Mount Carmel Junction sits at 5,280 feet elevation in southern Utah, where temperatures can fluctuate 30-40 degrees between day and night during camping season. This area serves as a gateway to both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, with most dispersed camping options located along the east side of Zion. The region features desert terrain with scattered juniper trees, sandstone formations, and intermittent creeks that may run dry in summer months.
What to do
Visit Moqui Sand Caves: Located a short drive from Twin Hollows Canyon, these natural caves formed in colorful sandstone are accessible via a moderate hike. "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!" mentions Kristen S.
Explore slot canyons: The area provides access to several lesser-known slot canyons outside the national park. "Just minutes from Belly of the Dragon and 10 minutes from parking lot turn off to Peekaboo Slot," notes Christine Z. who stayed at Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping.
Stargaze: With minimal light pollution, the area offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Quiet as its buffered from the highway... Just minutes from Belly of the Dragon and 10 minutes from parking lot turn off to Peekaboo Slot," reports a camper at Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Creek access: Many campers appreciate sites near water. "We found a wonderful spot on top of a hill. The road can be very rough in places but great views," says Kevin H. about Zion Scenic Byway Dispersed BLM.
Space between sites: Dispersed camping offers more privacy than developed campgrounds. "Nice little area, good separation between camp sites," notes Brad L. about Twin Hollows Canyon.
Easy park access: Staying outside the park avoids crowding issues. "About 15 minute drive outside of east entrance to Zion National Park. Accessibility was good (old broken up paved road that turns to gravel so no 4x4 needed)," shares Megan H. who camped at Zion Scenic Byway Dispersed BLM.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance matters: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. "You need very high clearance to get to this camp site. Very rough road to get to it. Could not get all the way there," warns Christine J. about Twin Hollows Canyon.
Cell service varies: Coverage can be spotty throughout the area. "We also have T-Mobile and had at least one bar of service everywhere," reports Abigail A. who stayed at Twin Hollows Canyon.
Arrive during daylight: Navigating to dispersed sites can be challenging after dark. "I would highly recommend only trying to get into this location during the day. I couldn't see the trail and google had me a few feet from a cliff before I got out and used a flashlight to see where I was," cautions Cheri C.
Tips for camping with families
Explore Coral Pink Sand Dunes: This state park offers unique terrain for kids to explore. "Great place to stay, was close enough to for a bit of a drive to both Bryce and Zion but wasn't crowded mid August. Right on the coral pink sand dunes and everyone had a lot of fun renting Off road vehicles to take for a spin," shares Erin T. who stayed at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park Campground.
Consider amenity-rich options: Some families prefer campgrounds with facilities. "Lots of fun for kids. Horseback riding, putt putt golf, pad boards, cabins, tents and Rv sites," notes David G. about Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort.
Halloween camping: Visiting in October can offer unique experiences. "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 his stay at Watchman Campground.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Look for sites that won't require excessive leveling. "Electric and water sites are very nice. Lots of long pull throughs, many over 100 ft. Close to level sites, good water pressure, solid electric, clean well maintained infrastructure," reports Gene P. about Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.
Generator restrictions: Be aware of rules regarding generators at different campgrounds. "I stayed here over Labor Day weekend since all the sites inside the park were booked full. The location is great, a bit of a drive to the visitors center but we knew that from the beginning," explains Adam F. who stayed at Zion RV and Campground.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Mount Carmel Junction: Several campgrounds welcome pets without strict restrictions. "This pull off is in the middle of a 7% down grade. So it can be challenging with traffic to make the turn. With that being said it is a beautiful area," reports Megan B. about Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping, a pet-friendly option for RVers with dogs.
Legend
