It's an odd time to be debuting any kind of tourism facility.
But a new luxury encampment in southeastern Utah may be just right for our era. The retreat promises to give guests all the benefits of social distancing in wide open spaces with none of the drawbacks of roughing it.
Set to open on July 1, Camp Sarika by Amangiri features accommodations for up to 30 people in 10 tented pavilions amid 136 desert acres near Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Each lodging has its own outdoor deck, fire pit, and private plunge pool, not to mention unimpeded views of the surrounding mesas and dramatic rock formations.
(Photo courtesy of Camp Sarika by Amangiri)
Interiors incorporate walnut and leather furnishings divvied up among one or two bedrooms as well as a living area, dining area, and bar.
Guests get full access to facilities at the Amangiri resort—situated a 30-minute hike or 5-minute car ride away—but the encampment has its own common area with a Southwestern restaurant and spa suites.
Active experiences available include hikes at nearby national parks such as Zion and Bryce Canyon, horseback riding, and even hot air balloon rides.
And yes, of course we asked Camp Sarika about health and safety protocols established in the wake of Covid-19.
The retreat tells us that in addition to enhanced sanitation and distancing measures such as masks on staff and spread-out seating in the restaurant, the encampment is aiming to "maximize privacy" whenever possible.
That means activities and transportation will be limited to five people, many resort amenities will be accessible one at a time only, and no congregating will be allowed in common areas.
But when you have your own lodging, fire pit, and pool, it shouldn't be too hard to keep your distance from others. After all, the retreat's name, Sarika, derives from the Sanskrit word for "open space," according to a press release.
All that distance comes at a premium, though. Nightly rates start at $3,500 for a one-bedroom pavilion at Camp Sarika.
Too steep? Check out our guide to camping this year without the glam. You'll still have fun, just no private pool.
