The lodge and cabins are constructed in a rustic log style, considered compatible with park architecture.

The Highlands was neither an auto camp, which encouraged short stays, nor a dude ranch, which provided ranch-style activities.

The Highlands encouraged stays of moderate length, providing a variety of relatively sedentary amenities.

[2][3] It was the last private-accommodation camp to be built in the park before the Mission 66 program created concessioner-operated facilities on public lands.

[4] The National Park Service acquired the property in 1972 and uses it to house seasonal employees.