AFAR: Where to Find Luxury in California’s National Parks

From spa escapes to fine dining under the stars, these parks show how nature and luxury converge.

Visit California, October 24, 2025

Yosemite National Park, California

Home to nine national parks, California has long been synonymous with the great outdoors. But what about the amateur adventurer who also enjoys dusting off and dressing up after a long day on the trail? Well, that’s where the Golden State truly glimmers. Sipping craft cocktails in a desert oasis? Easy. Sleeping in a secluded lodge built by one of America’s most celebrated architects while surrounded by an ancient redwood forest? Absolutely. Snorkeling through kelp forests on a remote volcanic island? It’s all here.

It isn’t merely a matter of glamping with creature comforts; it’s about communing with jaw-dropping nature while discovering the finer things. From the peaks of Yosemite to the hot springs of Lassen, we’ll explore six of California’s national parks while bridging the gap between the state’s rugged beauty and peerless hospitality, paving the way for one unforgettable, unmistakably Californian experience after another.

Around 4 million people visit Yosemite National Park each year, and for good reason. World-famous natural features, such as El Capitan and Yosemite Falls, make the park one of the country’s most popular destinations. A hike to Mirror Lake or a four-hour tour from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point is every bit as awe-inspiring. After a day on the trails, dress up for a romantic dinner at the majestic Ahwahnee Lodge.

Set aside some free time to visit Old Town Mariposa and shop for ethical, handmade goods at boutiques like Anahata Fair Trade and Nativearth. Cap your visit with a stay at the streamlined and stylish Autocamp Yosemite or at a timeless yet modern cabin at Firefall Ranch. 

Read More