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. 

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.

Zion National Park Entrance Fee

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.

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 five free entrance days the National Park Service offers annually.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

For a fun adventure check out Escape Campervans. These campervans have built in beds, kitchen area with refrigerators, and more. You can have them fully set up with kitchen supplies, bedding, and other fun extras. They are painted with epic designs you can't miss!

Escape Campervans has offices in Vancouver, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Denver, New York, and Orlando

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 bottle and 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. 

*This route requires driving through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Read about traveling through the tunnel above.

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. 

*This route requires driving through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Read about traveling through the tunnel above.

Zion Tours

Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon Tour UTV Adventure (Private) - Journey into slot canyon in a UTV that can tackle the sandy trails on a, off the beaten path location far from the crowds of Zion's most visited areas. Then take a short hike into the canyon where your guide will tell you all about the geology and history. Afterward, there is someoptional sandboarding fun.

Click here to learn more/Book your Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon Tour UTV Adventure.

The Narrows:Zion National Park Private Guided Hike - Explore the incredible Zion Narrows portion of Zion National Park on this private Day-Tour. Your guide will teach you about the geology, formation, and plants and animals that call this canyon home. This tour comes with:

• Lunch that includes a Charcuterie Board with cured meats, cheeses, pickled goods, nuts, crackers and spreads.
• Snacks/Bottled Water
• Trekking Poles/ Canyoning Boots with Neoprene Socks/ Waterfroof Backpack
• Watertight Bib Waders (October-May)

Click here to learn more/Book your Narrows:Zion National Park Private Guided Hike.

East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour - Have you ever wanted to try the hottest new craze of Canyoneering? I know I have! Here you go with a small group and begin with an off-road drive through the mountains, then go for a hike along the red rocks to reach the canyon. Then the fun really begins as you rappel down the canyon walls and explore this unique rock formation at your leisure. The best part is that you can feel safe doing this with a certified guide leading the way and provides Canyoneering Equipment.

Don't hesitate on this tour, as they typically sell out 50 days in advance!

Click here to learn more/Book your East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour.

Zion National Park- Angels Landing Guided Hike Permit Included - Do you want to hike one of the most iconic hikes in the National Park System? Have you tried but have been unable to get the Angels Landing permit? Perhaps you want an experienced guide to help you navigate logistics, manage safety, and provide insight into the natural and cultural history of the park. Maybe this is the tour just for you!

Click here to learn more/Book your Zion National Park - Angels Landing Guided Hike with Permit Included.

Where to stay when visiting Zion

Zion Lodge - Spend the night in the heart of the Zion Canyon giving you the easiest access to some of Zion's most popular trails! This review includes amenities, photos, and video of what it is like to stay in the lodge.

Zion Cabins- The cabins are located next to the Zion Lodge in the heart of the Zion Canyon. The review includes photos, video, and a list of amenities.

The majority of lodging outside of the park is located in Springdale or Virgin Utah.

Under Canvas Zion - Sleep under the stars in a glamping tent.

Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton  - 4-star hotel. Take advantage of a roundtrip airport shuttle, a grocery/convenience store, and a terrace at Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton. With a private beach, this hotel is the perfect place to soak up some sun.  In addition to a firepit and a garden, guests can connect to free in-room Wi-Fi.

Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites - Consider a stay at Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites and take advantage of a free breakfast buffet, laundry facilities, and a 24-hour health club. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. In addition to a 24-hour business center, guests can connect to free in-room Wi-Fi.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Zion - Consider a stay at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale and take advantage of free continental breakfast, a grocery/convenience store, and laundry facilities. Stay connected with free in-room Wi-Fi, and guests can find other amenities such as a gym and a 24-hour business center.

Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion - Take advantage of free breakfast, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour gym at Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park. Stay connected with free in-room Wi-Fi, and guests can find other amenities such as a 24-hour business center and a snack bar/deli.

Holiday Inn Express Springdale - look forward to a grocery/convenience store, a terrace, and shopping on site at Holiday Inn Express Springdale - Zion National Park Area, an IHG Hotel. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. In addition to a firepit and a garden, guests can connect to free in-room Wi-Fi.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Virgin Zion - free breakfast buffet, a grocery/convenience store, and a terrace at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Virgin Zion National Park. Active travelers can enjoy bicycling at this hotel. For some rest and relaxation, visit the hot tub. Free in-room Wi-Fi is available to all guests, along with dry cleaning/laundry services and a fireplace in the lobby.

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. 

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. 

Make sure to follow Park Ranger John on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok

Photos of the Watchman Campground