Glamping and camping in Mount Carmel Junction, Utah offer unique access to the high-desert plateau at an elevation of approximately 5,300 feet. This strategic location provides a quieter base for exploring eastern Zion National Park with cooler average temperatures than the main canyon. Access to the eastern trails often has less traffic congestion during peak season months from May through September.
What to do
Early morning hikes: Utilize the east entrance proximity for dawn access to Zion when staying at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. "So much to do and experience we had an amazing time. It was my boyfriends first time camping and he really enjoyed the experience. Also the staff at the resort is incredible and very friendly!" notes camper Desiree L.
Off-road adventures: The area surrounding Mount Carmel Junction provides extensive trail systems for ATV enthusiasts. "Love a Cowboy Cabin. The cowboy cabins here are really, really cute. The location is great, the property is beautiful, the showers are nice, and I'm sure all the amenities are really fun, I just didn't use them," shares Madeline W.
Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes: Located 30 minutes from Mount Carmel Junction, these unique formations offer hiking and photography opportunities. At Ponderosa Grove Campground, "The sky was so dark and the stars and milky way were very visible... it was nice and secluded without many people at all and for a price of $5 it was great!" according to Alexis Z.
Explore less-visited canyons: The east side trails offer solitude compared to main Zion canyon. "Located to plenty of outdoor adventures," mentions Marc B., highlighting the accessibility to lesser-known hiking trails from these accommodations.
What campers like
Affordable alternatives: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the value of dispersed camping options. At Zion Hwy 9 Dispersed Camping, "So close to Zion this is a great free camping spot. 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," reports Julie M.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. "This campground is Prestine! It's close to Navajo lake - 25m from Cedar Breaks NM-don't skip out!" shares Jennifer N. about Duck Creek.
Shower access: After long hikes, shower facilities become a priority. "The cowboy cabjns here are really, really cute. The location is great, the property is beautiful, the showers are nice," notes Madeline W.
Dark skies: The area provides excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. "The sky was so dark and the stars and milky way were very visible," observes Alexis Z. about her stay near the dunes.
What you should know
Seasonal temperature fluctuations: Higher elevation camping experiences dramatic temperature shifts. "We 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!" cautions Shalynn S.
Reservation requirements: Planning ahead is essential for glamping options near Mount Carmel Junction. "Great facility with plenty of amenities. Everything from tent camping all the way to cabins. we go back every year if not twice a year," notes Marc B.
Limited cell service: Many areas have poor connectivity. At Zion River Resort, one camper noted: "There is virtually no cell signal in Virgin. Certainly not enough to even begin to create a hot spot. There is wifi (and we even had a booster on our site)...but there was still terribly connectivity."
Water availability: Dispersed camping requires bringing your own water. "There is a dumpster, but no trash cans, please leave no trace," reminds Eloisa C. about facilities at Ponderosa Grove.
Tips for camping with families
All-inclusive resort options: Families appreciate the activities available at larger glamping sites. "The cowboy cabins here are really, really cute. The location is great, the property is beautiful, the showers are nice, and I'm sure all the amenities (pool, mini golf, etc) are really fun," shares a visitor to Zion Ponderosa.
Protected camping areas: Find sites with natural windbreaks. "Lots of wildlife but pretty crowded campground. Very nice scenery and close walk to the Zion shuttle," mentions Delaney Z. about South Campground.
Swimming opportunities: After hot days, pool access becomes valuable. "Located in the gorgeous little town of Kanab. We were able to take unlimited hot showers included in our nightly stay, the bathrooms were so clean and felt like a rustic spa," shares Hunter H. about their glamping experience.
Educational programs: Some resorts offer ranger programs or guided excursions. "We did the jeep tour and enjoyed it very much. Too cold for the pool, but looked very inviting," notes Joyce C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on shade and protection from elements. At Cliffside Cabins and RV Park, "Level, clean, FHU. Enough room for our 45 ft 5th wheel and found a nice spot for our extra vehicle. Nice little and clean run for our dog. The containers and cabins look cute. The view of the red cliff is stunning," shares Amber.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds near Mount Carmel Junction offer complete RV services. "Only spent a night while passing through the area, but it looked to be a very nice place to stay. We were in a riverside back in with full hookups. Very quiet at night," notes David M.
Road access considerations: Some areas have limited access for larger rigs. "Level sites with partial shelter. Newer part of the campground features group sites. Great access to the park and shuttles!" shares Natalie B.
Drive times: Allow extra time when traveling between glamping locations and popular destinations. "About 40min drive from the west side of Zion National Park. It's ok though, the drive was very scenic with many photo stops and hiking trails," advises Bobby C.
