Glamping Canyonlands

This is a mighty fine part of the world for desert-touring day trips. Close to base (about a mile away, in fact) is Church Rock, a spectacular sandstone column. Also close, Newspaper Rock (15 minutes' drive) combines geology and history with its remarkable rock panel that’s covered with 2,000-year-old petroglyphs. Up for rafting through more desert scenery? Make for Moab (40 minutes) and pick any one of the town's several watersports companies. As you may well have guessed from this campground's name, it's easy to take a spin around all three parts of nearby Canyonlands National Parks (45 minutes), whether you opt for hiking in the Needles, admiring the overlooks in the Island in the Sky or off-roading around the Maze. And so onwards to Arches National Park (50 minutes), another well-preserved stretch of wilderness with over 2,000 natural rock arches. High up on the Colorado Plateau, folk flock here from all around to admire natural attractions like Delicate Arch, Double Arch and Balanced Rock. It can get a little busy hereabouts, with photographers vying to take the best snap (especially during the sunset golden hour), so if crowds aren't your thing head out of the park and try your luck at quieter Wilson Arch (15 minutes).