Dispersed tent camping options near Zion National Park extend beyond the park's immediate boundaries, with numerous sites situated at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 feet across Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service land. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F during daytime hours, with overnight lows dropping to the 60s even in July and August. Most primitive Zion tent camping sites require campers to pack out all waste and bring their own water supply.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: The Leeds Canyon area offers access to creek-side hiking approximately 30 minutes from the park entrance. One camper noted, "Children's Forest at the Kiln maybe 1/4 mile down from site. A sweet little trail leading to a historical kiln."
Explore backcountry routes: La Verkin Creek Trail Campsites provides access to remote hiking opportunities within park boundaries. "We did have to cross the creek to access the site, and the water was shallow enough that I just took off my shoes and waded across rather than trying to balance on the rocks with my pack," one hiker reported about accessing Campsite #9.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution at most dispersed sites creates excellent stargazing conditions. At Kolob Terrace Road, one camper experienced "The sunset from this site was gorgeous! Panoramic views. Convenient 25 minute drive to Zion National Park."
What campers like
Creek access: Many campers appreciate water features at primitive sites. At Kolob Road BLM Dispersed, visitors enjoy "access to creek" with "nice views." One camper mentioned the area has "about 6 spots, well separated by trees and distance."
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention adequate separation at dispersed camping areas. As one reviewer noted about Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1, "Beyond gorgeous views with camping spots really spread out!"
Proximity to trailheads: Many sites provide convenient access to hiking. One backpacker staying at La Verkin Creek noted that "Campsite #9 was plenty big, with enough room for all of us to spread out and it had a nice flat area to congregate in for breakfast" while being "just west of the Kolob Arch trailhead."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most primitive camping areas near Zion lack basic facilities. One camper at Kolob Road BLM noted, "Nothing special--just a good enough spot to camp outside Zion NP. About 7 spots available, no amenities."
Cell service variability: Connection strength varies significantly by location. A Kolob Road BLM camper reported, "Cell service is basically non-existent, but sometimes you might catch a bar," while someone at Leeds Canyon found "decent cell coverage."
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites present challenges. At Lambs Knoll Climbing Site Camping, one reviewer warned, "This area is very popular for local guide companies, please park respectfully in a single spot. Expect the area to be very busy (crowded) during the day, the lot fills up entirely most days."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal burning limitations apply throughout the region. One camper at Leeds Canyon noted disappointment: "No fires at my time of arrival. Makes it lame without campfires."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Choose locations with natural features that entertain children. One parent camping at Leeds Canyon enjoyed that it was "only a 1-2 block walk to Leeds Creek to sit on a rock and soak feet in creek."
Weather preparation: Summer tent camping requires heat management strategies. A camper at Kolob Terrace Road advised, "It was pretty easy to find even in the dark which is when we rolled in. Pretty popular spot so you are kinda close to other people but is only 25 mins to Zion and plenty of spots."
Safety considerations: Wildlife and terrain present hazards for young campers. At Oak Grove Campground, one camper warned about "RIDICULOUS BUGS AFTER DARK" including "lots of gnats" and "a huge spider bite right away," though they also enjoyed the "tiny adorable lizards everywhere."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle limitations: Many dispersed sites cannot accommodate large rigs. A reviewer at Kolob Road BLM cautioned, "Small tight area to get into...strongly do NOT recommend TTs or any RV at this BLM spot due to steep downhill rd and no turnarounds! Tent or van nomads only due to no tt turnarounds!"
Turning radius concerns: Several primitive roads lack adequate space for trailers to maneuver. As one RVer at Leeds Canyon noted, "We went with 26ft trailer mid march. As someone else mentioned it is good for rv only on the first four or so. After that we wondered how we were going to turn around."
Site-specific recommendations: Some dispersed areas work better for small RVs than others. A camper at Kolob Terrace Road reported, "Road was easy to pull down and turn around in my Ford Transit. Nice views and access to creek."
