Best Dispersed Camping near Zion National Park
Dispersed camping areas surround Zion National Park, offering free overnight options on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Popular locations include North Creek Dispersed Camping, Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed, Dalton Wash Dispersed, and Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed. These primitive sites provide alternatives to developed campgrounds within the national park. Most areas require no permits and operate on a first-come, first-served basis with a typical 14-day maximum stay limit.
Road conditions vary significantly between sites. According to reviews, many areas require high-clearance vehicles, particularly for upper campsites. "The road up is steep and narrow, passing a lot of private property," notes one camper about Dalton Wash Dispersed. When accessing BLM lands, visitors should follow established roads and use only existing campsites. Several campers emphasized the importance of staying on designated routes to prevent environmental damage. Most dispersed sites have no amenities___no toilets, no trash service, and no potable water.
Fire regulations differ by location and season. North Creek Dispersed Camping prohibits fires year-round, while Kolob Terrace Road Dispersed allows fires in existing fire rings when no fire restrictions are in place. Campers should check current fire restrictions before their visit, as summer fire bans are common throughout the region. Several visitors recommend BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed for its accessibility. "It's super easy to find, and you don't need a 4x4 to get here," reports one reviewer. "The view was spectacular, and our spot had an already made fire pit." Proximity to Zion varies, with most sites located 15-45 minutes from park entrances. Cell service is inconsistent but present at many locations.