What Is AutoCamp? Everything You Need to Know

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A view of auto camp Yosemite.
Image source: AutoCamp

Do you dream of camping in picturesque locations near snow-capped mountains or a desert oasis? But then you realize all the work it takes to pack, hitch and unhitch your rig, and unpack all of the gear for camping, and you may think twice about that dream. AutoCamp can bring dreams like yours to life. autocamp

Instead of hauling a load of stuff to and from your campsite, everything is already there awaiting your arrival. You simply pack a suitcase like you would if you were going to a hotel or Airbnb and head out for your adventure.

Let’s look at AutoCamp and the camping experiences this company offers.

About AutoCamp

Airstreams are iconically American and have been around for decades. But many Americans only look at them in photos or magazine articles because of their price tag. AutoCamp makes staying in one of these silver bullets possible. 

You don’t have to own an Airstream or a truck. You simply book your reservation and then go enjoy a weekend at Yosemite National Park. That’s AutoCamp.

Or, if you’d rather, you can also stay in a luxury tent or cabin or X suite at various AutoCamp locations. The Russian River location also offers Happier Camper stays for a retro-modern experience. 

AutoCamp wants to help people connect with the great outdoors by providing accommodations in beautiful scenic locations. You don’t need to know how to tow a camper or pitch a tent. Everything comes ready to go.

Who Owns AutoCamp?  

In 2013, Neil Dipaola created AutoCamp with the aspirations of creating a hotel-like experience with Airstreams. He chose several locations near popular cities and National Parks. 

Since it’s 30 to 40% cheaper to build an AutoCamp than a hotel, raising the money to fund these glamping adventures in iconic American locations wasn’t too difficult. In 2019, Fast Company Magazine added Dipaola to the Most Creative People list.

Although Airstream has partnered with AutoCamp to provide travel trailers at different locations, it doesn’t own the company. They also partner with Happier Camper. Although you can find the travel trailers at the Russian River location, the company doesn’t have any ownership of AutoCamp.

Keep in Mind: Have you ever wondered who owns National Indoor RV Center? Check this out and learn more about the company!

A view of the Yosemite auto camp clubhouse.
Image source: AutoCamp

How Did AutoCamp Get Started?

The idea behind AutoCamp is to provide spaces where campsites are “automatically” set up. Guests don’t have to worry about setting up or tearing down.

It’s like packing a bag to go to a hotel for a night or two. AutoCamp hopes to help get people outdoors by providing a simple and convenient way to camp. No barriers keep anyone from experiencing the beauty and solace of nature.

Currently, it has four stunning locations: Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Russian River, and Cape Cod. In Spring 2022, AutoCamp Catskills will open. AutoCamp Zion will welcome guests in 2023. And there’s no telling what Neil Dipaola has up his sleeve for future locations. 

Who wouldn’t want to grab a suitcase and head out to California’s wine country at Russian River? Or for Americans on the east coast, who wouldn’t want to enjoy a lobster roll and the Atlantic shoreline of Cape Cod?

Current AutoCamp Locations 

You can stay at the four current AutoCamp locations, and two will open in the next two years. The four west coast locations — Joshua Tree, Yosemite, Zion, and Russian River — are in California and Utah. 

The two east coast locations — Cape Cod and Catskills — are in the northeast. They all offer similar amenities along with creating unique experiences for their particular sites.

Pro Tip: If the AutoCamp in California seems right up your alley, then make a whole trip of it and visit all 7 California National Parks in One Road Trip.

People eating at a private fire pit at autocamp.
Image source: AutoCamp

Joshua Tree

AutoCamp Joshua Tree, just outside Joshua Tree National Park,  is the newest location. The seasonally heated pool will open in April 2022. 

Take a drive out to Palm Springs or hike the 1.8 miles around Skull Rock. Accommodations here include fully-outfitted Airstreams and X suites situated in unique outdoor landscapes.

Yosemite

You’ll have endless outdoor activities at Yosemite National Park, from whitewater rafting and hiking to snowshoeing. Just outside the park is AutoCamp Yosemite, where you can choose from an Airstream, a luxury tent, or a cabin for your getaway. 

Take a short drive to Mariposa and enjoy wine tasting or learn about the history of this ancient gold rush town.

Zion 

Opening in 2023, AutoCamp Zion will be the first western location outside of California. Hike Angel’s Landing or explore the Narrows of Zion National Park in Utah. This AutoCamp location will sit along the Virgin River near the park entrance.

The autocamp Yosemite clubhouse.
Image source: AutoCamp

Russian River 

This northern California valley is home to numerous vineyards and outdoor recreational activities. You can wake up in the middle of a redwood forest. You’ll feel far away from civilization and yet only a few minutes from the nearest town of Guerneville. 

Schedule a wine tasting at Iron Horse Vineyards or kayak down the Russian River. When you make your reservation, you can also choose from an Airstream, a Happier Camper travel trailer, or a luxury tent.

Cape Cod

Stay in an Airstream, X suite, or luxury tent at AutoCamp Cape Cod. This New England location is open year-round and provides guests with a great place to go birding or take a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard.

It also offers direct access to the Shining Sea Bikeway. Dine-in nearby Falmouth or Woods Hole and enjoy traditional northeastern cuisine.

Catskills

AutoCamp Catskills, a beautiful location in upstate New York, opens in 2022. Bask in the scenery of the Catskill Mountains or venture out for a hike or day of skiing.

Additionally, you can explore the galleries and shops of nearby Woodstock and Saugerties. Or, if you want to make the two-hour drive, head south to New York City. Stay in an Airstream, a luxury tent, a cabin, or an X suite.

AutoCamp Experiences 

Whether you’re a camping newbie or a seasoned traveler, AutoCamp is perfectly set up to help you enjoy the outdoors. The six awe-inspiring locations will keep calling you back for visit after visit. The only thing you have to worry about is getting there.

AutoCamp also offers experiences you can participate in during your stay. Enjoy Meditation Monday at AutoCamp Yosemite or Vinyasa Yoga Flow at AutoCamp Joshua Tree for a relaxing start to your day. 

Additionally, several locations offer fireside chats and live music by the fire for an authentic camping experience. Some even provide storytimes for kids if you travel with your young ones.

A tent located at autocamp.
Image source: AutoCamp

Frequently Asked Questions About AutoCamp

Are you considering visiting an AutoCamp location? Let’s look at a few questions that you still might have. You can also find additional information on AutoCamp’s website, where they provide a “What to Expect” page to help prepare guests for their experiences.

Can You Park Your Own RV at AutoCamp Locations?

You cannot bring your own RV. So, if you’d like to travel to other places during a road trip, you’ll need to find RV storage locally. AutoCamp locations have no RV parking spaces.

What Do I Need to Bring to AutoCamp?

AutoCamp provides basic amenities like towels, linens, and cookware. However, if you want to do your own cooking, you might consider bringing a camping stove or a cooler for additional food storage.

Then pack what you would typically take when staying in a hotel: personal toiletries, clothes, bug spray, sunscreen, etc.

Does AutoCamp Have Heat and A/C?

Yes, the locations have heat and A/C. You’ll stay quite comfortable in your accommodations during your stay. Additionally, most sites also have an outdoor firepit.

Are Pets Allowed at AutoCamp?

Pets are allowed at AutoCamp. However, not all accommodations are pet-friendly. Call ahead or check the location notes before booking your reservation.

You must also pay an additional $75 pet fee, and there is a two dog and 80 lb maximum. Always keep your dog on a leash and under direct supervision.

Can You Smoke at AutoCamp? 

AutoCamp locations are non-smoking properties. You will have a cleaning fee of $350 if you smoke inside your room. This includes cigarettes, cigars, cannabis, e-cigarettes, and the burning of candles or incense.

Have a Unique Glamping Experience with AutoCamp

If you want to experience glamping in awe-inspiring locations, AutoCamp has the answer. Don’t worry about learning how to back up a travel trailer or finding the perfect tent and sleeping bag.

Pack a suitcase of clothes and personal items and head out to the destination of your choice. It’s no-hassle camping.

The biggest problem you’ll likely face is choosing your first location. Do you want to explore California wine country at Russian River or hike through Joshua Tree National Park? Or maybe you want to dine on lobster rolls at Cape Cod?

Whatever location you choose, you won’t go wrong. Head on over to the AutoCamp website today and book your adventure.

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