As temperatures rise and summer floats in, cooler temperatures await as this quaint Northern Arizona gem brings to light the latest growing tourism trend, glamping.

Referred to as luxury camping or glam camping, it puts people in nature without destroying it. Glamping sites are typically found in privately owned lands, mountains, and even national parks, allowing for a front seat to the most unique views.

Most glamping destinations are invested in keeping the surrounding area preserved for nature and the wildlife that inhabits the area.

Today, a nearby glamping site is loaded and located about 20 minutes from Williams. Considered the southern gateway to the Grand Canyon, preserving the historic Route 66 and the plush lands surrounding it, Williams also offers many opportunities for year-round fun.

Elevations range from approximately 3,000 to 9,000 feet, beginning in low elevation grasslands, to the forests of pinyon-juniper and ponderosa pine to fir, spruce and aspen.

Situated on 160 acres of private land and surrounded by National Forest lands, the Backland Glamping Resort is in the midst of the largest ponderosa pine forest in the world. The eco-friendly, luxe accommodations of the Backland are close by to the Grand Canyon National Park, and is in its second season featuring 10 tents with all the essentials, with everything set up for guests prior to arrival.

Between four and six people can comfortably enjoy the tents with a king-size bed, pull out sofa, electricity, and en-suite bathrooms, sleeping under the stars becomes comfort a la mode. Conducive for families, couples or a girlfriend’s getaway with sliding doors and panoramic views that allow the outside, in. A 16-foot Skyview over the bed, along with automatic climate control that is fully insulated and energy efficient affords for curious stargazing and a peaceful night’s rest.

The Backland Glamping Resort’s main reception is a short walking distance from each tentsite and opens out onto a private lake and beach. Farm to table cuisine, prepared by an in-house gourmet chef, is further served here in a glass-walled restaurant with new menus prepared each night.

Nightly complimentary s’mores gather guests by the campfire, and telescope stargazing is perfect for building memories and meeting new friends.
On-site activities in the day include kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing and horseback riding, all readily available for the guests. Sustainability initiatives include rainwater harvesting, composting and eco-friendly cleaning supplies. With only 5% of the land built on, the remaining 95% is open, wild and free.

Fresh air, peaceful serenity and big sky panoramic views, bring guests back to nature in delightful modern ways. Guests further benefit from the chicken coops for eggs, beehives for honey and the native tree orchards bearing fruit.

Kaibab National Forest offers a Northern Arizona getaway no matter what one has in mind. The Backland glampground is 60 miles south of the national park’s South Rim entrance, so whether it be a trip over to the Grand Canyon National Park or a mosey over into the historic town of Williams and Old Route 66.

Nearby attractions also include the Grand Canyon Railway that departs daily with an entertaining train ride that features western musicians and cowboy characters. Get up close with Bearizona Wildlife Park and view a variety of animals that are loved and cared for including bears, bighorn sheep and bison, and Williams’ newest edition, the Canyon Coaster Adventure Park for a first and only mountain coaster spin in Arizona, along with a summer and winter tubing hill.

A great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, one may connect to nature and explore all this eco-friendly resort has to offer, with summer temperatures ranging from 50 degrees at night to the mid 80s during the day. When ready, take a back road and spend time away from the crowds while retreating to the experience with starry skies by night and the solitude of the forest, as Backland provides a new level of luxury eco-lodging — glamping.

To learn more about the Backland Glamping Resort visit www.travelbackland.com. To learn more about Williams, visit www.williamsaz.gov.