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There aren’t many National Parks that I can think of that has such an incredible mix of harrowing heights to knee-high water hikes, rocky landscapes and lush greenery. As far as the Big Five of Utah, Zion National Park is a must-visit.
As you’re planning your visit, you’ll need to find the best place to stay in Zion National Park whether inside or nearby. There isn’t a huge amount of options within the park as it is protected land, but what there is available we have covered the best here in this post. Whether you are looking for a lodge style hotel or camping under the stars we’ve got you!
COVID-19 Notice
Currently, shuttles are operational again at Zion National Park but masks are required.
OFFICIAL UPDATES
Where To Stay Near Zion National Park
What You’ll Get Out Of This Article
- Learn where the best campgrounds are, which have the best facilities and which have the best views.
- Find out where is the most amazing hotel inside Zion National Park that evokes old world lodge style and glamour.
- Discover which towns are the best located for the park and where are the best places to stay in each one.
TOP TIPS FOR VISITING UTAH
- Where to stay – This post gives you specific tips for Zion National Park but if you want to explore more we use Booking.com for all of our stays. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
- Car rentals – For exploring the park and easy access to the towns around Zion, it’s advisable to have a car, so you should book your car rental in advance. Save the most money through car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
- Flights – Use the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature to find the best deals from your local airport. Check how much it would be for you to get to Utah!
- Insurance – Not always required but always recommended! Make sure you’re covered with the best travel insurance.
- Hottest deals – Never be without our frequently updated travel deals page.
Zion National Park is near and dear to us because we did quite the epic 10 day itinerary through Utah and Arizona for a good friend’s bachelor party many years back. A big part of the that trip was doing top-down hike through The Narrows.
So let’s get to it, we’ve covered all the options, found the best amenities, great dining options and those with the best home comforts. Read on for your best options for finding accommodation in or near Zion.
Staying Inside Zion National Park
When it comes to the best place to stay in Zion National Park, there aren’t many places so your choices are going to be pretty limited. Zion is also a popular place so it’s going to be quite the race to get those bookings.
Nothing is first come first serve (except one campground) so you have to plan quite far in advance.
Zion National Park Lodge
This is a historic lodge that gives you an opportunity to stay inside a National Park, similar to where you can stay in Yosemite and The Majestic Yosemite Hotel.
Mere footsteps away from epic hiking, and the 146,000 acres of cliffs, canyons, plant-life, and animal-life in your backyard, Zion National Park Lodge (or Zion Lodge for short), is comfortable and spacious but of course the trade off is that you’ll be paying a premium for staying here.
The lodge evokes a strong sense of history and rustic design that comes from the original architecture of Gilbert Stanley Underwood when it was built in the 1920s and then rebuilt again in 1966 before it was fully restored in 1990.
The lodge’s original rustic design was sacrificed in the 60s but was restored to its original classic appearance in 1990.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: 1 Zion Lodge, Springdale, UT 84767, United States
Rates: Average around $200 USD per night.
South Campground
Image via Flickr by Kevin StevensZion National Park has 3 campgrounds and two of those are located in Zion Canyon.
South Campground is one of them and is extremely popular because it keeps the sites really limited so not to disturb the flora and fauna in the park.
Located half a mile from the South Entrance, there are 117 campsites (3 are wheelchair accessible).
There are some large group sites that can accommodate 7 to 15 people, up to 5 vehicles and a maximum of 6 tents. It books up fast so if you are hoping to camp then you need to plan well in advance.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: Dalton Wash Rd, Virgin, UT 84779, United States
Rates: $20 USD per night for individual campsites and $50 USD for group sites.
Watchman Campground
Image via Flickr by roy.viloriaAdjacent to the South Campground is a larger site with 190 regular sites, 7 wheelchair accessible sites, and 6 group sites.
Watchman Campground is 1/4 miles from the South Entrance with tent and electric sites available throughout the year.
The 6 group campsites are tent-only and can accommodate 7 to 40 campers.
If you plan on coming here with an RV, this campground is a good fit as it has a special loop specifically for them. Check out these RV rentals in Ontario if you feel like making this an epic road trip.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: UT-9, Springdale, UT 84767, United States
Rates: Tent-only campsites are $20 USD while electric campsites are $30 USD.
The Lava Point Campground
Image via recreation.gov1-hour drive from Zion Canyon, on the Kolob Terrace Road, is a small and somewhat more basic campground.
Despite being a primitive site, the view from here is impressive and is at an elevated level compared to the rest of the park so it’s also cooler in temperature. So if you are traveling in the warmer months then this is the place you’ll get a cooler night sleep! It is also an incredible spot to watch the sunrise over the canyons, well worth the reduced amenities for this view alone.
There are 6 campsites here that are first-come first-serve, so don’t turn up later in the day hoping for a spot. The campground is very basic, it has pit toilets and trash cans, but there isn’t any running water. So be prepared for the more rustic side of camping!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: Zion National Park, Springdale, UT 84767, United States
Rates: Free on first-come first-serve basis.
Staying Nearby Zion National Park
The truth is, unless you’re intent on camping in the park or able to plan incredibly early, you actually may be better off staying in one of the towns that surround the National Park. Here are the best places to stay near Zion National Park.
Springdale
At the footsteps of the South Gate of Zion National Park is Springdale and would be one of our first choices if you’re looking for a place to stay by the park. It is a really cute town with plenty of activities if you are looking for something to do outside the park. The location is also the best, just steps from the main entrance at South Gate.
BUDGET HOTEL
Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites
This is a seasonal hotel, so it’s only available during the months of March through November. Located just outside the Zion National Park, you can easily get there on foot. Or hop on the free shuttle offered to get there or anywhere around town!
MID-RANGE LODGE
Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection By Hilton
This beautiful lodge boarders Zion National Park and sits right up against the Virgin River, so you know those views are stunning! After a busy day of hiking and exploring the park, which is within walking distance, make your way back to the hotel and unwind in the spa while taking in those views!
LUXURY HOTEL
Holiday Inn Express Springdale
Amidst the red rock cliffs, the Holiday Inn brand may not scream luxury but it is one of the most sought after properties that is more lodge than it is an inn. The property offers free wifi, high ceilings, refrigerator, tea, and coffee-making facilities. The best part is the outdoor pool, hot tub, and sun terrace.
LUXURY CABIN
Cable Mountain Lodge
Adjacent to the Zion National Park Visitor Center, this Springdale lodge offers a seasonal outdoor heated pool and a hot tub with canyon views. Free Wi-Fi is provided. Bonuses include rooms with microwave, mini-fridge, and AC. There is also a picnic area and private beach along the Virgin River. This is a luxurious cottage suite.
St. George
If you’re coming up from Las Vegas in the south or looking for more affordable accommodations, the larger gateway city of St. George is a great option.
You’ll find more affordable hotels here but the trade off is that you’re 55 minutes away from the south park entrance to Zion.
For our particular trip up to Zion, we used St. George as a pit-stop location and as a place to pick up supplies as the last large city with a Walmart before heading up to Springdale.
BUDGET
Best Western Travel Inn Saint George
This is everything you’d expect from a Best Western. The property offers a seasonal outdoor pool, free parking, and free wifi. In each room, you have a coffee maker, refrigerator, and microwave. Free continental breakfast is also served daily. They also have an outdoor pool.
FANS OF HILTON
Hampton Inn & Suites St. George
For those that are loyal fans of Hilton, this is a great option that remains affordable. Modern rooms come with a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee machine, and hairdryer. They also offer free breakfast, a pool, hot tub and fire pit.
MID-RANGE
Inn on the Cliff
Now if you plan on spending some off time here and really making use of the swimming pool and hot tub, this property has remarkable views of the city and surrounding red rock. Rooms have private balconies, AC, free wifi, mini-fridge, and coffee-maker. Breakfast is also free.
RESORT
Estancia Resort
This is a vacation home rental that’s great for large groups and families. All rooms feature hot tub, air condition, and AC. The pool here is massive and they also have water sports, tennis court, and family rooms. Estancia Resort offers a barbecue. Bike hire and car hire are available at the resort and the area is popular for hiking and cycling.
Cedar City
The city located to the north of Zion National Park is Cedar City. It’s only 20 minutes from the Kolob Canyon Visitor Center and just over an hour to the southern entrance to the park.
One thing you should note is that the entrance to Kolob Canyon is separate and does not connect with the rest of Zion National Park.
Often overlooked, Cedar City is a great base of operations for your trip to not only Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and Dixie National Forest. This is quite the advantage over some of the other cities and towns mentioned so far.
The below are 4 great options to consider that range from low to high prices.
BUDGET
Wingate By Wyndham Cedar City
The Wingate hotel is located right off of the I5 highway and is a comfortable and renovated inn with complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, and spa. Pets are also allowed here. This is considered to be great value for the money.
BUDGET
Ramada by Wyndham
Another great budget option in Cedar City with free shuttle to the airport, free wifi, and daily breakfast buffet. In the rooms you’ll find it furnished with a microwave, small fridge and coffee-making facilities. The hotel has a fitness center and sauna.
MID-RANGE
La Quinta by Wyndham
This is a modern hotel off the I-15 with easy access to Zion National Park. Rooms have coffee machine, toiletries, and hair dryer. They also boast a free daily breakfast, wifi, and indoor pool.
B&B
Big Yellow Inn
This is a charming bed & breakfast that features a Victorian-style grand staircase and 8 fireplaces. All rooms are equipped with wifi and a full hot breakfast is served daily. The hosts are friendly and helpful in making sure you have a great stay.
East Zion
Lastly is the area that surrounds the alternative entrance – the East Gate which is one of the best places to stay in Zion National Park.
By being based on the eastern side of the park, you get extremely quick access to the trails on this side and it is also much quieter than the other places mentioned so far since there’s no city based here (the closest would be Kanab).
An attractive part about East Zion are its unique accommodations which are perfect for those wanting a combination of outdoor and adventure experiences. From glamping to rustic cabins, you’ll really love being out here.
In addition, adventure activities are often bundled with these properties, which makes it perfect for those wanting to have plenty to do with the family over the course of multiple days.
Lastly, being on the East also puts you close to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.
BUDGET
Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge
This hotel is only 15 minutes from Zion and features an outdoor pool, hot tub, restaurant, free wifi, and free parking. Rooms have either a mountain or pool view and are stocked with free toiletries and a hairdryer.
GLAMPING
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
For our trip to Zion National Park, we stayed here because of the resort features they had here. Not only do they have glamping tents and cabins, you also get access to ATVs, skeet shooting, and canyoneering. They also helped organize our two-way transfer to The Narrows hike.
RANCH
Zion Mountain Ranch
Ever wanted stay on a ranch on a buffalo preserve with incredible views? Suites include a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee machine. From horseback riding, canyoneering, mountain biking, hiking and fly fishing, there’s no shortage of fun things to do on the ranch.
COTTAGE COTTAGE
Arrowhead Country Inn and Cabins
This is a picturesque country cabin where you have your own porch and is run more like a family B&B. An exceptional full breakfast is included. The property also has a hot tub, outdoor pool, and BBQ facilities. All cabins include a fireplace, kitchen, and private bathroom.
What To Pack For Zion National Park
As with all our packing guides, what to specifically pack heavily depends on what time of year you go. Some of the accommodations mentioned above are only open seasonally and are located at higher elevations than the others so they will always be cooler climates. For an extensive breakdown be sure to look over our Ultimate Cold Weather Packing List and Ultimate Camping Must Haves Packing List. Or see some must haves in our Top 10 Things To Pack For Any Camping Trip post. Below are a few essentials we highly recommend for this specific trip:
- Hiking shoes: We recommended several state parks here, which calls for lots of hiking. Comfortable hiking shoes are an absolute priority for a trip like this. Also available in women’s.
- Hiking poles: We like to take our own hiking poles as we find these are helpful on difficult trails, and not everywhere offers them to rent or use.
- Beanie or buff: Helps to keep your head and ears warm in those higher altitudes with cooler air. The buff also works as sweat wicking as well.
- Tent: A lightweight tent like this is good to have on you for those campgrounds mentioned above.
- Sleeping bag: You are going to want this for those cooler nights when camping out. This one will keep you warm and it’s lasted me so many years!
- Power bank: We always carry one of these with us on every trip to keep all our devices charged. Comes in handy when you are staying at a campsite or one of the more rustic places.
Frequently Asked Questions
If not staying inside Zion National Park, where is the best town to be staying?
The most convenient is Springdale, Utah. With access to numerous outfitters, restaurants, services, and shuttles, it doesn’t get easier to get in and out of the National Park. As a runner up, most people sleep on East Zion and I think it’s a great well-rounded area especially with the likes of Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort where you can mix and match Zion with ranch activities
When do the gates open at Zion National Park?
The park is open 24 hours and is not barricaded after hours and is by honor system. You do need a pass to enter and it’s expected that you show your ticket on your car dash. If you plan on entering early in the morning, plan ahead and purchase a pass the day before during operating hours.
Are the campsites in Zion National Park open year-round?
Watchman Campground is open year-round, but only takes reservations from March to November.
South Campground is open from March to November.
Lava Point Campground is open from June through October (weather dependent)
Can I take the Zion National Park Shuttle from Springdale?
No, the Zion National Park shuttle starts from the visitor center. However there is a separate Springdale shuttle that takes you to to the visitor center where you can then transfer to the National Park shuttle.
Are pets allowed in hotels?
Yes, most allow pets but some do charge a cleaning fee for pets (typically $20 USD).
Are pets allowed in Zion National Park
Leashed pets may be walked on the Pa’rus Trail. All other trails, and all wilderness areas, are closed to pets. Pets are also not allowed on shuttles (exception are service animals). Pets are allowed at campgrounds.
When is the best time to visit Zion National Park?
Summer is insanely hot with little to no cover which is why it’s not recommended to go July to August. Spring and Fall have the best temperatures which make it great times to visit (April, May, September, and October). Typically temperatures range between 60F and 90F.
How long are day passes valid for?
The standard entrance pass for Zion National Park is valid for 7 days.
Are permits required for Zion National Park?
With the standard recreation pass, you don’t need additional permits to enjoy the park. There are requirements however for those looking to do the special hikes, canyoneering, and backcountry hiking. This includes The Narrows, The Subway, and Left Fork. Some are so popular that there is a lottery system to obtain these permits.
If you’re driving an RV and planning on crossing the Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel, you’ll need a tunnel permit for $15 USD.
Can I drive from the South Springdale Gate to the East Gate of Zion National Park?
Yes, they are connected by State Route 9 (SR-9).
How many days do you need at Zion National Park?
This depends on how many hikes you plan to do and how much of the park you’d like to see. At a minimum you will want to go to the both Emerald Pool trails, Angel’s Landing (if you’re not afraid of heights), and Temple of Sinawava. To do these, I’d recommend a minimum of 2 days. If you plan on doing any special hikes with permits, this could easily expand to 4 to 5 days.
Well that covers all of your options for the best places to stay in Zion National Park. The park is an unbelievable experience that has to be visited at least once in your life time.
If you have the time and want to do an adventurous multi-day hike, I highly recommend The Narrows. To this day, this is still #1 on my list of hikes in the world.
Travel Resources For Your Next Trip
If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.
Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.
Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.
Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.
Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.
Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.
eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.
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Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.
Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).
Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.
Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.
- HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
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- InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.
If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.
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