There are 59 incredible national parks in the United States, and all of them rank high for family-friendly adventures. If you’re having trouble trying to choose a park for your next vacation, why not start with your lodging options? These national park lodges are tops for family vacations, providing stellar accommodations, awesome adventure opportunities, and views that just keep on giving.
Tenaya Lodge: Yosemite National Park
Luxury lodging at Yosemite’s doorstep, Tenaya Lodge is an all-season resort near the south gate of Yosemite National Park. With five restaurants, a winter ice-skating rink, three swimming pools, and a full-service spa, there’s something here for the whole family. Adventure lovers can take part in horseback riding adventures, mountain biking, and guided hikes that are suitable for families and kids of all ages. The lodge is also just a short drive from the Mariposa Grove, which is the largest grove of Giant Sequoias in the park.
What we love: Evening babysitting for kids 5-12
Best time to visit: May is great for viewing the waterfalls and the wildflowers. Summer is very crowded, but nice for hiking and swimming.
NPS photo courtesy of Michael Quinn
Phantom Ranch: Grand Canyon National Park
Get away from the crowds and deep into the Grand Canyon at Phantom Ranch. This is the only lodging below the canyon rim, and it requires some luck and an adventurous spirit to make it happen. You can hike 7.5 miles into the canyon with your gear on your back, hire a pack mule, or raft the Colorado River to get there, and when you arrive, you’ll be treated to a rustic breakfast and dinner, and provided with a simple cabin to spend the night. Space is very limited, so a lottery is offered each year to a lucky few. It’s definitely not luxury, and it’s not for everyone, but it could be the perfect getaway for your family.
What we love: Hiking the Clear Creek Trail
Best time to visit: Late fall is perfect for hiking into the canyon. The canyon floor is much warmer than the rim.
Lake McDonald Lodge: Glacier National Park
Built in 1913, this historic Swiss-style chalet is not to be missed. Tucked away on the shores of the sprawling Lake McDonald, a stay here puts you in the heart of Glacier National Park. Amenities may not be luxurious, but they are far from rustic. Families can choose from many different room sizes and styles, from simple guest rooms to multi-room suites. Three dining facilities are available onsite. Lake McDonald is an adventure hub for the western side of Glacier National Park. There are several great hikes, horseback riding tours, and scenic boat cruises available, not to mention swimming and fishing in the frigid waters of this massive glacial lake.
What we love: Kayaking Lake McDonald. Rentals are available at the lodge.
Best time to visit: Summer is really the best time for hiking, paddling, and swimming in Glacier National Park.
Colter Bay Village: Grand Teton National Park
Welcome to summer camp for the whole family. With unsurpassed views, beautiful cabins, and too many outdoor adventures to count, Colter Bay Village is a perfect place to unplug and immerse yourself in the outdoors. You won’t find TVs in any of the cabins. What you will find is one of the best places to watch wildlife in the lower 48. Be on the lookout for elk, moose, bison, coyote, bighorn sheep, and bears.
What we love: Colter Bay Village is pet friendly.
Best time to Visit: Summer is perfect for watersports, but the fall foliage is spectacular in mid to late September.
Skyland: Shenandoah National Park
Located at the highest point (3,680 feet) on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, Skyland wholeheartedly embraces mountain living. At Skyland, expansive views are the main attraction, but guest also have access to guided horseback rides, lots of hiking opportunities, and some awesome waterfalls. Accommodations range from small, budget rooms and cabins to luxurious suites (with fireplaces). Pet-friendly rooms are available as well.
What we love: The amazing views from the balcony rooms. Totally worth the splurge!
Best time to visit: Midweek in the summer. There is a lot of traffic on weekends and during fall foliage.