Watchman Campground - Zion National Park

The Watchman Campground at Zion National Park is another of my favorite campgrounds in the National Park system.

I have personally camped here several times as I was able to make a reservation ahead of time and knew that I would have everything that I needed at my campsite once I arrived.

RV parked in the Watchman Campground at Zion National Park

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

Watchman Campground - Zion National Park

Unless I want to explore Zion's East Side or Kolob Canyons, I park my car and use the free shuttle system to get around. Anyone who has been to Zion understands how much of a relief it is not to have to worry about parking; simply grab a bus and start enjoying the park!

The Watchman Campground is also located next to the Zion Visitor Center and the Zion Canyon shuttle system (Both for Zion Canyon and Springdale). You can also go for a hike on the Pa'Rus Trail and Watchman Trail, both of which begin next to the Zion Canyon Shuttle Pickup. The campground also has plenty of shade, deer, and birds to watch in your downtime.

Campsite A11 Watchman Campground Zion National Park — Campsite A11

Zion National Park Entrance Fee

New in 2026: Each Non-US Resident aged 16 and older visiting Zion National Park must pay a $100 nonresident fee (in addition to the standard entrance fee), unless admitted with an annual or America the Beautiful Pass. This includes nonresidents entering as part of a commercial tour group, commercial use authorization (CUA) group, or concessioner tour group.

Park entrance fees are separate from camping and lodging fees.

Park Entrance Pass - $35.00 Per private vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)

Park Entrance Pass - Motorcycle - $30.00 Per motorcycle (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)

Park Entrance Pass - Snowmobile - $20.00 Per Snowmobile (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)

Per-Person Entrance Pass - $20.00 Visitors 16 years or older who enter on foot, bicycle, or as part of an organized group not involved in a commercial tour.

Annual Park Entrance Pass - $70.00, Admits pass holder and all passengers in a non-commercial vehicle. Valid for one year from the month of purchase.

$20.00 for Non-Commercial Group (16+ persons)

$70.00 for Commercial Van with 7-15 seats

$80.00 for Commercial Mini-Bus with 16-25 seats

$190.00 for Commercial Motor Coach with 26+ seats

Learn more about National Park Passes for parks that have an entrance fee.

$80.00 - For the America the Beautiful/National Park Pass. The pass covers entrance fees to all US National Park Sites and over 2,000 Federal Recreation Fee Sites for an entire year and covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites and up to 4 adults for per-person sites.

2024 America The Beautiful National Park Pass

Buy your pass at this link, and REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.

National Park Free Entrance Days -Mark your calendars with the free entrance days the National Park Service offers for US citizens and residents.

Watchman Campground Map

Watchman Campground Information

Watchman Campground Camping Fees

Make sure to check with the park for the most updated camping fees

Watchman Campground Reservations

Are Campground Reservations Available? Yes

Phone Number? 877-444-6777

Online? Recreation.Gov

How Far Ahead can you make a reservation?

You can make a reservation six months prior to your arrival date

A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change your reservation.

Campsite A13 Watchman Campground Zion National Park — Campsite A13

General Park Information

Season: Open Year-Round

*Watchman Campground remains open all year, with reduced availability in winter. All sites in Watchman Campground require reservations. Generally, the D, E, and F Loops are closed in December, January, and February.

Number of Sites: 176 regular sites, 2 wheelchair-accessible sites, and 7 group sites

Check-in Time: After 12:00 PM on the scheduled date of arrival.

Check-out Time: 11:00 AM

Location in the park: Near the South Entrance to the park.

Campground Address:

1Zion Park Blvd.

Springdale, UT.84767

Latitude/Longitude:

Latitude:
37.1986111
37° 11' 55.0000" N
Longitude:
-112.9863889
112° 59' 11.0000" W

Elevation: 3,900 Feet

Accessible Sites:

Sites A-24 and A-25 are reserved for ADA use. Watchman Campground has seven accessible sites and multiple other flat sites with easy access to six accessible restrooms. The road access route to the Visitor Center and Shuttle Stop has grades of up to 5% for 30-foot stretches, but has trench drain covers across sections of road with openings wider than 1 inch in certain locations.

An alternate concrete and asphalt-paved pathway adjacent to the amphitheater through the river entrance plaza has slopes of up to 18% for 5-foot stretches and slopes up to 8% for 39-foot stretches. The amphitheater has accessible seating located on the top row.

Wheelchair Access - Pavement in some sites is broken and can make wheelchair use difficult. Gravel pathways to bathrooms. Fire grills elevated, and picnic tables are extended. Asphalt trail leads to Watchman Amphitheater. Bathrooms are wheelchair accessible.

Campsite A14 Watchman Campground Zion National Park — Campsite A14

Campground Amenities

Potable Water? yes

Is there a Bear Box/Food Storage Locker in the campsite or campground? No

Flush Toilets: Yes

Laundry: No

Showers: No

Payphone: No

Is Wi-Fi available? No

Is Cellular Phone Service Available? Yes

Is the camp host available on-site? Yes, Year-round

Is firewood available for purchase? No

You may purchase firewood in Springdale, Utah, one half-mile away

No fires are permitted when Fire Restrictions are in place.

Amphitheater: Yes, seasonally

Are fire pits/fire rings available at each site? Yes

Are Picnic Tables available at each site? Yes

Zion Canyon Shuttle Map Zion National Park

RV Camping at the Watchman Campground

Hookups Available: There are no full-hookup campsites.

Electric hookup sites are all 30 amp, with only a handful of sites that supply 50 amp

RV Length: 40 feet

*Sites are a variety of sizes. Length limits for each site are provided in the site details on recreation.gov.

The group campsites are tent-only. RVs, camping trailers, and pop-up campers are not permitted

Generators: Generators are NOT allowed in the campground.

Dump Station: A dump station with potable water is available at the entrance to the campground.

Campsite A15 Watchman Campground Zion National Park — Campsite A15

Sites will accommodate 3 tents per site, 1 RV, or 2 tents with 1 RV (motor home/fifth-wheel/pop-up/trailer).

Zion National Park has vehicle size limits on the road between the East Entrance of the park and the campgrounds.

Vehicle Length Limit: Single or combined vehicles over 50 ft. long are prohibited from traveling through the park between the East Entrance and the campground; if your total length is greater than 50 ft., you must enter the park through the South Entrance near the town of Springdale.

Vehicle Height Limit: Vehicles taller than 13 ft. are prohibited from traveling through the park between the East Entrance and the campground.

Vehicle Width Limit: Vehicles 7'10' in width or 11'4' in height or larger require one-lane traffic control through the Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel, located between the East Entrance and the campground; nearly all RVs, trailers, fifth-wheels, dual-wheel trucks, and campers require a tunnel escort; visitors requiring this service must purchase a $15 tunnel permit; a tunnel permit is valid for two trips through the tunnel for the same vehicle during a 7 day period; the Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel is open for over-sized vehicles from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during peak season with reduced hours during non-peak season. Visit www.nps.gov/zion for Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel operation hours.

Campground Regulations

The maximum number of people in a campsite: 6 occupants, including children over 24 months

The number of cars per campsite: Maximum of 2 vehicles, or 1 RV or camping trailer, or 4 motorcycles per site

The maximum number of tents per campsite: Sites will accommodate three tents per site, 1 RV, or two tents with 1 RV (motor home/fifth-wheel/pop-up/trailer).

Quiet Hours: 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Maximum Stay: There is a 44-night camping limit within Zion National Park in a calendar year; however, March to mid-November, the camping limit in Zion is 14 nights.

Pets Allowed: Pets are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet.

Don't Forget to Pack

Insect repellent is always a great idea outdoors, especially around any body of water.

We use Permethrin Spray on our clothes before our park trips. Please read my article on preventing biting insects while enjoying the outdoors.

Sunscreen - I buy environmentally friendly sunscreen whenever possible because you inevitably pull it out at the beach.
Bring your water bottleand plenty of water with you. Plastic water bottles are not sold in the park.
Sunglasses - I always bring sunglasses with me. I personally love Goodr sunglasses because they are lightweight, durable, and have awesome National Park Designs from several National Parks like Joshua Tree, Yellowstone, Hawaii Volcanoes, Acadia, Denali, and more!

Click here to get your National Parks Edition of Goodr Sunglasses!

Binoculars/Spotting Scope - These will help spot birds and wildlife and make them easier to identify. We tend to see waterfowl in the distance, and they are always just a bit too far to identify them without binoculars.

How to get to Campground

From Las Vegas, St. George, or other points south on Interstate 15: Travel north to 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 first right after the entrance station towards the Visitor Center. After passing the Visitor Center, you will enter the Watchman Campground. Stop at the campground kiosk for directions to your campsite.

From Salt Lake City, Interstate 70, or other points north on Interstate 15:

Travel south to Exit 27, towards Toquerville. In 6.1 miles turn left onto State Route 9 towards Zion National Park. After passing through Springdale, arrive at South Entrance. Take the first right after the entrance station towards the Visitor Center. After passing the Visitor Center, you will enter the Watchman Campground. Stop at the campground kiosk for directions to your campsite.

From Grand Canyon National Park, Lake Powell, Kanab, or other points south on U.S. 89:

Travel north to State Route 9. Turn left 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 Watchman Campground and Visitor Center. Stop at the campground kiosk for directions to your campsite.

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.

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 Watchman Campground and Visitor Center. Stop at the campground kiosk for directions to your campsite.

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.

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

Zion National Park Resources

Zion National Park Guide- Your complete guide to exploring Zion National 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 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 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

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.

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.