Mount Carmel Junction sits at approximately 5,300 feet elevation in southern Utah, experiencing temperature extremes with summer highs above 100°F and winter nights often below freezing. Located at the junction of US-89 and UT-9, this small community serves as a gateway to both the east entrance of Zion National Park and routes leading to Bryce Canyon. Most local RV parks operate seasonally from March through October due to harsh winter conditions, though some remain open year-round.
What to do
Hiking in Peekaboo Canyon: Access slot canyons near Kanab, about 30 minutes from Mount Carmel Junction. "We were able to take unlimited hot showers included in our nightly stay, the bathrooms were so clean and felt like a rustic spa. We walked to Escobar's Mexican restaurant right next door for dinner and omg it was amazing. Best salsa we've ever had," notes a camper at Crazy Horse RV Resort.
Golf course access: Several campgrounds offer access to nearby golf facilities. "While there we visited Zion, Bryce, Navajo Lake, Coral Pink Dunes, how central do you need to be to get a great review here. Very clean and well kept up, executive golf course (it took me a bit to recognize what 89 & 9 meant, call me slow), pool and spa, store, and you can't leave without trying a 'Ho'made pie," recommends a visitor at East Zion RV Park.
Red Cliffs Conservation Area: Located approximately 45 minutes from Mount Carmel Junction near Hurricane. "This KOA is located about ten minutes outside of St George and right off the I-15 freeway. The best part of this KOA is its proximity to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area which is about a mile away. This National Conservation Area is surrounded by towering red cliffs that have miles of hiking trails through them," writes a reviewer at St. George / Hurricane KOA Journey.
What campers like
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds near Mount Carmel Junction feature high-quality shower facilities. "Some of the best campground showers I've seen in a while. Fantastic water pressure and the water got as hot or as cold as you wanted. Each shower stall had a locking door, changing area with hooks and a chair for your items, and then the actual shower with a curtain," according to a visitor at Bauers Canyon Ranch RV Park.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's dark skies offer excellent star viewing. "This place is amazing - nothing like most other RV parks. The owners and hosts are fantastic. The facilities are excellent. Views are beautiful. Don't pass this place without staying here," shares a camper at Dark Sky RV Park & Campground, which specializes in dark sky viewing opportunities.
Proximity to national parks: Multiple parks within 1-2 hours drive. "Great location, a bit of a drive to the visitors center but we knew that from the beginning. We had a site right on the road and were concerned at first but it ended up being pretty quiet and the view of the rock faces from our site was amazing," notes a visitor at Zion RV and Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many facilities shut down during winter months. "Mount Carmel Motel & RV Park operates seasonally from March through October with 30-amp service. Bauers Canyon Ranch RV Park is seasonal from Mar 1 to Nov 1," according to seasonal information from Mount Carmel Motel & RV Park.
Site conditions: Level and spacing vary significantly between properties. "Sites are large, staff is friendly and helpful by you are remote so minimal amenities. Personally I loved it gorgeous scenery and easy access to Zion," reports one camper at Zion RV and Campground.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to main routes. "The highway is opened for oversized vehicles between 8.00 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. So keep that in mind!" advises a camper about traveling through the Mt. Carmel tunnel when staying east of Zion.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools that operate seasonally. "The cloud cover made the heat a bit more bearable. The facilities are immaculate. The staff is super friendly. There is a nice big activity room for games or movies with friends," shares a visitor from Grand Plateau RV Resort.
Recreation options: Look for parks with onsite activities. "The zipline, they even have coffee 24/7! I brought my keurig but who knew I didn't need to take up the counter space... if you're comparing, book this one they literally thought of everything a big one is $15 for someone to come take your dog for a walk while you're out," notes a parent staying at Dark Sky RV Park & Campground.
Dog-friendly facilities: Many parks offer pet amenities. "Dog wash and park on site were nice for after hiking for the pup! We will stay again," says a visitor at Crazy Horse RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
East-side access limitations: The Mount Carmel Tunnel restricts larger RVs. "The only thing inconvenient is that you have to go through the Mt Carmel tunnel to reach Zion NP. And this tunnel is opened for oversized vehicles between 8.00a.m. and 4.30 p.m. So keep that in mind!" warns an RVer at Mount Carmel Motel & RV Park.
Pull-through site availability: Several parks offer easier access sites. "We were able to reserve a spot online. We arrived after the office was closed-The office left our paperwork on the cork board out in front of the office," reports a camper at Crazy Horse RV Resort about their late arrival experience.
Laundry access hours: Facility access varies by location. "Washing machines and dryers available, $3,-, between 4 p.m. an 10 p.m. Hot and very clean showers!! The best so far," notes an RVer at Mount Carmel Motel & RV Park.
