Planning a family vacation near a National Park can be costly, but it doesn’t have to be! Thanks to credit card points and savvy travel hacking, I’ve been able to experience some of the most scenic spots in the U.S. with my family – all while paying $0 for lodging!

If you’re new to the world of points and miles, don’t worry! You can start by checking out my Beginner’s Guide to Traveling with Points and Miles. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what points and miles are to learning how to earn them and redeem them for amazing trips.

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Here are 10 places where we’ve stayed, all booked with points, plus a few tips on hikes, activities, and food to enjoy while you’re there.

1) Moab, Utah: Hyatt Place Moab – Arches & Canyonlands National Parks

Points Used: Hyatt Points transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards
Proximity to Parks: Only a short drive to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, making it an ideal base.

Moab is a gateway to two of Utah’s most famous National Parks. While in Moab, you can visit the stunning Arches, famous for its delicate sandstone arches, and Canyonlands, known for its vast, dramatic landscapes.
Things to Do:

• Hike the Delicate Arch Trail – A moderately strenuous 3-mile hike leading to one of the most iconic arches in the world.
• UTV in Hell’s Revenge– Roam over the sandstone domes and slickrock ledges of Hell’s Revenge near Moab on this off-road adventure. Here is the trip my husband and son took and loved!
• Cheap Eats: Try Milt’s Stop & Eat for delicious burgers (this is such a cool little spot with picnic tables) or Sweet Cravings Bakery & Bistro for a casual meal.
• Float the Colorado River – Explore Moab’s desert beauty with your family while splashing your way down Class II rapids on the mighty Colorado. Here is the trip we took.

2) Bar Harbor, Maine: Edenbrook Motel – Acadia National Park

Points Used: Booked through Chase Travel Portal
Proximity to Parks: Less than a 10-minute drive to the park entrance.

Acadia is one of the most picturesque parks on the East Coast, with its rugged coastline, lush forests, and tranquil lakes. Staying in Bar Harbor gives you quick access to the park’s highlights. Things to Do:

• Hike the Cadillac Mountain Summit – Watch the sunrise from the highest point on the eastern seaboard.
• Rent bikes and explore the carriage roads – Acadia has over 45 miles of carriage roads perfect for cycling.
• Ice Cream: Mount Desert Island Ice Cream is a must-try for unique flavors.
• Mount Desert Desert is the spot for homemade strawberry rhubarb pie!

3) Indian Wells, California: Hyatt Regency Indian Wells – Joshua Tree National Park

Points Used: Hyatt Points transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards
Proximity to Parks: About a 45-minute drive to the park’s west entrance.

Joshua Tree is famous for its otherworldly landscape, including its signature twisted trees and massive boulders. The Hyatt Regency is a luxury resort just outside Palm Springs, offering plenty of amenities to unwind after a day of exploring. Things to Do:

• Hike the Hidden Valley Trail – A short, easy hike that showcases the best of Joshua Tree’s unique flora and rock formations.
• Rock climbing – Joshua Tree is a world-class destination for climbers of all levels.
• Cheap Eats: Pappy & Harriet’s in nearby Pioneertown offers amazing food with live music.

4) Ashford, Washington: Paradise Village Inn – Mount Rainier National Park

Points Used: Booked through Chase Travel Portal
Proximity to Parks: Just a 5-minute drive from the park’s Nisqually entrance.

This quaint, Ukrainian-owned motel is perfect for a rustic stay near the majestic Mount Rainier. The peaceful setting makes it easy to relax and recharge before heading out to explore the park. Things to Do:

• Hike the Skyline Trail – A 5.5-mile hike with views of glaciers and wildflower meadows.
• Snowshoeing (seasonal) – Rent gear and explore the park’s winter wonderland.
• Cheap Eats: Stop by Copper Creek Inn for a delicious meal with a view.

5) Lahaina, Hawaii: Hyatt Regency Maui – Haleakalā National Park

Points Used: Hyatt Points transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards
Proximity to Parks: A 2-hour drive to the park entrance but worth the drive for the sunrise.

Haleakalā National Park is known for its otherworldly volcanic landscapes and spectacular sunrises. The Hyatt Regency Maui offers a luxurious beachfront stay with plenty of amenities. Things to Do:

• Watch the Sunrise at Haleakalā Summit – Arrive before dawn to witness the sunrise over the crater.
• Hike the Sliding Sands Trail – Explore the barren, colorful landscape of the crater floor.
• Cheap Eats: Aloha Mixed Plate offers tasty Hawaiian dishes right by the ocean.

6) Waikoloa, Hawaii: Hilton Waikoloa Village – Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Points Used: Hilton Points
Proximity to Parks: Around a 45-minute drive to the park entrance.

This sprawling resort is perfect for a relaxing family stay on the Big Island, with pools, lagoons, and restaurants. The Hilton’s proximity to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park allows you to easily visit the park’s volcanic landscapes. Things to Do:

• Hike the Kīlauea Iki Trail – A 4-mile loop through a volcanic crater.
• Explore the Thurston Lava Tube – Walk through a massive lava tunnel.
• Cheap Eats: Visit Hilo’s Ken’s House of Pancakes for a great breakfast.

7) Springdale, Utah: Hilton Springdale – Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks

Points Used: Hilton Points
Proximity to Parks: 5-minute drive to the entrance of Zion and about an hour to Bryce Canyon.

Springdale is the perfect base for exploring both Zion and Bryce Canyon. The Hilton Springdale offers stunning views of Zion’s towering red rock cliffs. Things to Do:

• Hike Angels Landing – One of the most iconic and challenging hikes in the U.S.
• Explore the Narrows – A thrilling hike that takes you through the Virgin River.
• Cheap Eats: The Zion Canyon Brew Pub offers a great selection of local beers and food. Also on your way from Bryce National Park back to Springale check out Archie’s Food to Die For near Orderville, Utah for a great spot to stop for dinner.
• Canyoneering and UTV: My cousin just did this exact tour and loved it so the next time we are in Utah it is a must do for us.

8) Forks, Washington: Kalaloch Lodge – Olympic National Park

Points Used: Booked directly via Kalaloch’s site using cashback from Ink Business cards
Proximity to Parks: Right on the edge of the park, with direct beach access.

Kalaloch Lodge is nestled along the rugged Pacific coastline and offers easy access to the diverse ecosystems of Olympic National Park. Things to Do:

• Hike the Ruby Beach Trail – Explore this iconic beach with dramatic sea stacks and driftwood.
• Visit the Hoh Rain Forest – Experience the lush, moss-draped trees and serenity of one of the world’s only temperate rainforests. Get there early. Parking is limited and the trails can get busy.
• Cheap Eats: Check out The Greenhouse Café in Forks for local seafood and Sully’s for a great burger and fries.

9) Santa Barbara, California: Mar Monte Hotel – Channel Islands National Park

Points Used: Hyatt Points transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards
Proximity to Parks: About 1.5 hours to Ventura Harbor for the boat ride to Channel Islands National Park.

Santa Barbara is a charming coastal city offering proximity to the Channel Islands, which are known for their unique wildlife and pristine beauty. Things to Do:

• Kayak to the Channel Islands – Explore the island’s sea caves and marine life.
• Hike on Santa Cruz Island – Trek through the rugged terrain and enjoy incredible views.
• Cheap Eats: East Beach Batting Cages and Tacos, need I say more!

10) Kalispell, Montana: Hilton Homewood Suites – Glacier National Park

Points Used: Hilton Points
Proximity to Parks: About 45 minutes to the park’s west entrance.

Kalispell is a great base for exploring the stunning Glacier National Park. Next time, I’ll book the cabins by Lake McDonald, which are also available on points through the Chase Travel Portal. Things to Do:

• Hike to Grinnell Glacier – A stunning hike with breathtaking views of glaciers and turquoise lakes.
• Take the Going-to-the-Sun Road – A scenic drive that takes you through some of the park’s most incredible landscapes.
• Cheap Eats: Café Kandahar in Whitefish offers great food in a casual setting.

Final Thoughts

Staying near National Parks for $0 is not just a dream; it’s a reality! Using points from your credit card programs, such as Chase Ultimate Rewards, Hilton Honors, and Hyatt Points, you can save a ton on accommodations while enjoying some of the best nature the U.S. has to offer.

If you’re just starting out on your travel hacking journey, don’t forget to check out my Beginner’s Guide to Traveling with Points and Miles. It’s packed with tips on how to earn, redeem, and maximize your rewards so you can experience more adventures like these without the hefty price tag!

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