Camping in Zion: 3 Official Campgrounds, Reservations, and Fees

By Jocelyn Pion · Data: National Park Service · ← Complete guide Zion

Zion National Park has three NPS-managed campgrounds, with 314 sites in all. Two sit at the south entrance, accessible from Springdale. The third is perched at more than 7,900 feet above sea level on the Kolob Plateau. All require reservations through recreation.gov, with sites released six months before the arrival date. During peak season, the spots disappear within minutes of opening.

Campgrounds in the park (3)

• Campground Watchman Campground recreation.gov · 184 sites Directions ↗
• Campground South Campground recreation.gov · 124 sites Directions ↗
• Campground Lava Point Campground first come, first served · 6 sites Directions ↗

Show interactive map Base map © OpenStreetMap · © CARTO

Can you camp inside Zion?

Yes, Zion has three NPS-managed campgrounds: Watchman Campground, South Campground, and Lava Point Campground. You can't camp outside a designated site without a backcountry permit. The park is open 365 days a year, and during peak season, the campgrounds are practically full every night.

Campgrounds in the park

Watchman Campground

Watchman Campground is Zion's largest campground, with 184 sites. It sits along the Virgin River, a short walk from the Visitor Center and the shuttle stop. It's the only campground in the park that's open year-round. Some loops may close temporarily because of weather or maintenance, so check availability on recreation.gov. Of its 184 sites, 92 have electrical hookups, 18 are tent-only, and 6 are reserved for RVs only. There are also 6 group sites. RVs up to 40 feet are allowed. Restrooms, water, a dump station, and cell service are available. Reservations are required through recreation.gov.

From Watchman, the first morning shuttle is a five-minute walk away. That's a real advantage if you want to reach the Angels Landing or The Narrows trailheads before the crowds.

South Campground

South Campground is less than 1,640 feet from the Visitor Center, right by the park's main entrance. It has 124 sites, including 18 tent-only sites. RVs up to 40 feet are allowed. The campground has restrooms, running water, a dump station, cell service, and bear-proof storage lockers. It's open seasonally, roughly from mid-March through late October. The winter closure is scheduled for October 23, 2026, through March 14, 2027. Reservations are required through recreation.gov.

This is the campground closest to the shuttles, which makes it a genuine advantage for hikers who want an early start without wasting time driving.

Lava Point Campground

Lava Point Campground is Zion's low-key campground, with 6 primitive sites perched at more than 7,900 feet above sea level on the Kolob Plateau. There is no running water or electrical hookup. Bring all the water you'll need. Vault toilets and bear-proof storage lockers are available on site. The access road is unpaved and not recommended for large vehicles. It's generally open from May through September, depending on snow conditions. The winter closure is scheduled for October 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027. In return, you'll get very few other visitors and much cooler temperatures than on the canyon floor in summer. Reservations are required through recreation.gov.

RV vs. tent: which site should you choose?

For RVs, Watchman Campground is the obvious choice. It's the only campground with electrical hookups, with 92 equipped sites. Vehicles up to 40 feet are allowed. South Campground also accepts RVs up to 40 feet, but it has no electrical hookups. Lava Point is closed to large vehicles. Check the restrictions for each loop when you reserve on recreation.gov. Very large RVs may face clearance restrictions on some roads inside the park. The Zion RV camping guide covers these restrictions and alternatives for large vehicles.

For tents, South Campground has more vegetation and a more intimate atmosphere than Watchman.

Camping nearby: private campgrounds outside the park

When the NPS campgrounds are full, Springdale offers private alternatives within walking distance or accessible by the free municipal shuttle, known as the Town Shuttle. Other private campgrounds are available in the towns of Virgin and Rockville, about a 15-minute drive from the south entrance. Rates are comparable to those in the park, sometimes with extras such as showers or a grocery store.

For lodging outside a campground, including lodges, motels, and hotels, see the Zion lodging options.

Dispersed camping and backcountry camping

Overnight stays in Zion's backcountry are allowed at designated sites with a required permit. You can get these permits on recreation.gov or in person at the Visitor Center, but availability is strictly limited. Demand is high during peak season, so plan several weeks ahead. Open fires are prohibited, and Leave No Trace rules apply without exception. Our Zion hiking guide covers the multi-day routes that work for backcountry camping.

How and when to reserve a campsite in Zion

Reservations open six months before the arrival date on recreation.gov, precisely at midnight Mountain Time. During peak season, the most sought-after sites at Watchman and South Campground disappear within minutes, so set your alarm for the right time zone.

Cancellations release sites about two weeks before the arrival date. It's a possible backup plan, but not a reliable strategy.

Watchman Campground is open year-round, making it the only NPS campground in Zion that's accessible in winter. Check recreation.gov for current conditions and exact availability before you leave, since reservation policies may change by season.

Fees: how much does a night of camping cost in Zion?

A night at an NPS campground in Zion costs $35 at Watchman Campground and South Campground, with or without electrical hookups, and $25 at Lava Point Campground. You'll also need to pay the park entrance fee: $35 per vehicle. If you plan to return to Zion during the year, the park's $70 annual pass covers unlimited entry. For entrance fees and annual passes, see the National Parks Fees & Passes page.

Private campgrounds in Springdale charge similar or slightly higher rates, often with additional amenities.

Camping safety and best practices

Flash floods. This is Zion's main hazard, especially from mid-July through September during monsoon season. A storm several miles away can trigger a flash flood in a narrow canyon within minutes. Check the weather forecast every morning, review the alerts posted at the Visitor Center before entering The Narrows or any other slot canyon, and get out immediately if you hear a deep rumble coming from upstream. The Zion weather forecast and the park's practical information and safety rules cover this issue in detail.

Food storage. Coyotes regularly visit the campgrounds. South Campground and Lava Point Campground have bear-proof storage lockers at the sites. At Watchman, put all food, medications, and toiletries in your vehicle's trunk whenever you leave your site.

Summer heat. In July and August, temperatures in the canyon regularly climb above 100°F. Hydrate before you even leave your tent, and avoid uphill trails between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Rattlesnakes. They're found around the campgrounds and on the trails. Always watch where you place your hands and feet, especially between rocks and beneath brush.

Which campground is right for you?

Tent hikers who want an early start: South Campground, the closest to the shuttles.

RV or camper van with hookups: Watchman Campground, with 92 sites offering electricity. Reserve as soon as the six-month booking window opens.

Quiet, cool temperatures, and altitude: Lava Point Campground. Bring all your water; there is no water source on site.

The park is full: Private campgrounds in Springdale, Virgin, or Rockville.

Overnight in the wilderness: Reserve a backcountry permit on recreation.gov well in advance.

Frequently asked questions