Top 10+ Dispersed Free Camping near Zion National Park

Several dispersed camping spots exist near Zion National Park, with the Gravel Pit area being one of the closer options for backcountry camping. You won't find any facilities in these undeveloped areas, so bring everything you need and prepare to be completely self-sufficient. BLM land surrounding Zion allows camping with a 14-day maximum stay, but make sure to set up at least 200 feet from water sources and roads. Many access roads to these sites are rough and rutted, requiring vehicles with good clearance to reach them safely. Fire bans are frequently in place throughout the year, so check current rules before planning to have a campfire. The nearest supplies are typically 20-30 minutes away in towns like Hurricane or Springdale, so stock up before heading out. Weather can be extreme with intense summer heat and flash flood risks during monsoon season. These remote sites around Zion trade convenience for solitude and open views that developed campgrounds can't match.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Zion National Park (99)

    1. North Creek Dispersed Camping

    39 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

    37 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 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."

    5. Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed

    14 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,"

    6. 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."

    7. 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."

    8. BLM Road #71 Gravel Pit Dispersed - BLM

    25 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."

    9. Kolob Road BLM Dispersed

    9 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. Hurricane Cliffs BLM dispersed #54

    13 Reviews
    Virgin, UT
    10 miles
    Website

    "Most people were camping in a large packed area a shit distance from the highway and most campers did not have fire rings. We were there for four nights and no one came be to check. No water."

    "Eye candy from this location made us not want to leave. There was a map but campsites are hard to find so we pulled into a place flat enough to set up a tent for a night."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Zion National Park

528 Reviews of 99 Zion National Park Campgrounds



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

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 North Creek Dispersed Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 39 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 99 dispersed camping locations near Zion National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.