In search of a summer holiday, we sometimes feel that pull to escape, to chase something entirely different from our everyday routine. But what if the reset you’re craving isn’t hundreds of miles away? What if it’s right here, tucked into the folds of Central Oregon’s high desert? Before you pack for a road trip or a weekend at the Oregon coast, try retreating closer to home. Try glamping in Bend and Central Oregon.
There’s No Need to Escape When Central Oregon is Right Outside
Quiet Reprieve: Green Rock Retreat
Just 30 miles north of Bend, near Smith Rock State Park, lies Green Rock Retreat. This alcohol-free, off-grid sanctuary is designed for overnight stays for those seeking stillness and a reprieve from modern life. Some come alone while others find their way to Green Rock via facilitated events, such as the Oasis wellness retreat hosted by Where the Wilds Are in July, a men’s health intensive on Aug. 27 or the Soulwise gathering during the fall equinox on Sept. 10.
Luxury tents dot the 50-acre property, each with organic linen bedding, a private outdoor shower and a deck with expansive nature views. Many retreats at Green Rock observe “noble silence” through breakfast, prepared by a private, on-site chef. Days are often filled with hiking, yoga, art therapy, guided meditation, dips in a sacred splash pool, or visits to the on-site labyrinth and prayer trees. “There’s a vortex here, I swear. You can feel it,” said Nicole-Amanda, the steward of Green Rock Retreat.
A World Away: Lake Simtustus Resort
An hour’s drive from Bend, Lake Simtustus Resort is a sun-drenched high desert retreat untrammeled by the buzz and chaos of daily life. Once a humble fishing camp, the resort has evolved since 2018 into a boutique lakeside escape with not just RV rentals and hookups, but 15 upscale contemporary tiny homes, each with a private hot tub and deck overlooking the water.
The lake itself is a reservoir with 540 surface acres and plenty of water to enjoy the resort’s paddleboards, kayaks and pontoon boats. After playing on the water, guests can pop into the sauna or head to pickleball courts, a putting green or the resort’s tipi event space. Watersport rentals at Dockside are open to the public, too, so a day trip to Lake Simtustus can feel like traveling a world away with no plane ticket required.
A Local Hotel With Camp Vibes: Campfire Hotel
Campfire Hotel and Pool Club has what it takes to “camp” in comfort right in the center of Bend. The hotel, mere blocks from downtown, merges vintage Pacific Northwest style with rock ‘n’ roll soul for a lively, music-filled stay. Inspired by ‘60s and ‘70s motor lodges, cofounder Tod Breslau infused childhood road-trip nostalgia into this retro-modern, community-driven spot, and it shows. All 100 rooms have instruments such as guitars and mandolins. The property’s fire pit and heated saltwater pool serve as central hubs for live music, DJ pool parties and karaoke throughout the summer.
There’s no need for an overnight booking to enjoy Campfire’s amenities. Enjoy a Scouting vibe, complete with fishing poles and themed cocktails at its Canteen Bar. Splash into the heated pool or relax in the hot tub with a $20-per-day pass for the Campfire Pool Club. The 10-foot-wide fire pit is a setting for local music events with plenty of room for gathering, s’mores and singing along.
Tow and Go: Bivvi and 360Sierra
There’s no need to choose one destination when you can bring comfy accommodations with you. The mobile A-frame cabin developed by Sisters’ company Bivvi Camp offers a modern take on a tiny home. The name Bivvi comes from the word bivouac, a small shelter that can be packed and deployed in the wilderness. Find a favorite summer space (or expand accommodations in your own backyard), park and stay awhile.
Another Central Oregon company, 360Sierra, designed a fleet of ultra-light trailers to tow behind most cars, from Subarus to Sprinter vans. Hook up and have the combined experience of tent camping with the mobility of RVing. Maneuver it to park just about anywhere and glamp under the stars.
