If you’ve ever thought about visiting a national park, there’s a good chance you’ve envisioned summer hikes under bright blue skies or fall leaves in full color. But what about winter and spring, when crowds thin out, landscapes take on a quieter beauty, and the natural world feels untouched?
Imagine a winter wonderland in Yosemite or a serene desert landscape under a soft spring sun in Joshua Tree—these moments are waiting, and you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or luxury to experience them.
Why Explore National Parks in the Off-Season?
The off-season is the ideal time to visit national parks if you’re looking to escape the typical tourist hustle and enjoy these beautiful destinations in a more relaxed way. Beyond avoiding crowds, the cooler months offer distinct perks: pristine snow-draped trails, rare wildlife sightings, and quieter environments for true relaxation.
Without the summer swells, the parks take on a magical stillness that makes them feel all the more personal. And thanks to Hilton Honors’ partnership with AutoCamp, you can experience the great outdoors without giving up the creature comforts of high-end accommodations.
AutoCamp’s locations near top national parks like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Zion, and the Great Smoky Mountains are designed for adventurers who want to reconnect with nature and enjoy all the best amenities. Hilton Honors members booking at these AutoCamp spots can earn and redeem points and enjoy exclusive perks based on their tier.
Let’s explore what each destination offers during the quiet season and see how AutoCamp elevates the off-season travel experience.
AutoCamp Yosemite: Winter Wonder Awaits
Imagine yourself at AutoCamp Yosemite, where towering snow-dusted pines and the tranquility of winter transform the landscape into a true wonderland. Yosemite in winter is awe-inspiring, with snow-draped meadows and frozen waterfalls creating a pristine backdrop for exploring. During this season, you can enjoy classic winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing along peaceful trails, with no need to jostle for the perfect photo spot.
At AutoCamp Yosemite, the 4,000-square-foot Clubhouse, thoughtfully designed with floor-to-ceiling windows, brings the outdoors in. Guests can cozy up by the fire pits, lounge on deep sofas, and unwind with eco-friendly water bottles offered to Hilton Silver members. And if you’re a Hilton Diamond member, don’t miss out on the complimentary s’mores kit for that fireside indulgence! End your day gazing up at the stars from one of the outdoor hot tubs or by the fire, where the chilly winter air makes it all the more magical.
Rediscover Joshua Tree: The Desert Blooms in Spring
Springtime in Joshua Tree is nothing short of a dream, with warm days and cool nights making it the perfect time to explore the surreal desert landscape. This unique park features both the Mojave and Colorado deserts, blending rocky landscapes with the park’s famous twisted trees. With fewer crowds, spring is the time to take advantage of quieter trails, sunrise hikes, and those incredible stargazing nights that Joshua Tree is known for. By day, wildflowers bloom across the desert floor, creating pops of color against the sandy expanse, while at night, the desert sky offers unobstructed views of the Milky Way.
AutoCamp Joshua Tree combines luxury with natural beauty, offering Hilton Honors members access to perks like firewood bundles for Gold members and priority upgrades (when available) for all Hilton Honors tiers. The modern Airstreams and luxury tents add a unique blend of style and comfort, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the desert without giving up on high-end accommodations.
Zion National Park: Find Solitude in Every Canyon
Zion National Park in the off-season offers a retreat into one of the most dramatic landscapes in the U.S. As winter fades into spring, Zion’s canyons and sandstone cliffs glow with warm, golden hues under the softer sun. Exploring Zion in the quieter months lets you experience the famous Narrows without the throngs of summer visitors. Temperatures are mild, and the Virgin River’s water is still, ideal for serene outdoor time. Plus, the cooler weather allows for more extended hikes and deeper explorations into Zion’s backcountry.
AutoCamp Zion, located along the Virgin River and just 20 minutes from the park entrance, offers an oasis of comfort. The Clubhouse features artistic elements that reflect the rugged beauty of the area, while spacious lounges invite you to unwind after a day of adventure. Diamond members can redeem their s’mores kit and firewood bundle to enjoy a fireside evening under the stars. With AutoCamp, exploring Zion in the off-season means cozy accommodations and a personal connection to the beauty of this iconic landscape.
The Great Smoky Mountains: Spring Blossoms and Blue Ridge Views
Spring is arguably the most beautiful season in the Great Smoky Mountains, with wildflowers in bloom and the misty mountains waking up from winter’s quiet. Unlike summer, spring offers crisp mountain air and breathtaking views without the crowds, making it the ideal time to explore this biodiverse area. The blooming dogwoods and rhododendrons paint the mountains in shades of pink and white, while scenic hikes like Clingmans Dome or Cades Cove allow you to spot deer, elk, and even black bears in their natural habitat.
AutoCamp Asheville, nestled along the French Broad River, is your gateway to the Smokies. This location, opening in 2025, is just a short drive from the national park and offers an immersive experience that blends luxury with a sense of local culture. Imagine returning from a springtime hike to enjoy live Blue Ridge music, a curated local wine selection, or even a plunge in the all-season pool. Hilton Honors members can enjoy exclusive perks, including the Bambi Suite for solo travelers or couples—a unique and cozy retreat for springtime explorers.
Make the Most of Your Hilton Honors Benefits at AutoCamp
Hilton Honors members have even more reasons to explore AutoCamp in the off-season. Whether you’re earning points or redeeming them for a getaway, AutoCamp offers all members exclusive benefits. Hilton Silver members receive eco-friendly water bottles, Gold members enjoy firewood bundles, and Diamond members have access to s’mores kits and priority upgrades—perfect for adding extra comfort and enjoyment to your stay.
Booking through Hilton allows you to seamlessly combine the luxurious amenities of AutoCamp with the loyalty perks of Hilton Honors, making it a smart choice for both new and seasoned travelers. Hilton Honors members can book directly through Hilton’s website or app, ensuring that every part of your stay is optimized for ease, rewards, and top-tier hospitality.
Ready to Experience the Quiet Side of Nature?
There’s something undeniably special about exploring a national park in the off-season. The beauty feels raw and untouched, and the serenity that comes with fewer people lets you truly connect with nature. From the snow-dusted peaks of Yosemite to the blooming deserts of Joshua Tree and the misty Smokies in spring, these landscapes take on a new life outside the typical travel season. And with Hilton Honors and AutoCamp, you don’t have to choose between adventure and comfort—you can have both.
So, pack your bags, book your stay, and discover the off-season magic of America’s national parks with a side of luxury. Whether you’re cozying up by a fire pit in Yosemite or watching the stars in Joshua Tree, AutoCamp and Hilton Honors make it easier than ever to explore, earn, and escape. Let nature recharge you in ways only the off-season can.
Photos: © 2024 Hilton
