🏕️ Glamping & Evolution
Instead of roughing it with sleeping bags and basic tents, glamping provides unique accommodations such as safari-style canvas tents, yurts, or eco-lodges complete with plush bedding, climate control, and private bathrooms.
While the term glamping only emerged in 2007, the concept has deep historical roots. Wealthy European and American travelers in the early 1900s embarked on African safaris with luxurious canvas tents equipped with electricity, hot water, and folding furniture. Even earlier, in the 16th century, traveling nobility used elaborate, palace-like tents during their expeditions.
The modern glamping movement gained momentum in the United States around 2014, with searches for the term increasing steadily. By 2016, "glamping" was officially added to the Oxford English Dictionary. Today, glamping has evolved into a mainstream travel trend, with the founding of the American Glamping Association in 2018 marking its growing popularity across the country —and the world—.
Here are some recommendations for glamping sites in Arizona that, in addition to striving to create an unparalleled experience, also care about the environment.
✨ Backland Luxury Glamping – Williams, Arizona
Nestled on 160 acres within the Kaibab National Forest at 7,000 feet, Backland offers an exclusive retreat with only 10 custom-designed luxury tented suites. Unlike traditional glamping tents, these structures are fully insulated, climate-controlled, and built to building code standards—eliminating issues like wind noise and temperature fluctuations common in canvas accommodations.
🏜️ Unique Features
16-foot panoramic windows and ceiling skylights (in select Sky Suites) for stargazing from your king-size bed.
Glass-walled restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine.
Private lake with kayaking, fishing, and beach access.
R-28 insulation for energy efficiency and noise reduction.
Electric vehicle charging stations.
It is located in Williams, Arizona, just 90 minutes from the Grand Canyon's South Rim.
🍃 Sustainability Practices
It is designed with minimal disturbance to the terrain to preserve the natural environment. It features automatic climate control with energy-efficient systems. Water conservation accessories and bath products are eco-friendly, as are the seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from Arizona farms.
Nighttime lighting consists of LED lamps and spotlights with motion sensors, which help protect nocturnal wildlife and preserve conditions for stargazing.
Your reservation includes a private bathroom with a rain shower, an on-site tented spa offering massage treatments, complimentary breakfast, nightly s'mores by the campfire, access to nature trails, and birdwatching (bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons are frequently spotted). Linens, bathrobes, a mini-fridge, and a coffee maker are also provided.
Backland Luxury Glamping is pet-friendly.
⏳ Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May): Wildflowers bloom across meadows, temperatures are mild (60s-70s°F).
Summer (June-August): Long daylight hours are perfect for adventure, and comfortable due to the elevation.
Fall (September-October): Peak season, cozy evenings by the fire, excellent stargazing.
Winter (November-March): Possible snow creates a magical atmosphere; suites stay warm with climate control.
👍🏼 Booking Information
High Season: June-October and holiday weekends.
Low Season: November-March (excluding holidays).
Advance Booking: 2-3 months recommended for peak season; 4-6 weeks for low season.
Average Cost: $345-$475+ per night (varies by suite type and season).
✨ Shash Diné Eco-Retreat – Navajo Nation, Arizona
This completely off-grid retreat is owned and operated by a Navajo family on their working sheep ranch. It offers an authentic cultural experience combined with sustainable practices, earning its reputation as a "5-billion star hotel" for its extraordinary dark sky views.
🏜️ Unique Features
Traditional Navajo hogans (some built generations ago), canvas bell tents, restored sheepherder's wagons, and modern cabins.
Completely off-grid operation using solar power.
Traditional Navajo breakfast included (fry bread, eggs, and more).
Petroglyphs and ancient artifacts are scattered across the property.
Working ranch with Navajo Churro sheep, goats, horses, and livestock guardian dogs.
It is located 12 miles south of Page, Arizona, on the Navajo Nation.
🍃 Sustainable Practices
Shash Diné Eco-Retreat is a lodge that runs entirely on solar power. The bathrooms have a composting system that protects the fragile ecosystem of the high desert. Showers are solar-powered, and water conservation practices are employed.
They operate under a minimal-impact philosophy that respects ancestral lands.
There is no electricity or Wi-Fi in the rooms; this is a true getaway for guests, allowing them to completely disconnect. They also practice traditional Navajo land management and livestock farming.
Some amenities included in your reservation are:
Daily American breakfast (included in the rate).
Outdoor communal fire pit.
Solar-heated showers.
Candle and solar lantern lighting for authentic desert nights.
Games, books, snacks, and drinks at the lodge.
Spectacular views of Lake Powell.
Premium bedding with down comforters.
⏳ Best Time To Visit
Spring (March-May): Comfortable temperatures (70s-80s°F), blooming desert wildflowers.
Fall (September-November): Ideal weather, stunning sunsets, perfect stargazing conditions.
Summer (June-August): Hot days (90s°F+) but spectacular night skies; hogans and cabins available (tents may be too warm).
Winter (December-February): Hogans and cabins only; cold nights but incredibly clear skies.
👍🏼 Booking Information
High Season: April-May and September-October.
Low Season: August and December-February.
Advance Booking: 6-8 weeks recommended for spring and fall; 2-3 weeks for other seasons.
Average Cost: $150-$190 per night (including breakfast).
✨ Under Canvas Grand Canyon – Valle, Arizona
Set on 160 acres of secluded piñon and juniper forest, Under Canvas offers safari-style luxury glamping recognized by some travelers as one of the top resorts in the US - Southwest. As one of five Under Canvas properties certified as an International Dark Sky resort, it provides world-class stargazing experiences.
🏜️ Unique Features
Stargazer Tents with viewing windows above the bed for celestial observation.
Up to 90 safari-style canvas tents with various configurations.
West Elm® furnishings throughout, Wood-burning stoves with complimentary firewood.
Some tents have en-suite bathrooms, others have access to well-appointed communal bathhouses.
Kids' tents are available adjacent to adult accommodations.
It is located in Valle, Arizona, 25 minutes from Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim.
🍃 Sustainable Practices
This accommodation is designed to minimize disturbance to the landscape and maximize open space. Pull-chain showers and low-flow toilets promote water conservation, as do self-closing faucets.
Cleaning and bath products are eco-friendly (EO brand, manufactured in zero-waste facilities). They have a towel reuse program.
They hold Dark Sky International certification for the protection of nighttime ecosystems. Solar power is used at sister properties (Moab and Zion locations) and at the Grand Canyon, offsetting energy needs.
Single-use plastics are not permitted; reusable aluminum bottles are provided. They also have carbon offset programs.
Your reservation includes:
On-site restaurant "Embers" serving locally-sourced meals.
Outdoor bar with Arizona craft beers and cocktails.
Daily complimentary activities: yoga, live music, stargazing programs, and s'mores by campfire.
Board games and acoustic guitars are available to borrow.
Breakfast options (not included): $10-$20.
Guest experience coordinators for tour bookings.
Small retail boutique.
Private decks on all tents.
Memory foam beds with premium bedding.
Pet-friendly ($25/night).
⏳ Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May): Moderate temperatures, wildflowers blooming, fewer crowds than summer.
Summer (June-August): Peak season, warm days (80s°F at rim), perfect for extended exploration.
Fall (September-October): Stunning fall colors, comfortable temperatures (70s°F), and less crowded than summer.
Winter: Property is typically closed (check specific dates).
👍🏼 Booking Information
Operating Season: Mid-April to late October annually (2025: April 16 – October 27; 2026: April 15 – October 26).
High Season: June-August, major holidays, and weekends.
Low Season: April-May and September-October weekdays.
Advance Booking: 3-4 months recommended for summer; 6-8 weeks for shoulder seasons.
Average Cost: $179-$400+ per night (plus 10.03% resort fee).
Note: No food allowed in tents due to wildlife; must be stored in locked vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions❓
What is the average cost of glamping?
Glamping costs vary significantly based on location, amenities, and season. In Arizona's desert regions, you can expect:
Budget Glamping: $115-$190 per night (basic canvas tents with communal facilities).
Mid-Range Glamping: $200-$350 per night (private bathrooms, climate control, some meals included).
Luxury Glamping: $350-$650+ per night (full-service resorts with spa treatments, gourmet dining, premium amenities).
Most glamping rates include parking, basic camp activities, and some level of breakfast service. Additional costs may include resort fees, meals (if not included), spa treatments, and guided adventure bookings. Pet fees typically range from $25-$50 per night.
Where to glamp in Arizona?
Arizona offers diverse glamping experiences across multiple regions:
Northern Arizona (Near Grand Canyon).
Lake Powell Region (Page Area).
Sedona & Red Rock Country.
Southern Arizona (Tucson & Patagonia).
What is the best time of year for glamping in Arizona?
Arizona's best glamping seasons vary by region and elevation:
Spring (March-May):
Best for: Northern Arizona, Grand Canyon area.
Fall (September-November):
Best for: All regions, particularly northern Arizona, for fall foliage.
Summer (June-August):
Best for: High-elevation sites (Williams, Flagstaff area above 6,000 feet).
Winter (December-February):
Best for: Southern Arizona deserts (Tucson, Phoenix areas).
How much does it cost to go glamping near the Grand Canyon?
Glamping near Grand Canyon National Park typically ranges from $179 to $650+ per night, depending on accommodation type, season, and included amenities
See you next time,
