Located in southwest Utah, Zion National Park is considered a paradise for hikers, outdoorsmen, and RVers alike. You’ll enjoy stunning waterfalls, deep canyons with red-sandstone cliffs, impressive rock formations, beautiful mountain scenery, and emerald pools. RV vacationers can easily find an RV rental, Zion National Park, and the surrounding areas boast multiple dealerships and RV owners. Vacationers will find much to see and do, including multiple hiking trails, canyoneering, rock climbing, cycling, horseback riding, and boating.
First, we’ll discuss some of the more popular campgrounds in the area. Then we’ll cover where to find an RV rental near Zion National Park and how to get the best deal. Finally, we’ll share some tips for Camping in the Zion National Park Area
Zion Canyon Campground Options
Watchman Campground
Watchman Campground is a convenient place for RVers who want to be close to everything the park has to offer. Located close to the south entrance, the park is only a short walk from the visitor center and the Zion Canyon Shuttle System. Reservations are available, you can book up to 6 months in advance. Reservations are recommended since the campground is usually booked full from March to November. Watchman campground does not offer full hook-ups, but sites with electricity are available. Be sure to specify electricity when making your reservation.
South Campground
One-half mile from the south entrance to Zion National Park, you will find the South Campground. The campground has 117 campsites available on a first come, first served basis. Group sites are also available. There are no RV hookups, but a dump station and potable water are available. You’ll need to arrive early to find a spot here. Campers begin lining up before dawn and sites are assigned beginning at 7 am.
Zion Canyon Campground and RV Resort
Located just ½ mile outside the entrance to the park, the Zion Canyon Campground and RV Resort is a good choice for RVers who want to be close to everything and still enjoy full amenities. You’ll enjoy full RV hookups, digital cable TV, internet, a heated pool, fire pits and barbecue grills, easy access to the Zion Canyon Shuttle, and some of the most beautiful sunsets and scenery.
RV Parks Near Zion National Park
If you are willing to drive a few miles, there are many campgrounds and RV parks near Zion National Park.
Zion River Resort
Considered by some to be one of America’s best RV resorts, Zion River Resort has much to offer. RV campsites have full hook-ups, shade, fire rings, free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Pull-through sites are 60-70 feet long with a concrete pad. Back-in sites are 40-50 feet deep with gravel.
Zion River Resort is located close to Zion National Park and makes a perfect base-camp for enjoying neighboring parks. Because of its amenities and proximity to area attractions, the park stays full. Reservations are recommended.
East Zion Riverside RV Park
Located 12 miles from the East entrance to the park, just off SR-9 and US-89, East Zion Riverside RV Park offers full hookups for RVers. Amenities include a golf course, outdoor pool with hot tub, free RV dump, guest laundry, restraint and gift shop. RV parking is along the river with no pull-thru’s.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
You’ll find plenty to do at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. In addition to the many activities offered at Zion National Park, you’ll also enjoy a climbing wall, paint ball, miniature golf, a zip line, and a bungee trampoline. Scheduled tours include: canyoneering, guided hikes, ATV tours, horseback riding, jeep tours, and mountain biking. Open use facilities include a basketball court, pool, hot tub, billiards, foosball, ping pong, tennis, volleyball and horse shoes. They also have special kids camp events for the younger crowd.
Don’t let all the activities fool you, however. The resort is located on a small portion of the Ponderosa property. You’ll still enjoy the great outdoors, local wildlife, and a full panorama of the night sky without the city lights. If you want to enjoy a little luxury along with your nature hiking and RV rental, Zion National Park and the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort make a good combination.
The resort offers full hook-ups for RVs near the East entrance to the park. For first-time vacationers with an RV Rental, Zion National Park and Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort offers the best of nature and planned activities.
Zions West RV Park
Zions West RV Park is located in Leeds, Utah, close to Zion National Park and only 2 miles from Quail Lake State Park. You’ll enjoy full hook-ups in a quiet country setting with fantastic views. The park offers wireless internet and accepts pets on a leash.
Zion RV and Campground
Zion RV and Campground is located just east of Zion National Park and offers everything you need for your RV vacation. Guests enjoy full RV hookups, laundry facilities, indoor showers and restrooms, and the wide-open spaces of Utah. This is a good home-base for your RV rental, Zion National Park is close, and the scenery is beautiful.
Dedicated to preserving and sustaining Zion’s natural surroundings, the park is a permanent home for the ranch’s buffalo herd.
Finding an RV Rental Near Zion National Park
Vacationers will find an active RV community in the towns surrounding Zion National Park. One of the largest RV rental companies in the area is Nielson RV Rentals. Nielson is a family owned company that offers reasonable RV rentals.
Another way to find an affordable RV rental near Zion National Park is to use a peer-to-peer service. These online services connect renters with RV owners, dealers, and rental companies such as Nielson RV Rentals. You’ll find quality RV rentals in every price range. If you are ready to rent a RV near Zion National Park, you will find the best deals on a peer-to-peer site. For more information, see our guide on How to Rent an RV. You’re sure to enjoy your RV rental; Zion National Park is one of our nation’s most loved parks.
RV Camping Tips for the Zion National Park Area
If you’re going to be enjoying the Zion National Park area, there is much to see and do. You’ll want to spend time on the hiking trails and visit the many scenic spots within the park. Here are a few tips to help you save money and enjoy your vacation.
Use the Park Shuttle Service for Easy Access
Available from mid-March through November, the park shuttle service is a free service to help you get around the park without having to scout for parking places. Park at the Visitor Center, or at one of the nine locations in Springdale, and take the shuttle into the park.
What to Bring
For a day trip in the park, you should come prepared. First and foremost, bring water and your pass or park entry receipt. A daypack comes in handy to carry your camera, binoculars, flashlight, headlamp and other supplies. Also, pack a few snacks. Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Dress comfortably for the weather and plan to stay for the day.
An Annual Parks Pass May be a Good Deal
The 7-day Zion National Park Pass will cost you $30 for the week, and it is limited to Zion National Park. For $80, you can purchase an Annual Parks Pass, which will get you into all of the region’s parks for a full year. Unless you plan to confine your visit to Zion National Park, the Annual Parks Pass is a better deal.
Boondocking
Boondocking is allowed at several locations in Zion National Park. Boondockers enjoy the solitude of being alone with nature and save money since they don’t have to pay camping fees. If you are new to RVing, you might prefer to stay in a campground, but know that boondocking is an option.
Hopefully, this information will help you plan your trip. With an RV rental, Zion National Park is a fun destination for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. There is so much to do and the scenery is breathtaking.