If Glacier National Park is the “Crown of the Continent,” its three grand hotels are its most precious jewels. However, a smaller, lesser-known lodge, the Belton Chalet, was the first to welcome guests when the park opened in 1910. We think it’s a hidden gem.

Yosemite’s Ahwahnee Hotel has to be one of the swankiest hotels in all the national parks. And while queens, presidents, and celebrities have stayed there over the past century, park visitors in hiking boots are also fortunate to be able to experience this crown jewel for themselves.

One thing we can say for sure: where you stay will affect your entire park experience. If you don’t plan on setting up a cot next to your car and sleeping under the stars at highway rest stops while 18-wheelers rumble past you, and would prefer to have a roof over your head, the following categories of lodging can be found throughout the parks, and close by.