2020 has been a year for exploring a little closer to home, and it has shown us all that you do not have to travel halfway across the world to find unique places to visit!
If you are looking for a breath-taking holiday destination, with plenty of things to see and do… Have you considered one of the US’s national parks?
There are over 60 national parks across the US where you can hike, cycle, kayak and spot wildlife… as well as take in the fantastic scenery! There is definitely something for everyone, no matter which one you choose.
Here is a fun fact for you… did you know that national parks cover 84 million acres of space?
A nation Park is perfect for social distancing and adventure at the same time. There are a number of self-guided tours that can be done in all of the national parks, that covers everything from plant species to archaeology.
To start off we recommend a visit to the main government national park website. Here you’ll find information regarding, staying safe, passes, visitor information, and rules.
If you’re looking for a vacation closer to home with a little bit of a difference, here are some of the best Airbnbs for visiting our favourite US National Parks!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The most visited park in the United States, this park not only includes The Appalachian Trail and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies but also Dollywood!
Here are two great Airbnbs near the Great Smoky Mountains to get you started:
A secluded cabin in the woods
Perfect for: a Romantic getaway
Cost: £979 a night
If you’re looking for a cosy retreat, this cabin is a gorgeous choice! Located in the heart of the mountains, this cabin comes with a cosy log fire, an outside swing built for two and a hot tub that is perfect for a soak under the stars!
The heart-shaped bath has to be seen to be believed!
Bryson City Walkabout
Perfect for: A quiet family retreat
Cost: £113 a night
This house sleeps six guests, making it an excellent choice for families. It has a stunning view of the Smoky Mountains. Reviewers love the cleanliness and the friendly accommodating host.
The next-door neighbour also has chickens and goats, making it an exciting place for children to stay!
Grand Canyon National Park
This iconic park is located in Arizona and is famous for its wildlife and stunning views. We recommend watching the sunrise and sunset here! The cannon is over a mile deep and up to 18 miles wide in some places. During the sunset, you can get beautiful views of the stunning layered bands of the rocks.
If you’re looking to plan a trip to see this fantastic park, here are two wonderful Airbnb ideas:
An apartment built for four
Perfect for: A family trip to the Grand Canyon
Cost: £119 a night
This hidden gem of an apartment is fully serviced, with gorgeous views of the Kaibab forest. It’s a fantastic starting point for those who want to check out the Grand Canyon, as well as local Flagstaff and Sedona.
Grand Canyon Resort Camper
Perfect for: Fans of glamping
Cost: £87 a night
Sleeping five guests, this RV is perfect for those who want to experience camping… with all of the mod cons!
The RV comes with a fully fitted kitchen, BBQ grill and a communal fire pit for relaxing with a drink at the end of a hard day’s exploring.
You can also bring along your pets for a small additional fee – with dog bags and treats supplied!
Rocky Mountain National Park
The interesting thing about Rocky Mountain National Park is the change in environment. Some areas of the park are lush and green, while others are covered in snow. You can experience all of the seasons in a short weekend! This stunning park is over 415 square miles and projects spectacular mountains in all directions.
Want to visit the Rocky Mountains? Here are two great places to stay.
A peaceful forest retreat
Perfect for: A peaceful and relaxing holiday with loved ones
Cost: £75 a night
This wonderful woodland home is not only serene and calm but also is great for spotting wildlife… many reviewers commented on the friendly deers who like to poke their heads in the window to say hello!
Garden of the Gods home
Perfect for: Those wanting an active holiday full of walking and cycling
Cost: £94 a night
This cosy two-bedroom home is within walking distance of the trail, making it an excellent place for adventure-seekers! From deers walking around the streets to a fully stocked kitchen, this Airbnb has it all!
Yosemite National Park
The first national park that came into existence in the US, Yosemite National Park has a lot of breath-taking scenery including glaciers, waterfalls and cliffs.
If Yosemite sounds like the perfect choice, here are two amazing Airbnbs to stay in.
Snyder Ridge mountain getaway
Perfect for: Those looking for a rustic stay, with plenty of wildlife spotting
Cost: £67 a night
An hour’s drive away from Yosemite National Park, this private room in a cosy cabin guarantees you a fantastic night’s sleep!
Deers, raccoons and squirrels pass by the property regularly, and the owners also have a very friendly pet cat and dog.
Gorgeous deluxe apartment
Perfect for: Ski bunnies looking for a luxurious place to stay
Cost: £132 a night
Located in the Mammoth Lakes, this condo is not only near lots of stores, cafes and restaurants but has a bar, swimming pool, gym and locker for skiing!
Yosemite National Park is only a short drive away for when you want a change from the slopes and apres-ski.
Which Airbnb will you choose?
We are sure that this guide will give you lots of ideas as to which national park to cross off your bucket list next!
If you have your own RV or camping equipment, you can also hire premium camping space on Airbnb too. Imagine waking up to wildlife around you or going to sleep under the stars.
If you’d like to book into one of the fantastic venues on this list, why not join us on Airbnb? You can get up to £40 on a place to stay and £10 off an experience of your choice. You can put that money towards a sturdy pair of hiking boots or bike hire for a weekend.
Get saving on your very first Airbnb experience with our voucher codes.
Please note: All prices are based on one guest and are subject to change. Costs do not include cleaning, service fees and other charges.