Glamping in Glendale, Utah offers access to high-elevation retreats and desert experiences within close proximity. The area sits at approximately 5,900 feet elevation, creating distinct seasonal temperature variations where summer days reach 90°F while nights cool significantly. Fall brings vibrant foliage changes and crisp temperatures, making it a preferred season for outdoor enthusiasts seeking thermal comfort.
What to do
Off-road adventures: 800+ miles of OHV trails surround the Duck Creek area, providing extensive terrain options. "If you are looking for 800+ miles of OHV trails, this is the place to go! ATV's, dirt bikes and side by sides galore! It is a fun place to camp if you are expecting the noise," notes a visitor at Duck Creek.
Hike to waterfalls: 2-hour round trip to nearby cascades during spring runoff season. "There is a stream close by you will need a handy dandy shovel to dig down to it," mentions a camper who stayed at Ponderosa Grove Campground, highlighting the seasonal water features in the area.
Stargazing: New moon weekends offer exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "The sky was so dark and the stars and milky way were very visible," reports one visitor at Ponderosa Grove Campground, emphasizing the remarkable celestial visibility away from urban light pollution.
Winter exploration: Late October through April provides less-crowded camping experiences with temperatures dropping to 25°F overnight. "Ended up at Duck Creek mid May where nights got down to 25 degrees. Besides getting a little chillier and windier than we anticipated, it was a great campsite!" shares one camper.
What campers like
Temperature variation: 30+ degree daily swings provide relief during summer months. "In the mornings it was around 37 degrees, I had to jump in the truck to warm up!" notes a camper at Duck Creek, highlighting the dramatic temperature changes that occur.
Dark sky views: Minimal light pollution creates prime stargazing opportunities. "They do have a quiet time, and if there is ever an issue with people having a loud party, you can call the Inn and they will send someone out," explains a visitor at Zion Canyon Campground, emphasizing the commitment to preserving a peaceful night atmosphere.
Regional positioning: 40-90 minute drives to multiple national parks from central locations. "20 minutes from Kanab, 40 minutes from Zion, and 90 minutes to Bryce Canyon this location gives you options," shares a camper at Ponderosa Grove Campground, noting the strategic positioning for exploring multiple destinations.
Hot shower access: $2-5 fees at various locations provide cleanup options after dusty adventures. "Being out of touch with the world is fine, but it's still nice to be able to do some last minute park research, touch base with the kids and post some photos on Facebook," writes a visitor sharing practical needs.
What you should know
Reservation timing: 2-14 days advance booking depending on the campground. "South campground used to be first come, first serve but is now reservable, with sites opening on a rolling basis two weeks in advance," explains a camper at South Campground.
Seasonal water concerns: May-October algae blooms can restrict water access in some areas. "On our recent trip the river also had some kind of bad algae and you were warned to keep all pets, etc. out of the water," reports a visitor at Zion River Resort.
Wildlife awareness: Dawn/dusk activity periods when encounters are most likely. "You encounter so much wild life (all different types of birds, baby frogs, horny toads, deer, snakes, raccoon), just watch for Rattle Snakes in the warmer months," advises a camper sharing wildlife safety information.
Connectivity challenges: Limited cell service throughout much of the region. "There is virtually no cell signal in Virgin. Certainly not enough to even begin to create a hot spot," notes a visitor describing communication limitations in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Morning hiking, afternoon swimming provides optimal temperature management. "We had an absolute blast pushing ourselves to the limit and enjoying what nature had in store," shares a visitor at Zion Canyon Campground, emphasizing the importance of timing outdoor activities.
Luxury glamping options: $75-150/night provides beds and electricity for families seeking comfort. "We finished out our Spring Break Outdoor recreation trip by glamping in one of the canvas tents at Ponderosa. I'd never been so excited to sleep in a bed. We slept with 5 people in each tent," explains a visitor describing the family-friendly accommodations.
Recreation facilities: On-site pools and activities at certain properties keep children entertained. "The recreation room is fantastic for antsy teens! The on-site restaurant was tasty and a nice option if you don't feel like cooking yourself," notes a visitor to Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort.
Weather preparation: 40-degree overnight drops require layered clothing and proper sleeping bags. "Bathrooms were cleaned twice a day - cleanest campground bathrooms I've used. Beautiful views. Pond didn't have any fish at the time we went but was still enjoyable," shares a camper describing the mixed weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited full-service sites require advance planning. "We've stayed at this campground twice and I struggled between giving it 3 and 4 stars. The cons you may want to be aware of: Wifi struggles to keep up, especially with everyone working/learning remotely. And the sites are VERY close together," reports an RVer sharing practical insights.
Road condition awareness: Rough access roads to some dispersed camping areas. "The access road is a bit bumpy as the pavement is potholed but no trouble in our Class C. Lots of spots to choose from and some great views to be had," explains a visitor at Zion Dispersed Camping.
Dump station locations: State parks offer $5-10 day use fees for dump services without overnight stays. "For the cost of Day Use admission ($10) at the nearby Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park you can use the dump station and fill your water tanks," advises a helpful RVer sharing infrastructure details.
Generator restrictions: 1-hour daily limits at some campgrounds maintain peaceful atmosphere. "SimpleLife only allows gens for 1 hour a day... and no campers over 24'... hung out with cool people like us," shares an RVer describing the quieter camping environment at certain sites.