Top Free Dispersed Camping near Zion National Park

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Zion National Park? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Zion National Park, UT (97)

    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM

    3.

    BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM

    23 Reviews
    58 Photos
    552 Saves
    Mount Carmel Junction, Utah

    It is the general policy of the BLM that undeveloped Federal Lands under its administration are available to the public for camping and general recreation, with the following provisions: • Camping is limited to 14 days within a 30-mile radius in a 28 day period • Pack out what you pack in • Avoid camping within 200 ft. of any water source • Do not leave campfires unattended • Camp at previously used sites, if possible. • Dispose of human waste properly. The use of portable toilets is highly recommended. If no portable toilet is available, solid body waste and urine should be buried in a hole six to twelve inches deep. The disposal site should be located well away from streams, campsite, and other use areas. Toilet paper should be placed in a small plastic bag and put into your camp trash bag. • Pack out your trash (and a little extra). Do not leave or bury trash at campsites. • Firepans or stoves are recommended when camping on BLM land. • Avoid building new fire rings. Unnecessary fire rings scar the natural beauty of sites and reduce the amount of space available for sleeping and cooking areas. • Use only dead and down wood for campfires. Bringing your own firewood is the best policy to practice. • Do not put cans, bottles, or aluminum foil into a fire ring. • Burn campfire logs to ashes, then douse with water. Do not smother a campfire with soil, as this will make it difficult for the next visitor to use the same fire ring.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Resevoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Resevoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Resevoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Resevoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Resevoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Resevoir

    4.

    Kolob Resevoir

    18 Reviews
    72 Photos
    572 Saves
    Kanarraville, Utah

    Kolob Reservoir is a 250-acre impoundment of Kolob Creek in southwestern Utah. This mountain reservoir is a popular place for the desert dwellers of St. George, as well as southern Nevada. The reservoir and most of the shoreline are owned by the Washington County Water Conservancy District. Dispersed camping is allowed and a few vault toilets are provided, along with a boat ramp and dock. Private land restricts access around the southwest bay. Seasonal access from the south is by paved county road from Virgin (Utah Highway 9); and from the north, by gravel road from the Right Hand Fork of Cedar Canyon (Utah Highway 14). Winter access is limited to snowmobile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Market

    $53 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from La Verkin Overlook Road East — Zion National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from La Verkin Overlook Road East — Zion National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from La Verkin Overlook Road East — Zion National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from La Verkin Overlook Road East — Zion National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from La Verkin Overlook Road East — Zion National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from La Verkin Overlook Road East — Zion National Park

    5.

    La Verkin Overlook Road East — Zion National Park

    18 Reviews
    35 Photos
    365 Saves
    Kanarraville, Utah

    This site is BLM land located along La Verkin East Overlook Road. There were several tiny houses parked back in here, as well as many rigs. The road is good for 2wd when dry. When wet, roads could be treacherous.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping

    7.

    Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    30 Photos
    451 Saves
    Mount Carmel Junction, Utah

    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).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Market
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54

    8.

    Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54

    12 Reviews
    30 Photos
    280 Saves
    Virgin, Utah

    Camping in Hurricane Cliffs Recreation Area is allowed in designated campsites only.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed

    9.

    Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    26 Photos
    286 Saves
    Virgin, Utah

    Unlike the other trail systems in St. George Field Office area, the Hurricane Cliffs Trail System wasn't developed because of its awesome slick rock or incredible views, and it isn't inside a protected area such as a Reserve or Area of Critical Environmental Concern. This trail system developed because it's an area that is just plain fun to mountain bike.While not the legendary riding of the Gooseberry Mesa National Recreation Trail (under whose shadow this trail system sits), the Hurricane Cliffs Trail System has its own rewards. From smooth, rolling terrain to rough, rocky slabs, there are over 36 miles of great riding single-track in the system.Be sure to check each trail you plan to visit as there are user group restrictions. For example, the Canal Trail is only open to hikers, and equestrians are restricted to existing roads and the Chinatown Wash.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Gooseberry Mesa
    Camper-submitted photo from Gooseberry Mesa
    Camper-submitted photo from Gooseberry Mesa
    Camper-submitted photo from Gooseberry Mesa
    Camper-submitted photo from Gooseberry Mesa
    Camper-submitted photo from Gooseberry Mesa

    10.

    Gooseberry Mesa

    8 Reviews
    19 Photos
    298 Saves
    Rockville, Utah

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
Showing results 1-10 of 97 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Zion National Park

437 Reviews of 97 Zion National Park Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Road BLM Dispersed
    August 24, 2024

    Kolob Road BLM Dispersed

    Great Spot!

    We stayed here for a night by Zion and loved it. It was just off the road, but not too much traffic noise. The little river by the site is very pretty. We only had 2 neighbors, but the spots are decently spaced apart so nobody was too close

  • Camper-submitted photo from Coal Creek
    August 23, 2024

    Coal Creek

    Not for RVs

    This is a beautiful place, but the road to the campsites are not acceptable for RVs. Also, it seemed like the people were a bit sketchy. I didn't feel safe in this location.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Terrace Road
    August 19, 2024

    Kolob Terrace Road

    Nice view & convenient location

    The sunset from this site was gorgeous! Panoramic views. Convenient 25 minute drive to Zion National Park. Closest wild camping we found to the Springdale entrance of the park. The only downside is that it’s pretty close to the road- but the road isn’t too busy or loud and you can get far enough away.

  • Camper-submitted photo from North Creek Dispersed Camping
    August 12, 2024

    North Creek Dispersed Camping

    Great primitive spot

    Stayed about 200 yards from the road and got there easily in a Honda odyssey minivan. There’s probably ten or twenty nice campsites and some with large enough trees to hammock. No other amenities or water source when we visited

  • Camper-submitted photo from Horse Camp Near Belly of the Dragon Trail
    July 31, 2024

    Horse Camp Near Belly of the Dragon Trail

    Nice dispersed sites on stream

    Nice level large sites with great separation but too hot in July (97F). Watch weather the road seem like it could become sticky mud in rain. 5 stars for this free blm area expect for our July weather heat. Near belly of the dragon cave hike.

  • Camper-submitted photo from LaVerkin Overlook Road Dispersed
    July 26, 2024

    LaVerkin Overlook Road Dispersed

    Pretty, flat, close to ziok

    We enjoyed staying here. It was comfortable and pretty. There were some people, but no one too close, even in late July. 28 min drive to south entrance

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bear Flat
    July 25, 2024

    Bear Flat

    Great sight at 1am

    Rolled into camp around 1 am. Found a sight relatively easy and set up. Woke up to a view of the ski slopes.

    Great spot for a quick stop. Close to ceeder breaks and Zion.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Wire Mesa
    July 22, 2024

    Wire Mesa

    Keep Driving - beautiful views

    We did not end up staying here overnight because of the heat and potential rain but wanted to check it out. If you go past the no camping 1/2 mile signs there are plenty of options in this area for dispersed camping so keep driving at least 1/2 mile from those signs. Unlike the prior post, it says you CAN camp as long as you're a half mile from the no camping signs as it is BLM land.

    There are plenty of places people have camped before when the fire restrictions were lifted and left perfect fire rings with rocks from the area all spaced out well. One underneath a big rock assuming they must have had some wind.

    If there is any chance for rain/storms, be careful. You can see where people have struggled to get out.

    I would recommend a 4x4 vehicle but stock is fine. My boyfriend claims I could have taken my stock Grand Cherokee (Altitude) up it with the right tire placement on the rocks.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed
    July 20, 2024

    Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed

    Great spot, dispersed but near civilization.

    Great spot, central to Zion, an hour and a half from Bryce, and a hop skip from the AZ border. Need supplies? Hurricane and La Verkin are a few minutes away.
    Went in July, monsoon season. It rained with thunder, lightning and wind everyday around 2pm until 6/7pm. And it was hot. Make sure to be ready for the heat with shade and plenty of fluids + salt supplements to keep your electrolytes in balance.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Poverty Flat BLM Road #70 Dispersed Camping Area
    July 19, 2024

    Poverty Flat BLM Road #70 Dispersed Camping Area

    Quiet and Secluded

    Really enjoyed this spot, a little eerie with all of the deer legs and bones but camp spots aren’t far off the road. There was a small ranch/private property close to the beginning campsites and their dogs barked all night but wasn’t close enough to really bother us. Good view of the stars here too!

  • Camper-submitted photo from North Creek Dispersed Camping
    July 16, 2024

    North Creek Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful

    Perfect site for an overnight stay! There were a lot of other people, but didn’t matter since it wasn’t noisy or similar.

    Feels safe to be a few more on a site instead of alone.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Coal Creek Dispersed - Cedar City
    July 13, 2024

    Coal Creek Dispersed - Cedar City

    Awesome Spot, Bad Crowd

    This spot is great if you are day-tripping to Zion. Easy to get to, right off the highway, near Cedar City, and a creek right next to it to cool off in. HOWEVER, it appears that about half the spots are occupied by drifters/homeless people that have set up a semi-permanent residence. We were the only ones there that actually looked to be “camping” the 2 nights that we stayed.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Candy Loop Camp
    July 13, 2024

    Candy Loop Camp

    Easy to Access

    Standard dispersed camping, non designated camping. Level spots and good tree coverage. Minimal road noise and 5G service on T-Mobile

  • Camper-submitted photo from Uinta Flat Dispersed
    July 11, 2024

    Uinta Flat Dispersed

    Beautiful but primitive Campground with many sites

    Many campsites in the Uinta Forest but this one is particularly beautiful because it is open Fields with lots of tree coverage. Very primitive with no facilities whatsoever, even garbage but there are some previously created fire pits

  • Camper-submitted photo from Uinta Flat Designated Dispersed Camping Area
    July 11, 2024

    Uinta Flat Designated Dispersed Camping Area

    Beautiful location with driving campsites and fire pits

    Open Fields yet lots of privacy and shade. Beautiful spots but primitive. No garbage disposal, water, electricity, bathrooms, showers, etc. Pack it in and pack it out!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mammoth Dispersed
    July 11, 2024

    Mammoth Dispersed

    A few nice spots but not many and a long drive to get there

    10 miles on a fairly well maintained Gravel Road to locate three or four campsites that accommodate RVs. No water, electricity, garbage disposal, etc. Some sites have fire rings. I made my own spot by moving some dead wood and created my own fire pit with available stones and tons of available dry firewood. Do not try to go past the Gated area as that is extremely rough and only meant for four wheelers.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Wire Mesa
    July 11, 2024

    Wire Mesa

    No Camping Allowed

    No camping signs everywhere including on the road to this location. I checked BLM website and even called and camping here is illegal.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lava Flats Dispersed Camping
    July 10, 2024

    Lava Flats Dispersed Camping

    Plenty of Spots With Plenty of Shade

    Overall a great place to stay, far enough off the road to feel like you’re camping but easily accessible at night/bad conditions. We stayed during a weeknight in July and there were a few RVs but still plenty of sites. You can easily access the campgrounds with any vehicle.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lava Flats Dispersed Camping
    July 10, 2024

    Lava Flats Dispersed Camping

    Nice place convenient but quiet

    Great place to escape the heat. We there on a Monday. The spots that could accommodate a trailer were taken which was fine because we don't have one. We had a very nice spot on a meadow. There are not many spots but the spots can hand multiple vehicles or vehicle pulling horses or OHVs. Only a few passed by during the day but the camping spot was far off the road they were on. I for sure will come back.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Gooseberry Mesa
    July 5, 2024

    Gooseberry Mesa

    Incredible views

    DON’T FOLLOW APPLE MAPS. Took a bit to find the spot but the view is worth it. Beware of trespassing signs by “campsite” on google maps - this is not the campground. Keep going on the whitewash road until you see sites.

    37.13225° N, 113.13171° W

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bear Flat
    June 29, 2024

    Bear Flat

    It's ok

    Spots scattered around, more so on the left side when you drive in - towards and around marathon trail head.

    Bring extra bug spray!

    Some spots are very close and the place is BUSY, on a Saturday afternoon at least. Not my ideal dispersed camp set up with many people around but it's close to Cedar Breaks and that was the goal.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Road BLM Dispersed
    June 29, 2024

    Kolob Road BLM Dispersed

    Great subway launchpad

    Just 8 mins from the Left Fork subway trail head makes this spot ideal for those looking for an easy early start. Nearby river gives you that ambient sound to drown out the world.

    About 6 spots, well separated by trees and distance.

    No foot spots for hammock is only down side.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed
    June 24, 2024

    Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed

    Keep going and there's a shady area

    You def need a higher up car to get to where I went. I have a Honda HRV and took it really slow and didn't have any issues. I got to the location and kept going and found a shaded area at the bottom of a hill. It's got space for a tent too. It would be nice to see other people around me but I can't. The views aren't great since the trees cover most of the area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed
    June 24, 2024

    Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed

    Close to Zion

    Great camping close to Zion! There are some shaded spots but they get taken quick. There were lots of spots out in the open and we ended up at one of those. It’s a dirt road and pretty accessible although certain parts you’d need a 4WD vehicle. We were only there for the night but I imagine it would be pretty hot to hang out during the day in summer.



Guide to Zion National Park

Camping near Zion National Park, Utah, offers stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Zion National Park is famous for its trails. Many campers love the convenience of being close to the trails. One reviewer at Watchman Campground said, "Many hikes start close to here. It was a great weekend."
  • Exploring the Visitor Center: The visitor center is a great starting point for your adventures. A camper at South Campground mentioned, "Beautiful views and so convenient to the visitor centre."
  • Dining in Springdale: After a day of hiking, you can walk into Springdale for dinner. A happy camper at Watchman Campground noted, "Campground is convenient to being able to walk to town for dinner."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. One reviewer at Zion Canyon Campground said, "The place was amazing, it’s crazy to be in the middle of Zion. The view was stunning."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Zion River Resort shared, "This place was very nice. It had good amenities and was clean."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like St. George / Hurricane KOA Journey are great for families. One family said, "The kids love that they can go swimming or hit the playground whenever."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Zion Canyon Campground mentioned, "It was quite crowded. No intimacy at all."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have showers or electric hookups. A visitor at South Campground pointed out, "No showers but restrooms clean and well stocked."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A reviewer at Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed said, "The stars are absolutely breathtaking. I highly recommend."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Zion River Resort that offer amenities for kids. One reviewer noted, "It was kid-friendly and I’m considering coming back with the family."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of family activities. A camper at Watchman Campground mentioned, "The views can’t be beat!"
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes. A visitor at Quail Creek State Park Campground said, "Beautiful surroundings, new showers and restrooms."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Zion RV and Campground warned, "The facilities are awful. There was a powerful sewage smell throughout the whole game room/bathroom building."
  • Book Early: Reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak season. A camper at Zion Canyon Campground said, "I recommend calling day ‘of’ to get your site as cell service is very limited."
  • Bring Extra Water: Some campgrounds may not have water hookups. A visitor at Sand Hollow State Park Campground mentioned, "Great spot with great staff! All around respectful and facilities clean and up to date."

Camping near Zion National Park, Utah, is an adventure filled with natural beauty and outdoor fun. Just be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Zion National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Zion National Park is Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed with a 4-star rating from 34 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Zion National Park?

    TheDyrt.com has all 97 dispersed camping locations near Zion National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.