Deep in Utah’s Canyon Country, Arches National Park is home to the largest collection of natural arches in the world! Made world-famous during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, this region is home to some of the most unique landscapes on the planet. The nearby towns also offer an authentic insight into Southwestern culture.
You can’t, however, stay in the park – so you’ll need to do some research before you plan your trip. The towns near the national park are quite small and limited in terms of accommodation. They’re also spread out, so you need to gather your bearings before you arrive.
Luckily, we’ve done some of the work for you! Combining our personal experience of visiting the region with tips from local guides and tourism experts, we’ve figured out the four best places to stay near Arches National Park. Whether you want scenery, seclusion, or sunsets, we’ve got you covered.
So, let’s jump right in!
- Where to Stay in Arches National Park
- Arches National Park Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Arches National Park
- Arches National Park 4 Best Places to Stay
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Arches National Park
- What To Pack For Arches National Park
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Arches National Park
- Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Arches National Park?
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Arches NP is one of the top options when it comes to America’s best National Parks. Luckily, the road network is one of the best in the area, so getting around will be a breeze if you have a car.
Each town has something different to offer, but sometimes you’re just in a hurry to book somewhere. These are our top three overall accommodation picks near Arches National Park.
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Sendero | Welcoming Cabin near Arches National Park
This huge cabin is perfect for large families and groups heading to Arches National Park! It has three bedrooms – two of which come with en-suites – and room for up to 17 people. Bringing an RV? There’s an electrical hookup in the driveway, so you can bring even more people along. The secluded location and stunning scenery make this the perfect location for a family reunion or group adventure.
Moab Digs | Contemporary Apartment near Arches National Park
Airbnb Plus properties are hand-selected for their gorgeous interior design, above and beyond guest service, and luxury details. From the outside, this traditional building blends into the neighborhood, but once inside, you are rewarded with calm and contemporary style. There is a huge patio outside where you can spot the local wildlife and fire up the barbecue for a sunset feast!
Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa | Luxury Hotel near Arches National Park
It doesn’t get more lavish than this sprawling resort near Castle Valley! All rooms come with panoramic views of either the mountains or the river, and the guest service is next to none. The on-site adventure centre offers horse riding, river rafting, and hiking activities – and the extensive spa is the perfect place to relax your muscles after an excursion.
Moab
Moab is the closest town to Arches National Park – so it’s no wonder it is also the most visited area by tourists! This is the home of adventure activities in the region – with a river running right past the town and plenty of hiking, biking and canyoning opportunities nearby.
Spanish Valley
Just south of Moab, Spanish Valley is usually considered an outer district of the town. Despite this, it has its own distinct vibe that makes it the perfect spot for couples! Think laid-back and peaceful without being stifling. Most families and tour groups stick to Moab, so you’ll get to enjoy your own piece of serenity.
Green River
Heading to the small towns north of the national park is a great way to visit the region without breaking the bank! Green River is the most populous town in this area and has some great accommodation options that will keep your wallet happy.
Castle Valley
Ready to embrace your adventurous side? Castle Valley is the least populated township in the area, with some of the most gorgeous landscapes nearby! Sitting on the outer edge of the Moab Ridge, you will enjoy unspoiled scenery and low tourist numbers in this unique destination.
Want to explore more National Parks? Check out our Utah’s National Park Travel Guide for road trips, hidden gems and more.
Arches National Park 4 Best Places to Stay
Whether you want to stay close to the park, unwind somewhere a bit more secluded, or save some cash, we’ve got four great places for you to choose from! Keep reading to learn more about the region – as well as the best things to do and accommodation options in each place.
Want a good deal? Be sure to pick up an ‘America, The Beautiful Pass‘, it’s $80 and gives you entrance to every National Park in the US for 12 months, plus a whole heap more!
The USA is blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.
Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99, and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!
You do the math. 😉
Buy the Pass!#1 Moab – Overall Best Place to Stay near Arches National Park
Moab is the closest town to Arches National Park – so it’s no wonder it is also the most visited area by tourists! This is the home of adventure activities in the region – with a river running right past the town and plenty of hiking, biking and canyoning opportunities nearby. First time in the area? Stay here to get a sense of the region.
Moab is not only the best connected to the park – it is also within easy travelling distance of everywhere else in this guide! Spanish Valley and Castle Valley are often considered suburbs of the town, while Green River is about 40 minutes away by car. Staying in Moab is your best option if you want to explore the area further. If you don’t have a car, you’ll be able to make use of the tour operators in the town.
Millcreek on Main | Contemporary Home in Moab
This cute little villa is just off Main Street, keeping you well connected to all the main attractions in Moab. It comes with a few great features, including an upstairs balcony with a fire pit and a jacuzzi in the backyard. The interiors are spacious and kept cool by fans and insulated architecture. We also love the rustic exterior that gives it a traditional vibe.
Hoodoo Moab | Stylish Hotel in Moab
Sometimes you just need a hotel! This upmarket hotel in the heart of Moab is part of the Hilton portfolio, so you know you’re guaranteed excellent customer service and attention to detail. There’s an outdoor pool area with views of the National Park, and most rooms have balconies overlooking it. They also offer a complimentary American-style buffet breakfast every morning.
Moab Digs | Modern Apartment in Moab
With gorgeous interiors and a calm atmosphere, you’ll never want to leave this stunning Airbnb Plus apartment! Right in the heart of Moab, the huge deck area gives you unbeatable views over the town and the surrounding natural beauty. The interiors are decorated with artwork from local creatives, giving it a super artsy vibe. We also love the outdoor barbecue – perfect for catching the sunset with your evening meal.
Things to See and Do in Moab:
- Arches National Park is the main reason most people visit Moab – if you’re looking for an experienced guide, we can’t recommend this five star experience enough.
- With astounding natural beauty and serene landscapes, it’s no wonder many people want their own private photoshoot in the region – we love this experience, in particular.
- Cycling and hiking are both popular in the town – we recommend Slickrock Trail for mountain bikers and Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracks for hikers.
- Learn more about the history of the region – both in terms of people who live there and the natural history of the landscape – at Museum of Moab.
- Bringing the family along? Zax is a very popular family restaurant with some of the best pizza in the Southwest.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
#2 Spanish Valley – Best Place to Stay near Arches National Park for Couples
Just south of Moab, Spanish Valley is usually considered an outer district of the town. Despite this, it has its own distinct vibe that makes it the perfect spot for couples! Think laid-back and peaceful without being stifling. Most families and tour groups stick to Moab, so you’ll get to enjoy your own piece of serenity.
Spanish Valley is also home to a few spas and wineries, which make perfect activities for a romantic getaway in the Southwest. You’ll also have access to public transport into central Moab in case you’re planning any guided excursions and don’t have a car.
Sendero | Beautiful Log Cabin in Spanish Valley
This huge cabin – that can sleep up to seventeen people – is a great budget option for larger parties. It has plenty of parking spaces, as well as an electrical hookup for RVs. This property has gorgeous views towards the La Sal Mountains, and with two huge decks, you’ll have plenty of space to admire the scenery. It also comes with a barbecue, fire pit, and hot tub.
Sunny Acres | Couple’s Cabin in Spanish Valley
For a bit of an upgrade, this cozy cabin is another great pick for couples looking for a romantic break near Arches National Park! The traditional log cabin style gives it a rustic charm, with an inviting log burner for use in the evenings when it can get a little bit colder. They also welcome dogs, so you won’t have to leave Lucky in the kennel.
FunStays | Unique Glamping Experience in Spanish Valley
At the other end of the scale, this cute tiny house is perfect for couples looking for something with a sense of adventure! You get to enjoy the rustic charm of glamping while benefiting from the home comforts of a private home. While we recommend it for couples and solo travellers, there are also spare beds – sleeping up to four guests in total.
More Awesome Things to Do and See in Spanish Valley:
- Let your creative side flourish with this unique native plant dyeing experience, where you can make your own colours from local flora.
- Looking for a more adrenaline-fuelled way to discover the Arches National Park? Look no further than this five star extreme off-road adventure.
- Spanish Valley Vineyard and Winery is the largest wine producer in the region, with regular tours of the site and tasting sessions.
- Faux Falls is an intermediate hike with some great waterfalls, riverside scenery and other photo spots along the way.
- Spa Moab is about halfway between central Moab and Spanish Valley, offering a wide range of holistic therapies.
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View on Osprey View on REI#3 Green River – Where to Stay near Arches National Park on a Budget
Heading to the small towns north of the national park is a great way to visit the region without breaking the bank! Green River is the most populous town in this area and has some great accommodation options that will keep your wallet happy. There are also a few budget-friendly attractions and restaurants in Green River.
Named after the river that runs through it, you won’t be missing out on any scenery staying in Green River! It has lower tourism numbers than Moab, so you’ll also get to enjoy a more authentic side of Southwestern culture. Don’t worry, though, the pace of life here is still very much easy going.
Cozy and Clean | Budget Friendly Home in Green River
Another great one for those watching their wallets, this modern house is great for families and groups as it can sleep up to six people across three bedrooms. You’ll be staying right next to the river, which contributes to the atmosphere of serenity and peace that can be found throughout the neighborhood. The large kitchen comes equipped with everything you could possibly need, making this one of our top picks for self-catering guests.
Green River Mesa | House with Great Views in Green River
This cul-de-sac home has a suburban vibe that will make you feel like you’re part of the community. The interiors are a little basic, but given the favourable rates, they are perfect for a short stay in the region. It can sleep up to eight guests across three bedrooms, and the master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom – giving parents a little extra privacy.
Outdoor Playground | Rustic Villa in Green River
This one is a little more contemporary inside, with rustic exteriors that complement the native flora of the region. It is right in the heart of town, so you’ll only be a short walk away from the best bars and restaurants. There’s also a small porch at the front where you can watch life go by from the comfort of your home.
Things to See and Do in Green River:
- A hike along Green River is one of the easiest walks in the region, with some rewarding landscapes and photo spots along the way.
- John Wesley Powell River History Museum is a surprisingly interesting exhibition about the history of Green River, as well as the aquatic life within the river itself.
- Fancy a spot of golf? Green River Golf Course is a stunning 18 hole course by the banks of the river with a large clubhouse.
- Mingle with locals and enjoy budget-friendly beers, wines and even a few local specialities at Ray’s Tavern.
- Ready for some all American cuisine? Tamarisk Restaurant has a budget-friendly menu and great riverside views.
#4 Castle Valley – Coolest Place to Stay near Arches National Park
Ready to embrace your adventurous side? Castle Valley is the least populated township in the area, with some of the most gorgeous landscapes nearby! Sitting on the outer edge of the Moab Ridge, you will enjoy unspoiled scenery and low tourist numbers in this unique destination.
There’s no avoiding it – you’ll need a car if you opt to stay in this area! Public transport is non-existent, and the streets can feel a little bit secluded. For many, this is all part of the charm. If you prefer a bit of peace and quiet, visiting Castle Valley is one of the best things to do in Utah.
LaSal Mountains | Spacious Ranch House in Castle Valley
Fancy staying on an authentic Southwestern ranch? This is your chance! Located on a five-acre estate, you’ll get to enjoy an authentic slice of local culture. It doesn’t just come with a well-equipped kitchen indoors, there’s also a large outdoor kitchen with stunning views towards the national park. Guests can even add hot tub access to their package.
Cozy Adobe | Secluded Hideaway in Castle Valley
An adobe is the traditional style of housing in the Southwest, making this a great choice for an authentic experience. The interiors are modern, with a large kitchen and luxurious bathroom. With one bedroom, this is a great pick for couples – but there are also spare beds available in the living area for families. The outdoor hot tub comes with stunning views of Moab Ridge.
Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa | Lavish Hotel in Castle Valley
We’re frankly shocked this hotel only has four stars! With great customer reviews and more entertainment facilities than your average resort, this is easily one of the most luxurious experiences in the Southwest. Adventure centre and spa aside, they also have a mouthwatering farm-to-table restaurant, a petting zoo, and regular events. Going above and beyond the usual hotel fitness centre, their leisure facilities also include tennis and basketball courts – plus daily guided hikes.
Things to See and Do in Castle Valley
- Moab Ridge is the outer limit of Arches National Park – drive right up to the base of the towering rock formation and grab some epic Instagram shots.
- Round Mountain is a small peak in the heart of Castle Valley, and one of the easiest climbs if you’re desperate for panoramic views.
- There’s really not much to do in Castle Valley, but if you’ve got a 4×4 vehicle, take it on the Hell’s Revenge Trail just off the road to Moab for something adventurous.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Arches National Park
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Arches National Park and where to stay.
What To Pack For Arches National Park
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Arches National Park
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Arches National Park?
With scenery that is unmatched anywhere else in the world, Arches National Park is somewhere you should visit at least once in your life! Staycations are becoming a necessity this year, so why not hit up one of the most unique landscapes in the country? You’re also certain to uncover top notch adventure attractions, quirky local culture, and scenic panoramas while your at it.
We don’t like to play favourites, but if we had to choose one place to stay overall, it would have to be Moab! This is the closest town to Arches National Park, and you’ll find most of the accommodation here. It’s also well connected by road to everywhere else mentioned in this guide.
That being said, wherever is best for you really depends on what you want to get out of your stay. Those seeking serenity might prefer Castle Valley or Spanish Valley, while budget-conscious travellers might be better off heading to Green River. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options.
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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