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If you're in search of the best Utah car camping, then look no further for the best drive-in and drive-up campgrounds. Get your camping gear and hop in the car! With our help, you'll find the best Utah drive-in campsites from scenic to easily accessible for any type of camper.

Utah

The Best Car Camping in Utah

Looking for the best place to go car camping near Zion National Park? Simply drive up to the campsite, set up your tent, and you're good to go! Or you could opt for a walk-in spot, which often means a more secluded campsite. Search nearby car campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Zion National Park

The Best Car Camping Near Zion National Park, Utah

For visitors to Zion National Park, Watchman Campground is an ideal place to stay. Located near the park's south entrance, the campground is just a short walk from the main visitor center, the Zion Canyon Shuttle System and the adjacent town of Springdale. The canyon and most of the park's trails are only accessible by shuttle bus from approximately March through November each year. Season Dates: Watchman Campground is open year-round. Advance reservations are available 6 months prior for stays March through Thanksgiving weekend in November. The campground has first-come, first-served campsites available from the end of November through February. Recreation Hikers can access three trails directly from the facility: the Watchman Trail, a moderate trail that ascends the peak behind the campground; the Archeology Trail, which offers a light hike to an archeological site nearby; and the Pa'rus Trail, a paved walking and biking trail that runs alongside the river, and the only trail in the park that allows dogs. Although there are no rock climbing routes in the campground, many popular climbs are within a short shuttle bus ride into the main canyon. Use of OHVs and ATVs is prohibited in Zion National Park. Facilities Toilets, drinking water and picnic tables are provided at this facility. Tent-only (F-Loop), non-electric sites (C & D Loop) do not permit vehicles 19 feet and over or in combined length. Group sites (E-Loop) are also tent-only and can accommodate between seven and 40 people. Standard electric sites in A-Loop may be used for either tent or RV camping. However, only RVs are permitted to occupy sites in the B-Loop. There are no full-hookup campsites. Electric sites are all 30 amp, with only a handful of sites that supply 50 amp; a dump station with potable water is available at the entrance to the campground. Natural Features Zion is known for it's dynamic geologic history and Watchman Campground is no exception. Named for the rocky peak that rises above it, the campground is surrounded by tall sandstone cliffs that glow red and orange during sunrise and sunset. The Virgin River, a narrow but powerful river that has carved out the canyon over time, runs adjacent to the campground. Cottonwood trees surrounding the campsite turn golden in the fall. Most of the campsites are in partial to full sun, however in the Group sites (E-Loop) and the Walk-To sites (F-Loop) visitors may receive some shade under pergulas that are constructed over the picnic tables. Visitors can also cool off in the cold river when temperatures peak during summer. Be Advised: The months of April and May bring an unusual infestation of Tent Caterpillars, which fall from trees onto tents, tables, and unsuspecting campers and can make it quite uncomfortable to sit outside. The months of July and August in particular bring a higher concentration of ants in the campsites, which seem to come out especially after the monsoons, but are present all summer long. Insecticidal treatment by visitors is not permitted. Nearby Attractions The town of Springdale has shopping, art galleries, restaurants, and a public library. Throughout the year, concerts, festivals, and parades are held in the town. Charges & Cancellations Individual Site: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change your reservation. Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance of arrival date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Within 48 hours of arrival, a $10 cancellation fee and the first night's fee are charged. Group Site: Customers who cancel a group overnight reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. ADA Access: N

Watchman Campground

## Overview

**Reservations for South Campground are available up to 14 days before your arrival and may extend up to two days beyond this 14-day booking window.**

For visitors to Zion National Park, South Campground is an ideal place to stay. Located near the park's south entrance, the campground is just a short walk from the main visitor center, the Zion Canyon Shuttle System and the adjacent town of Springdale. The canyon and most of the park's trails are only accessible by shuttle bus from approximately the end of February until the end of November each year.   
**Season Dates:** South Campground is open from early March to the end of October. Reservations are available up to 14 days before your arrival. For example, if you want to make a reservation for March 14 to 16, you may book this reservation beginning on March 1. Reservations that extend beyond the 14 day booking window cannot be altered.

For reservations more than 14 days ahead of arrival, please check [Watchman Campground](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232445) which offers reservations six months in advance of arrival.

## Recreation

Hikers can access three trails directly from the facility: the Watchman Trail, a moderate trail that ascends the peak behind the campground; the Archeology Trail, which offers a light hike to an archeological site; and the Pa'rus Trail, a paved walking and biking trail that runs alongside the river, and the only trail in the park that allows dogs. The Zion visitor center and the park shuttles are a short walk from the campground. Many popular rock climbing routes are within a short shuttle bus ride into the main canyon. Use of OHVs and ATVs is prohibited in Zion National Park. 

## Facilities

Flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, firepits and a dump station are provided at this facility. Four group sites are available that can accommodate RVs and tents. There are no hook-ups in this campground. Generators can be used during specific hours.

## Natural Features

Zion is known for its dynamic geologic history. The South Campground and Amphitheater were built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the early 1930s. The project was completed and opened to the public in the spring of 1935. The Virgin River, a narrow but powerful river that has carved out the canyon over time, runs adjacent to the site. Cottonwood trees surrounding the campsite turn golden in the fall. Although the campground is moderately forested, most of the campsites are in partial to full sun but visitors can cool off in the cold river when temperatures peak during summer. Be Advised: The months of April and May bring an unusual infestation of Tent Caterpillars, which fall from trees onto tents, tables, and unsuspecting campers and can make it quite uncomfortable to sit outside. The months of July and August in particular bring a higher concentration of ants in the campsites, which seem to come out especially after the monsoons, but are present all summer long. August and September bring yellowjackets. Insecticidal treatment by visitors is not permitted. 

## Nearby Attractions

The town of Springdale has shopping, art galleries, shower facilities, restaurants. equipment rental businesses, gas stations, markets, bike rentals, library and health clinic.

## Charges & Cancellations

Individual Campsite: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change your reservation. Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance of arrival date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Within 48 hours of arrival, a $10 cancellation fee and the first night's fee are charged.

Group campsite: Customers who cancel a group site reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.

South Campground

Water Canyon Cliffside Campground is only one mile from the beautiful Water Canyon Hike- the backside of Zion National Park! Water Canyon Cliffside Campground is only one mile from the beautiful Water Canyon Hike- the backside of Zion National Park! Our land has 6 campsites, 1 Canvas Tent, and 1 Mini Cabin that all offer stunning views of the Canaan Mountains. Cabin L&L is a cute tiny cabin located at the top of our campground. Drive to the top of our hill, park, and walk a short distance to the cabin. This is our only site that includes 2 mattresses and bedding! Cabin L&L INCLUDES: Sliding glass door, Two double mattresses with bedding (bunk bed), led lighting, windows, small trash can, Picnic table, Firepit and charcoal grill, Firewood available for purchase at campground (cash, venmo, paypal), Large port-a-potty on campground (no trash services) Cabin L&L DOES NOT INCLUDE: Charcoal, Additional camping gear, Water, Showers, Electricity, trash bins on grounds - The port-a-potty is NOT a trash bin. (Pack in-pack out.) Make sure to check the weather before your arrival and pack accordingly.v



Water Canyon Cliffside Cabin L and L

Red Ledge RV Park is located near Kanarraville, and is the perfect spot for a fun, yet easy-going Utah vacation. It features 22 full hookup campsites that are big rig friendly for RVs of up to 40 feet. Six of them are pull through accessible, and the park also provides free WIFI, a dump station, and allows pets.  Please feel free to call us at 435-586-9150 or book online!

Amenities & Activities:

Campsite amenities offered include a playground, picnic tables, fire circle and grills. It also includes basic amenities like restrooms with hot showers and laundry facilities. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.  

 

Red Ledge RV Park

Camp Valhalla South Zion offers a very unique camping experience. We are located on the backside of the world renowned Zion National Park on 10 acres of private land. A combination of natural beauty and and large canvas tents sets the scene. Each site is designed lovingly with great care to provide the best possible experience for our guests and comes standard with a king sized bed, fresh pillows, sheets, blankets, night stands, and lights inside of the tent, outside each site comes standard with a wooden picnic table, bbq grill and firepit. For a great night grilling using our BBQ Grills we would recommend picking a bag of charcoal, lighter fluid, and utensils/cutlery. Our restrooms are cleaned & sanitized daily and also come stocked with fresh towels, toilet paper, hand soap and sanitizer. Take delight in the spectacular views we offer and checkout some of the many beautiful hidden trails right in our backyard that only the locals know about. Also don't forget about the 5 other national parks within 2 hours of Camp Valhalla South Zion that are just as beautiful!

Camp Valhalla South Zion

Lambs Knoll Climbing Site Camping

Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources.

Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska).

Campsite Selection
Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked.  Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before.  Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.

Mesa Road - Zion Views Dispersed Campsite

Family owned for six generations. Come enjoy an off-the-grid experience, away from the Zion National Park crowds, off the beaten track, tranquil, with breath-taking views of Kolob, Smith Mesa, and Zion National Park. Wake up to cattle grazing, deer playing, or even cowboys working the ranch. Come stay, book a horse ride, and enjoy Southern Utah in a way that can't be beat. .

Zion Wright Family Ranch

Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

North Creek Dispersed Camping

Gooseberry Mesa and Hurricane Cliffs trails are located in southern Utah’s red rock country. Views from the mesa rims along these trails are spectacular. To the north are massive sandstone sentinels of Zion National Park. Spread out below the west rim is a panorama of colorful desert mesas and water carved canyons.

These trails are designed to provide technically challenging mountain bike opportunities. Single track and slickrock wind across the mesa top in a series of interconnected trails providing a unique setting that will provide a high quality experience to all types of mountain bikers.

One of the Bureau of Land Management's "Backyard to Backcountry" treasures, information on the Gooseberry Mesa Trail was developed between IMBA and the St. George, UT, BLM office to provide world-class riding experiences. IMBA's data on the trail includes elevations, ratings, current conditions, photos, and comments.

Gooseberry Mesa

Salt Lake City is quickly becoming not only a destination to visit but one to live in as well. With an abundance of nearby forests and BLM land, and lots of parks to drive to, it’s clear why this section of Utah is becoming so desirable.

It’s hard to choose the best camping near Salt Lake City. The Wasatch National Forest does make a strong case, though. If you like camping by the water, there’s plenty of BLM land near Utah Lake and the Great Salt Lake. Salt Lake City, UT, is uniquely positioned in that you can visit forest campsites by driving east or have your pick of desert campgrounds when driving west. Whatever you choose, there will be an abundance of places to set your tent or RV.

Salt Lake City

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Salt Lake City, UT is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Salt Lake City is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Salt Lake City. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

The Best Camping in Salt Lake City | UT Camping

Searching for the best camping near West Valley City, UT? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near West Valley City, reviewed by campers like you.

West Valley City

The Best Camping Near West Valley City, Utah

Searching for the best camping near Provo, UT? Provo is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Provo, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Provo

The Best Camping Near Provo, Utah | Utah Campgrounds

Searching for the best camping near West Jordan, UT? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in West Jordan, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

West Jordan

The Best Camping Near West Jordan, Utah

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Orem, UT has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Utah camping has to offer. Discover great camping spots near Orem, reviewed by campers like you.

Orem

The Best Camping Near Orem, Utah

Sandy, UT is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Sandy, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Sandy

The Best Camping Near Sandy, Utah

Ogden is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Ogden, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Ogden and user-submitted reviews.

Ogden

The Best Camping Near Ogden, Utah | Utah Campgrounds

St. George is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near St. George, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near St. George and user-submitted reviews.

St. George

The Best Camping Near St. George, Utah

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Layton, UT is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Layton. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Layton. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Layton

The Best Camping Near Layton, Utah

Join the fun near Millcreek. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Millcreek is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Millcreek

The Best Camping Near Millcreek, Utah

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

The Best Camping Near Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Utah

Searching for the best camping near Ashley National Forest, UT? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Ashley National Forest. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Ashley National Forest camping trip.

Ashley National Forest

The Best Camping Near Ashley National Forest, Utah

Near the ever-popular Moab, Utah lies Arches National Park. Living up to its name, Arches has some of the most interesting rock formations in the southwestern US. Camping can be difficult here, and reservations are always recommended.

There is only one campground actually located in Arches, Devils Garden Campground, with 51 total campsites. If you plan to bring an RV or trailer, know that the sites available range from 20 to 40 feet in length. If you can’t get a spot, the best camping near Arches is really just wherever you can find it. With a wealth of BLM land, you can free camp nearly anywhere in the vicinity of the park. Moab, UT is just to the south if you’re looking for a city to stay in.

Arches National Park

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Arches National Park, UT is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Arches National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Arches National Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Arches National Park, Utah

Looking for the best campgrounds near Dixie National Forest, UT? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Dixie National Forest campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Dixie National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Dixie National Forest

The Best Camping Near Dixie National Forest, Utah

In eastern Utah, near Arches National Park and Moab, UT, you’ll find Canyonlands National Park. Often paired with a visit to Arches or Moab, Canyonlands is more than four times the size of Arches. In fact, it’s the largest national park in the state.

Like other Utah parks, getting a campsite can be a challenge. The Needles takes reservations, but Island in the Sky is first-come, first served. Both can be accessed with an RV up to 28 feet long. However, the campsites are dry. Camping in the frontcountry isn’t easy, but there are many backcountry campgrounds to choose from. Like all other parks, the best camping near Canyonlands National Park is wherever you can find it, as 42% of the entire state is BLM land.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Utah camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Canyonlands National Park, UT. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping Near Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Fishlake National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Utah camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Fishlake National Forest

The Best Camping Near Fishlake National Forest, Utah

Camping near Capitol Reef National Park in Utah is worth the drive to the state’s south-central desert. Located a few miles away from Torrey, UT, the nearby campgrounds are the perfect place to stay before spending a day or more exploring all of the natural wonders in the park. It’s also some of the best camping in the state with campsites designed to accommodate single campers, groups or RVs. Spend the day marveling at the stunning rock formations that include pristine white sandstone domes like the Capitol Dome the park is named for, as well as Hickman Bridge, the Chimney Rock pillar and the thousand-year-old Fremont Petroglyphs.

Capitol Reef National Park

The Best Camping Near Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Join the fun near Zion National Park. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Zion National Park campgrounds just for you. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Zion National Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Zion National Park, Utah

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Utah camping adventure.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah

Fern Ridge Lake is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Fern Ridge Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Fern Ridge Lake, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

THE BEST Car CAMPING NEARZion National Park, Utah

About Zion National Park Car Camping

Top Zion National Park Car Campgrounds