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Moab's Luxe Desert Glamping

Moab's Under Canvas redefines luxury amid iconic national park landscapes"

Article by Krista Carpenter-Beasley

Photography by Krista Carpenter-Beasley & Under Canvas Moab

Originally published in Gilbert City Lifestyle

For a unique and luxurious outdoor experience near Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, glamping with Under Canvas in Moab, Utah offers the perfect solution. As someone who dislikes traditional camping, I find glamping to be an ideal alternative, eliminating inconveniences while providing comfort and luxury.

The Moab Under Canvas location, situated just 7 miles north of both national parks, serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring Utah's desert landscape. Upon arrival, friendly staff in the main "Lobby" tent greet guests, offering a tour of the grounds and luggage transport to your tent.

While this Under Canvas doesn't have an on-site restaurant, they offer Grab 'n Go snacks, and the nearby town of Moab provides plenty of dining options. The communal tent offers complimentary hot beverages, s'mores fixings, and water bottles. Complementary camp activities like yoga are available, along with a picnic area, grills, and a communal fire pit for social gatherings.

The tents at Moab Under Canvas strike a perfect balance between luxury and rustic ambiance. Designed for comfort, they feature real beds with hotel-quality bedding. Amenities like towels, robes, and organic bath products add an extra touch of luxury, while West Elm furnishings elevate the overall experience.

Accommodation options vary in terms of bathroom facilities. The Suite, Stargazer, and Deluxe tents have private bathrooms, while the Safari tent uses a shared bathhouse. Our tent had a regular flushing toilet and a hot water shower, though you need to hold a chain to operate the shower.

One unique aspect of Moab Under Canvas is the intentional lack of Wi-Fi, encouraging guests to disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in nature. Instead of reaching for your phone, you can unwind and enjoy quality time with companions. Consider packing games or bringing a bottle of wine to enjoy on your porch as you watch the sunset.

It's worth noting that the tents don't have electricity. However, Under Canvas provides battery packs for rechargeable lanterns and fans, which can be swapped out for fresh ones as needed. This is particularly useful during summer evenings when fans can make a significant difference in comfort.

The customer service at Under Canvas Moab is exceptional. The staff is prompt, friendly, and helpful, going above and beyond to ensure guests' needs are met. Whether providing water and ice to combat the heat or being attentive to requests, their dedication to customer satisfaction is evident.

While the accommodations and amenities are comfortable, it's important to note that the Moab location is near a freeway and train tracks, which may result in some noise. If absolute quiet is a priority, this is something to consider.

The proximity to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks makes Under Canvas Moab an ideal basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into hiking, climbing, or mountain biking, the area's towering plateaus, majestic sandstone cliffs, and incredible geologic formations are all within reach. Exploring these natural wonders during the day and returning to the comfort of your glamping tent at night creates a truly unforgettable experience.

For those who enjoy the Under Canvas experience, exploring their other locations around the country offers unique settings and adventures. Each site provides its own distinct landscape and nearby attractions to explore.

Moab Under Canvas offers a remarkable getaway that appeals to those seeking various experiences, whether it's adventure, tranquility, or a connection with nature. It provides an opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and immerse oneself in natural beauty while still enjoying modern comforts.

The glamping experience at Under Canvas Moab combines the best of both worlds – the adventure of camping with the comforts of a hotel. You can enjoy the stars at night from your tent, wake up to stunning desert views, and then head out for a day of exploration in some of America's most beautiful national parks.

The attention to detail in the accommodations is impressive. From the comfortable beds to the carefully chosen furnishings, every aspect is designed to make your stay as pleasant as possible. The organic bath products and provided robes add a touch of luxury that you wouldn't expect in a camping situation.

While the lack of Wi-Fi might be challenging for some, it's a deliberate choice that encourages guests to fully engage with their surroundings and companions. It's a chance to rediscover the joy of conversation, stargazing, or simply sitting in peaceful contemplation of the beautiful landscape.

The communal aspects of the camp, such as the fire pit and picnic areas, provide opportunities to meet fellow travelers and share experiences. Yet, the individual tents offer plenty of privacy when you want it. This balance of social and private spaces is one of the strengths of the Under Canvas model.

The eco-friendly approach of Under Canvas is also worth noting. The use of rechargeable lanterns and fans, along with the emphasis on connecting with nature, aligns with a growing desire for more sustainable travel options.

While the nearby road and train tracks might be a drawback for some, many guests find that the overall experience more than makes up for occasional noise. The unique opportunity to sleep in comfort while being so close to nature is something that many visitors find truly special.

For those considering a visit to Arches or Canyonlands National Parks, staying at Under Canvas Moab offers a distinctive alternative to traditional hotels or camping. It allows you to extend your immersion in the landscape beyond your daytime explorations, creating a more holistic experience of the area.

The Under Canvas experience caters to a wide range of travelers. It's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a comfortable base for their explorations, couples seeking a romantic getaway in nature, families wanting to introduce their children to the outdoors without the hassle of traditional camping, or anyone who wants to dip their toes into camping without sacrificing too many creature comforts.

One of the highlights of staying at Under Canvas Moab is the opportunity to stargaze. The lack of light pollution in the area, combined with the clear desert skies, provides spectacular views of the night sky. Many guests find this to be one of the most memorable aspects of their stay.

The location also serves as an excellent base for day trips. Besides the nearby national parks, guests can explore the Colorado River, go on guided tours of the surrounding desert, or visit the charming town of Moab itself, known for its art galleries, restaurants, and outdoor gear shops.

In conclusion, Under Canvas Moab provides a unique and memorable way to experience the natural wonders of Utah. By combining comfort with adventure, luxury with simplicity, it creates an experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or someone who wants to experience nature without roughing it, Under Canvas Moab offers an appealing option. The memories created here – of starry nights, desert sunrises, and the comfort of a well-appointed tent after a day of adventure – are likely to stay with you long after your visit has ended. It's a testament to how glamping can provide a bridge between traditional hotels and camping, offering the best of both worlds in one unforgettable package.