Arizona's Hidden Glamping Resort Is A Glorious Grand Canyon Getaway Known For Wildlife And Stargazing

Arizona boasts some of the best stargazing in the country. No, really: Tucson is one of the top destinations in the world for the activity, and just 250 miles north, Flagstaff has been designated the world's first International Dark Sky Community, making it the perfect place for glimpsing the Milky Way with the naked eye. Twenty-three miles east of Flagstaff, off I-40 and tucked 8 or so miles down an unpaved, rural road into the desert sagebrush, you'll find Backland Luxury Camping, Arizona's highest-rated glamping destination. 

Nestled on a beautiful 160-acre spread of quiet wilderness, this eco-resort blends sustainable design with high-end comfort, helping glampers experience nature and adventure off the beaten path, without ever roughing it. Backland features 10 private luxury units, each set at least 75 feet apart from each other, with forest-facing views. Rates range from about $400 to $650 per night. Each unit is insulated, with en-suite full bathroom and shower with instant hot water and eco-toiletries, 120v electricity, panoramic windows, luxury linens on King-sized beds, a coffeemaker, mini fridge, microwave, and outdoor patio. 

Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the on-site restaurant, relax in the central lodge, hike nearby trails, and paddle an 8-acre pond for kayaking. And, of course, stargaze. There is also an ADA-accessible unit. There's no Wi-Fi in the rooms (though you can access Wi-Fi in the lodge), nor TVs, encouraging guests to unplug, without ever being out of touch in case of emergencies. In fact, upon booking, the property will send you a voice note map to help find the campsite, as it's, well, in the middle of nowhere. For the ultimate glamping experience, the Sky Suite even includes an overhead window, so you can stargaze from bed.

Less than 70 miles from the Grand Canyon's South Rim, which offers various hiking trails to match what you want, Backland is a refreshing place to ditch the crowds and escape for serenity and stars. After a restful night, wake up to a continental breakfast in the glass-walled dining room — including a crepe bar, yogurt, granola, fresh fruit, and more — perfect for a day of unplugged adventures. Order sandwiches to-go from the restaurant, then head to the pond, where you can borrow kayaks and fishing poles and spend a few hours afloat. Bring your binoculars for some spectacular birdwatching: You may catch bald eagles and osprey soaring overhead. Hit the 9-hole frisbee golf course for a round, or head to the community lodge for board games. 

From 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., continental breakfast transforms to fine, from-scratch, seasonal dining — what some call "upscale ranch dining" – with a menu ranging from $17 to $46 entrees. Depending on the season, you might have blackened trout, elk jalapeño poppers, or gourmet burgers, all with a full drink menu, too. Finally, unwind around the fire and roast complimentary s'mores — arguably the next best thing to sleeping under the stars.

This hidden gem is the vision of Jeremy Budge, a founding force behind Under Canvas, the acclaimed safari-inspired glamping brand. Backland, even in its early stages, is "Under Canvas on steroids," as one TripAdvisor reviewer put it, with its gorgeous, remote location, eco-conscious approach, and distinctive luxuries. Backland plans to expand, eventually incorporating a wellness facility with salt saunas and cold plunges, yoga and event spaces, and family-friendly and adults-only zones, all in sustainable harmony with nature and conservation mindfulness.