A Stress-Free Guide to Finding RV Parking In Zion National Park
Zion National Park is an RV traveler’s dream—towering red cliffs, winding canyons, and a front-row seat to some of the most stunning hikes in the U.S. But if there’s one thing that can turn your adventure into a headache, it’s parking an oversized rig in a place that wasn’t exactly built for them.
So where can you park your RV near or inside Zion? Let’s walk through your options and help you plan a smooth arrival.
RV Parking Inside Zion National Park
Zion has two main campgrounds near the South Entrance that can accommodate RVs: Watchman Campground and South Campground. Both are within walking distance to the Zion Visitor Center and the Zion Canyon Shuttle, which means you can park your rig and enjoy the park car-free.
Watchman Campground
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Open year-round
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Electric hookups available at select sites
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Reservations required and can book up to 6 months in advance
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Max RV length: 50 feet (some sites smaller)
This is the most popular option for RVers who want to stay inside the park. It’s well-maintained, has incredible views of the cliffs, and offers quick access to trails and shuttles.
South Campground
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Open seasonally (usually March–October)
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No hookups
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Reservations released two weeks in advance
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Max RV length: 40 feet
While more rustic, South Campground offers a peaceful stay near the Virgin River. Just be aware that it fills up fast, and backing into some sites can be a bit tricky.
Important Tip: Neither campground offers sewer hookups, and there’s no overflow parking for extra vehicles or trailers. Use the designated dump station and plan water fills accordingly.
Day Parking for RVs in Zion
If you’re not camping inside the park but plan to visit for the day, RV parking is very limited. The Zion Visitor Center has a few oversized spots, but they fill quickly—often by 8 AM in peak season.
RV parking is not allowed at most trailheads or in Zion Canyon. During the shuttle season (March through November), the scenic drive is closed to private vehicles, so your best bet is to park outside the park and use the shuttle from Springdale.
RV Parking in Springdale
Springdale is the town that hugs Zion’s southern edge, and it’s one of the most RV-friendly towns you’ll find near a national park. That said, it’s still a small town with narrow roads and limited street parking for large rigs.
Your best parking options here include:
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Zion Canyon Visitor Center (oversized spots—arrive early)
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Paid parking lots along Zion Park Blvd (some can accommodate Class C RVs and small trailers)
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Private RV parks with shuttle access
Some travelers opt to stay at Gateway RV Resort, just minutes outside Springdale. This eliminates the stress of circling for a spot, and you’ll have easy access to both the park and town amenities.
RV Campgrounds Near Zion (Outside the Park)
If you can’t get a reservation inside Zion—or you simply want more amenities—there are several great RV-friendly campgrounds just outside the park entrance.
Gateway RV Resort (Recommended)
Located in Hurricane, UT (about 25 minutes from Zion), Gateway offers:
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Full hookups
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Spacious concrete pads
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Resort-style amenities including pool, hot tub, showers, and laundry
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Easy drive to Springdale and Zion shuttle stops
It’s the ideal base for exploring the region without the tight roads and parking limitations of Springdale.
Zion Canyon Campground & RV Resort (Springdale)
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Full hookups
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Walkable to town shops and park shuttle
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Tight sites but unbeatable location
Hi-Road Campground (East of Zion)
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Convenient for travelers coming from Kanab or Bryce Canyon
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Offers access to the east entrance of Zion
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Great for a quieter alternative route
What About Boondocking?
Dispersed camping near Zion is limited due to high demand and land restrictions, but a few areas exist:
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Smithsonian Butte Road (BLM land) – free sites with amazing views but rough roads; not suitable for large Class A rigs
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Kolob Terrace Road – some roadside pull-offs allowed, but verify signage before setting up
If you’re boondocking, come fully self-contained and prepared to leave no trace. These spots fill quickly and aren’t for beginner RVers.
Planning Your Zion RV Parking Strategy
Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
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Reserve your campground early. Inside the park is ideal, but nearby resorts offer more comfort and flexibility.
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Arrive early for day-use parking. Especially if you’re counting on a visitor center spot.
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Avoid oversized RVs in downtown Springdale. Navigate with caution and scout ahead if possible.
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Use the Springdale Shuttle. It makes exploring Zion without your rig a breeze.
Ready to Roll?
Parking an RV at Zion takes a bit of planning, but once you’ve figured it out, the payoff is huge: jaw-dropping views, epic hiking trails, and the kind of peace only found in places like this. Whether you choose to stay inside the park or opt for the comfort of a nearby RV resort, the important thing is to go in prepared.
Need help choosing the best month to visit Zion National Park in an RV, with weather breakdowns, crowd levels, and tips for making the most of every season.
