Glamping options near Zion National Park range from primitive tent sites to full-amenity RV parks. Located on a plateau at elevations between 3,900-8,700 feet, the region's climate shifts from hot desert conditions in summer to potential freezing temperatures and snow during winter months. Several campgrounds outside the park's eastern entrance provide easier access to the park's most scenic spots while avoiding the congestion at the main entrance.
What to do
Riverfront hikes: At South Campground, visitors have access to the Virgin River directly across from some sites. "Lots of wildlife but pretty crowded campground. Very nice scenery and close walk to the Zion shuttle," notes Delaney Z. The Pa'rus Trail runs through the campground, offering an easy paved walk.
Stargazing opportunities: The area around Kolob Gate Gardens offers excellent night sky viewing. "We had an incredible stay at Kolob Gate Gardens! Our favorite parts were the adorable night hike up the hill, listening to the creek from our tent at night, and their camp kitty, TB, who we couldn't resist sneaking into our tent for lots of cuddles. The night skies were also to die for," says Abby T.
Free dispersed camping: Zion Hwy 9 Dispersed Camping provides no-cost options with scenic views. "Very quiet place to stay near to the entrance of Zion Park. Access to the dispersed Campground is a little bit rough but if you go slowly it's ok. You can see very beautiful sunset and sunrise," according to Jérémy D., who also warns that "Can be really muddy after rain so be careful about that."
What campers like
Heated amenities: Zion River Resort offers year-round comfort features. "Nice heated pool area with hot tub. Some areas have nice shade trees and grass areas," mentions Ben B. Another camper adds, "Year round heated pool and hot tub. Store on site with decent prices. All spots have a tree with grass, picnic table and concrete pads."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of bathrooms and showers at many glamping sites near Zion. At WillowWind RV Park, one visitor shared, "The grounds are beautiful, the staff is polite and helpful, you get a concrete pad and a nicely sized grass area, and the restrooms/showers were the nicest I've ever seen." The park is located about 15-20 minutes from Zion's entrance.
Glamping variety: The range of accommodation options supports different comfort needs. A visitor to Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort noted, "Great facility with plenty of amenities. Everything from tent camping all the way to cabins. we go back every year if not twice a year." Katie M. adds, "We were provided with a power strip for phone charging as well as electricity, extra blankets, and towels."
What you should know
Reservation strategies: Many campsites require advance planning. For South Campground, Mary S. explains, "Reservations can be made two weeks before your stay, and you can only reserve three nights. We reserved a site for three nights and then waited three days to reserve a site for two more nights."
Off-peak considerations: Temperatures vary dramatically by season. A visitor to Duck Creek notes, "We choose duck creek due to the proximity to Zion and Bryce Canyon and it was an hour or so from each. This was a nice quiet spot, but at the end of June it was freezing! In the mornings it was around 37 degrees."
Connectivity challenges: Cell service and internet access vary widely. Rachel H. reports, "We needed stable, steady Internet for a month. While we regularly travel with two hotspots for Internet coverage, we barely needed to use them." However, at Zion River Resort, a camper noted, "There is virtually no cell signal in Virgin. Certainly not enough to even begin to create a hot spot."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Zion Canyon Campground provides convenient access to family-friendly amenities. "Within walking distance to many Springfield restaurants. Walk right into Zion from this campground! Not only is it convenient, but most spots are shaded and you can also use the nearby hotel amenities (outdoor pool, vending, laundry)," shares Taylor C.
Tent site selection: Look for sites with natural features. At Kolob Gate Gardens, Evan O. suggests, "We had a great time at site 2! The creek was wonderful to be next to and was so peaceful at night!" He also notes the presence of site animals: "TB (the little orange cat) was super hospitable and sweet. Hung by us all night and even slept on top of our tent."
Shower access: If camping at sites without showers, know where to find them. Mary S. advises South Campground visitors: "You can walk less than 10 minutes to Zion Outfitters and shower for $4 for 5 minutes." This is especially important after hot summer hikes when temperatures regularly exceed 100°F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Leeds RV Park, a reviewer notes, "A lot of permanent residents but they keep spots open for travelers. Clean, and nice people here." The park offers full hookups and is about 40 minutes from Zion.
Weather protection: Tree coverage significantly affects comfort. At WillowWind RV, Chad M. observed, "Despite basically being in a desert, the park had lush grass in every spot and a dense tree cover. It was about 10 degrees cooler in the park because of the shade from the trees."
Access considerations: Some dispersed camping areas require careful navigation. A visitor to Zion Hwy 9 Dispersed Camping notes, "The access road is a bit bumpy as the pavement is potholed but no trouble in our Class C. Lots of spots to choose from and some great views to be had."
