Want a stay that feeds your creativity and your wanderlust? These photography workshop hotels and lodges offer breathtaking backdrops, expert-led sessions, and immersive nature access for every level of photographer.

Highlights:

  • Lodges in national parks with guided sunrise and wildlife shoots
  • Workshops with professional photographers in stunning global destinations
  • Rustic retreats in Iceland, Patagonia, and the Rockies
  • On-site editing spaces, darkrooms, and critique sessions
  • All-inclusive packages with lodging, meals, and field instruction

Unique Photography Workshop Hotels:

1. Wake Up to Ocean Views: Stay Steps from Adventure at The Bayview


Acadia National Park - The Bayview

Wake Up to Ocean Views: Stay Steps from Adventure at The Bayview

© The Bayview

Location:

Bar Harbor, Maine

Highlights:

If your ideal getaway includes ocean views, artistic inspiration, and national park adventures, The Bayview is your perfect coastal base. With sweeping views of Frenchman Bay and easy access to Acadia National Park, it’s a dream spot for photographers, hikers, and nature lovers alike.

We Recommend This For:

Photographers, outdoor adventurers, families, and anyone looking to explore Mount Desert Island in comfort and style.

What we Love:

Stunning waterfront views, spacious townhouses ideal for group retreats, and close proximity to over 150 trails in Acadia National Park.
  • Stay in comfortable waterfront hotel rooms or choose a two- or three-bedroom townhouse—perfect for group workshops or families.
  • Relax with scenic views right from your private balcony or enjoy a quiet moment by the shore with your camera in hand.
  • Explore the incredible photo ops of Acadia National Park, from sunrises on Cadillac Mountain to tidepools and historic carriage roads.
  • Enjoy seasonal specials and a courtesy shuttle into downtown Bar Harbor for dining, shopping, and local charm.
  • Plan your next photo workshop in one of the East Coast’s most stunning and serene landscapes.

Address:

The Bayview, 111 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Phone: 800-356-3585

2. Unwind Lakeside: If You Crave Rustic Charm, Then Retreat to Hemlock Hall


Adirondacks - Hemlock Hall

Unwind Lakeside: If You Crave Rustic Charm, Then Retreat to Hemlock Hall

© Hemlock Hall

Location:

Blue Mountain Lake, New York

Highlights:

Looking for a place where nature, nostalgia, and photography all come together? Hemlock Hall is a rustic gem nestled on the shores of Blue Mountain Lake, offering the perfect setting for a peaceful, photo-filled escape in the Adirondacks.

We Recommend This For:

Photographers, families, small groups, and anyone seeking a tranquil, back-to-nature retreat with rich Adirondack character.

What we Love:

Lakeside cottages, hearty home-cooked meals, cozy lodge charm, and easy access to some of the Northeast’s most photogenic scenery.
  • Stay in your choice of lodge rooms, authentic log cabins, or lakeside cottages—each full of character and warmth.
  • Relax in the peaceful Adirondack wilderness, where mountain views, wooded trails, and lakefront tranquility await.
  • Dine in the cozy dining room with breakfast and dinner included in your stay, plus the option to take packed lunches for daytime adventures.
  • Explore stunning Blue Mountain Lake and its surrounding peaks—ideal for sunrise shots, wildlife photography, and quiet nature walks.
  • Capture the spirit of the Adirondacks at a retreat that has been welcoming families and creatives alike for over a century.

Address:

Hemlock Hall, 305 Maple Lodge Rd, Blue Mountain Lake, NY 12812
Phone: 518-352-7706

3. Rest Between Red Rocks: Relax and Recharge at Moab Springs Ranch


Arches National Park - Moab Springs Ranch

Rest Between Red Rocks: Relax and Recharge at Moab Springs Ranch

© Moab Springs Ranch

Location:

Moab, Utah

Highlights:

With Arches National Park just a mile away, Moab Springs Ranch is a photographer’s dream base surrounded by Utah’s jaw-dropping red-rock beauty. Tucked around a natural spring, this peaceful resort blends rustic charm with modern comfort—ideal for group retreats or solo inspiration-seekers.

We Recommend This For:

Photography groups, outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and creatives seeking space, scenery, and relaxation.

What we Love:

Self-catering townhouses, proximity to Arches and the Colorado River, natural spring surroundings, and facilities perfect for workshop-style retreats.
  • Stay in cozy bungalows or fully furnished townhouses with kitchens, private decks, and outdoor barbecues—ideal for both individuals and small groups.
  • Relax after a day of shooting in the heated pool or hot tub, or stroll the quiet grounds set around a bubbling natural spring.
  • Explore Arches National Park and the Colorado River just minutes away, where striking rock formations and golden light create epic photo ops.
  • Utilize the on-site business center for photo reviews, editing sessions, or small group presentations and lectures.
  • Experience one of the most inspiring landscapes in the American Southwest with every comfort at your fingertips.

Address:

Moab Springs Ranch, 1266 North Highway 191, Moab, UT 84532
Phone: 435-259-7891

4. Sleep Near the Peaks: Embrace Alpine Beauty at Aspen Mountain Lodge


Aspen/Maroon Bells - Aspen Mountain Lodge

Sleep Near the Peaks: Embrace Alpine Beauty at Aspen Mountain Lodge

© Aspen Mountain Lodge

Location:

Aspen, Colorado

Highlights:

Set right on Main Street with breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains, Aspen Mountain Lodge is a cozy, welcoming base for photography enthusiasts ready to capture Colorado’s alpine magic. With its central location, group-friendly amenities, and scenic mountain-facing deck, it’s perfect for both solo creatives and photography retreats.

We Recommend This For:

Landscape photographers, outdoor lovers, group workshop leaders, and anyone seeking an inspiring and walkable stay in Aspen.

What we Love:

Mountain views from the deck, central location near photo-worthy trails, and group-friendly features like a business center and outdoor hot tub.
  • Stay in your choice of comfortable room categories, all with easy access to downtown Aspen’s dining, galleries, and gear shops.
  • Start the day with a hearty complimentary breakfast buffet before heading out to shoot Aspen’s trails, lakes, and peaks.
  • Relax after a full day in the field in the lodge’s hot tub, outdoor swimming pool, or cozy bar.
  • Gather your group in the business center for editing sessions, photo critiques, or slideshow presentations.
  • Soak in the mountain views from the lodge’s deck and get inspired for tomorrow’s photographic adventure.

Address:

Aspen Mountain Lodge, 311 West Main St, Aspen, CO 81611
Phone: 800-362-7736

Romantic Photography Workshop Hotels:

5. Gaze at Hoodoos by Sunrise: Make Bryce View Lodge Your Cozy Basecamp


Bryce Canyon - Bryce View Lodge

Gaze at Hoodoos by Sunrise: Make Bryce View Lodge Your Cozy Basecamp

© Bryce View Lodge

Location:

Bryce Canyon, Utah

Highlights:

If crimson hoodoos and sweeping canyon vistas top your photography bucket list, Bryce View Lodge offers a prime location with direct views over Bryce Canyon National Park. This comfortable, elevated lodge is an ideal base for capturing sunrises, starscapes, and dramatic Utah scenery—with Zion National Park just a day trip away.

We Recommend This For:

Landscape photographers, national park explorers, small groups, and anyone seeking a convenient, value-forward stay near Bryce Canyon.

What we Love:

Easy access to iconic viewpoints, spacious room options for solo or shared stays, and full facility access at the hotel across the street.
  • Stay in king rooms or doubles with two queen beds—perfect for solo travelers or photo buddies sharing a room.
  • Relax with in-room conveniences like cable TV, coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, and cozy beds after a day in the field.
  • Unwind with complimentary access to the Best Western Plus facilities across the road, including an indoor pool and hot tub.
  • Capture the ever-changing light over Bryce Canyon’s formations just minutes from your door—or take a scenic drive to Zion National Park (83 miles away) for another photo day.
  • Enjoy a peaceful, elevated setting that allows you to start your day just steps from some of the most stunning views in the Southwest.

Address:

Bryce View Lodge, 105 E Center Street, Bryce Canyon, UT 84764
Phone: 888-279-2304

6. Stay Where Presidents Slept: If You Love History and Nature, Then Book State Game Lodge


Custer State Park-Mount Rushmore - State Game Lodge

Stay Where Presidents Slept: If You Love History and Nature, Then Book State Game Lodge

© State Game Lodge

Location:

Custer, South Dakota

Highlights:

For a photography retreat surrounded by wildlife, mountains, lakes, and iconic American landmarks, State Game Lodge is a picture-perfect base in Custer State Park. With a 1920s legacy and elegant rustic charm, it’s ideally situated just 23 miles from Mount Rushmore and nestled in one of South Dakota’s most scenic valleys.

We Recommend This For:

Wildlife photographers, landscape lovers, nature groups, and anyone seeking a blend of history, nature, and creativity in one inspiring location.

What we Love:

The peaceful forested setting, historic lodge ambiance, variety of lodging styles, and access to top-tier wildlife viewing and scenery.
  • Stay in historic luxury rooms, modern hotel accommodations, or rustic log cabins—all surrounded by lush forest and quiet natural beauty.
  • Photograph bison herds, alpine lakes, granite spires, and forested hills within Custer State Park, with easy day trips to Mount Rushmore.
  • Relax after a full day of exploring with scenic walks, star-filled nights, or quiet time in your cabin or lodge room.
  • Host group activities and editing sessions in on-site meeting rooms, perfect for workshops, lectures, or image critiques.
  • Enjoy one of the most picturesque and peaceful corners of South Dakota—tailor-made for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Address:

State Game Lodge, 13389 US Hwy 16A, Custer, SD 57730
Phone: 605-255-4541

7. Dream by the Water: Experience Classic Park Comfort at Lake McDonald Lodge


Glacier National Park - Lake McDonald Lodge

Dream by the Water: Experience Classic Park Comfort at Lake McDonald Lodge

© Lake McDonald Lodge

Location:

West Glacier, Montana

Highlights:

For jaw-dropping scenery and endless photo opportunities, Lake McDonald Lodge places you right in the heart of Glacier National Park. With glacier-carved peaks, mirrored lakes, and historic charm, this is a dream destination for photographers looking to immerse themselves in nature’s grandeur.

We Recommend This For:

Landscape photographers, outdoor adventurers, and creative groups planning workshops in one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S.

What we Love:

The lakeside setting, historic lodge ambiance, direct access to Red Bus Tours, and rustic accommodations full of character and charm.
  • Stay in rustic lodge rooms with private bathrooms, hostel-style budget rooms, or upgrade to suites or cabins with cozy comfort and heritage vibes.
  • Explore over 1,000,000 acres of raw wilderness with turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks that make every photo frame-worthy.
  • Dine in the lodge’s traditional dining room and fuel up for early morning hikes and golden hour shoots.
  • Join one of the iconic Red Bus Tours that depart from the lodge—ideal for scouting scenic locations and accessing hard-to-reach photo spots.
  • Experience Montana’s wild beauty while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow creatives in a setting that feels both remote and welcoming.

Address:

Lake McDonald Lodge, 288 Lake Mc Donald Loop, West Glacier, MT 59936
Phone: 855-733-4522

8. Fuel Your Adventure: Rest Easy at Hatchet Resort Near the Tetons


Grand Tetons - Hatchet Resort

Fuel Your Adventure: Rest Easy at Hatchet Resort Near the Tetons

© Hatchet Resort

Location:

Moran, Wyoming (Jackson Hole Valley)

Highlights:

Set at the gateway to both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, Hatchet Resort is a rustic yet refined base for photographers chasing the raw beauty of Wyoming’s wild landscapes. With easy access to both parks and group-friendly amenities, it’s tailor-made for creative retreats.

We Recommend This For:

Nature photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, small photography groups, and anyone looking for an authentic, serene setting near two national treasures.

What we Love:

Historic lodge charm, modernized comfort, flexible meeting spaces, and unbeatable proximity to wildlife, mountains, and geothermal wonders.
  • Stay in rustic yet renovated rooms and suites that offer warmth, comfort, and character after long days out in the field.
  • Photograph sunrise in the Tetons, wildlife in Jackson Hole, and the geysers of Yellowstone—all accessible from one ideal location.
  • Gather in the Whetstone Lodge or historic Hatchet Grill for presentations, editing sessions, or casual post-hike discussions.
  • Dine on hearty fare in a cozy setting at the Hatchet Grill—perfect for fueling up before or after your outdoor adventures.
  • Experience the best of both parks while staying immersed in the classic mountain lodge atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the West.

Address:

Hatchet Resort, 9980 US-287, Moran, WY 83013
Phone: 307-543-2413

9. Sleep Amid Wild Beauty: Embrace Alaskan Adventures at Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge


Kenai Fjords National Park - Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge

Sleep Amid Wild Beauty: Embrace Alaskan Adventures at Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge

© Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge

Location:

Cooper Landing, Alaska (near Kenai Fjords National Park)

Highlights:

If dramatic glaciers, misty fjords, and Alaskan wildlife top your photography bucket list, Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge is the perfect place to base your next retreat. Nestled along the Kenai River and just a short drive from Seward, this scenic lodge offers comfort, character, and easy access to the incredible Kenai Fjords National Park.

We Recommend This For:

Nature and wildlife photographers, workshop leaders, and adventurers looking to capture the wild spirit of coastal Alaska in comfort.

What we Love:

Glacier cruises from nearby Seward, charming lodge architecture, group meeting space for editing and lectures, and views that inspire at every turn.
  • Stay in comfortable rooms or suites featuring woodsy charm and cozy amenities—perfect for resting and recharging after full days in the fjords.
  • Photograph rugged glaciers, breaching whales, puffins, otters, and more on a scenic cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park.
  • Explore nearby Seward’s historic harbor and photo-friendly trails or book a guided wildlife or kayaking tour for even more image opportunities.
  • Host your photo presentations, group critiques, or editing sessions in the on-site business center designed for small retreats and meetings.
  • Experience the raw, natural beauty of Alaska while enjoying the comfort and hospitality of a true wilderness lodge.

Address:

Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, 7245 Frontier Circle, Cooper Landing, AK 99572
Phone: 907-595-1425

FAQ:

  • Question: What can you experience on a photographic workshop or retreat in the United States?
    Answer: You can escape to some of America’s most beautiful landscapes on an enriching and rewarding photographic workshop or retreat.
  • Question: What makes these photographic workshops inspiring?
    Answer: There is an abundance of sensationally scenic places throughout the United States where you can release your creative spirit and capture fleeting moments in time.

Map:


Plan Your Trip