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AutoCamp Thinks You’d Rather Camp in an Airstream. Are They Right?

AutoCamp Thinks You’d Rather Camp in an Airstream. Are They Right?

AutoCamp is betting that you want to camp in an Airstream. They also think you might like to skip the towing and setup part. When you book with AutoCamp, you get the Instagrammable Airstream RV trip to an awesome destination without all the pre-work and costs involved with RV ownership. Sound good to you?

Let’s take a closer look at what AutoCamp is and what it provides. It might just be your answer!

What Is AutoCamp?

AutoCamp is a company that provides camping in awe-inspiring locations in America. Their goal is to break down barriers that would keep people from enjoying the outdoors due to a lack of proper equipment. No RV, tow vehicle, or RV sewer hose is required.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or trying it for the first time, AutoCamp provides everything you need to enjoy your camping experience. You can book a reservation at Asheville, Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Russian River, Cape Cod, Catskills, Sequoia, and Zion.

Autocamp Zion | Inside a LUXURY AIRSTREAM Glamping Resort

Accommodations include either an Airstream suite or a luxurious glamping tent, depending on location. For example, AutoCamp Joshua Tree provides Airstream suites only, whereas AutoCamp Yosemite provides both suites and tents as well as cabins. Inside each suite, you’ll find all the basics — cookware, towels, linens, a fire pit, etc.

Each AutoCamp location includes Wi-Fi. AutoCamp also welcomes all ages (including children) as well as pets. There’s a pet fee of $75 per dog, with a 2-dog, 80-lb maximum.

Want a romantic escape? You can book a few nights at AutoCamp Russian River and drive about 20 minutes to visit Iron Horse Vineyard. Looking for a family adventure? Check out AutoCamp Cape Cod, which is less than 15 minutes from the Woods Hole Science Aquarium. 

Pro Tip: Pets are welcome in AutoCamp for a small fee, but if you’re looking elsewhere this is How to Find Pet-Friendly RV Rentals.

Airstream at campsite.
Enjoy awe-inspiring locations around America with AutoCamp.

The Benefits of AutoCamp Airstreams

The main benefit of AutoCamp Airstream camping is its convenience. You don’t have to spend money on an expensive Airstream to enjoy an Airstream suite experience. Just show up with your suitcase and personal items. You can pack light because they provide all of the basic supplies, like towels, cookware, fire pits, and grills. All the Airstream suites are 31 feet long and can accommodate 1-3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. They all have air conditioning and heating to keep you all cozy.

Also, for travelers who like to plan, you can make reservations 12 months in advance. If you’re considering a special event or planning a wedding, you can book even further out.

The locations are stunning. You can enjoy an ocean view as you sip coffee or wine from the Cape Cod Clubhouse or relax by your own campfire surrounded by Joshua Tree National Park. Sometimes it’s difficult to find campgrounds in these locations because of how full area campgrounds are. AutoCamp makes it easy to find, book, and enjoy a stay in one of these beautiful locations.

Pro Tip: Spend a day exploring Joshua Tree with our ultimate guide on all things Joshua Tree National Park.

Family around campfire in front of airstream.
From Cape Cod to Joshua Tree, AutoCamp gives you stunning campsites and cozy RVs.

The Disadvantages of AutoCamp

You’re limited to their accommodations and amenities. If you like vacationing with your things in your own space, you’d be better off with an RV.

The Airstreams offered at AutoCamp also have been modified for a mid-century modern look and feel. They’ve also removed some of the typical RV perks, like a stove and oven, forcing guests to opt for a food package or dine out during their stay.

It’s also more on the pricey side. You could spend $369 per night or more, depending on the season and location. You’re paying for luxury accommodations, but it might be more than you’re willing to spend on a camping vacation. At this price you do not get daily housekeeping as you would at a hotel, but mid-stay services are available for an additional fee.

While pet-friendly, AutoCamp does not allow you to leave your dog unattended in the accommodation at any time during your stay – no exceptions. This means they’ll be coming with you whether you go to dinner or to a National Park (which typically doesn’t allow pets on trails).

Availability is also limited. This is true for any campground, but it’s especially true for AutoCamp locations because of their popularity. Because of this, they offer two club packages that offer “first access” for additional fees on top of your stay.

AutoCamp does not let you bring your own RV or tent to one of their locations, so the accommodations are limited to the space you rent.

Airstream campsite in desert.
AutoCamp can be expensive depending on the season and availability.

What Is the Difference Between Classic, Premium, and Vista Airstream AutoCamp?

While perusing the Autocamp offerings, you’ll notice that they have three levels of Airstream Suites available: Classic, Premium, and Vista. These all have to do with location in the park and therefore the level of seclusion and views. Classic suites are closer to the Clubhouse and have less outdoor space and privacy. You’ll find the Premium suites further back in the park with larger, more natural sites, and the Vista suites will have the best views. Expect to pay an additional $30-40/night for each upgraded level for these prime sites.

Pro Tip: If you like the look of an Airstream, check out this article on Avion Trailers & Truck Campers: Embracing Retro Style.

What Do You Need for AutoCamp

If you plan on cooking, you’ll need to provide your own food. You may even want to bring your own cooler just to make sure you have enough food storage. Small spaces mean tiny refrigerators. Most Airstream suites also don’t have a stovetop, so you’ll want to bring a camping stove.

Beyond that, pack clothes for the weather and your planned activities. Don’t forget the bug spray and sunscreen as well.

AutoCamp campsite with airstream.
Enjoy luxurious camping in your own private Airstream.

Is AutoCamp Just Glamping?

AutoCamp is glamping. With luxury accommodations in Airstream suites or tents as well as access to beautiful clubhouses, this isn’t primitive camping. Glamping offers resort-style amenities not associated with traditional camping, and AutoCamp certainly offers these accommodations.

Autocamp experience in Yosemite

Is AutoCamp Worth It? 

If you can afford the pricey rates, AutoCamp can be worth it. It eliminates the setup and teardown that come with RV travel but provides a similar experience. And you don’t get much nicer than vacationing in an Airstream if you enjoy the camper lifestyle.

For people who want to experience camping in an Airstream but won’t ever be able to afford one, AutoCamp can let them live the dream for a few nights. So, is it for you?

Where do you want to book your next glamping adventure? Drop a comment below!

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About Mortons on the Move

Tom & Caitlin Morton of Mortons on the Move gave up the stationary life for one where they are constantly on the move. They are full-time travelers, television hosts, and digital media producers.
They left their jobs, sold their house and possessions, and hit the road in September 2015 in their full-time “home on wheels”. Since then they have traveled the US, Canada, and even internationally by RV.
Now, they are Discovery Channel & PBS TV Co-stars of “Go North” on Amazon Prime Video, co-founders and instructors of RV Masterclass, and contributing authors for Hwy.co and an Arizona travel guide.

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John S.

Wednesday 20th of October 2021

AutoCamp. What an intriguing idea.

As I read your post I was thinking this might be perfect for our next family reunion. Kathy & I in our 45'DP while the kids and grandkids could share 3 Airstream trailers. We could do four days of touring JTNP like never before. Our last family reunion was at a RV lake resort that also had a few cabins. (Fantastic.)Now we're looking to next year for a new location.

The first 'flag' was when you wrote "They’ve also removed some of the typical RV perks, like a stove and oven. . . . . . " Hmm, means bringing their own cooking gear. Hmm, means flying is complicated.

The second was "AutoCamp does not let you bring your own RV or tent to one of their locations. . . . . . " What? Really?

Okay, so that dimmed the prospects somewhat but since our place in Coachella is only 30 minutes from the south entrance to JTNP perhaps we could stay home and just drive to meet the kids/grandkids at the AutoCamp location. Then we could hike and climb all day long.

So I went to the AutoCamp website and hard reality set in. The costs are higher than you suggested plus there are fees plus taxes. But that is still not a show stopper as just getting the family from BC to CA is also a large expense.

What caused me to really pause planning was when I discovered where the Joshua Tree NP AutoCamp is actually located. Verbena Rd in Joshua Tree, CA is a longish drive (1:10) from our place in Coachella. If we could actually park our motorhome near the Airstreams and 'camp' with the whole family then I'd consider this for a family reunion.

However right now I can see that AutoCamp is focusing on a different market. Booking family-reunion groupings are not what they have in mind.

Thanks for posting this. Something new to read and consider.

Mortons on the Move

Saturday 23rd of October 2021

We can understand how this might not be a good fit for a family reunion. But we hope you find a place that works out for your event!