Horse Camp Near Belly of the Dragon Trail sits at an elevation of approximately 5,500 feet in the arid desert landscape east of Zion National Park. The area experiences temperature fluctuations typical of high desert regions, with summer days reaching 90-100°F and nights cooling significantly. The campground's terrain consists primarily of sandy washes surrounded by juniper trees, with seasonal creek access varying depending on rainfall patterns.
What to do
Visit Belly of the Dragon Cave: Walk through the unique tunnel formation carved originally as a drainage culvert. "The creek is dry right now as it's middle of July. Seems it's a spot of off road vehicles also," notes Diana V. from Twin Hollows Canyon.
Explore nearby hiking trails: Access trails within a 20-minute drive. "We were here in March and had no issues with finding a spot or issues with noise. Everyone seemed friendly too," reports Andi S. who stayed at Twin Hollows Canyon.
Equestrian activities: Bring horses for riding on nearby BLM trails. While Horse Camp itself has space for equestrian needs, some visitors prefer Zion Wright Family Ranch where "we were able to take a 2 hour horse back ride around the ranch which is a must! The ranch is huge and you can pick and chose which ever spot you like," according to Nikolina J.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Sites are well separated with room for various equipment. "This off the beaten path campground near Zion National Park is a great place for those looking for a more relaxed time," writes Glen B. about Zion Wright Family Ranch.
Natural water features: The seasonal creek provides a refreshing element. "Playing in the creek was great for my eight-year-old (be careful of cyanobacteria in area) as well as exploring the tunnel. Oh and the tadpoles and snakes in the creek are awesome too!" shares Kristen S. from Twin Hollows Canyon.
Proximity to supplies: Mount Carmel Junction offers essential services. "For essential supplies, two gas stations and restaurants are located less than a mile away," while campers at Mount Carmel Motel & RV Park note "food and gas are near, laundry is on sight campers can use 6-10 pm very nice."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads may become difficult in wet conditions. "Road in varies in difficulty, if it is even hinting of rain I personally would find another place to go. Not just for the unpredictable road conditions, but flash flooding is a real danger," warns Glen B. about dispersed camping in the region.
Self-sufficient camping requirements: No facilities mean bringing everything you need. "This is BLM land so its free, and no amenities. Pack it in and pack it out," advises Patti M. from FS #117 Rd Dispersed Camping.
Cell service variations: Coverage depends on location and carrier. "I also have T-Mobile and had at least one bar of service everywhere. By the main trail entrance there was some porta potty's," reports Abigail A. who camped at Twin Hollows Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Bring additional water: No potable water means planning for human and animal needs. "There is no potable water source, nor provisions to be had so go in with all you will need," recommends Glen B.
Protect from temperature swings: Desert conditions mean significant day-to-night changes. "Days are hot in late spring and summer, nights can get cold especially in the early spring. Be prepared for both," advises an experienced camper at Toquerville Falls Primitive.
Consider alternative horse facilities: For dedicated equestrian amenities, check other options. "The ranch is huge and you can pick and chose which ever spot you like. It's not a rough road to get to the ranch," mentions Nikolina J. about Zion Wright Family Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Rig size considerations: Most sites accommodate larger rigs but require careful placement. "We have a 23 foot trailer," shares Diana V. who successfully camped at Twin Hollows Canyon.
Ground conditions: Sandy areas require attention when setting up. "You need to watch out for some big stones that you need to manoeuvre around," warns Samuel H. from Horse Camp Near Belly of the Dragon Trail.
High-clearance recommendation: Some access points present challenges. "You just definitely probably wouldn't want to come after it has been raining," advises Ashley P. who visited horse campgrounds near Mount Carmel Junction, Utah.
Traveler
