There’s a reason why the big hotel chains, including Marriott and Hyatt, are getting into glamping and outdoor accommodation options. It’s where people want to go. If you want to experience nature without roughing it, there are so many unique places to stay in national parks.
From historic charm to luxury, these hotels and accommodation options will make your vacation truly unforgettable. You can experience stunning views before the crowds arrive, sip on coffee from your balcony with a gorgeous view, or literally sleep under the stars. These spots have history, comfort, and a whole lot of character.
1. El Tovar Hotel – Grand Canyon National Park
You can’t get much closer to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon than this. The El Tovar Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1905, and the location alone makes it special. Grab an early morning coffee to watch the sunrise over the Canyon before the tour buses arrive. It’s quiet, the light’s perfect, and the view is breathtaking.
Renovated in 2005, the hotel’s interior is a blend of rustic, elegant, and historic. El Tovar offers high-end amenities and dining, but some say the rooms aren’t quite as luxurious as they would expect. This is truly about the experience of staying this close to the rim of the Canyon and the experience of what was once considered the most elegant hotel west of the Mississippi.
2. The Ahwahnee – Yosemite National Park
The Ahwahnee is Yosemite’s crown jewel, with all stone fireplaces and huge windows looking out at Half Dome. It’s expensive, but even one night here makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a bit of park history.
They call it “Parkitecture” as the style blends the natural rustic beauty of Yosemite with elegant luxury. The hotel itself is a national historic landmark and provides the perfect location near Yosemite Village for exploring this huge park. While others are spending hours driving from outside the park, you’ll be experiencing it all from the heart of the park.
3. Old Faithful Inn – Yellowstone National Park
This is an iconic experience. The Old Faithful Inn is a massive log structure from 1904, sitting right next to Yellowstone’s most famous geyser. It’s a little quirky, a little creaky, and a lot of fun.
If you stay here, you can watch Old Faithful erupt from the front porch in the evening when everyone else has gone for the day. There are multiple dining options, from sandwich shops to upscale. Whatever you do, don’t miss the huckleberry ice cream at Bear Paw Deli. Rooms range from basic to updated, but the real draw is being right in the middle of it all.
4. Under Canvas near Zion, Moab, Yellowstone, and more
If you are looking for something a little more outdoorsy, Under Canvas takes glamping to a new level. Think big canvas tents with comfortable king-sized beds, modern furniture, wood stoves, and private bathrooms. It’s the best of the outdoor immersion experience with upscale accommodations in amazing locations.
Each location fits perfectly with its surroundings. The Moab site is great for families (Arches and Canyonlands are both nearby), while Zion offers red rock views you’ll remember forever. Nights end with s’mores by the fire and some of the best stargazing anywhere. And there’s a main lobby tent with dining options, concierge services, and community activities.
5. Transparent Bubble Domes near Joshua Tree
If you’re looking for a truly unique place to stay in a national park, Joshua Tree has some incredible Airbnbs with transparent bubble tents where you can literally sleep under the stars. As a designated dark sky park, Joshua Tree was made for stargazing, and these clear domes make it easy to stay warm and comfortable all night while watching the stars.
Imagine a private desert site with a clear dome tent with no light pollution, no noise, just the night sky. There are options where the tent is your full accommodation, or larger houses with a transparent dome on the grounds. This is an experience you won’t stop talking about.
It’s sleeping under the stars without actually camping. These bubble tents book up quickly, especially on weekends, so plan ahead if this is on your wish list.
6. AutoCamp – Airstreams near Yosemite, Zion, Joshua Tree, and more
Does an upscale Airstream sound fun, but actually driving it around a little less so? AutoCamp makes it easy and stylish to experience the Airstream concept without any of the work. “Where boutique hotel meets nature escape,” as they describe it. Each suite has its own bathroom, kitchenette, and private firepit. The interiors are modern and surprisingly cozy, and it’s easy to forget you’re technically “camping.”
The Yosemite location has riverside access, Zion’s site has wide desert views, and Joshua Tree’s is surrounded by quiet desert landscape. Need to stretch out a bit more? AutoCamp locations also have a lobby or clubhouse area. Amenities vary by location, but most have restaurants, bars, free coffee, a fireplace area, and even live music and events. It’s the best of the outdoor camping experience with all the modern amenities.
“Where boutique hotel meets nature escape”
7. Zion Wildflower Resort near Zion National Park
Zion Wildflower Resort is another unique place to stay near a national park with a mix of covered wagons, canvas tents, and small cottages, all with big red rock views. It’s an easy drive to Zion and can certainly be combined with a visit to Bryce Canyon.
It’s one of the less expensive glamping options, while still providing the upscale outdoor experience with amenities like a heated pool, hot tub, fire pits, and an on-site cafe. This is not your standard hotel. It’s a place where you can hang out and truly relax and recharge in the evening as you watch the light change on the cliffs.
8. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise– Banff National Park, Canada
This is 5-star luxury, pure and simple. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise looks like a castle dropped into the middle of the mountains. It’s certainly more resort than lodge, and the setting on the edge of Lake Louise, surrounded by the Canadian Rockies, is magical.
If you’re visiting Banff National Park and want something special, this is it. It’s not the cheapest option, but the combination of scenery, comfort, and service is hard to beat. Unparalleled access to world-class skiing in the winter and amazing hiking in the summer, with options for indulgent spa treatments and fine dining. If it’s out of your budget, you can always grab breakfast or a cocktail on the patio to experience the Fairmont.
Where you stay matters
Picking one of these unique places to stay in national parks adds a whole new layer to your trip. You’re waking up surrounded by the stunning landscapes you came to see. You can take that early morning walk or stay out to watch the stars, then head straight to bed. It’s more relaxing, more memorable, and well worth the planning.
As you can imagine, some of these options sell out quickly in peak season. If you’d rather someone else figure out which options fit your route and budget, that’s exactly what I help travelers do.
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