Utah's national parks
 

I'm planning a visit to some of Utah's national parks in October -- mainly, I think, Bryce, Arches and Canyonlands. At this point I'm kinda lost of how to approach the trip. Have a million questions, such as:
Should I stay in the parks or nearby towns (such as Moab)?
Recommended accommodations?
What should the itinerary look like? I'm flexible about time.
Any tips in general about touring the parks?

Thanks

I am unaware of any lodging available in Arches and Canyonlands. You would have to camp, and it can get cold at night. At that altitude I would not be surprised if there is frost in the morning. Stay in Moab and do day trips to Arches and Canyonlands.

https://flic.kr/p/vngDDR

Bryce does have lodging in the park. It is typical park service, generally small rooms, clean but basic, you are paying for the location. Ruby’s and a Best Western are close to the entrance. I agree with Michael on Moab for Arches and Canyonlands.

Thanks. Any ideas/tips on topics other than accommodations?

UT school fall break is the middle of October and accommodations can be hard to book.

Where do you start your trip or fly into?

I would include Capitol Reef too between Moab and Bryce. We've stayed at the Hyatt Place in Moab a couple of times. Stay in Torrey for Capitol Reef. Hwy 12 between Capitol Reef and Bryce is beautiful at that time of year. If you can't find accommodations right at the entrance to Bryce, Tropic isn't that far.

There is also lodging east of Moab, Red Cliffs Lodge. When I went I spent a few nights there and more nights in Moab.
There is a big mountain bike event in Moab in mid-October. Unless you are participating, I'd try to avoid that time frame. I speak from experience.

Thanks to both of you for the info. Right now our itinerary puts us in Moab a few days after the bike event is over, but thanks for the heads-up on that.

Also between Moab and Capitol Reef, visit Goblin Valley State Park to see the hoodoos.