Under Canvas - Glamping at Grand Canyon
This week we’re in Northern Arizona exploring in and around Grand Canyon National Park. Rather than staying at a traditional hotel, I’m opting to be more closely connected to the natural beauty and wildlife this landscape has to offer. Join me as we discover a unique glamping experience at Under Canvas Grand Canyon.
Stargazer Tent at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Sunrise at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Under Canvas
With the idea that nature is the best architect, Under Canvas first popped up in 2012 at one of my favorite places, West Yellowstone. Removing the notion that “roughing it” is a requirement to enjoy nature, the wonderful folks at Under Canvas desire to connect guests with the outdoors and with each other through unique experiences in each location. Currently there are 10 sites across the US where you can enjoy Under Canvas safari-inspired stays:
• Yellowstone National Park
• Glacier National Park
• Moab
• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Lake Powell–Grand Staircase
• Mount Rushmore
• Great Smoky Mountains
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Acadia National Park
Stargazer Tent at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Sunset over Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Located about 30 minutes from the South Rim, Under Canvas Grand Canyon has 9 different tent options for guests, ranging from the Safari Tents that share bath-houses to Suites with private stargazing decks. Although there is no electricity in the tents, each accommodation is equipped with battery packs that are available to charge your mobile devices, as well as the small fans and lanterns located bedside.
Whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal or a grab-n-go bite for your Grand Canyon adventure, breakfast and dinner are available in the large lobby tent. Each dish is made from locally sourced ingredients, and there are several options both inside and outside…however, I’d highly recommend enjoying your meal under twinkling lights and desert skies while listening to the nightly live music. And don’t forget to roast some ‘mallows over the fire pits near the complimentary s’more station!
Other daily activities are also available, such as yoga, games, and personalized Grand Canyon experiences. You can check them all out here.
Fire pits, dining, and activity area at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Stargazer Tent at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Stargazer Tent
This particular trip I stayed in tent #48, one of the few Stargazer tents on the property. The unique feature that sets this accommodation apart from the rest is the skylight window above the king size bed, allowing for “stargazing” throughout the night. This wonderful highlight takes advantage of the extremely dark skies in this region, which reveal spectacular starry views as you nod off to sleep.
This tent also offers running water for indoor/outdoor misters, as well as for the private bathroom, which includes a sink/vanity, a flushing toilet, and heated shower. A wood burning stove with complimentary firewood and a private deck with outdoor lounge chairs are also features to take advantage of when staying in the Stargazer.
King size bed with Stargazer view
Shower and vanity in the Stargazer Tent
Know Before You Go
• If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip. Please help leave this special place better than you found it, so its natural beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
• Under Canvas believes in connecting with those around you and exploring the great outdoors is invaluable…so WiFi is not available anywhere on the property. However, cell reception was available during my stay (on AT&T).
• There are no electrical outlets in the tents, which means hair dryers, curlers, laptop power cords, etc. will not be able to be used. The provided battery packs have USB-A ports, and the staff will kindly replace them when they start running low on juice.
• Although this is a glamping experience, you are still very much out in nature. Bugs do find their way inside the tent and the canvas structure can get a bit loud in windy conditions.
• For the safety and health of the guests and natural landscape, smoking or vaping of any kind is not permitted at any of the Under Canvas locations.
• Dogs are allowed on property for an additional $25 fee per night. Owners are asked to keep them on leash, clean up after them, and to refrain from leaving them unattended in the tents.
• There is plenty of available parking throughout the property with walking paths leading up to each tent.
Top 10 Grand Canyon Highlights
Mather Point & Rim Trail
Desert View Road
Shoshone Point Trail
Desert View Watchtower
Bright Angel Trail
Hermit Road & Hermits Rest
Ooh Aah Point
Lipan Point
Mojave Point
Powell Memorial Point
Dinner at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
King size bed with Stargazer view
In Summary
Thank you so much for joining me in Arizona this week. For a virtual visit to Under Canvas Grand Canyon, check out my Behind the Blog YouTube Video at the top of this post. If you’re interested in booking a stay at this special location, you can do so here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Stargazer Tent at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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