The holidays are all about slowing down and spending quality time with your loved ones (and yes, eating allllll the food!).
Of course, it’s even better if you can do that in a naturally beautiful place. Like, say, near a national park. Sounds absolutely fantastic, right? We agree!
To get you in the holiday spirit, we’ve scouted out 10 of the most unique Airbnbs across the country. Not only are each of these homes stunning and memorable, but they're all also within about an hour of a national park.
Fair warning: these Airbnbs are so good that you may not want to venture out whatsoever. But when (if!) you do, you’ll find fantastic scenery, hiking, stargazing, and all the other great things our parks offer. Enjoy!
All images courtesy of Airbnb.
1. Indoor-Outdoor Stargazing Home, Joshua Tree
Conde Nast Traveler calls this “one of the all-time coolest rentals on Airbnb,” and that’s not even a slight exaggeration.
The off-grid two-bedroom home is just 10 minutes from Joshua Tree in Twentynine Palms. Keeping with the area’s overarching theme, this home is stunning yet simple.
The home was designed by an architect, and it shows in every detail, from the contrasting finishes to the bidet to the two hammocks strategically positioned to have a mountain view.
There are two bedrooms, but only one is technically inside. That’s right — one of the beds is actually outside, so you can very literally sleep under the stars. And you'll want to, because Joshua Tree is fantastic in the winter, both the weather and the ultra-clear skies.
2. Gum Tree Lodge A-Frame, Shenandoah
Less than 40 minutes from Shenandoah National Park, this rural Virginia A-frame cottage provides a postcard-perfect setting for your holiday getaway.
The eco-friendly loft home has plenty of space for four, and the open concept living and dining areas make it seem even larger. A wood-burning stove downstairs gives an authentic tucked-away-in-the-country feel, especially on cold winter nights.
Spacious front and back decks, an outdoor shower, and hiking trails offer plenty of ways to enjoy the home’s exterior spaces. Inside, nearly all the building materials are either reclaimed or recycled.
3. Treehouse With Private Hot Tub, Hot Springs
Not many (or...any other?) national parks are located right in an urban downtown core. Hot Springs National Park is, though, so it’s only fitting that this incredible treehouse is also just minutes from the city.
Perched above the Ouachita Mountains, this Hot Springs treehouse isn’t just a misnomer. Sit on the back porch swing or unwind in the private hot tub and look out over the canopy of trees.
Inside, you’ll find a small but well-equipped kitchen, all-season electric fireplace, enormous walk-in shower, and one of the most comfortable king beds you’ll ever sleep on.
No one will blame you if you don’t want to leave, but if you do, historic Bathhouse Row and the national park are less than 10 minutes away.
4. Spectacular 2-bedroom on Non-profit Ranch, Yellowstone
If you’re looking for a truly remote yet luxurious getaway, here it is. The Cargill-Earl Guesthouse at Erik's Ranch is situated on 230 pristine acres near Livingston, 45 minutes from Yellowstone’s North Entrance (this is also the only entrance open year-round!).
Aside from being a spectacular two-bedroom home with 360-degree views, literal walls of windows, and multiple patios, this unique Airbnb is 100% off-grid, powered by solar.
In addition, Erik’s Ranch is a non-profit organization run entirely by young adults with Autism. These amazing humans cook, clean, care for horses, and guide excursions including hikes and trips to Yellowstone.
5. "TreEscape" Treehouse, Great Smoky Mountains
If you’re dreaming of celebrating the holidays in a real treehouse, look no further. The TreEscape was built by the DIY Network’s “Treehouse Guys” and is about as authentic as it gets. Multiple live trees grow through the treehouse, including both the interior and the deck!
The complete kitchen, rainfall shower, wi-fi, spiral staircase, and loft are impressive, but they’re just the beginning.
Head outside for the real stars of the show, which include multiple outdoor living spaces connected by a suspension bridge! Enjoy two outdoor bars, several swinging chairs, a fire pit, grill, and more.
6. "Copper Lodge" on 20 Acres, Yosemite
It’s easy to see why Conde Nast Traveler named Copper Lodge one of the best Airbnbs near Yosemite.
This gorgeous home is incredibly unique, thanks mostly to its numerous outdoor living (and relaxing and playing!) spaces. It also sits on 20 acres — a rarity near Yosemite — and is conveniently located near two of the park’s entrances.
Your crew will love hanging out on the multiple outdoor patios (don’t worry; they’re heated), playing ping-pong or sharing drinks around the fire. There are also outdoor bathtubs and hammocks.
Inside, you’ll find just as many comfy places to gather and relax. The modern chef’s kitchen has everything necessary for whipping up a holiday meal, there’s an extensive selection of games and books, and there’s access to various streaming services.
Bonus: two of California’s other national parks, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, are also just a few hours away.
7. "Javelina Hideout," Big Bend
South Texas’ Big Bend National Park is one of the most remote in the U.S. That makes it a perfect destination for celebrating the holidays with your loved ones!
The Javelina Hideout is, naturally, just as remote, but certainly not lacking any amenities. Technically, the home is two separate buildings: the main house and the bunkhouse.
In the main house, you’ll find a modern kitchen, spacious living room, and master bedroom. The bunkhouse contains a set of bunk beds, making this a perfect setup for larger groups.
Everything is thoughtfully designed, including having south-facing windows in the bedrooms for watching the sunrise from bed. The same is true outside, where you’ll enjoy an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and plenty of comfortable seating all strategically positioned for the best views.
8. "Dark Sky House," Capitol Reef
Capitol Reef may be Utah’s least-known national park, but don’t let that fool you. This park is well worth a visit, if for no other reason than stargazing.
It’s an International Dark Sky Park, and the appropriately-named Dark Sky House is the perfect unique Airbnb for your holiday visit. Bonus: winter is one of the best times to stargaze!
The ultra-modern two-bedroom home is just five minutes from Capitol Reef’s entrance and just as secluded as the park itself. That means you’ll enjoy the spectacular night skies without ever leaving!
The spacious back deck, panoramic windows throughout (shower with a mountain view, anyone?), and telescope all enhance the views.
9. Forest House, White Sands
Set in the heart of Lincoln National Forest, the beautiful Forest House is within walking distance of the quaint mountain village of Cloudcroft and just 40 minutes from White Sands National Park.
This unique Airbnb comfortably accommodates seven people, so it’s perfect for hosting your holiday gathering. Everyone can hang out by the fire or on one of the multiple decks, then retire to their own sleeping quarters for the night.
You’ll have super fast wi-fi and smart electronics with all the latest streaming services, but the large windows facing the forest will make you feel like you’re miles from civilization. Yet, the restaurants and shops in Cloudcroft are just a short stroll away!
10. "The Nub" Oceanfront Home, Acadia
Coastal Maine, with its rocky coastline, dramatic scenery, and moody weather, is the perfect place to spend the holidays. More specifically, we mean “The Nub,” this gorgeous three-bedroom cottage on Mount Desert Island near Acadia National Park.
The cottage is very literally oceanfront, tucked way back into the forest with just the expansive windows and wraparound deck peeking out onto Somes Sound. There’s also a scenic beach below the house and guests enjoy direct access.
The sound is more like a fjord, calmer and warmer than the open ocean Maine is so famous for. That makes it perfect for kayaking or boating, where you’re likely to spot seals and other wildlife.
When you’re ready to venture out, bustling Bar Harbor is nearby, as well as several other islands that are part of Acadia.
So there you have it — 10 of the best Airbnbs to spend the holidays this year, each one near a national park. Which one is your favorite?
While we’re on the topic of holidays, don’t forget to pick up a few gifts! The Wander Club Travel Tokens, including U.S. National Park Tokens, paired up with a Wanderchain or necklace, make the perfect memorable gift for any nature lover or adventure enthusiast.
Tokens are even customizable, so you can add a date or include a sweet message. You can’t go wrong! Enjoy the season, from picking out gifts to taking time out to enjoy your family!
