Camping near Leeds, Utah provides excellent access to both established campgrounds and dispersed sites throughout the region. The area sits at approximately 3,600 feet elevation, creating a desert climate with summer temperatures reaching above 100°F and winter nights often dropping below freezing. Fall and spring typically offer the most comfortable camping conditions, with daytime temperatures in the 60-80°F range.
What to do
Explore the water recreation areas: Visit Sand Hollow State Park, located 20 minutes southwest of Leeds. "Sand Hollow State Park Camping is such a good time. The summer nights by the beach camping out with your people and your dogs is one of my favorites. The beach is mostly clean, sometimes rude people leave behind garbage but the main culture their helps out to maintain a clean peaceful and fun environment!" shares Jodi M.
Hike nearby red rock trails: The Red Cliffs Campground offers immediate trail access. "What a gem, this little campground has so much to offer! From the striking red rocks, to the oasis of trees that straddle the creek and all of the meandering trails that all converge here, this place is truly magical... Apparently, you can hike through the slots to see petroglyphs and even dinosaur tracks," reports Lynna C.
Mountain biking opportunities: Areas near Hurricane offer excellent terrain for mountain biking. "Only 20 or so minutes from Zion National Park. We didn't secure a spot in the park before getting there and everything was booked so we needed an easy option in a pinch and this was great. Busy in the summertime with lots of mountain bikers as the area is popular for it's mountain bike trails," explains Kelsey L. about the Sheep Bridge BLM Area.
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: Many campers appreciate the water features near camping areas around Leeds. At North Creek Dispersed Camping, "It does get very hot and there is not a lot of tree cover but the stream is a great place to put some chairs and cool off. I will definitely be coming back here on my next Zion trip!" says Kristin M.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies around Leeds make for excellent stargazing. "Almost no light pollution. You can see so many stars at night," notes Chris L. about the Sand Hollow State Park area, highlighting one of the natural advantages of camping in this less-developed region.
Privacy options: While some areas get crowded, campers can find secluded spots with effort. "If you have a vehicle with high clearance, take the creek crossing and you will have many more options! You can definitely hear cars go by, but it's not a high traffic road so it didn't bother us," shares Morgan L. about North Creek Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat is extreme and requires preparation. At Quail Creek State Park, "All camp sites overlook the lake. There are flush toilets and outdoor coin showers. If the camp ground fills, they allow primitive camping in the parking lot for a minimal fee. They have tent camping on the beach... The stars were pretty and I didn't hear it see a single bug while walking outside at night," notes Stephanie.
Water access limitations: Many dispersed sites lack reliable water. "The creek was dry but trees were lovely!" reports Peaches E. about North Creek Dispersed Camping, highlighting that seasonal water sources shouldn't be counted on year-round.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds have strict entry/exit rules. "The campground was nice and clean. Our dog loved romping in the water, since there was no one at the lake during our time there. I am disturbed that the exit road had tire spike barriers to prevent anyone from entering," notes Anita J. about Quail Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shade options: When camping with children, finding adequate shade is crucial in this hot climate. "This campground is beautiful! We're at site 11, and it's right by the creek with all those trees. Water spigots are everywhere, and there are trash cans close by," reports Lynna C. about Red Cliffs Campground.
Consider swimming areas: Families appreciate safe water access for recreation. "We camped at Watchman in late October early November. Experienced sunny days, cold nights and even a little snow... It was Halloween and many of the kids camped around us dressed up in costumes and went trick or treating. Many campers put up festive lighting and one even set up a full size inflatable castle which was a big hit," shares Rod D. about camping at Watchman Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting local wildlife. "We had deer strolling through our campsite in the morning," mentions Bonnie M. about Watchman Campground, indicating the potential for wildlife encounters that can engage children.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness considerations: Some campgrounds require significant leveling. "This RV resort is breathtaking!! You get a taste of Zion the moment you arrive, and stay in awe of nature's beauty your entire stay... The spaces are gravel and maintained well," shares Sarah L. about Zion River Resort.
Tunnel clearance awareness: Be mindful of height restrictions when traveling to certain areas. "Note there is no RV dumpsite. NOTE: you have to go under the interstate thru two narrow concrete tunnels, they are 11.9 high, so be careful, many large RVs, 5th wheels, Class As will not fit!!" warns Greg L. about Red Cliffs Campground, providing critical information for larger rigs.
Look for pull-through options: Sites vary in accessibility. "It's easy to miss the turn onto the dirt road, so definitely scout it out on Google maps ahead of time. The road can be muddy and rutted after a rain, so take weather into account. That said, we got our 30 year old 30 foot motorhome in and out multiple times," shares Erik C. about dispersed camping areas around Leeds.
