Highwood Retreat

For those in Vermont seeking a unique way to reconnect with nature without sacrificing the comforts of a high-end hotel, Highwood Retreat offers a truly transformative experience. Located in the picturesque town of Springfield, this is not your typical campground. Instead, it is a meticulously curated glamping destination where ruggedness meets refinement. Highwood Retreat provides guests with an opportunity to sleep under canvas in beautifully designed safari-style tents, surrounded by 160 acres of private Vermont wilderness. Whether you are a local resident looking for a romantic staycation or a visitor eager to experience the Green Mountain State's seasonal beauty, this retreat provides a serene sanctuary far removed from the digital noise of modern life.

The philosophy at Highwood Retreat is centered on "magical realism"—the idea of blending the natural, sometimes harsh elements of the outdoors with luxurious, thoughtful interiors. Each camp is situated in its own secluded glade, ensuring maximum privacy and a direct connection to the landscape. While the property is off-grid, the attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the five-star hotel bedding to the artisanal coffee setups. It is a place where you can wake up to the sound of birds and the sight of fresh-fallen snow, all while tucked into a heated bed with a warm wood stove crackling nearby.

Highwood Retreat is situated at 237 Randall Hill Rd, Springfield, VT 05156, making it a hidden gem in the Southern Vermont region. The location is ideal for those who want to feel completely isolated while remaining within a short drive of some of the state’s best farm-to-table dining and outdoor recreation. Springfield itself is rich in industrial history and natural landmarks, serving as a gateway to the Connecticut River Valley and the nearby Green Mountains. For those traveling from within Vermont or neighboring states, the property is easily accessible via major routes, yet the final stretch of the journey feels like entering a different world as you wind up Randall Hill.

Accessibility at the retreat is handled with a personal touch. Upon arrival, guests park their vehicles in a dedicated on-site lot. Because the camps are located a short walk (approximately 4-5 minutes) along a gravel path to maintain their secluded atmosphere, the hosts provide a golf cart shuttle service for guests and their luggage during check-in and check-out. This ensures that even though you are staying in a rugged environment, the transition to your tent is seamless and comfortable. For guests with mobility concerns, the shuttle service can be arranged for additional trips throughout the stay.

The services at Highwood Retreat go far beyond basic campsite provisions. The owners, Katharine and Sam, provide a "tent service" model that rivals luxury boutique hotels. From curated food deliveries to personalized activity recommendations, the focus is on hospitality and ease. The services offered include:

• Personalized Check-in and Luggage Shuttle: A warm welcome followed by a golf cart transport for you and your belongings to your private camp.
• Gourmet Room Service: Delivery of breakfast picnic baskets, decadent cheese and charcuterie boards, and signature cocktails directly to your tent flap.
• Concierge Assistance: Expert local knowledge to help with reservations at nearby top-tier restaurants like The Copper Fox or SoLo Farm & Table.
• Winter Warmth Services: Provision of firewood for the wood stove, operation of propane heaters, and the setup of electric mattress warmers for cold-weather stays.
• Pet Pampering: A welcoming environment for dogs, including a "pup paradise" setup with dog beds, raised bowls, and treats (available for a small fee).
• Special Event Planning: Specialized services for elopements and romantic milestones, featuring custom florals, champagne, and on-site coordination.
• Train Station Shuttle: Pick-up and drop-off services from the nearby Amtrak station in Bellows Falls for guests traveling via the Vermonter line.

The features of Highwood Retreat are designed to delight the senses and provide a level of comfort rarely found in an off-grid setting. The property features a mix of historical charm and modern solar-powered convenience. Highlights of the retreat include:

• Luxury Safari Tents: Spacious 400-square-foot canvas tents on raised wooden platforms, featuring king-sized canopy beds and designer furnishings.
• High-End Linens: Beds outfitted with Brooklinen sateen sheets, down comforters, and plush quilts for a five-star sleeping experience.
• Artisanal Refreshment Station: Pour-over coffee setups featuring Rockingham Roasters beans, an electric kettle, and a selection of fine teas.
• Private Outdoor Showers: Seasonal (May–October) cedar-walled showers with on-demand hot water, aromatic soaps, and plush spa robes.
• Odorless Composting Toilets: High-tech, immaculate composting toilets located in private, heated bathroom areas steps from the tent.
• Private and Communal Fire Pits: Every camp has its own stone fire pit for private evenings, plus access to a larger communal pit on the 160-acre grounds.
• Wilderness Trails: Miles of meandering paths through woodlands, wetlands, and past antique rock walls, all available for guest exploration.
• Off-Grid Power: Solar-powered battery systems that provide lighting and device charging while encouraging a "unplugged" lifestyle.

If you are ready to plan your Vermont getaway or have questions about the unique glamping experience at Highwood Retreat, the hosts are readily available to assist. Reservations are often handled through their official website or major booking platforms, but direct inquiries are welcomed for special occasions or specific travel needs.

Address: 237 Randall Hill Rd, Springfield, VT 05156, USA

Phone: (877) 818-1014

Mobile Phone: +1 877-818-1014

When considering where to spend your time in the Vermont outdoors, Highwood Retreat is worth choosing because it eliminates the "rough" parts of camping while amplifying the "magic." For many, the barrier to enjoying the wilderness is the lack of a good night's sleep or the hassle of packing heavy gear. Highwood solves this by providing everything from the firewood to the linens, allowing you to simply arrive and relax. The commitment to seasonal comfort means you can enjoy the "snow globe" effect of a Vermont winter just as comfortably as a breezy summer evening by the lake.

Furthermore, the retreat is an excellent choice for those who value local, small-scale tourism. By staying here, you are supporting a family-run business that prioritizes the preservation of the land and the promotion of local artisans. The proximity to world-class dining in the Springfield and Chester areas means you don't have to choose between a rustic adventure and a sophisticated evening out. For a romantic anniversary, a landmark birthday, or a much-needed mental health break, Highwood Retreat provides an intentional, beautiful, and deeply Vermont experience that stays with you long after you've returned home.