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USA Today has nominated Six Flags Wild Safari in New Jersey as one of the best venues in the country for a luxury camping experience.

The distinction comes as part of the newspaper’s annual readers’ choice awards program. The Jackson-based theme park’s Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa was among 20 destinations selected for the shortlist.

An abbreviated form of “glamourous camping,” glamping combines traditional camping with modern amenities and creature comforts. “From cozy yurts to lavish tents, these … glamping spots showcase some of the finest locations and amenities across the United States,” USA Today said.

Other finalists include:

• Beaver Island Retreat – Michigan
• The Canopy Crew – Kentucky
• Field Trip Glamping – South Carolina
• The Glamping Collective – North Carolina
• Little Arrow Outdoor Resort – Tennessee
• Mendocino Grove – California
• Naturluxe & Stars – New York
• Paws Up Mountain – Montana
• Red River Gorgeous – Kentucky
• Safari West – California
• Sky Ridge Yurts – North Carolina
• Ulum Moab – Utah
• Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo – Florida

According to USA Today, an expert panel selected contenders for this year’s awards. Readers can vote once per day until May 4. The publication said it will reveal 10 winners May 13.

A transformative experience

Set within the 350-acre Six Flags Wild Safari, Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa offers glamping accommodations, VIP dining, spa services and scenic vistas.

Located adjacent to Great Adventure theme park, Wild Safari features more than 1,200 animals from around the world, such as giraffes, elephants, lions, rhinos and tigers.

USA Today editors wrote, “You’ll be transported out of New Jersey and into Africa at Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa … When you’re not out meeting giraffes, you can relax in an air-conditioned glamping suite with king-sized beds and West African decor, or hop over to the amusement park for a roller coaster ride or two.”

The newspaper also noted Six Flags offers glamping suites available for couples, as well as larger ones for families.

The amusement park introduced Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa in 2024, among enhancements added to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Six Flags Great Adventure.

Wild Safari was nominated earlier this year as one of USA Today’s top safari and wildlife parks in the country. It did not advance to the top 10.