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- A yurt is a traditional dwelling that originated among the nomadic cultures of Central Asia, designed to be easily transportable with expanding circular frames that give them their shape.
- With the rise of glamping as a travel trend, the yurt has grown in popularity across the US for those seeking accommodations that embrace the outdoors.
- We rounded up the top-rated yurt rentals on Airbnb and Vrbo, ranging in price from $86 and $255 to start, with availability to book in the coming weeks and months.
With more Americans looking to vacation close to home, it seems like camping has never been more popular. Not only is it easy to heed social distancing guidelines in the great outdoors, but some of America's best tourism assets are found within its stunning state and national parks. However, that doesn't mean everyone is down for "real" camping and sleeping on the ground (if you are though, be sure to pack these essentials).
For those seeking a bit more comfort, glamping resorts are similarly ensconced in nature, while offering luxuries like air-conditioning and electricity. Many feature tents that are known as yurts, which are defined by their canvas walls and circular shape, due to the wooden latticework that creates the structure.
This type of dwelling hails from the nomadic tribes of Central Asia and is traditionally built to be deconstructed and reassembled. However, in the US, yurts tend to be more permanent with fixtures like running water, dry wall, or a kitchen. Some yurts are so tricked out, they're almost like standalone cabins.
Such versatility also means they're no longer limited to the confines of glamping resorts. Many yurt rentals are listed on vacation rental sites such as Airbnb and Vrbo, where they boast large private plots of land, whimsical design, and desirable amenities.
To narrow the field, we rounded up highly-rated yurt rentals in remote areas across the US from off-the-grid tents to lavish two-bedroom abodes.
Bear in mind that a yurt is still an enclosed space and you should take care to only travel with guests in your social bubble during the pandemic. Although the walls are typically made of waterproof canvas, ideal for falling asleep to the sounds of nature, the material isn't as "breathable" as one might imagine, says Dr. Thomas A. Russo, a professor of infectious disease at the University of Buffalo.
"You would like one that has optimal ventilation, but if you're within your social bubble, the ventilation probably isn't an issue. Where it becomes an issue is if you're interacting with people outside of your social bubble and if it's poorly ventilated. That's problematic. I would still wear a mask in that situation," he told us.
As such, it's important to remember that without a vaccine, there is no guarantee of safety and it's pertinent to follow guidelines from the CDC and WHO such as wearing a mask, washing hands, and social distancing. You'll also want to check state and local guidelines and quarantine mandates, especially if you are traveling to or from a hotspot state.
We selected the best yurt rentals on Airbnb and Vrbo based on the following criteria:- The yurts are standalone, private accommodations with minimal interaction with owners or other guests, in line with COVID-19 precautions.
- Each property is priced between $86 and $255 per night to start, with availability in the coming weeks and months, at the time of publishing.
- All are top-rated listings and have an average rating of 4.7 or higher.
- Each yurt rental has a variety of exceptional amenities, outstanding scenery, or both.
Looking for more vacation rentals in nature? Click below to jump directly to related coverage.
These are the best yurt rentals in the US, sorted by price from low to high:
Yurt overlooking the Chama River in Abiquiu, New Mexico, $87
Airbnb
Book this desert yurt starting at $87 per night on AirbnbAtop a hill, this large yurt — 24 feet in diameter — overlooks the Chama River Valley and is filled with rustic and intricately-carved wooden furniture that gives this place a lot of character.
From the bold studwork on the bed frame's baseboard to the unique texture of the coffee table, and the Central Asian-inspired tapestries hanging on the walls, the interior design is far from cookie-cutter.
Totally secluded and located behind the host's home, this stay is all about enjoying the serenity of the desert. There's a Queen-sized bed, plus a day bed and trundle, offering a bit more space for a family. Settle on the couch and around the wood stove in winter, or use one of the provided space heaters if you'd rather not stoke a fire all night. The kitchen and bathroom are located in a separate, but private building, which is not shared by the host. On the deck outside, you'll find additional seating and space for your morning yoga routine.
With just a few sporadic days still available for September, you'll have to wait until mid-October to book this yurt over the weekend.
Rating: 4.8
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific COVID policies are mentioned, and this home does not participate in the Enhanced Clean program, however, the owner is Superhost and past reviews and ratings comment on how clean and tidy the home is.
Off-the-grid yurt in Fort Collins, Colorado, $125
Airbnb
Book this off-the-grid yurt starting at $125 per night on AirbnbFor an authentic yurt experience, this off-the-grid yurt in Colorado is about as real as it gets. There's no plumbing, except for an outhouse, and no power, except for a portable charger, so you can totally remove yourself in this serene landscape, while watching the sunset over the silhouette of the Rocky Mountains. Better yet, admire it while swaying within the colorful hammock perched on an adjacent deck.
The home is also within walking distance of a private lake and the hosts are happy to lend you their kayaks and paddleboards. Inside, you'll find a Queen-sized bed, dining table for two, couch, and a kitchenette, plus thoughtful touches like locally crafted and organic toiletries.
There are still many days, but no weekends, in September. October and November are wide open.
Rating: 4.9
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific COVID policies are mentioned, and this home does not participate in the Enhanced Clean program, however, the owner is Superhost and past reviews and ratings comment on how clean and tidy the home is.
Yurt on the bay in Bay City, Oregon, $131
vrbo
Book this bayfront yurt starting at $131 per night on VrboWith sunset views of a quiet bay, this large listing makes smart use of its 525 square feet with a large futon, wood stove dining area, and kitchen on one side, and bedroom and bathroom shower on the other.
Outside, enjoy spreading out on a huge lawn, or dip into the hot tub or humble beachfront (all beaches in Oregon are public) that attracts local heron and egrets. The furniture inside is very woodsy with an oak table and a Queen-sized alder wood bed that's situated right beneath the skylight to savor the stars before falling asleep.
This yurt is located on the Oregon Coast near attractions like the Cape Mears Loop, the Tillamook Air Museum, and miles of sandy beaches. It's also dog-friendly with a weight limit of 25 pounds, and if you have your own boat, you can even dock it right on the beach.
This yurt is booked up until late October, but there are still a handful of weekends available in November, and December is wide open.
Rating: 4.8
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The host provides a contactless check-in experience, disinfects high-touch surfaces, and washes all towels and bedding in hot water.
Flathead Lake yurt in Somers, Montana, $141
vrbo
Book this lakefront yurt starting at $141 per night on VrboIn rural Montana, escape into the wilderness to this luxury two-bedroom yurt located on a private farm near Flathead Lake.
The 855 square-foot interiors are fully-furnished with a full stainless steel kitchen (including a dishwasher), a dining room that can seat six, and a washer and dryer. The decor is contemporary but rustic with leather couches that nicely contrast against distressed wood end tables and other character-filled pieces. The bathroom is particularly nice with a double vanity and modern shower with stone flooring.
Outside, the deck has a picnic table for dining and a high-end kamado-style ceramic grill for smoking and grilling. With panoramic views, this elevated yurt also overlooks a landscape of sprawling flower fields and snow capped mountains in the distance.
This home requires a minimum stay of two nights and is fully booked until November.
Rating: 5
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The host provides contactless check-in in addition to disinfecting high-touch surfaces and washing all linens.
Yurt in the trees in Dripping Springs, Texas, $156
Airbnb
Book this woodsy yurt starting at $156 per night on AirbnbSitting amid an oak tree canopy, this contemporary and well-designed yurt on Wanderin' Star Farms makes a gorgeous first impression with cedar-framed french doors, a fluffy white Queen-sized bed, and an array of fabrics, patterns, and textures that compliment the geometry of the intricate ceiling and latticework.
This yurt is also adults-only, built for two and ideal for a couple's getaway. A small dining table, coffee bar, and bathroom with a large tub and handheld showerhead round out the on-site offerings, made more comfortable by amenities such as Wi-Fi, TV, air-conditioning, heating, microwave, and a fridge.
Truthfully, you'll probably want to spend the majority of your time on the porch, which feels nestled among the treetops, or exploring the neighboring farm and creek.
There are few days left to book this yurt in October, but availability opens up more widely in November and December.
Rating: 4.9
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home does not participate in the Enhanced Clean program, however, the owner is Superhost and past reviews and ratings comment on how clean and tidy the home is. The host also specifies that linens are washed between stays and all surfaces are disinfected.
Blue Ridge Mountain yurt with hot tub in Afton, Virginia, $157
Airbnb
Book this mountain yurt starting at $157 per night on AirbnbDown the road from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway Entrance, this large, secluded yurt counts 720 square feet and is fully-equipped with heating, air conditioning, and a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a dishwasher. However, the showstopper is certainly the 400-square-foot deck with a hot tub framed by views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Inside impresses as well, with a glass dining table and clawfoot tub that sits beautifully on checkered tiling in the bathroom. A Queen-size bed is tucked away upstairs in the loft, which not only allows for more space downstairs, but adds to the overall cozy treehouse ambiance.
The location is also prime for social distancing with access to a private pond for fishing, swimming, or paddle boating.
This yurt is booked through the fall, with dates opening up starting in December.
Rating: 5.0
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific COVID policies are mentioned, and this home does not participate in the Enhanced Clean program, however, the owner is Superhost and past reviews and ratings comment on how clean and tidy the home is.
Rising moon yurt with vineyard views in Sebastopol, California, $175
Airbnb
Book this vineyard yurt starting at $175 per night on AirbnbOverlooking the vineyards and redwood trees of Sonoma County, California, this yurt is located on a wine country back road not far from Sebastopol. It sits on the property of a family homestead, surrounded by nature, and includes modern conveniences like complimentary organic and locally-roasted coffee.
The yurt is huge — 30 feet in diameter — and equipped with a Tuft & Needle Queen-sized canopy bed, air-conditioning, heating, Wi-Fi, a smart TV, and a full kitchen with an island, gas stove, coffee grinder, coffee maker, and a french press.
The sleekly-dressed yurt's central ceiling dome remains closed and floods the space in sunlight during the day, while revealing the starry night sky in later hours. Board games, cards, books, a turntable with records, and yoga mats are provided, while the private bathhouse is located on an adjacent deck with has an outdoor tub for indulging in an open-air soak. From there, you'll enjoy sweeping views of one of Kendall Jackson's Pinot Noir vineyards.
Availability is currently quite limited, but check back often as that is subject to change.
Rating: 5.0
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific COVID policies are mentioned, and this home does not participate in the Enhanced Clean program, however, the owner is Superhost with excellent reviews.
Cliff dwelling yurt in Orderville, Utah, $183
vrbo
Book this cliffside yurt starting at $183 per night on VrboThese perched yurts at Utah's East Zion Resort overlook the jaw-dropping countryside and not-to-be-missed Zion National Park is only a 20-minute drive away.
Inside, you'll find a Queen-sized bed, couch, and a kitchenette with a microwave, cooktop, mini fridge, and a stooled dining bar below a flat screen TV. These yurts are brand new and air-conditioned with rustic-inspired decor and wood furnishings that feel like an extension of the world outside. A wall fully separates the bathroom, which provides more privacy than some of the other yurts on this list. There is also a small deck and patio area with a fire pit, as well as a gas grill.
Availability: With just a few days left to book this yurt in September and October, availability does not open up more widely until November, when you can still book it for a long week or weekend.
Rating: 5
COVID-19 cleaning procedure: The host will disinfect high-touch surfaces and wash all linens between guest stays. The resort's shared amenities like the pool and hot tub may not be available.
Secluded yurt in Conyers, Georgia, $255
vrbo
Book this secluded yurt starting at $255 per night on VrboIn its own piece of the woods, and just a short stroll from a private lake, this deluxe yurt comes with air-conditioning, electricity, and a water cooler. Inside, a family of four can sleep comfortably with one Queen-sized bed and a set of bunk beds. There is also a small dining table and faux-fireplace to add an extra touch of homeyness.
Outside, a large deck provides another dining area alongside a well-kept and sizeable yard with a hammock, as well as a fire pit surrounded by chairs.
Staying here comes with access to a private dock on the lake, and the owners supply a canoe, fishing rods, and bait, too.
There are still a few days available for the last days of summer and early September, but if you want to book this yurt for a weekend, you'll have to look at dates in October.
Rating: 4.8
COVID-19 cleaning procedure: The host provides contactless check-in in addition to disinfecting high touch surfaces and washing all linens between guest stays.
Riverfront yurt in Clyde, North Carolina, $260
vrbo
Book this riverfront yurt starting at $260 per night on VrboHalf-an-hour west of Asheville, with views of the Pigeon River on the Wildcat Ridge Peony Farm, this yurt feels like a glam apartment with drywall dividing the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and living room. So much added wallspace means the hosts have thoughtfully hung tasteful art and decor in addition to inviting furniture. The home is air-conditioned, but there's also a ceiling fan, and the kitchen is equipped with an electric stove, oven, coffeemaker, microwave, and toaster, and the living room has an electric fireplace and flat-screen TV.
An expansive wraparound deck with dining area, barbecue grill, and fire pit, draw the attention outside as well.
There's still time to book this yurt in late September or October, and the second half of November is completely open.
Rating: 5.0
COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This listing specifies a minimum one-day vacancy between guests, enhanced cleaning practice including the disinfecting of high-touch surfaces, and the washing of all towels and bedding.