruits, perfectly hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost, and a convenient Keurig coffee maker for that essential morning brew. The spread also included freshly baked blueberry muffins, a variety of bagels, and a selection of cereals, ensuring there was something to satisfy every palate. It was a well-rounded and delicious start to each day, all enjoyed in the friendly, communal setting of the glamping mess tent.

One of my personal highlights was enjoying a warm bowl of oatmeal, customized with my favorite toppings, all while relaxing during breakfast. This simple pleasure, combined with the fresh air and anticipation of another day on the island, made each morning feel special. Our glamping experience at Lakedale Resort was truly exceptional – an adventure we often look back on with smiles and fond memories. For anyone dreaming of a unique blend of nature and luxury in the Pacific Northwest, Lakedale Resort comes highly recommended. You can explore more about their offerings on their official website or their Facebook page.

Explore the San Juan Islands: Recommended Tours & Activities

Beyond the comfort of your glamping tent, the San Juan Islands offer a wealth of activities. Enhance your stay with these incredible local tours:

• Whale Watching from Friday Harbor – An absolute must-do for wildlife enthusiasts, offering one of the best chances to spot majestic whales in their natural habitat.
• Lime Kiln Half-Day Kayak Tour – Paddle through the federally designated Whale Sanctuary on the west side of San Juan Island during this immersive 4-hour kayak adventure.
• Lime Kiln Lighthouse Guided E-Bike Tour – Enjoy a leisurely 3-hour guided e-bike trip, perfect for families looking to explore the island’s scenic routes and iconic lighthouse.
• Friday Harbor Full Day Kayak Tour – This family-friendly kayaking expedition explores the beautiful surroundings of Friday Harbor and includes a delicious picnic lunch.
• Bioluminescence Kayak Tour – A truly magical and bucket-list worthy experience where you’ll witness the glowing marine life under the night sky.

Discover even more options for adventure and exploration by checking out all the available San Juan Islands Tours!

Further Washington State Travel Inspiration

If you’re planning more adventures in the Evergreen State, consider these helpful travel guides:

• San Juan Island National Historical Park: A Journey Through History
• Essential Camping Tips & Gear from a Park Ranger
• Top Things to Do in Leavenworth, WA: Your Bavarian Getaway
• Discover Icicle Ridge Winery in Leavenworth, Washington
• Preparing for an Alaska Cruise from Seattle
• Free Activities and Attractions in Seattle

And if your travels take you south towards Portland, Oregon, make sure not to miss a visit to the world-famous Multnomah Falls and Hood River Farm Tour.

For more travel ideas and detailed guides, explore all of our Washington Travel Guides.

Note: Our stay at Lakedale Resort was provided courtesy of the resort. All opinions and experiences shared in this article are authentically our own.