Dispersed camping options near Orderville, Utah provide dog owners flexible accommodations within 30 minutes of Zion National Park's east entrance. These free sites often feature more separation between campsites than established campgrounds, offering additional space for pets. Most dispersed camping areas near Orderville require self-sufficiency as they lack facilities, though some locations feature small creeks providing natural water sources during certain seasons. The terrain varies from gravel areas suitable for larger vehicles to more secluded spots requiring higher clearance.
What to do
Visit Belly of the Dragon: Camp at Twin Hollows Canyon where you can explore this unique tunnel formation. "When we found this spot we were trilled! It's next to a creek and has a lot of private room to camp. It's only 14 miles out of Zion national park!" reports Diana V.
Explore slot canyons: Areas around Mt Carmel Old 89 provide access to nearby slot canyon hiking. "Just minutes from Belly of the Dragon and 10 minutes from parking lot turn off to Peekaboo Slot," notes Christine Z. who camped at the gravel pit area.
Stargaze without light pollution: The Zion Scenic Byway Dispersed BLM camping area offers excellent night sky viewing. "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). Some road noise. Main area has various campsites off the main road so not a ton of privacy but great open views!" writes Megan H.
What campers like
Creek access for dogs: Horse Camp near Twin Hollows Canyon offers creek access that dogs enjoy during summer. "We loved staying here last year and stopped by again this year as we enjoyed it so much. 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.
Campground proximity to shuttle system: South Campground within Zion National Park eliminates driving hassles for dog owners. "You don't need your vehicle after you arrive. Walk to shuttle bus stop 5 to 10 minutes away at the Visitor Center where you have to take a shuttle to get to the hikes and views north of the VC," explains Mary S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers appreciate the animal sightings near campgrounds. "We had deer strolling through our campsite in the morning," reports Bonnie M. about her stay at Watchman Campground.
What you should know
High clearance vehicles required for some areas: Not all dispersed camping is accessible to standard 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.
Seasonal temperature fluctuations: The area experiences significant temperature changes. "Camped at Watchman in late October early November. Experienced sunny days, cold nights and even a little snow," shares Rod D.
Holiday activities: Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping offers an unusual location with good access. "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," notes Megan B.
Tips for camping with families
Consider resort amenities: Families wanting pet-friendly camping with activities should check out Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. "Stay more than 2 days. 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!" recommends Desiree L.
Pick sites along the Virgin River: South Campground has desirable river sites. "Site 82 is a great site, level parking area and right off the Pa'rus trail (paved walking trail that leads to a shuttle stop and the visitor's center). There was a path to the river right across from our site as well, which was a nice place to relax," shares Carly E.
Scout creek areas: During drier months, finding water access requires planning. "You will need to pack in water as well! But there is a stream close by you will need a handy dandy shovel to dig down to it," advises Stephanie L. about backcountry camping options.
Tips from RVers
Watch for limited entrance hours: The Mt Carmel Tunnel connecting Orderville to the main section of Zion has restricted hours for larger vehicles. "This spot is a gravel parking lot, plenty of room, manageable access, there may be cool spots up the old road, but we didn't want to scrape the sides on brush so we didn't check," shares Grant M. about Mt Carmel Old 89.
Choose the gravel pit area for RVs: Larger rigs fare better in certain sections. "Take the exit from 89 and cross the remnants of the old 89 road. You will find several spots with previously used fire rings. We took our 30ft RV up the hill right on top of what seems to be a sand pit of some sort," advises Thomas W.
Consider seasonal closures: When planning pet-friendly camping near Orderville in non-summer months, check campground operating dates. "We 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," notes Adam F. about Zion RV and Campground.
Legend
