Complete Guide to Camping in Zion National Park

Zion Campgrounds: Complete Guide with subsections by region/type

Park Campgrounds

Nearby Private Campgrounds

Free Camping Options

North Creek/Hurricane Cliffs (BLM) offers free dispersed camping about 15 minutes west of Springdale. This Bureau of Land Management area features several informal sites spread across desert terrain with views of Zion's western formations. No amenities exist—bring all water and pack out all waste. Sites are first-come, first-served with a 14-day stay limit. The dirt access roads become difficult or impassable when wet. Some sites accommodate RVs or trailers, while others work best for tents or smaller vehicles.

Smithsonian Butte Backcountry Byway (BLM) provides free dispersed camping along an unpaved road south of Rockville. Sites perch atop mesas with panoramic views of Zion's cliffs. The first few miles are generally accessible to most vehicles in dry conditions, while the upper sections require high-clearance 4WD. Sites consist of small clearings with existing fire rings but no amenities. Weather conditions can change road quality rapidly, so check forecasts if planning to camp here.

Specialty Lodging

Under Canvas Zion offers upscale glamping ten miles from the east entrance. Safari-style canvas tents feature real beds, furnishings, and many have private bathrooms with hot water. The property includes a central lodge tent with dining options and activities. Sites offer views of surrounding mesas and operate seasonally from March through November. Rates run significantly higher than traditional camping ($200-500+ per night) but provide comfort with a camping atmosphere.

Zion Wildflower Resort in Virgin provides stylish accommodations including canvas tents, covered wagons, and small cabins. All units include real beds with linens, electricity, and air conditioning. The property features firepits, lawn games, and views of the surrounding red rock landscape. Located about 20 minutes from the park entrance, the resort offers a blend of outdoor experience and comfort with rates ranging from $150-350 per night.

Campground Comparison Table

Campground	Location & Sites	Cost & Reservations
Watchman	South Entrance 176 sites	$20-30 Recreation.gov (6 months ahead)
South	South Entrance 117 sites	$20 (when open) CLOSED for 2025
Lava Point	Kolob Terrace 6 sites	$20 Recreation.gov
Zion Canyon Camp & RV	Springdale (0.5 miles) 148 sites	$45-75 Direct booking
Zion River Resort	Virgin (12 miles) 122 sites	$50-85 Direct booking
North Creek/Hurricane (BLM)	West of Springdale (15 min) Dispersed sites	Free First-come, first-served
Under Canvas	East of park (10 miles) 60+ tents	$200-500+ Direct booking

Campground Amenities and Best Uses

Park Campgrounds: Watchman offers flush toilets, drinking water, and some electric hookups, making it ideal for convenient park access and shuttle connections. Lava Point provides primitive camping with cooler temperatures and solitude but requires bringing all water and supplies.

Private Campgrounds: Zion Canyon Campground excels for families wanting amenities like showers and pools while staying within walking distance of the park. Zion River Resort caters to RV travelers seeking full hookups and resort-style amenities.

Budget Options: BLM dispersed areas provide free camping for self-sufficient campers but offer no amenities. These sites work best for experienced campers with proper gear and preparation.

Luxury Options: Under Canvas and Zion Wildflower deliver glamping experiences with real beds, private bathrooms, and dining services for those wanting comfort in nature.

Photo by Jason P

Planning Your Zion Camping Trip

When to Visit

Season	Temperatures	Camping Conditions
Spring (March-May)	Days: 60-80°F Nights: 40-50°F	Watchman: Open South: Closed Lava Point: May only
Summer (June-August)	Days: 95-105°F Nights: 60-70°F	Watchman: Open South: Closed Lava Point: Open
Fall (September-November)	Days: 60-85°F Nights: 40-50°F (Sept) 30-40°F (Nov)	Watchman: Open South: Closed Lava Point: Until Oct
Winter (December-February)	Days: 50-60°F Nights: 20-30°F	Watchman: Open South: Closed Lava Point: Closed

Spring (March-May):

Spring brings moderate temperatures and blooming wildflowers. The Virgin River runs high with snowmelt, which can close the popular Narrows hike but creates impressive waterfall displays. Campgrounds start filling up by March, with particular demand around spring break and Easter. Weather can change quickly, with wind being common in spring. Pack layers and rain gear for unpredictable conditions.

Summer (June-August):

Summer means hot days in the canyon with temperatures routinely exceeding 95°F, though higher elevations offer relief. All park facilities operate at full capacity, and the mandatory shuttle system runs throughout the canyon. Campgrounds fill every night, making advance reservations essential. Monsoon season brings afternoon thunderstorms in July and August, creating flash flood risk in slot canyons. Early morning starts help beat both heat and crowds.

Fall (September-November):

Fall offers ideal camping conditions with temperatures cooling gradually while remaining pleasant for outdoor activities. October brings fall colors to the cottonwoods and maples in the canyon. Crowds thin somewhat after Labor Day, though weekends remain busy. By November, nights can dip below freezing, and the first snow might dust the upper elevations. The shuttle typically runs through late November.

Winter (December-February):

Winter provides a quieter experience with Watchman Campground remaining open and often having availability except around holidays. Temperatures range from 50-60°F during the day to 20-30°F at night. Snow is infrequent on the canyon floor but can create stunning scenes of white on red rock walls. The seasonal shuttle stops, allowing private vehicles to drive the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Higher trails may be snow-covered or icy.

Reservation Systems Explained

Securing a Zion campsite requires understanding the reservation process:

National Park Service Campgrounds (Watchman, South, Lava Point) use Recreation.gov for all reservations. Watchman Campground operates on a 6-month rolling window, meaning sites become available exactly 6 months before your arrival date at 10:00 AM Eastern Time. For example, for a July 15 arrival, reservations open January 15.

Watchman fills extremely quickly, particularly for spring through fall dates. For the best chance of success:

• Create your Recreation.gov account before the booking date
• Log in before the reservation window opens
• Be flexible with dates if possible
• Look for last-minute cancellations, which happen regularly

South Campground, when operational, uses a shorter 14-day advance reservation window, also through Recreation.gov. This provides opportunities for visitors with less advance planning. (Currently closed for rehabilitation through 2025)

Private Campgrounds near Zion use their own reservation systems:

• Zion Canyon Campground & RV Park: Book directly through their website or by phone, up to 12 months in advance
• Zion River Resort: Online reservation system with 12-month booking window
• Under Canvas and Zion Wildflower: Book through their websites with greater availability on weekdays

Free Dispersed Camping on BLM land operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a 14-day stay limit. Better chances of finding spots occur midweek, during non-holiday periods, and by arriving early afternoon when others depart.

Campground Costs and Budgeting

Campground Type	Nightly Cost	Key Features
National Park Service (Basic)	$20 (Lava Point)	Pit toilets, no water, fire ring, picnic table
National Park Service (Standard)	$20-30 (Watchman non-electric)	Flush toilets, drinking water, fire ring, picnic table
National Park Service (Electric)	$30-40 (Watchman with electric)	Flush toilets, drinking water, electric hookup, fire ring
Private Campgrounds (Tent)	$35-50	Flush toilets, drinking water, showers, sometimes Wi-Fi
Private Campgrounds (RV)	$50-85	Full hookups, Wi-Fi, showers, sometimes pool/laundry
BLM Dispersed Camping	Free	None (bring everything)
Glamping Options	$150-500	Real beds, furnished tents, sometimes private bathroom

Additional Fees and Hidden Costs

Park and Entry Fees: Park entrance fee costs $35/vehicle (7 days) or $70 for an annual Zion pass. The America the Beautiful Pass at $80 annually covers all national parks.

Facility and Service Fees: Shower fees range $3-7, firewood costs $7-10/bundle, and extra vehicle fees add $5-10. Springdale shuttle parking costs $20-25/day if campgrounds are full.

Utility Costs: Ice costs $3-5 per bag at local stores, water refills run $0.50-1.00 per gallon in town, and laundry averages $3-4 per load at private campgrounds.

Budget-Friendly Tips: Camp on BLM land for free, visit during shoulder seasons for better availability and rates, purchase an America the Beautiful Pass if visiting multiple parks, bring drinking water in refillable containers, pack your own firewood from outside the area, and cook meals at your campsite instead of dining in Springdale.

Essential Gear for Zion Camping

The desert environment around Zion requires specific gear considerations:

Shelter and Sleeping:

• Tent with proper stakes for sandy/rocky ground
• Shade canopy or tarp (essential for summer sun exposure)
• Sleeping bag appropriate for season (20°F rating for fall/spring, 40°F for summer)
• Sleeping pad with good insulation from ground
• Extra blankets for unexpected temperature drops

Kitchen Equipment:

• Water containers (store extra water, especially for dispersed camping)
• Camp stove and fuel (many fire restrictions during dry periods)
• Cooler with block ice (lasts longer in desert heat)
• Water filtration system if backpacking or dispersed camping
• Food storage containers (protect from heat and wildlife)

Clothing:

• Moisture-wicking, quick-dry clothing
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Lightweight long sleeves and pants (sun protection)
• Rain jacket (for sudden storms)
• Warm layers (fleece, puffy jacket) for cool evenings
• Sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support
• Water shoes for Narrows hike or river wading

Photo by Derek S

Wildlife Safety and Park Regulations

Wildlife Safety in Zion

Zion hosts diverse wildlife including mule deer, bighorn sheep, foxes, and occasionally mountain lions. Follow these guidelines:

General Wildlife Safety:

• Maintain at least 100 feet (30 meters) distance from all wildlife
• Never feed animals, including squirrels and birds
• Store all food, trash, and scented items in vehicles or provided storage boxes
• Keep campsites clean, including washing dishes promptly after meals
• Leash pets in designated areas (prohibited on most trails)

Dangerous Wildlife Awareness:

• Mountain lions: Rarely seen but present in the park. If encountered, make yourself appear larger, make noise, and back away slowly
• Rattlesnakes: Watch where you step and place hands when climbing. If heard rattling, stop and locate the snake before carefully moving away
• Scorpions: Shake out shoes and gear before use. They're typically active at night
• Black bears: Uncommon but occasionally present in higher elevations. Use proper food storage techniques

Park Regulations and Etiquette

Regulation Category	Specific Rules	Penalties
Campfires	Allowed only in designated fire rings Must be attended at all times Burn only local firewood Check for fire restrictions	Fines starting at $150 Possible eviction from campground
Waste Management	Pack out all trash Use designated restroom facilities Wash dishes at provided utility sinks Dispose of wastewater properly	Fines starting at $100 Possible citation for resource damage
Quiet Hours	10:00 PM to 6:00 AM Generator hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM only	Warning, then possible eviction

Additional Park Regulations

Hiking and Trail Regulations: Stay on designated trails, no shortcutting switchbacks, yield to uphill hikers, and bikes are prohibited on trails except Pa'rus Trail. Angels Landing requires permits year-round through a lottery system.

Prohibited Activities: Drones/UAVs, off-trail hiking in sensitive areas, collecting plants, rocks, or artifacts, and defacing natural features can result in fines from $250-5,000 and possible arrest for serious violations.

Shuttle System Regulations:

• Mandatory shuttle use in Zion Canyon during peak season (typically March-November)
• Private vehicles not permitted beyond Canyon Junction during shuttle season
• Last shuttle returns from Temple of Sinawava by approximately 9:00 PM
• Bicycles permitted on the scenic drive when shuttles are operating

Pet Regulations:

• Pets allowed only in developed areas: campgrounds, picnic areas, and paved roads
• Pets must remain on leashes no longer than 6 feet at all times
• Pets prohibited on all wilderness trails except Pa'rus Trail
• Never leave pets unattended, including inside vehicles

Photo by Alan B

Beyond the Campground: Activities and Exploration

Day Trips from Zion Campgrounds

From Zion Canyon Campgrounds:

• Kolob Canyons -- The park's northwestern section offers a scenic 5-mile drive with spectacular viewpoints. Located 40 miles from Zion Canyon (approximately 50 minutes), this less-visited area features several hiking trails including the moderate Taylor Creek Trail to Double Arch Alcove. The dramatic finger canyons provide different perspectives from the main canyon.
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park -- About 30 miles southwest (1-hour drive), these striking orange-pink sand dunes cover 1,200 acres. Activities include sandboarding, ATV riding (with permits), and photography. The state park has its own campground with showers if you want to extend your stay.
• Grand Canyon North Rim -- A scenic 2.5-hour drive (120 miles) takes you to the less-visited North Rim, open mid-May through mid-October. The alpine environment at 8,000+ feet offers cooler temperatures and spectacular canyon views from Bright Angel Point and Point Imperial.

From East Side Locations:

• Bryce Canyon National Park -- Just 85 miles northeast (about 2 hours via Mt. Carmel Highway). Famous for its otherworldly hoodoo formations, Bryce sits at higher elevation with cooler temperatures. The 18-mile scenic drive provides access to multiple viewpoints, while the Navajo Loop/Queen's Garden Trail offers the classic Bryce hiking experience.
• Cedar Breaks National Monument -- A 1.5-hour drive north (about 75 miles) leads to this spectacular amphitheater of eroded red rock at over 10,000 feet elevation. Similar to Bryce but less crowded, Cedar Breaks features a scenic drive with multiple overlooks and hiking trails.

Top Hiking Trails Near Campgrounds

Trail Name	Difficulty & Distance	Key Features
Angels Landing	Strenuous 5.4 miles RT 1,488 ft gain	Iconic chain section, 360° canyon views, permit required, exposed trail with dropoffs
The Narrows (Bottom-Up)	Moderate to Strenuous Up to 9.4 miles RT	River hiking, towering slot canyon, cool water in summer, check flash flood forecast
Emerald Pools	Easy to Moderate 1.2-3 miles RT	Family-friendly, hanging gardens, water features, shade opportunities
Canyon Overlook	Easy to Moderate 1 mile RT 160 ft gain	Canyon panorama, great sunrise/sunset spot, no shuttle needed, some drop-off exposure
Watchman Trail	Moderate 3.3 miles RT 368 ft gain	Sunset views, less crowded, desert wildflowers in spring, close to campground
Pa'rus Trail	Easy 3.5 miles RT Flat	Paved accessible trail, Virgin River views, wildlife sightings, pet and bicycle friendly

Trail Access and Starting Points

Multiple Access Points: Angels Landing starts at The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6), while The Narrows begins at Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9), providing easy access from campgrounds via the shuttle system.

Shuttle Stop Access: Emerald Pools trails start at Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop #5), while Canyon Overlook requires driving east of the tunnel as it's not accessible by shuttle.

Campground Access: Watchman Trail and Pa'rus Trail both start near the Visitor Center, making them easily accessible from Watchman Campground on foot.

Water Activities in Zion

While Zion isn't known primarily for water recreation, the Virgin River provides several opportunities:

Swimming and Wading Areas:

• Virgin River at Watchman Campground - Several access points near the campground allow for ankle to knee-deep wading. The riverbed is rocky, so water shoes are recommended. The shallow water makes this good for children under supervision.
• The Narrows (Temple of Sinawava) - While hiking The Narrows involves wading upstream, deeper pools exist where swimming is possible during safe conditions. Always check with rangers about current flow rates and flash flood potential.
• Zion Lodge Lawns - The Virgin River adjacent to Zion Lodge provides easy access for cooling off. The grassy areas make this a popular family spot for river play.

Fishing Opportunities:

• Virgin River - Supports small native species and introduced brown trout. Catch and release fishing with artificial flies and lures is permitted with a valid Utah fishing license.
• Kolob Reservoir - Managed as a trophy trout fishery with special regulations. Provides opportunities for rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout in a scenic high-elevation setting. Note: In 2025, requires paid reservations through Washington County Water Conservancy District.

Water Safety Tips:

• Flash floods can occur with little warning. Never enter narrow canyons if rain threatens anywhere in the area
• The Virgin River carries high sediment loads, making depths difficult to determine
• Water temperatures remain cool even in summer, with hypothermia possible during extended exposure
• No lifeguards monitor any water areas in Zion. All water activities are at your own risk

The Dyrt Community Insights

Ranger Recommendations

The Dyrt Rangers—experienced campers who document and review camping areas nationwide—offer these insider tips for Zion:

Best Sites at Watchman Campground:

"Loop F walk-in sites provide the most privacy and shade," notes one Dyrt Ranger. "These sites include shade structures over the picnic tables, which makes a huge difference during summer." The tent-only loops (C, D, and F) generally offer a quieter experience away from RV generators. Sites along the Virgin River (particularly B42-B47) provide pleasant background sounds and quick water access for cooling off.

Dispersed Camping Secret Spots:

Rangers suggest venturing beyond the main Hurricane Cliffs/Smithsonian Butte areas that fill quickly. "Drive a few extra miles down the less-traveled spur roads off North Creek Road," advises one Ranger. "Most people stop at the first available sites, but better spots with more privacy exist if you're willing to explore a bit further."

East Side Alternative:

Several Rangers recommend the often-overlooked east side of Zion as a base camp alternative. "The area around Mt. Carmel Junction offers smaller, less crowded campgrounds," mentions one Ranger. The east side puts you closer to Bryce Canyon and Grand Staircase-Escalante while still providing easy park access through the tunnel.

Top-Rated Sites from The Dyrt Community

Category	Top Pick & Rating	Key Highlights
Highest-Rated In-Park Campground	Watchman Campground 4.6/5 stars	Location inside park, Virgin River access, walking distance to shuttle, red rock views
Most Recommended Private Campground	Zion River Resort 4.5/5 stars	Clean facilities, helpful staff, full hookups, family-friendly amenities
Top-Rated Free Camping	North Creek/Hurricane Cliffs (BLM) 4.2/5 stars	Mountain views, accessibility, proximity to park, spacious sites
Best Scenic Campsite Views	Smithsonian Butte BLM 4.3/5 stars	Panoramic vistas, sunrise/sunset colors, elevated position, isolation/privacy
Most Family-Friendly	Zion Canyon Campground & RV Park 4.4/5 stars	Swimming pool, walking to town, clean restrooms, Virgin River access

Community Insights and Recommendations

Watchman Campground Praise: The Dyrt users particularly praise Watchman Campground for its convenience and location, though note the lack of showers and limited shade at some sites.

Private Campground Balance: For those seeking more amenities, Zion River Resort consistently earns high marks for its well-maintained facilities and family-friendly environment.

Budget-Conscious Options: Budget-conscious travelers highlight the North Creek BLM area for its exceptional value and views, though emphasize the need for self-sufficiency and preparation.

Photo by Carolyn M

Responsible Camping Practices

Camping in Zion's fragile desert ecosystem requires mindful practices:

Minimize Water Usage:

• Desert environments have limited water resources
• Take brief showers when facilities available
• Reuse water when possible for tasks like dish rinsing
• Report any leaks at campground facilities
• Bring water-efficient cleaning supplies

Fire Safety:

• Fires permitted only in designated rings at established campgrounds
• Check current fire restrictions – bans common during dry periods
• Keep fires small and manageable
• Never leave fires unattended
• Fully extinguish before sleeping or leaving site
• Bring a fire pan if dispersed camping where permitted

Leave No Trace:

• Pack out everything you bring in
• Pick up micro-trash (small bits of paper, food wrappers, etc.)
• Stay on established trails and campsites
• Avoid creating new campsites or social trails
• Leave natural objects where you find them

Wildlife Protection:

• Store food and scented items securely
• Never feed wildlife, including seemingly harmless squirrels and birds
• Observe wildlife from a distance
• Pack out food waste completely
• Check under vehicles before driving (small animals seek shade)

Night Sky Preservation:

• Minimize artificial light use
• Use red lights for nighttime visibility
• Point lights downward when necessary
• Turn off lights when not needed
• Enjoy the spectacular dark skies

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Zion campgrounds open and close? Watchman Campground stays open year-round. When operational, South Campground typically opens in March and closes in late October (currently closed for rehabilitation). Lava Point Campground usually opens in May or June, depending on snow melt and road conditions, and closes with the first significant snow, typically in October. Private campgrounds generally follow similar seasonal patterns, with some remaining open year-round with reduced services in winter.

Can I just show up and find a campsite in Zion? During peak season (March through November), walk-up camping inside Zion is extremely difficult. All sites at Watchman require reservations. During winter months (December-February), Watchman sometimes has last-minute availability, especially midweek. Your best options for last-minute camping include BLM dispersed areas near Hurricane or Smithsonian Butte, first-come private campgrounds in Mt. Carmel Junction, or trying for cancellations online right before your visit.

Are showers available at Zion campgrounds? None of the official Zion campgrounds (Watchman, South, Lava Point) have shower facilities. For showers, you'll need to use facilities in Springdale. Public showers are available at several locations including Zion Outfitter near the park entrance ($5-7 per shower) and Sol Foods Supermarket in Springdale. Private campgrounds like Zion Canyon Campground and Zion River Resort provide shower facilities for their guests.

What's the best campground for RVs in Zion? For camping inside the park, Watchman Campground offers some sites with electrical hookups that can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, but has no water or sewer connections at individual sites. For full hookups, private options like Zion River Resort (in Virgin) and Zion Canyon Campground (in Springdale) provide the most complete RV services with full hookups, pull-through sites, and amenities like Wi-Fi and cable. The east entrance route requires navigating the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, which restricts vehicles over 11'4" tall or 7'10" wide.

Are campfires allowed in Zion? Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings at established campgrounds like Watchman. Fire restrictions frequently occur during dry periods, particularly summer and fall. When in effect, these restrictions may limit or completely prohibit open flames. Even when allowed, fires must be attended at all times and completely extinguished before leaving. Gathering firewood in the park is prohibited—purchase firewood at campground stores or in Springdale. For dispersed camping on BLM land, check current fire restrictions before your visit, as they often differ from park regulations.

How far in advance should I reserve a Zion campsite? For Watchman Campground during peak season (March-October), book exactly 6 months in advance when the reservation window opens. Summer weekends and holidays often fill within minutes of availability. Spring and fall weekends typically book within hours. For weekdays in winter, reservations a few weeks ahead may suffice. Private campgrounds in Springdale and Virgin generally require 2-3 months advance booking for peak season, though last-minute cancellations do occur. Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Easter) require the maximum advance planning regardless of campground.

Planning Resources

Essential Zion Links

• Zion National Park Official Website - Current conditions, alerts, and regulations
• Recreation.gov - Booking platform for all Zion National Park campgrounds
• Zion National Park Shuttle Information - Schedules and routes
• Zion Weather and Road Conditions - Current updates
• Angels Landing Permit System - Information about required hiking permits
• The Dyrt Campground Finder - Reviews and availability for campgrounds in and around Zion
• Washington County Water Conservancy District - Kolob Reservoir camping permits

Reservation Timeline

Time Period	Reservation Task	Platform/Details
6 Months Before Trip	Book Watchman Campground	Recreation.gov (opens 10:00 AM ET) Set calendar reminder for exact opening date
3-4 Months Before	Book private campgrounds and glamping options	Campground websites Call directly for best availability
2-3 Months Before	Apply for Angels Landing permit and book Lava Point	Recreation.gov seasonal lottery Recreation.gov for Lava Point
1 Month Before	Check for cancellations and secure tours	Recreation.gov Local outfitters for guided experiences
7 Days Before	Apply for Angels Landing day-before lottery	Recreation.gov National Weather Service
Day Before Arrival	Check for last-minute cancellations and confirm fire restrictions	Recreation.gov Zion NPS website or visitor center

Zion Camping Checklist

Reservations and Permits:

• Campground reservation confirmation
• National Park entrance pass
• Angels Landing hiking permit (if planning this hike)
• Utah fishing license (if fishing)
• Backcountry permit (if applicable)

Camping Gear:

• Tent with rainfly and footprint
• Extra stakes for sandy/rocky ground
• Sleeping bags appropriate for season
• Sleeping pads with good insulation
• Shade canopy or tarp (essential for summer)
• Headlamps and flashlights
• Camp chairs
• Camp table (if not provided)
• Lantern

Kitchen Items:

• Portable stove and fuel
• Lighter/matches in waterproof container
• Cooler with block ice
• Water containers (extra capacity for desert)
• Dish washing supplies (biodegradable soap)
• Coffee maker or kettle
• Cooking utensils
• Eating utensils, plates, and cups

Clothing:

• Moisture-wicking layers
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Lightweight long sleeves (sun protection)
• Rain gear
• Warm layers for evenings
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Water shoes (for Virgin River/Narrows)
• Swimwear

Safety and First Aid:

• First aid kit with blister treatment
• Prescription medications
• Insect repellent
• High-SPF sunscreen
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• Electrolyte packets or tablets
• Basic tools and repair kit
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer

Navigation and Communication:

• Printed reservations and maps
• Offline maps downloaded to phone
• Guidebook or trail information
• Compass
• Portable phone charger
• Two-way radios for group communication

By planning thoroughly and respecting both the natural environment and other visitors, your Zion camping experience will create lasting memories. Whether you're sleeping beneath towering canyon walls at Watchman, enjoying the cool high-elevation climate at Lava Point, or stargazing from a free BLM site, camping provides an immersive way to experience the wonder of Zion National Park.