4 remarkable wild stays in U.S. national parks, from a traditional log cabin to sky domes

interior of hotel room

Clear Sky Resorts’ Sky Domes are futuristic tents that offer tremendous views of the night sky near Grand Canyon Village.

Photograph by Clear Sky Resorts

These imaginative bases prove that sleeping in the wild can be done in style and comfort.

This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).

American national parks are where travellers can truly go wild — and they offer some equally wild places to stay. Whether you want to take in the Grand Canyon’s big skies from a bubble dome, spend the night in a traditional log cabin in Yellowstone or stay on the rim of one of Hawaii’s most explosive natural wonders, there are some awe-inspiring options. Here are four of the best.

1. Clear Sky Resorts’ Sky Domes, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Positioned a stone’s throw from the park borders, these aptly named Sky Domes offer windows on the stars. The futuristic-looking bubble tents feature translucent walls and skylights, so you can gaze at the night sky before you drift off to sleep. Funky decor includes egg chairs and feature walls printed with photos of the Grand Canyon, and you’ll find plenty to do — from yoga at sunrise to stargazing tours and toasting s’mores by the fire pit. Another bonus is you’re only a 30-minute drive from Grand Canyon Village. 

From $395 (£314) per night, room only. 

2. Volcano House, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii 

Volcano House is set on the rim of one of America’s awe-inspiring natural wonders — the Halemaumau Crater, Kilauea’s most active vent (the volcano began its latest eruption at the beginning of September 2023). Rooms are simple but cosy, with nods to the great outdoors — think Hawaiian ferns printed on the bedding and delicate wooden furniture. Native Hawaiian arts and crafts are sold in the on-site gift shop. 

From $80 (£64) per night, room only. 

 The historic Old Faithful Inn is a traditional log cabin located near the Old Faithful geyser. 

Photograph by Old Faithful Inn

3. Old Faithful Inn, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

National park lodges don’t come much more classic than this. A designated National Historic Landmark, the giant log cabin-style inn has been welcoming park-goers since 1904. Rooms run the gamut from old-style retreats with communal bathing facilities to generous suites offering front-row views of the hotel’s namesake — the Old Faithful geyser. Strike into the park for a hike (the Fairy Falls Trail nearby is a winner) before warming up in the lobby, which is dominated by its stone fireplace. 

From $198 (£158) per night, room only. 

4. Blackberry Farm, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee 

If you want to pair your national park adventure with an ultra-luxurious stay, plump for a few nights at Blackberry Farm. It comes with a hefty price tag, but the creature comforts are laid on thick at this country retreat, swaddled by the Smokies. At the restaurant, for example, you can expect inventive dishes rooted in Appalachian tradition, whipped up using ingredients from the estate’s own creamery, bakery and farm, alongside indulgent spa treatments and a full roster of outdoor activities, including biking and horse-riding. It’s around 20 minutes’ drive from the park.

From $1,045 (£831) per night (minimum stay three nights), all inclusive.

Published in the Classic USA guide, distributed with the March 2024 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).

>>> Read full article>>>
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source : National Geographic – https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/best-wild-stays-in-us-national-parks

Exit mobile version