Equestrian campsites near Zion National Park provide accommodations at elevations ranging from 3,800 to 5,500 feet, offering cooler temperatures than valley floor locations. These camping areas feature varying degrees of trail access and horse facilities, with most requiring reservations during peak season (May-September). Many of the horse-friendly camping options double as standard camping areas when not in use by equestrians.
What to do
Explore tunnel attractions: At Twin Hollows Canyon near Belly of the Dragon Trail, visitors can enjoy unique geological features. "Playing in the creek was great for my eight-year-old (be careful of cyanobacteria in area) as well as exploring the tunnel. Oh and the tadpoles and snakes in the creek are awesome too!" shares Kristen S. The distinctive tunnel formation provides both photography opportunities and natural exploration within 14 miles of Zion National Park.
Take guided horseback tours: Located at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, visitors can book trail rides with experienced guides. "We did the jeep tour and enjoyed it very much," notes Joyce C. The resort offers various trail options ranging from 1-hour beginner rides to half-day adventures through pine forests and canyon overlooks.
Explore elevated viewpoints: Harris Rim & Stout Canyon Dispersed provides access to panoramic views with minimal crowds. "Great spot on Harris Rim that overlooked the canyon. There's some traffic noise but not too bad. There is a herd of cows that range up there as well," mentions Chad R. This free camping area serves as a strategic midpoint between Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks.
What campers like
Off-grid solitude: Toquerville Falls Primitive offers secluded camping beside waterfalls, though access requires proper vehicles. "This is NOT a 2 wheel drive adventure to see a water fall. It's strictly 4 wheel drive only. Hike it first to end don't ruin your vehicle for this. Steep. Slick. 2 ft rock boulderings straight drop offs and roads cut towards them," warns Jody S. The payoff is worth the challenge for those properly equipped.
Proximity to shuttle service: Camping at South Campground provides convenient park access without driving. "The campground has bathrooms (reasonably clean), drinking water, and dumpsters for trash. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Some sites are tent only, and you have to walk your tent and gear into the site," explains Carly E. The campground's location allows campers to walk to the shuttle bus stop within 5-10 minutes.
Separation between sites: Horse campers appreciate the layout at Pine Valley Equestrian Campground. "Very quiet campground and felt like we were alone. Can't see other sites. Horse stables away from tents and didn't smell at all. Restrooms really clean," notes Chad M. The campground's design helps maintain privacy while still providing access to shared facilities.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most horse-friendly dispersed camping areas have minimal or no amenities. "This is no potable water source, nor provisions to be had so go in with all you will need. Dark nights mean amazing stars an I mean amazing, bring some lounging chairs and a good wine and just lay back," advises Glen B. about Toquerville Falls.
Road conditions: Access to several horse-friendly camping areas can be challenging. "You need very high clearance to get to this camp site. Very rough road to get to it. Could not get all the way there," cautions Christine J. about Twin Hollows Canyon. Always research current road conditions before attempting access with trailers or RVs.
Reservation timing: For Zion Wright Family Ranch, understanding the booking system is crucial. "The views were amazing right at our campsite. There was a fair amount of privacy with everyone spread out through the field. Proximity to Zion (40 minutes to the park entrance or just up the road for some hiking)," shares Christopher N. The ranch provides reserved dispersed camping with basic facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration opportunities: Natural water features provide built-in entertainment for children. "We stayed in the tent sites, some of the sites were small. But we had a ton of room," says Jeremy H. about Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, which offers various water-based activities for children including paddle boards and swimming.
Sand play areas: Some campgrounds offer natural play spaces. "I'd recommend this as an early spring camp outing. The temps climb quickly in Southern Utah in late spring. My kids had a blast in the sand dune area," shares Jake C. about Snow Canyon State Park Campground.
On-site recreation options: Family-friendly campgrounds often provide additional activities. "Lots of fun for kids. Horseback riding, putt putt golf, pad boards, cabins, tents and Rv sites," notes David G. about Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. These additional features can keep children engaged during downtime from trail riding or hiking.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When staying at Mount Carmel Motel & RV Park, selecting the right site matters. "Sites are level and gravel. Food and gas are near, laundry is on sight campers can use 6-10 pm very nice. Restrooms are very clean same as showers," advises Harold C. The park provides full hookups but sites are compact.
Tunnel timing awareness: RVers need to plan around tunnel restrictions. "The only thing inconvenient is that you have to go through the Mt Carmel tunnel to reach Zion NP. And this tunnel is opened for oversized vehicles between 8.00a.m. and 4.30 p.m. So keep that in mind!" warns Merel J. Larger rigs must coordinate travel through the tunnel during permitted hours.
Weather considerations: Higher elevation horse campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Gets cooler at night, great for the fire and sleeping. A nice break from the heat of the Valley. Has a gorgeous, peaceful stream running a very short walk from the sites," notes Tony W. about Pine Valley Equestrian Campground. This temperature difference can be significant for RV comfort when air conditioning is limited.
