Escape to Nature: Walden Retreats

Each Walden tent is thoughtfully curated to foster a deep connection with nature. The kitchenette includes cast iron skillets, a French press and handmade textiles, offering a rustic yet refined cooking experience. We found several books thoughtfully placed throughout the tent, including Henry David Thoreau and a coffee table book on the world’s oldest things. The king-sized bed was every bit as comfortable as it looked and the clawfoot tub exceeded our expectations with its generous size. While there’s no indoor shower, the unforgettable experience of showering outdoors under the stars more than made up for it.

Walden Retreats is an ideal haven for glampers looking to truly disconnect. Nestled on a private road in Johnson City, the retreat is about an eight-minute drive from the main road, where you’ll pass by free-roaming livestock on your way in. To maintain the peaceful landscape, cars aren’t allowed past the hotel lobby. Instead, guests are kindly escorted by golf cart, luggage and all, to their tents.

The retreat is intentionally free of WiFi and TVs, encouraging guests to embrace the surrounding nature. You can hike, take advantage of private access to the Pedernales River for canoeing and fishing or simply relax and soak in the hillside views. Each tent features its own fire pit, and there’s also a communal fire pit for those who enjoy a bit of socializing.

Walden Retreats is best suited for those who want a quiet camping experience with a touch of luxury. It’s also perfect for guests who enjoy cooking their own meals, as on-site dining options are limited to a small store.

• If you do not plan on leaving the retreat for dinner and other activities, pack food that is easy to cook on the grill. Hamburgers, hot dogs and s’mores are the perfect meal at Walden!

• Pack sneakers and bug spray. Once you are escorted to your tent, you are walking on rocky roads to get back to your car. The pathway to the river is also quite steep and rocky. You are deep in nature, and you will see many gnats, grasshoppers, spiders and mosquitoes. Make sure that you are prepared to clean up after cleaning to avoid additional critter friends and keep your eyes peeled for spiders that you won’t find in the city.

• Get comfortable with your partner before arrival. While it is spacious for a tent, the suites are small and there is no door to the toilet, only a curtain.

• If you are going to use the private river access, go early. This will give you priority to the resort’s canoe (they only have one and do not allow guests to bring their own). It is also less buggy at this time.

• Take advantage of being in Texas Hill Country! You are a short drive from cute country towns, wineries, antique shops and national parks. We enjoyed Johnson City, Dripping Springs, Signor Vineyards and Enchanted Rock National State Park during our stay.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Texas. In need of further inspiration? Check out Adriana Baco's guide, Best Hotels, Food & Attractions in Austin, TX for SXSW.