From expansive canyons to majestic mountains, the United States is home to some of the planet’s most treasured natural wonders. Luckily, many are protected under the care of national parks, allowing travelers from around the globe to behold magnificent vistas, relish in diverse ecosystems, and melt away in tranquil natural sanctuaries. The best national park hotels fuse an appreciation for this raw and rugged beauty with refined luxury, inviting guests to kick back and soak up the best of both worlds.
Maybe you’re drawn to the idea of sipping your coffee while watching the steam rise from the geysers in Yellowstone, or perhaps you feel a calling to watch the stars light up in a black sky in California’s peculiar Joshua Tree. Whatever it may be, there are many incredible reasons and experiences awaiting you in the country’s 60+ national parks dotted from coast to coast.
Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast who can’t get enough of Mother Earth — or you’re simply in it for an idyllic haven, impeccable service, and wow-worth accommodations — these national park hotels promise an unforgettable sojourn amidst the wonders of the world’s most iconic landscapes and monuments. We’re showcasing nine of our favorites here, so get ready to book a vacation that’ll impress.
Amangiri
- Where: Bryce and Zion National Parks, Utah
- When to Go: Autumn through spring
Situated in Southern Utah, Amangiri is surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery in the United States. Huge windows and minimal decor throughout the property allow the focus to remain on the beautiful terrain. The architectural design allows the property to blend in with the surrounding area, some go as far as to say it creates a sort of desert mirage.
Conveniently located between the crimson rock formations of Bryce Canyon and the staggering cliffs of Zion National Park, don’t miss out on the memory of a lifetime with an incredible sunrise hot air balloon ride. As one of the best luxury hotels at national parks, guests will undoubtedly find the perfect balance of adventure and refinement at Amangiri.
Insider Tip: Arizona’s magnificent Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Slot Canyons aren’t too far from Amangiri, either. Pencil in a trip to both to get the most out of your natural wonders getaway.
Rooms start at $4,500 per night.
Triple Creek Ranch
- Where: Glacier National Park, Montana
- When to Go: Fall through summer; winter for a cozy getaway
Between the lush forests and the soothing sounds of a babbling brook surrounding your cabin, Triple Creek Ranch has found seemingly infinite ways to relax your mind and body. They offer numerous massage options as well as more unique experiences like mindful forest walking, fly-fishing, cattle drives, horseback riding, and even white water rafting.
Each private cabin at the adult-only resort comes with an enormous king-sized bed and private hot tub. Whatever your desire, be sure to make time to experience the rugged landscape that is Montana.
Rooms start at $2000 per night.
The Oasis at Death Valley
- Where: Death Valley National Park, California
- When to Go: Late autumn through early spring
The hottest, driest place on earth also happens to be home to one of Southern California’s most lavish hotels, The Oasis at Death Valley. Comprising two hotels — the Inn at Death Valley and the Ranch at Death Valley — surrounded by spring-fed pools, this destination also features the lowest altitude golf course in the world.
Insider Tip: Make sure to complete your vacation days by taking in the truly epic Death Valley sunsets. The sky lights up with a spectacle of brilliant rainbow colors against the backdrop of the picturesque rock formations.
Rooms start at $180 per night.
Old Faithful Inn
- Where: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- When to Go: Autumn through spring
Arguably the originator of stunning National Park Hotels, don’t expect WiFi or television during your stay at Old Faithful Inn. This historic 1904 lodge is the world’s largest log hotel and features an impressive 85-foot stone fireplace right in the front lobby.
What makes this place so incredible is, of course, the close proximity to its most famous neighbor — Old Faithful. The never-ending list of activities encourages each guest to spend ample time outdoors. Some of the feature tours include visiting the famed Firehole, one of the greatest geyser regions in the world.
Insider Tip: Autumn through spring presents the best weather, but you can still pencil in a stay at this national park hotel in the winter. If you’re there during the chilly months, don’t miss the truly unique Steam and Stars Tour.
Rooms start at $500 per night.
Blackberry Mountain
- Where: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
- When to Go: Autumn, spring, and summer
Down a backroad lined with a white picket fence in Walland, Tennessee you’ll find Blackberry Mountain. The entire farm is like something straight out of your favorite romance novel set just steps from the national park. The dynamic menus change seasonally giving you a true farm-to-table dining experience in the most innovative ways.
All of the rooms have gorgeous views of the Great Smoky Mountains so even when your adventures are over for the day you really never lose sight of those gorgeous mountain views.
Rooms start at $1200 per night.
El Tovar Hotel
- Where: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
- When to Go: Autumn through Summer
One of the most elegant hotels west of the Mississippi, El Tovar Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1905. Today, it remains one of the best national park hotels thanks to its charming architecture and incredibly close proximity to the Grand Canyon’s edge (it’s literal footsteps away).
The Swiss chalet-like structure has many local touches including hand-carved furniture, pine, and limestone throughout. Located mere steps from the famed South Rim, there are few more remarkable locations to lay your head.
Insider Tip: El Tovar’s on-site steakhouse, the El Tovar Dining Room, is a wonderful place to take in views of the majestic Grand Canyon while enjoying a delectable, chef-prepared meal. Even if you don’t stay here, you can still get in on the dining experience.
Rooms start at $350 per night.
Volcano House Hotel
- Where: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
- When to Go: Spring through autumn
With rooms overlooking the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, you’ll be hard-pressed to find accommodations more unique than those at Volcano Hotel Hawaii. This hotel is not only one of the oldest hotels in Hawaii, but it has also made a huge commitment to sustainability with initiatives that include a recycling program, sourcing locally grown food, and an Environmental Management System certification.
At this exotic location, you can expect to taste dishes bursting with local ingredients like pan-seared fresh Hawaiian island fish wrapped in thinly sliced pineapple. Be sure to take a stroll on the famed black sand beaches of Punaluu Beach just a short 20 minutes away.
Rooms start at $285 per night.
La Quinta Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- Where: Joshua Tree National Park, California
- When to Go: Autumn through spring
With over 40 pools and 5 world-class golf courses, there’s always something new to discover during your stay at La Quinta Resort & Club. This desert oasis offers a getaway for every type of traveler and features stunning historical architecture throughout.
Make sure you book the Camp’d Out Joshua Tree Experience where you’ll spend a night within the national park camped under the stars. Think glamping as opposed to “roughing it” as your tent comes with Waldorf Astoria bedding and butler service. S’mores under the stars have never been more luxurious.
Insider Tip: Joshua Tree is a designated International Dark Sky Park, which makes for some legendary stargazing. Pack a telescope or simply lay out a blanket and gaze up at the night sky to see a breathtaking display of stars.
Rooms start at $270 per night.
Crater Lake Lodge
- Where: Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
- When to Go: Spring through autumn
Crater Lake Lodge is the only hotel located within the confines of Crater Lake National Park. Similar to many other parks, it is only open from May to October hoping to offer guests the best opportunity for great weather. Here, you’ll spend a majority of your time outside marveling at the stunning blue water from both boat and coastline. As for the lodge itself, think the ultimate definition of cozy paired with the warmth and hospitality of a bygone era.
Rooms start at $250 per night.
