Where to Stay in and Around Zion National Park, Utah

“Oh give me a home where the buffalo roam…” so goes the classic cowboy ditty. And, well, if that’s what you’re after, look no further. At Zion Mountain Ranch, you’ll get your own luxurious standalone cabin, each combining rustic, rough-hewn elements such as stone fireplaces and vintage rocking chairs, with contemporary mod-cons such as flatscreen TVs and fully equipped kitchens. The best part? Sitting on the porch or watching from a bedroom window as the resident herd of buffalo go trundling across the rolling hills of the ranch.

Nestled on the west side of Zion, with spectacular views of the classic mesas and green river valleys of Southern Utah, this cute and utterly quirky set of one-bedroom tiny houses offers the most singular of glamping experiences. So much thought has gone into the unique design and finishing of each one – from hot tubs to deck-side barbecues and outdoor firepits – that it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that they’re not much bigger than a horse trailer.

If the name has you imagining roll mats, sleeping bags and cold, early-morning treks to the bathroom, then think again. Yes, these are tents, but with king-size beds laden with luxurious linens, private bathrooms, a private deck with lounge chairs, daily housekeeping and organic bath products, you’re a far cry from the usual camping drawbacks. One of the tents even has a stargazing window above the bed so you can drift off while searching for UFOs.

Literally across the street from the entrance to the park, you couldn’t be any closer to the rugged wilderness of Zion – and yet there’s no lack of comfort here. Choose from studios, suites or – budget allowing – one of the super-luxe residences, and you’ll get a private balcony with the iconic rocky views of Zion, access to the superb on-site spa and use of the gas-fueled barbecue grills down by the dreamy riverside picnic area. Once your batteries are fully recharged, pop your hiking boots on and explore the park.

One of the few resorts actually located within the boundaries of the park itself, this US National Park Service-run lodge places you in the heart of the action. While a lot of National Park lodging can be a bit dated and functional, the hotel rooms, cabins and suites here have a boutique feel, with bags of charming details such as wrought-iron floor lamps, stone fireplaces and Navajo-style bed throws. Book at least one night at the nearby Red Rock Grill, which has gorgeous panoramic views over the park.

Situated close to Zion Canyon, less than 3mi (5km) to the entrance of the park, this lodge lives up to the name, with some of the most astounding vistas of Zion’s pink mesas anywhere in the park. The outdoor pool (and hot tub) is ideally placed to take advantage of the views, and there’s a steakhouse and separate pub on the property, all within stumbling distance of your cozy, homespun-feeling rooms.

Hilton’s upmarket Curio label is your first indication this hotel is going to be class apart. The colors and textures of the surrounding landscape are tied in with wood-effect wallpaper, distressed pink Persian-style carpets and organic-feeling abstract artworks. The on-site restaurant feels young and contemporary, with festoon lights softening the exposed brick walls and steel beams, plus a menu with locally sourced ingredients. And, after a long day exploring the park, you’ll have the choice of two pools to cool off in. Bliss.