A rendering of a planned campsite.
Grand County, Utah, commissioners have denied a rezoning request that would have allowed for a luxury campground near Arches National Park, according to KUER.
KZMU reported that developer Entrada Camps and Conservation planned to set up luxury tents, a spa and a swimming pool. Commissioners cited concerns about the shortage of long-term housing in the area.
The company had promised to build employee housing and set aside a large conservation easement — but the promise wasn’t legally binding.
Commissioners said they may reconsider the application if they tighten zoning codes, making the promise legally mandatory.
The staff summary of the project described it as a “luxury eco-retreat centered on environmentally responsible tourism.” It would have included 16 tent sites and an activity center, spa, swimming pools, a panoramic deck, and trails, according to the Moab Sun News.
