If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

These days, you’re probably craving more than just a souvenir T-shirt when you take a trip. More and more travelers are searching for experiences that both challenge and refresh them, which makes the rise of “adventure travel” undeniable. People want to unplug, reconnect with nature, and make memories that don’t fit neatly into an Instagram square (okay, but let’s be honest, we’ll probably post them anyway).

In fact, adventure travel has become one of the fastest-growing sectors of the tourism industry, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), adventure travel is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.8% from 2025 to 2030, and according to a 2025 travel trends report by The Future Laboratory and IHG Hotels & Resorts, 68% of Gen Z travelers prefer adventure-based vacations and outdoor experiences.

It’s no surprise, really. After all, who wouldn’t want to swap endless doom scrolling for sunrise canyon views that make you forget your inbox exists? But the thing is, going on your next big adventure doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. With IHG Hotels & Resorts, you can become one with nature without giving up a little bit of luxury, so you can crush that trail you’ve always wanted to hike by day, and return to plush beds and hot showers by night.

IHG has plenty of properties near some of America’s most iconic parks, from California’s towering granite cliffs, to the red rocks of Zion and the soothing springs of Arkansas. So whether you’re road-tripping across state lines or carefully mapping your dream national park tour, these are the five best hotels near national parks so you can be right next to the action (without roughing it).

Picture this: you, your backpack, and giant sequoias so stunning you’ll wonder if you accidentally walked onto a movie set. That’s Yosemite for you! If you’re thinking of hiking to Half Dome, or just want to snap some shots of El Capitan, those landscapes never disappoint.

But after a day of adventuring, you’ll want to recharge somewhere cozy. Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Oakhurst puts you less than 20 minutes from Yosemite’s southern entrance, meaning you’ll have easy access without the hassle of camping gear. Start your morning with the free hot breakfast buffet (don’t miss the cinnamon rolls!), but Oakhurst has some great local dining options that we encourage you to try out too. Treat yourself to a hearty burger or wood-fired pizza before heading back to the hotel and winding down your evening in the heated outdoor pool.

America’s first national park (and arguably its most famous) Yellowstone is all about raw, untamed beauty. Watch Old Faithful erupt, or spot wolves in Lamar Valley, because no matter where you look, every day here feels like a National Geographic special.

So if you’re dreaming of bubbling geysers and roaming bison, base yourself in the charming town of Cody, known for their nightly summer rodeos and the fascinating Buffalo Bill Center of the West (the town was founded by none other than ol’ Bill himself). Staying at Holiday Inn Cody — Convention Center will put you within a scenic drive that’s under an hour from Yellowstone’s East Entrance, and right in the heart of local Wild West history. After your outdoor escapades, relax in the outdoor heated pool or grab a bite at the on-site restaurant and lounge.

Just 90 minutes from Yellowstone’s North Entrance, if you’re looking to adventure hard (then recover right) while exploring Big Sky Country, the brand-new EVEN Hotel Bozeman is ideal for you. Located near the airport in Belgrade, this wellness-focused hotel offers in-room fitness zones (yes, there are yoga mats and even spin bikes!), a 24/7 athletic studio, and a menu is designed to cater to health-conscious diners at EVEN Kitchen & Bar (even the cocktails are organic).

This modern, calming space is a great basecamp whether you’ve been rafting the Gallatin or gone skiing in winter. Need to recharge after a day outdoors? We recommend you take a dip in the indoor pool or gather around the fire pit. Plus, you’re just minutes from the Western charm of Bozeman’s breweries and shops.

Few places stop you in your tracks quite like the Grand Canyon. Even if you’re just peering over the rim for the first time, the scale and beauty of this natural wonder are jaw-dropping. Experienced hikers know that it’s also worth taking a trek down to those depths.

Located just over an hour from Grand Canyon National Park, voco Flagstaff offers the perfect mix of modern comfort and historic Route 66 charm (and works as a great launch pad for other adventures, if you want to explore Sedona’s red rocks and Meteor Crater, too). This stylish hotel has an easygoing vibe to it with pretty lively social spaces (and some pretty plush bedding, if we do say so ourselves). Flagstaff itself is a gem, packed with cool breweries and clear night skies ideal for stargazing.

Towering red cliffs and trails that wind through slot canyons — Zion National Park is pure magic. This place will have your jaw dropping with every step as you wade through the Narrows, or hike the iconic Angels Landing (permit required!).

Holiday Inn La Verkin — Zion Park is your ideal basecamp for all this natural beauty, located just 20 minutes from the park’s entrance. Start your day with a hearty complimentary breakfast (me and my father like to see how many Belgian waffles we can stack up), and after your hikes, kick back in the outdoor pool or hot tub. La Verkin and the nearby town of Hurricane also offer some local cafes and stores for stocking up on essentials, especially if you’re visiting on a road trip.

Looking for something a little different than a 12 mile hike with crazy incline? You’ll want to head to Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas, where relaxation is part of the adventure. Here, natural thermal springs have drawn visitors for centuries, and you can spend your day soaking in historic bathhouses, or boating on nearby Lake Hamilton. The Bathhouse Row is a must-see (eight bathhouse buildings constructed between 1892-1923), and you should also grab a pint at Superior Bathhouse Brewery, where they craft beer from — you guessed it — natural spring water.

The Staybridge Suites Hot Springs offers a peaceful lakeside retreat complete with spacious suites, full kitchens, and an indoor pool. It great for large groups and families, or anyone who likes the idea of whipping up breakfast before a day of soaking in spring-fed bliss.

Why Choose IHG Hotels Near National Parks?

If you love exploring the great outdoors but still want a comfy bed, hot shower, and free Wi-Fi waiting for you at the end of the day, IHG has got you covered. With several convenient locations close to park entrances, you’ll never be too far away from the local attractions and charming towns that surround the parks. Not to mention there’s free breakfast at most locations to fuel your morning adventures without hunting down a cafe (along with other amenities you’ll love, like pools and fitness centers).

And if you sign up for IHG One Rewards, you can also earn points for your stay and redeem them for free nights, gift cards, and more. Sometimes travel plans change too, and that’s why IHG’s Best Flexible Rate makes it easy to book your trip without stressing about the what-ifs. Book your stay whenever you’re ready and cancel for free up to one day prior to your arrival, with no deposit required. So if you’re a meticulous planner (like, several travel Excel spreadsheets-maker) or a spontaneous weekender, your nature escape can fit your schedule. Head over to IHG.com now to explore all the latest offers and start planning your next adventure today.