There’s no denying that a vacation that entails little more than relaxing on the beach with cocktail in hand is nice. In fact, it’s really nice. But there are other vacations to be had, ones that may require a little more exertion and less lazing around but will yield an ultimately rewarding experience. So if you feel as though you’ve had your fill of tropical getaways, the U.S.’s abundance of national parks serve as both idyllic and active vacation spots.
What better way to view the country than through its untouched and preserved landscapes? And there’s no shortage of them to be found, with the total count of national parks clocking in at a little over sixty. While you’re probably familiar with the big ones — Yellowstone, Yosemite, Everglades, etc. — there are some lesser known parks that prove to be just as rich in history and views.
There’s only one true way to experience a national park, and that’s to fully immerse yourself in it. This option to stay near or in these parks (yes, inside the park) has become increasingly common due in large part to Airbnb, where many rentals can be found right there among the nature and wildlife.
Below you’ll find 8 of the best Airbnbs near, or sometimes in, national parks, from a tiny home in the desert of Joshua Tree Park, to a treehouse at the summit of Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii.
Near Zion National Park: Tiny House Cozy Cabin
Fredonia, Arizona
Near Olympic National Park: Peaceful Waterfront Island Home
Shelton, Washington
Near Rocky Mountain National Park
Estes Park, Colorado
Near Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park: Treehouse at Kilauea Volcano
Volcano, Hawaii
Near Acadia National Park: Carriage House Cottage
Bar Harbor, Maine
Near Glacier National Park: Riverfront Retreat
Hungry Horse, Montana
Near Joshua Tree National Park: Architect’s Off-Grid Stargazing Cabin
Twentynine Palms, California
Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Private Mountain-View Log Cabin with Hot Tub
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
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