When you visit national parks, there are a few different accommodation options that you have. You can stay in lodges and inns in many of the parks, camp inside or outside the park, or stay in a gateway town. Not all options are available at all of the parks. However, many national parks have a small town just outside the park, and this can be a convenient cheaper or more available place to stay.
When choosing accommodations, there are several things to think about. In addition to the types of properties available and the location, other things to consider include:
Price
The price is determined by factors such as its size, location and type. Compromising on space or style can be a way to lower costs. Conversely, spending more on a place to stay may well make for a truly luxurious and unforgettable experience.
Your needs
It’s your vacation, so be sure to do things your way. Consider your wish list and your budget. Are you a solo traveler, group of friends, couple or family? Would camping or staying in a compact cabin be big enough, or would you all like to spread out in a large holiday home with lots of outdoor space? Do you prefer a peaceful setting, or being in the heart of the action?
Acadia National Park
Arches National Park | Canyonlands National Park
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Teton National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Mesa Verde National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park
Sequoia National Park
Yellowstone National Park
Yosemite National Park
Zion National Park
About the Author
James Ian has dedicated his life to travel and has traveled to 82 countries and all 7 continents. He’s visited all of the main national parks in the United States, as well as many national monuments and state parks.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including Time Business News, Savoteur, and Wired. He also has several published detailed itineraries in addition to many free online guides.
James has rafted through the Grand Canyon; rappelled down slot canyons near Zion and Arches; hiked among the hoodoos in Bryce and the enormous trees in Sequoia; admired the waterfalls in Yosemite and the colored hot springs in Yellowstone; seen moose in Grand Tetons and seals in the Channel Islands, and much more.
