The South Campground is one of my favorite frontcountry campgrounds to go camping in the entire National Park System!
The reason for this is that the South Campground in Zion National Park is perfectly located for visitors wanting to explore the best of Zion!
The campground is across the street from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and the Zion Canyon Shuttle system and is located right after entering the park's South Entrance.
Here are my top finds for Zion National Park:
🏨Lodging: Zion NP Lodge & Cabins (In the Park), Cable Mountain Lodge
📍Tours: Private Narrows Hike, Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon Guided Hike
🐻 Save time! Buy your National Park Pass before your trip
South Campground - Zion National Park
I also love that the campground has several waterfront sites located next to the Virgin River that are lined with Cottonwood trees that turn bright yellow in the fall.
Not only are there trees along the river but the campground has a lot of shade which is important as the summers can be very hot.
Deer is abundant in the campground and is common to see campers taking photos of them.
You and your pet can also take a short walk after dinner along the Pa'Rus Trail that runs right behind the campground and between the river.
You can also opt for a moderate trail to burn off some of dinner take the Watchman Trail and enjoy sunset with incredible views of lower Zion Canyon and Springdale.
The only real drawback to this campground is that there can be traffic noise from the main park road, especially for the sites closest to the road.
During the non-peak season, the campground is first come, first served, but with the increase in visitation to Zion NP, you will want to arrive early for a spot!
We have heard that people are lining up at 8 am in hopes of a site becoming available.
South Campground Camping Fees
Make sure to check with the park for the most updated camping fees
Payments accepted: Cash, Check
Senior/Access Camping Fee: Interagency Lifetime Pass/IA Annual Senior Pass Discounts. Interagency Lifetime Passes (IA Senior, IA Access, Golden Age Senior, and Golden Age Access) may allow 50% off camping. The pass must be present upon check-in with a valid ID. The pass only allows a 50% discount on one site; group sites are not discounted.
South Campground Reservations
Are Campground Reservations Available? Yes
Online? Recreation.Gov
Phone Number? 877-444-6777
Reservations are available up to 14 days before you arrive.
Reservations that extend beyond the 14-day booking window cannot be altered.
For Reservations more than 14 days before arrival, check the Watchman Campground, which offers reservations up to six months before arrival.
Reservations are available up to 14 days before your arrival and may extend up to two days beyond this 14-day booking window. For example, if you want to make a reservation for March 14 to 16, you may book this reservation beginning on March 1. Reservations that extend beyond the 14-day booking window cannot be altered.
Campground Information
Season: South Campground is open from approximately March 1st to the Monday after Thanksgiving in November.
Number of Sites: 124 campsites
Latitude/Longitude:
- Latitude:
- 37.2016667
- 37° 12' 6.0001" N
- Longitude:
- -112.9855556
- 112° 59' 8.0002" W
Elevation: 4000 Feet
Accessible Sites: Yes, sites A29, A31, A35, A58, A66, B25, B35, B45, B46
Pets Allowed: Yes, Pets must be on a leash at all times no longer than six feet in length.
South Campground Amenities
Flush Toilets: Yes
Showers: No
Laundry: No
Payphone: No
Is Wi-Fi available? No
Is Cellular Phone Service Available? Yes, seasonal
Is the camp host available on-site? Yes
Is firewood available for purchase? Yes, You can buy firewood in town
Wood gathering is prohibited in the park
Amenities at each campsite:
Fire ring in the site? Yes
Picnic Table on the site? Yes
Food Storage Locker available? Yes
Potable Water? Yes
Amphitheater: Yes, Seasonal
RV Camping at the South Campground
RV Length: 40 feet
Dump Station: A dump station with potable water is available at the entrance to the campground.
Generators: 8:00 am to 10:00 am and 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Hookups: There are no hookups in this campground.
RV and Large Vehicle Travel on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway
The size and weight restrictions apply to the entire section of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance, not just the tunnel itself. Measure your vehicle before visiting, including mirrors, tires, and any attachments such as AC units, bike racks, or satellite dishes.
Single vehicle limits (no trailer):
- Length: 35 ft 9 in
- Width: 7 ft 10 in
- Height: 11 ft 4 in
- Weight: 50,000 lbs
Combined vehicle limits (truck plus trailer):
- Total length: 50 ft
- Trailer length: no more than 26 ft from hitch to rear axle
- Width: 7 ft 10 in
- Height: 11 ft 4 in
- Weight: 50,000 lbs
Vehicles exceeding any of these limits will not be permitted to drive between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance. If you arrive at the South or East Entrance over the limits, you will be directed to turn around. The only exceptions are vehicles entering through the South Entrance to park in the large vehicle lot at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, visit Zion Lodge with a valid reservation, drive the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during shuttle off-season, or camp at Watchman or South Campground.
For current hours and full details visit nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/large-vehicles.htm.
Best Zion National Park Tours & Adventures
Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon Guided Hike (Small Group)
⭐️ Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Stars (788+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 to 3 hours | 🏜️🥾 Check Rates and Availability
One of the most popular and best-reviewed slot canyon experiences in the greater Zion area, this small-group guided hike with Coral Cliffs Tours takes groups of 10 or fewer into the stunning Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon near Kanab, Utah. Guides consistentaly earn extraordinary reviews across hundreds of trips for their geological knowledge, photography tips, and ability to make every guest feel at ease on the deep-sand Jeep ride in. The 8 AM tour is particularly popular for getting the canyon entirely to yourselves and catching the best morning light for photos. A genuinely easy hike on relatively flat terrain, making it suitable for families with young children and guests of all fitness levels. Bottled water is provided. Recommended by 99% of travelers.
East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure
⭐️ Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Stars (1,152+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | 🚙🏜️ Check Rates and Availability
A Badge of Excellence holder booked multiple times daily, this crowd-free slot canyon adventure from East Zion Adventures takes small groups of just 5 guests into Crimson Canyon via a custom off-road UTV, accessing a private area that most Zion visitors never know exists. Once at the canyon mouth, the hike begins through towering sandstone walls that stretch over 100 feet high with a gap of just 6 to 10 feet between them. Your guide assists you over boulder sections reaching 8 to 10 feet, pointing out ancient Native American writings along the route and explaining the geological forces that carved the canyon over millions of years. Reviewers consistently describe it as one of the most jaw-dropping and underrated experiences in all of southern Utah.
Zion National Park Angels Landing Guided Hike with Permit
⭐️ Rating: 5.0 out of 5 Stars (30+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: Half day | 🥾⛰️ Check Rates and Availability
Angels Landing is one of the most famous and thrilling hikes in all of America, and since 2022 it requires a permit that is notoriously difficult to secure. This guided experience with Land Beyond Zion handles the permit for you, eliminating the stress and uncertainty of the lottery system entirely. Guides Camila and June earn outstanding reviews for their knowledge of hand and foot placements on the iconic chain sections, their ability to keep guests calm on the exposure-heavy final push to the summit, and the incredible views they help visitors soak in at the top. A genuine bucket-list hike with a guide who makes it accessible and safe. Free cancellation included. Highly recommended for solo travelers and first-timers tackling the chains for the first time.
Make sure to click here for additional tours in Zion National Park.
How to get to South Campground
From Las Vegas, St. George, or other points south on Interstate 15:
Travel north on Interstate 15 and take Exit 16, towards Hurricane. Follow State Route 9 east for 12 miles to La Verkin and turn right to continue on State Route 9 towards Zion National Park. After passing through Springdale, arrive at the South Entrance of Zion. Take the second right after the entrance station. Stop at the campground kiosk and speak with hosts to check in and for directions to your campsite.
From Bryce Canyon National Park, Panguitch, or other points north on U.S. 89:
Travel south to State Route 9. Turn right and follow State Route 9 west for 13 miles to the East Entrance of Zion National Park. Continue straight for 12 miles, then turn left at the sign for South Campground. Stop at the campground kiosk and speak with hosts to check in and for directions to your campsite.
Campground Regulations
Sites will accommodate the following: 3 tents per site, 1 RV, or 2 tents with 1 RV (motor home/fifth-wheel/pop-up/trailer).
Tree Tents are not allowed in Watchman or South Campground.
The maximum number of people in a campsite: a maximum of six people and three tents
The number of cars per campsite: a maximum of two vehicles
Check-in Time: 3 pm
Checkout time: 11 am
Quiet Hours: 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Maximum Stay: 14-day maximum.
Pets: Pets are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet.
South Campground Map
Photos of the South Campground
Additional Zion National Park Information
- Zion National Park Guide- Your complete guide to exploring Zion National Park
- Zion Hikes- The ultimate hiking guide to plan your trip to Zion! Get Trail information, photos, and trail descriptions directly from a park ranger who has spent countless hours hiking this incredible park!
- Zion Shuttle Guide- Learn when the shuttles are running and how to use them to plan your trip to Zion
- Things To Do Zion National Park- List of things to do at Zion National Park including horseback riding, ranger programs, and exploring the town of Springdale!
- Zion Narrows planning guide- The ultimate guide to plan your hiking adventure to the Zion Narrows. Includes both day hikes and top-to-bottom overnight hikes.
- Emerald Pools Trail Guide- Plan your trip to one of Zion's most iconic trails!
- Zion National Park Camping Guide- Complete guide to camping in Zion National Park
- Watchman Campground- Zion's main campground is located next to the visitor center and the park shuttle stop. The campground has 176 campsites, 95 electric hookups, and 7 group sites.
Lodging Options inside Zion National Park
⭐️ 4.5 of 5 Stars - Zion Lodge & Cabins - Click here for Rates and Availability.
The only lodging inside Zion National Park, nestled among towering cottonwoods at the heart of Zion Canyon with Angels Landing, the Emerald Pools, and the Narrows all just steps from your door!
Choose from hotel-style rooms, cozy Western cabins with gas log fireplaces and private porches, or spacious suites with wet bars and sitting rooms, all featuring private balconies with jaw-dropping canyon wall views. The Red Rock Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with spectacular canyon views, and the on-site cafe is perfect for a pre-hike coffee and pastry. Free WiFi, free parking, gift shop, 24-hour front desk, and the Zion shuttle stops right at the lodge entrance so you can skip the crowds and hit the trails early. Open year-round, book up to 13 months in advance!
Make sure you read my full review on the Zion Lodge and Zion Cabins!
Lodging in Springdale, Just out of the park's Entrance
National Park Lodges often sell out months in advance but there are several lodging options near Zion National Park in Springdale, Utah.
⭐️ 4.8 of 5 Stars - Desert Pearl Inn - Click here for Rates and Availability.
A family-owned award-winning boutique inn right on the banks of the Virgin River, with every single room featuring a private balcony or terrace overlooking the river and Zion's soaring red rock cliffs!
The 73 spacious rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, kitchenettes, premium pillowtop beds, and sofa beds for families, all crafted from reclaimed Douglas fir and native stone. After the hike soak away sore muscles in the heated outdoor pool or hot tub beside a soothing rock waterfall, then grab an e-bike and explore Springdale. The Zion shuttle stops right at the front entrance. Free WiFi, free parking, full-service spa, laundry, and concierge. Pet friendly and open year-round!
⭐️ 4.9 of 5 Stars - Cable Mountain Lodge - Click here for Rates and Availability.
Zion's highest-rated independent lodge, perched steps from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center with direct canyon views from the lobby and a seasonal heated outdoor pool and hot tub overlooking the red rock cliffs!
Studios and suites feature satellite TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, rainfall showerheads, and deep-soaking bathtubs, with full kitchen suites available for extended stays and families. Amenities include a full-service spa, yoga classes, bike rentals, an area shuttle, convenience store, gift shop, BBQ area, business center, EV charging, free WiFi, and free parking. Open year-round!
Click here or on the map below to see additional hotels and vacation rentals near Zion National Park
Additional State Parks and Tribal Parks Near Zion National Park
- Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada)- an incredible park with great trails and jaw-dropping scenery between Las Vegas and Zion!
- Upper Antelope Canyon- The slot canyon that every photographer on the planet desires to photograph!
- Monument Valley- The most iconic scenery of the American Southwest and the location of countless Western movies.
- Valley of the Gods- This is a park where you can spend as little as a couple hours and complete the 17-mile scenic drive and truly get an appreciation of the area.
- Goosenecks State Park (Utah)- amazing views of the San Juan River twisting and turning causing epic goosenecks in the canyon 1,000 feet below.
- Goblin Valley State Park (Utah)- is best known for its goblin-like geologic features that can be easily seen.
National Parks near Zion National Park
- Pipe Springs National Monument- learn about the Mormon War!
- Lake Mead National Recreation Area- Explore all the recreational opportunities along Lake Mead and around Hoover Dam
- Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument - If you are flying into Las Vegas on your way to Zion this is an easy park to visit on the way.
- Bryce Canyon National Park- No matter if you see Bryce in the summer or snow, at sunrise or the middle of the day, its breathtaking scenery and hoodoos will leave you inspired and awestruck!
- Cedar Breaks National Monument- Another gift from nature, the mini Bryce Canyon with sunsets that will dazzle your imagination! They have pretty epic fall colors too
- Grand Canyon National Park- nicknamed "The Big Ditch" is something you just have to see to believe! Its wonders are hard to put into words, photographs can only capture a small portion of its epicness! It truly is one of the seven wonders of the natural world!
- Capitol Reef National Park- The least visited of the 5 National Parks in Utah is what I call one of the top hidden Gems in the National Park System! It has epic scenic drives, epic hikes, jaw-dropping scenery, and much more!
- Arches National Park- A hikers and photographers paradise! Arches is home to over 2000 natural sandstone arches, many of which will blow your mind!
- Canyonlands National Park- Canyonlands is broken down into 3 sections, each filled with the charm and rugged beauty of the American Southwest. It's easy to see some of the highlights but its real charm come to those who plan and prepare to go deep into the wilderness.
Check out these other great Utah National Parks, Nevada National Parks, Idaho National Parks, Wyoming National Parks, Colorado National Parks, New Mexico National Parks, and Arizona National Parks.
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