Autocamp Russian River Glamping Experience
Is Autocamp in Guerneville open? YES!
A few weeks back, we had the opportunity to check out Autocamp in the Russian River. Autocamp is an outdoor luxury camping experience with two US locations in Sonoma County and Yosemite. The grounds are lined with several Airstream trailers and a handful of canvas glamping tents. If you’re not familiar with the term “glamping,” consider it a luxurious way of the campaign. Autocamp has been on my travel list for a while, so when we finally found a time to book, we took full advantage of it!
Even just an overnight stay was enough to convince us that another more extended trip was needed. While there were a few minor hiccups, the experience was well worth the price and was a unique way to experience Guerneville and the Russian River area. At just over $300* a night, some might find the stay a bit pricey, but in all honesty, I’d consider this reasonable for Sonoma county! What you get in a stay at Autocamp that you don’t at other hotels is the experience and overall mix of luxury and leisure.
*prices may vary depending on season!
What to pack for Autocamp Russian River?
This was one question I could NOT find directly answered online, “what do I pack when traveling to Autocamp?” I’ll be honest when I say I’m not an avid camper. I don’t particularly like roughing it, but do like spending time outdoors. That being said, glamping is the perfect solution for someone like me! Autocamp has several different room options available, from the fully-stocked Airstream to the classic outdoor canvas tent. We opted to select the Airstream for our stay, and we’re pleasantly surprised by how much was provided*. The Airstreams are modern, beautiful, and very luxurious!
* Certain amenities listed on Autocamp website have since been changed or removed due to COVID19 orders. If you’re thinking about booking and wondering about these changes, I’d suggest calling the front desk for guidance!
COOKING
Match Light Instant Charcoal Briquettes (matches in the airstream!)
no wood burning is permitted!Tin Foil ( comes in handy if cooking veggies over coals)
Butter, Oil
Salt & Pepper
Spices (if needed)
Small Plastic container for Leftovers
Food
WATER
I’d suggest purchasing a few gallon jugs before your visit.Alcohol (much cheaper to buy outside of Autocamp.)
Skewers For Hotdogs or S’mores
Insulated Glass (great for drinks!)
clothing / ACCESSORIES / BATH
Sweatshirt / Sweats for cooler evenings and mornings
Cooler Weather Pajamas
Airstream can get chilly at nightPhone Charger
Bug Spray
Sunscreen
Reusable Water Bottle
Playing Cards, Football, Games, etc
we made the mistake of forgetting cards..the ones in the shop are $14!Flip-flops (if staying in Canvas tent) for showers
Caddy Bag for Bath Accessories (if staying in Canvas tent)
Backpack or tote (for hiking for River)
Is Autocamp Kid Friendly?
It depends on who you ask! Honestly, after reading many of the reviews on yelp, I agree with most. It isn’t overly “kid-friendly.” While you can bring your children along, there aren’t a ton of activities available for them. Outside of using their imagination or heading down to Johnson’s Beach, most kids hang out on the property. Having a little one of our own (and also having a ton of children in our family), I know that sometimes not being able to bring your child isn’t an option.
But, if it is, do go you and your partner (or friends!) It just so happened that we were able to head out on an overnighter while my parents watched Evie. Autocamp isn’t cheap, so when we went, we expected to experience a relaxing and somewhat chilly environment. Not the case. Children surrounded us, again, don’t read into this like we’re anti-kids. We LOVE kids - just not when we’re on our first vacation in over a year. It felt like most parents who did bring their kids along we’re letting them run wild.
Several times kids came into our camp area or randomly walked through the privacy bushes. In all honestly, that bit was annoying. I’m all for letting kids do their thing, run amuck, and enjoy the outdoors - make sure their not bugging people who paid $$$ to enjoy some kid-free time. My argument may be more so towards the parents who didn’t feel like watching their kids, but I digress.
What is there to do at Autocamp?
This time of year (summer), there is typically a TON of things to do in and around Guerneville! Everything from where to wine taste to where to swim is shared in this Guerneville post from last season. Since Covid-19, there are many stringent rules in place for the safety of the residents, so many of the restaurants and even public access to the beaches were closed. This may evolve as restrictions relax, and more of California opens up. If you’re planning on going while COVID orders are still holding steady, I’d plan on sticking around Autocamp and relaxing!
Happy Travels,
Kelly
Several press images have been used throughout this article!
