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Best Dispersed Camping near Zion National Park

570 Reviews

The lands surrounding Zion National Park feature an extensive network of free dispersed camping options on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service lands. Areas like Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed, Hurricane Cliffs BLM, and Dalton Wash provide primitive camping within 15-45 minutes of park entrances. Most sites lack amenities but offer spectacular views of the region's red rock formations and desert landscapes. BLM Road #71 near Mount Carmel serves as a popular base camp for accessing the east entrance, while the Kolob Reservoir area provides seasonal camping from March through November with basic facilities including toilets and trash service.

Road conditions vary significantly across the region's dispersed camping areas. Many sites require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles, particularly for accessing upper campsites at locations like Dalton Wash. As one camper noted, "The road up is steep and narrow, passing a lot of private property. Sites are out in the open with no shade." Fire regulations fluctuate seasonally, with complete bans common during dry periods. Cell service ranges from strong in some areas to nonexistent in others. Most dispersed sites operate on a 14-day stay limit with strict pack-in, pack-out policies. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in exposed areas, while spring brings potential for flash flooding that can make dirt roads impassable.

Panoramic views consistently rank as the top highlight in camper reviews, with many sites offering direct sightlines to Zion's iconic formations. "Found a great spot for the night after exploring Zion. The view was spectacular, and our spot had an already made fire pit," reported one tent camper at BLM Road #71. Shade availability becomes a critical consideration during summer months, with cottonwood-lined creek areas filling quickly by early evening. Sites along Kolob Terrace Road receive praise for their seclusion and proximity to lesser-visited park sections. Campers frequently mention the importance of respecting established sites, with one visitor observing: "While there are lots of places to camp, please don't make new campsites or drive off roads. This is how public lands get closed."

Map showing campgrounds near Zion National Park, UtahExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Zion National Park (104)

    1. North Creek Dispersed Camping

    43 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    6 miles
    Website

    "There’s of shade from the trees and a beautiful creek.

    We arrived at around 3pm and no one was around. By 5pm a good amount of people started driving in a picking their spots."

    "Along this road there are several dispersed camp sites but this ground has some trees with shade if you go further in. I stayed here for 3 nights and really enjoyed my time."

    2. Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed

    38 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    7 miles
    Website

    "If you’re looking to explore a lesser known area of Zion National Park and avoid the crowds, this is the place for you."

    "This is just a place you pull off to the side of the road, sleep, then wake up and go to Zion National Park."

    3. Dalton Wash Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    4 miles

    "Good camping site, would recommend a 4WD or AWD vehicle. The road up is steep and narrow, passing a lot of private property. Sites are out in the open, no shade."

    "While you don’t need 4x4 during dry months, it will help with the drive. It’s steep, loose dirt until you start hitting rocks."

    4. Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 688-3200

    "arrived in the dark but we were able to find a site in the 30’s range- loved it especially when we woke up in the morning and saw the view. we stayed a second night tucked into a ravine next to some boulders"

    "Sites 1-12

    PROS: 

    Stunning views

    Free 14 day - although in 14 days we never saw anyone check

    Verizon & ATT 4-5 bars even with no booster

    Wide open, strong solar all but 1 day

    20m to Zion NP,"

    5. BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM

    28 Reviews
    Mount Carmel Junction, UT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 688-3200

    "This area is up BLM Road #71 and was the old hwy. The actual main camping area is an old gravel pit area but views are great, solar is plentiful."

    "You could easily use this as a base to explore Zion if you dont mind no facilities. The view was spectacular, and our spot had an already made fire pit."

    6. Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed sites 40-48

    16 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    10 miles

    "Our class B camper van made it fine on the uneven terrain. Just go slow. The snow had melted from the previous day by the sun so it didn’t affect us. Easy to find a spot. Beautiful sun rises!"

    ". Found a nice little campsite that fit two camper vans. In a bit of depression, out of the wind. Woke up to a wonderful view."

    7. Kolob Resevoir

    18 Reviews
    Kanarraville, UT
    13 miles
    Website

    $53 / night

    "Hidden on the back side of Zion National Park, this Reservoir has amazing camping, just drive along the banks until you find an open spot."

    "Beautiful campground on a lake. During the winter there's alot of snow, so it's hard to camp up there then. Perfect during the summer. No reservations & free camping."

    8. LaVerkin Overlook Road Dispersed

    16 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    11 miles

    "It was not easy to understand if we could have driven further down the road because there was a sign that said private property, so we just stayed closer to the front of the main road."

    "Quite a few dispersed spots. Being out in the desert there isn't much to create privacy from one group of people to the next but they are far enough apart you won't hear eachother."

    9. Kolob Road BLM Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    4 miles

    "We stayed at the BLM outside of Zion National Park. It was absolutely STUNNING. There were signs that made finding this spot super simple."

    "Road was easy to pull down and turn around in my Ford Transit. Nice views and access to creek. Quiet except a bit of road noise."

    10. Kolob Terrace Road

    11 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    7 miles

    "Convenient 25 minute drive to Zion National Park. Closest wild camping we found to the Springdale entrance of the park."

    "Close to the road without having to hear all the freeway traffic. It’s a good while away from the park (25 minutes maybe) but not too far that you feel like you are wasting gas."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Zion National Park

308 Photos of 104 Zion National Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Zion National Park

570 Reviews of 104 Zion National Park Campgrounds

  • R
    Dec. 1, 2024

    BLM Navajo Rd Dispersed

    Open, high land that’s awkward to get to

    At the far corner of an unassuming neighborhood, there’s a dirt road with a couple signs saying no shooting and no camping. They’re referring to the first three miles of that road. It’s a narrow road with unusually high walls but easy to drive. Make sure you go all 3 miles until you reach the big classic BLM Public Lands sign after which is the start of your options. There’s a few quite large turnoffs with fire pits

  • Alex B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2018

    Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed

    Kolob Terrace Rd campsite

    If you’re looking to explore a lesser known area of Zion National Park and avoid the crowds, this is the place for you. Located 30 minutes from Zion National Park, on Kolob Terrace Road (0.1 miles once on Kolob road on the right hand side). The campsite is located near a stream and is absolutely beautiful. Free to camp here, no permit required, first come basis. Fire pits are available throughout.

    For those of you who are planning on hiking the Subway, this is the perfect place to camp as it only located a few miles from the Subway Trailhead - Left Fork Trailhead.

    Enjoy.

    Approximate location: GPS: 37.231354, -113.156843

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2021

    Leeds Canyon Dispersed #2

    Overlander site only

    Leeds Canyon Dispersed camp sites are on the Dixie NF. Lower dispersed sites 1-6 are easiest to get into with a TT. Camp in designated spots, camping free for 16 days. No water, no trash, no toilets. Sites are along a well maintained FS gravel road so dust may be a concern. Only a few miles outside of Leeds and Interstate 15.

    Leeds Canyon #2 is behind #1 a hundred yards but requires high clearance and 4wd to access....no TT or RVs. Nice big open area with views for the overlander types

  • Dave S.
    Oct. 3, 2020

    Parowan Gap Petroglyphs

    Wonderful place but please leave no trace

    We stayed here for a week while waiting for a package to arrive in Cedar City. The gap is a beautiful place and the petroglyphs would be as well were it not for the vandalism on them. On some camping apps people are saying just camp anywhere out here. I wanted to clarify that. While there are lots of places to camp please don't make new campsites or drive off roads and in the desert/grass. We stayed in a lovely spot on Jackrabbit Road, but had to drive over a mile to find what I consider an established site. All along the road there is damage from people driving and camping wherever they want. This is tragic and violates leave no trace. So does the many bullet shell casings, broken glass, dog turds, old gun targets, shotgun shells, etc, out here. This is how public lands get closed. It's a nice place and we saw respectful campers, OHV'rs, and bicyclists. Just use existing campsites and roads.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2025

    Kolob Road BLM Dispersed

    Great Location!

    Plenty of space only 15-20ish minutes from Zion National Park! Awesome views too!

  • K
    Jun. 13, 2022

    Old Highway 89 Dispersed BLM Site

    Quiet camping spot close to Kanab and east entrance of Zion

    We loved this free camping area! 

    There aren't tons of spots(most of it is an open area), but we never had an issue getting one, even during spring break. 

    It's close to Kanab and the east entrance of Zion.

    Please Leave No Trace! Take care of this place so it can be enjoyed by many for as long as possible!

  • Alan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2019

    Dalton Wash Dispersed

    Great free camping with a view of Zion!

    Ill start off by saying that you should probably have an AWD or 4WD high clearance vehicle for the upper campsites.  There are campsites lower on but are right next to the road.  Getting there you'll want to follow Dalton Wash Rd all the way to the plateau, staying left the whole way unless its private property.

    There are no bathrooms or amenities here so either come prepared or take care of business before heading up or inbetween excursions.  The good thing from that is you'll be pretty secluded! (Cant speak for the peak months as we visited in May)  The upper campsites are ~45 minutes from Zion with the lower sites being only 30 minutes away!  Summer may not be the best time to visit as the sites are kind of exposed and theres not a ton of shade

  • M
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Dispersed Camping in Dixie National Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Secluded atmosphere. Great Views.

    I stayed in dispersed camping spot #5 arriving on August 31st, 2020. There are 11 or 12 designated spots here. There is a sign on the right side once you enter the Forest Service Road that maps all the hiking trails and dispersed camping sites available in the Leeds Creek dispersed camping area. No 4x4 is necessary to get to spots 1- 5. I didn't go all the way up the mountain and see the other spots. The entrance to spot 5 is a horseshoe shape big enough and convenient for an RV. However, for tent campers, you will want to go beyond the bushes for wind coverage and privacy. The space opens up with trails, amazing views, you can here the creek burbling below the canyon. Spectacular stargazing at night and pretty quiet aside from some road traffic. NOTE: tent campers; park your vehicle with visibility in the horseshoe drive in to avoid unbeknownst camp crashers. The coverage is good enough for tent campers that someone could easily believe the campsite was not taken. Also, bees like your trashbag. So, keep it in your vehicle rather than hanging it. Lastly, sadly there was A LOT of litter when I visited. I did my best to clean some of it up while I was there. Please remember to pack in/pack out and leave no trace!!

  • Jenny&Tobias P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2023

    BLM Dispersed N Kolob Terrace Road

    Cottonwood Trees and a Creek

    Sandy and shady free Campground near Zion Natl Park. Easy access even with a car for the most spots. Crossing the creek there are more spots but not recommended without high clearance and 4x4. Beautiful sunset and shady in the morning. No highway noise. No fires permitted. Max stay 14 days. Love this place and the murmurs of the creek. Fills up very quickly around 6pm in the summer.

Guide to Zion National Park

Dispersed camping near Zion National Park in Utah offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of the region. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to set up camp away from the crowds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Zion National Park in Utah

  • Many dispersed camping areas, such as Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed, allow for a peaceful experience with ample shade and space for tents and vehicles.
  • Be prepared for rough roads; a vehicle with higher clearance is recommended for accessing spots like North Creek Dispersed Camping, which can be bumpy but rewarding.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak seasons, as places like Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed can fill up quickly.

Dispersed campers should check out Hurricane Cliffs

  • The Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed area offers beautiful views and a variety of sites, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.
  • This location is known for its stunning sunrises and clear night skies, perfect for stargazing after a day of exploring nearby Zion.
  • Campers have reported that the area is relatively quiet, providing a serene atmosphere to unwind and connect with nature.

Enjoy hiking and wildlife while free camping near Zion National Park

  • The BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed area is close to Zion National Park, making it an ideal base for hiking enthusiasts eager to explore the park's trails.
  • Campers have spotted wildlife, including mule deer, while staying at locations like North Creek Dispersed Camping, enhancing the outdoor experience.
  • With numerous trails nearby, visitors can easily access scenic routes and enjoy the breathtaking views that the region has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free camping allowed near Zion National Park and what are the regulations?

Free camping is allowed on public lands near Zion National Park with specific regulations. Leeds Canyon Dispersed #2 on Dixie National Forest allows free camping for up to 16 days in designated spots only. There are no facilities (water, trash, or toilets). Old Highway 89 Dispersed BLM Site offers free camping with proximity to Kanab and Zion's east entrance. Most BLM areas enforce a 14-day stay limit. Common regulations include: camping in established sites only, proper waste disposal (pack it in, pack it out), maintaining 100+ feet distance from water sources, fire restrictions (often in place during dry seasons), and vehicle restrictions to designated roads only. Always check current regulations before your trip, as rules may change seasonally.

Where are the best locations for dispersed camping near Zion National Park?

The best dispersed camping near Zion can be found along Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed, located about 30 minutes from the park. This area offers beautiful campsites near a stream and provides a quieter alternative to the main park areas. Another excellent option is Dalton Wash Dispersed, where you'll find campsites along the plateau (high-clearance vehicles recommended for upper sites). Kolob Road area also offers dispersed camping with beautiful views just 15-20 minutes from the park. For those exploring the east side, areas near Kanab provide convenient access to the east entrance. Most sites are primitive with no facilities, so come prepared with sufficient water and supplies, and always practice Leave No Trace principles.

What is boondocking near Zion National Park and where is it permitted?

Boondocking (self-contained camping without hookups) near Zion National Park is permitted on public lands surrounding the park. Parowan Gap Petroglyphs area offers boondocking opportunities, though be sure to camp only in designated areas. Mammoth Dispersed provides beautiful sites next to Mammoth Creek in Dixie National Forest with pit toilets but no hookups or water. Boondocking is generally permitted on BLM and National Forest lands with a typical 14-day stay limit. When boondocking, you must be self-sufficient with water, power, and waste management. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, stay on established roads, and check seasonal fire restrictions. For the best experience, arrive with full water tanks, empty waste tanks, and sufficient battery/solar power for your stay.

Where can I find BLM land for camping around Zion National Park?

BLM land for camping around Zion National Park is plentiful and accessible. BLM Navajo Rd Dispersed offers camping opportunities beyond the 3-mile marker where camping is permitted (note the no camping signs refer only to the first three miles). The road is narrow but drivable for most vehicles. BLM Dispersed N Kolob Terrace Road provides sandy, shady sites with easy access for most vehicles, though crossing the creek requires high clearance and 4x4. Additional BLM options include areas near Hurricane Cliffs and the Virgin River corridor. The Scenic Byway area features BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed, an old gravel pit with great views and good solar potential, though road access is rough.

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