These impressive luxury glamping sites are located near some of the best national parks and allow guests to sleep under the stars, without having to sleep in a traditional tent. Considered by many to be a rite of passage, touring America’s parks is something many people look forward to while on vacation. However, while many of us may love the outdoors and enjoy the idea of sitting next to a campfire, the end result of slumbering in a sleeping bag doesn’t sound appealing.
Toss the concern of sleeping on the cold hard ground aside and prepare to be pampered. Luxury glamping includes chef-prepared daily meals and high-thread-count sheets—there’s no need to rough it, this is as opulent as it gets.
7 Impressive Luxury Glamping Sites
These seven luxury glamping sites are the answer to enjoying the great outdoors without having to give up life’s creature comforts. Below, are our favorite glamping sites near national parks, from the new Yonder Escalante near Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park to the Ridge Outdoor Resort near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in Tennessee.
Here are the best accommodations near Zion NP for all budgets!
1. Yonder Escalante – Bryce Canyon NP
In April 2021, Yonder Escalante, a modern hybrid resort opened its inaugural property in Escalante, Utah. Inspired by the great American road trip and 60s nostalgia charm, accommodations include 10 vintage airstreams and 22 custom-designed A-frame cabins. Also, guests have the option to park their own RV at one of its 67 sites.
Amenities include showers, laundry facilities, a general store, a pool, a hot tub, and a “drive-in” movie theatre featuring classic cars. We have a feeling these are going to fill up quickly so you better make your reservation with Yonder Escalante as soon as possible.
Book now: Yonder Escalante
2. The Resort at Paws Up – Glacier NP
Referred to by the locals as “The Last Best Place,” this massive 37,000-acre cattle ranch provides lovely views of western Montana. A highlight of a stay at The Resort at Paws Up is the luxury glamping experience.
While you could stay in one of their traditional rooms or cabins, the traveler looking for a unique luxury glamping adventure should opt for the safari-style inspired canvas tents. Decor includes wild-west ambiance, rustic wooden deck chairs, vintage barrel pedestal sinks, heated floors, and ensuite bathrooms. Did we mention that a camping butler comes with the package? Yes!
The onsite executive chef prepares all meals. In between dining, guests have the option of considering a spa treatment, taking a wildlife excursion, or simply enjoying the view.
Book now: The Resort at Paws Up
The luxury glamping tents at The Ridge are a far cry from “roughing it” in the wilderness. With features like lantern-lined decks, open-air kitchens, and soft woodsy touches everywhere one looks, guests will surely be impressed.
The resort’s amenities include a fitness center, playground, and a pool while the luxury canvas tents sleep up to six. Ideally located, the resort is only 15 minutes from Gatlinburg, the town famous for being the “Gateway to the Smokies.”
Book now: The Ridge Outdoor Resort
Majestic Utah Yurts is uniquely located near Zion and Bryce national parks, and Cedar Breaks National Monument. The luxury glamping yurts sit on a cliffside that provides guests with views of amber bluffs, tabletop mesas, and pinyon pines.
Indoors, guests will find clean, yet tasteful decor—ritzy king-sized beds, wood-paneled bathrooms, natural bath products, kitchenettes, and local wildlife art. Additionally, each yurt comes with its own fire pit and private patio. Also, glampers can enjoy the communal areas which consist of a pool and hot tub.
Book now: Majestic Utah Yurts
Opening in May 2021, the Acadia NP site is Under Canvas’s latest luxury glamping location. With luxury campsites at Glacier NP and Grand Canyon NP, among others, Under Canvas excels at providing a premium glamping experience.
Their safari-style tents provide wood-burning stoves, cozy lounge areas, rainfall showers, organic bath products, and above-bed star viewing beds. An onsite guest experience coordinator helps guests plan everything from toasting marshmallows, to adventurous outdoor excursions.
The Acadia location is Under Canvas’s first waterfront site and will allow guests to enjoy the rugged Atlantic coastline, all while listening to live acoustic music or even taking a yoga class.
Book now: Under Canvas Acadia
These Conestoga wagons at Capitol Reef resort are sure to welcome guests with warm western hospitality and stunning red rock views. Based on actual 19th-century designs, these luxury glamping wagons are much more comfortable than the originals.
Each wagon consists of a king bed and two bunk beds, sleeping six. Furthermore, each wagon has access to its own private bathroom.
Guests enjoy taking in the stars while sitting on one of the red Adirondack chairs surrounding the fire pit. Also, glampers have access to resort amenities including the Pioneer Kitchen Restaurant, and the heated pool and hot tub.
Book now: Capitol Reef Resort
7. Dunton River Camp – Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Travelers looking to spend time in the San Juan Mountains are sure to enjoy an overnight at Dunton River Camp. Located on the Dolores River, on a former 1800s cattle ranch, these spacious luxury glamping tents are full of charm.
The interiors of the safari-inspired tents sport a southwestern design and include a king-sized bed and soaking tubs with showers. Amenities include mountain bikes and access to the communal cedar hot tub and sauna.
Dunton River Camp is a short drive from Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Mesa Verde, and Telluride. Finally, all meals are included.
Book now: Dunton River Camp
Glamping Essentials – Things to Bring
Glamping includes all of the benefits of traditional camping (amazing natural surroundings, fresh air, freedom) but with the extra perks and comforts that come with a luxurious glamping accommodation. Nevertheless, below are some items you may want to consider bringing on your next glamping vacation.
- Daypack (best travel daypack on the market)
- Camelbak water bottle
- Insect repellant (this brand will keep the bugs away)
- Sunscreen (non-greasy)
- Cooler (for excursions)
- Lip balm
- Flashlight: Harry’s favorite everyday flashlight—or use this high-powered flashlight to spot wildlife at night (both USB charging)
- Headlamp (rechargeable)
- Extra travel blanket
- Sandals (FunkyMonkey non-slip)
Have you visited one of these luxury glamping sites or one that’s not on the list? One of our favorite spots for glamping is in Big Sur. Let us know your experience in the comments section.
Excellent! However, a minor correction of a typo–the national park on the coast of Maine is Acadia, not Arcadia.