But I adjusted, mostly because Costanoa - located on the coast 25 miles north of Santa Cruz - is surrounded by glorious nature. Wisely, luxury camping purveyors have situated their camps amidst five-star natural surroundings. Maho Bay Camps in the Virgin Islands, for example, is nestled on a tropical hillside above a private beach where, just offshore, blue herons and brown boobies wheel above emerald waters. Such natural splendor allows the outdoor traditionalist to rationalize a pampered experience. Yea though the maid makes my bed in the morning and I forage for grub at a full-service deli with eighteen different cheeses, still I plunge headlong into nature.

At Costanoa, you can even schedule your nature. On the weekend we stayed there, organized activities included a naturalist-led nature walk, a kids' camp, a falconry presentation, and a sunset campfire. The adventure guide beside our bed also ladled us other options, from beach walks to opportunities for romantic trysts. "When the moon is bright and the night clear, grab the one you love, hit the camp store for herbal elixirs and essential oils, and follow one of Costanoa's backyard trails," was an intriguing option made slightly less appealing by the possibility of being happened on by one of the Bathrobe People.

Preferring to maintain a shred of outdoor integrity, we rented mountain bikes and struck out on our own. We drove south to Waddell Creek, parked, and rode into Big Basin Redwoods State Park, along the Skyline-to-the-Sea trail. It was glorious. We swooped through shadows and pine scent alongside burbling creeks, clattered across wooden footbridges, and sat beside a still pool shot with shimmering sun ripples, snacking on Organic Chocolate Paradise trail mix purchased at the general store.

Once, we came upon four campers shouldering grimy backpacks and weary looks. We shot merrily past, trailing the faint odor of peach soap.