Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024
Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Rough It or Rest Easy: Campgrounds vs. Lodges
Zion is home to both rugged campgrounds and comfy lodges, so you'll need to decide whether you want to rough it or rest easy during your park visit. This choice impacts everything from nightly rates to amenities to proximity to Zion's attractions.
If you're eager to get an authentic camping experience, Zion has three main campgrounds to meet your needs. The Watchman Campground features shaded sites near the Visitor Center. South Campground offers access to the Pa'rus Trail. Lava Point Campground sits at nearly 8,000 feet elevation and is ideal for escaping the summer crowds.
I camped at Watchman last May and loved how convenient it was. We were steps from the shuttle stop, which whisked us to trailheads and the canyon. Sites have picnic tables, fire rings, and flush toilets. The only downsides were the lack of hookups and the early morning noise from other campers. But I was glad we roughed it instead of staying outside the park.
The Zion Lodge and nearby hotels, like Cliffrose Lodge or Cable Mountain Lodge, put you right inside the park and steps from trailheads. You'll pay more, but the trade-off is not needing to drive or take shuttles everywhere. The lodge has an on-site restaurant and gift shop too.
My parents opted for Cliffrose during their fall visit. They raved about the comfy beds, free breakfast, and lakefront setting. But they paid triple what I did at Watchman! If your priority is a good night's sleep after long days hiking, then a lodge makes sense.
I'd say choose a campground if you don't mind roughing it a bit to be immersed in nature. Plus you can save money for souvenirs or adventures. But splurge on a lodge if convenience and comfort are more your speed. Either way, you can't go wrong getting to wake up inside stunning Zion!
What else is in this post?
- Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Rough It or Rest Easy: Campgrounds vs. Lodges
- Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - The Perks of Proximity: Hotels Near the Park Entrance
- Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Tranquil Tents: Best Campsites for Solitude
- Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Luxe Glamping: Posh Canvas Accommodations
- Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Cabanas and Cottages: Quaint Lodging Options
- Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Adventure Bunkhouses: Hostels for Hikers
- Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Splurge-Worthy Suites: Luxury Stays with Views
- Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Vacation Rentals: Private Homes in Springdale
Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - The Perks of Proximity: Hotels Near the Park Entrance
The gateway town of Springdale offers prime lodging options just outside Zion’s south entrance. Staying at one of these hotels puts you within walking distance of the park, providing easy access without needing to battle canyon traffic. After a long day tackling Angels Landing or hiking The Narrows, you’ll appreciate ending up just a quick stroll back to your room.
The perks of proximity are plenty when staying at hotels near the park entrance. Forget about waiting for shuttles or wasting time driving in and out each day. You can come back to drop off gear or take a nap midday before heading back out on the trails. Grabbing lunch or coffee in town is a breeze too.
Springdale hotels also spare you from traveling Zion’s winding 6.2 mile Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This curvy road often experiences congestion from tourist traffic, especially in peak season. Opting for a lodge steps from the pedestrian entrance bypasses this headache entirely.
Cliffrose Lodge and Desert Pearl Inn are two excellent choices neighboring the park. Both offer well-appointed rooms with gorgeous canyon views, along with amenities like pools, restaurants, and free breakfast. Rates range from $200 to $300 in high season.
For a more budget-friendly stay, Canyon Ranch Motel and Terrace Brook Lodge have basic rooms starting around $100 nightly. Though spartan in decor, they provide clean, comfortable beds near cafes and outfitters. It’s like camping in a bed instead of a tent!
Pro traveler tip: Ask your front desk about early opening privileges with the Park Service. Some Springdale hotels can access the park before the masses arrive, letting you enjoy a serene morning hike. I did this when I stayed at Desert Pearl and beat the crowds ascending Angel’s Landing.
Recent guests of Cliffrose Lodge raved about the views and location in reviews. One said, “Waking up to sunrise over the canyon walls was magical. We were steps from the park entrance yet never heard any noise from our room.”
Another guest wrote, “I recovered from long days of hiking in total comfort at Cliffrose. We borrowed bikes from the front desk and rode to Zion outfitters and restaurants in minutes. The location right at the park entrance was so convenient.”
Proximity matters most to those with limited mobility. Hotels at the south entrance prevent the need for shuttles to view the iconic canyon. Guests can amble safely along the Pa’rus Trail and access the Visitor Center with ease.
Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Tranquil Tents: Best Campsites for Solitude
After tackling thrilling hikes and exploring the bustling main canyon, Zion's campgrounds deliver welcome solitude. Their remote settings ensure quietude for unwinding under the stars. Weary from crowds? Seek out these tranquil tent sites where peace and privacy reign.
For pure backcountry tranquility, the West Rim and Lava Point campgrounds can't be beat. Reaching them requires lengthy hikes or rough dirt roads, so crowds thin drastically. West Rim has just six primitive sites nestled among pine trees with panoramic vistas. At nearly 8,000 feet, Lava Point also offers a small number of sites with sweeping views.
A reader named James stayed at Lava Point last August and reported, "The remote campground location kept day visitors away. My site felt totally isolated even at full capacity. I enjoyed stunning sunset views in complete solitude."
Another quiet campground is Hop Valley, located on the Kolob Canyons side. This small, shady tent area sits four miles down a gravel road. A guest named Emily said, "Hop Valley was an oasis of calm compared to the main canyon. I felt I had the whole area to myself on weeknights.”
For car-campers seeking solitude, try the Watchman Campground’s outer B loop. It has larger unshaded sites set back from the main bustle. An October guest commented, "Site B35 was quiet with a spacious feel. Great for privacy and stargazing at night when crowds clear out."
Wherever you pitch your tent, avoid peak season if possible. Visitation drops over 50 percent during Zion's winter months. You'll gain backcountry access and enjoy a tranquil atmosphere. Just pack proper cold weather gear!
Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Luxe Glamping: Posh Canvas Accommodations
Forget roughing it in a dusty tent. Zion offers lavish glamping options that blend luxury with camping's connection to nature. You can drift off in a cloud-like bed under the stars while enjoying resort-worthy amenities. Luxe glamping provides a plush home base after exhilarating days tackling trails.
Under Canvas Zion provides safari-style tents decked out with cozy beds, stylish decor, and private bathrooms. The Deluxe Suite even boasts AC, chandeliers, and dreamy views from your king bed. Dine at the on-site restaurant, unwind by the fire pit, or gather supplies from the general store. It's like upscale camping without any setup hassle.
A recent visitor named Jennifer remarked, "My tent at Under Canvas felt straight out of Africa. Waking to canyon views from my cushy bed was incredible. The staff took such good care of us after long days hiking."
Zion Glamping Resort also pampers guests in spacious bell tents with real mattresses and relaxing porches. You can request breakfast delivery or book private canyon tours. Other amenities like stargazing equipment and firewood encourage connecting with nature.
Sam, who visited last May, said "My girlfriend isn't really a camper, but she adored glamping in total comfort at Zion Glamping Resort. Our tent was so homey and convenient as a basecamp for exploring Zion.”
For a touch of the southwest, visit Majestic View Lodge's teepee "village." These permanent structures with plush beds and electricity put you in walking distance of trails. Guests rave about the craft beer and signature pancakes served at the on-site Rockville Grill too. It's camping meets cabin!
Michael who stayed last fall said, "My son and I had a blast in the teepees at Majestic View Lodge. We borrowed their cruiser bikes to ride into the park each morning. And the teepees were kitted out with cozy beds, old western decor and even AC."
Glamping provides creature comforts while keeping you close to Zion's stunning wilderness. As Sam put it, "Roughing it in a tent wasn't for us, but we still wanted to experience the park setting. The amenities at our glamping resort let us enjoy the best of both worlds!"
Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Cabanas and Cottages: Quaint Lodging Options
Beyond tents and hotels, Zion has charming cabins and cottages that evoke the national park's pioneer past. These rustic yet comfortable abodes allow you to unwind after adventures in the canyon. Their cozy confines and Old West charm encourage relaxation amid Zion's natural splendor.
For a real western experience, book a wooden cabin at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. Nestled on 4,000 acres bordering Zion, these rustic lodgings let you live out your cowboy dreams. Saddle up at the stables or partake in line dancing before retiring to your log cabin with its plush beds and modern amenities. A guest named Abigail remarked, "Our family cabin made us feel like pioneers on a ranch yet had all the comforts of home. My kids adored the western activities too like horseback rides."
Red Rock Inn provides quaint cottages near the park's entrance with canyon views, fireplaces, and kitchenettes. Unwind on your porch swing before strolling to Springdale's eateries. Recent guest Julie said, "Our cottage at the Red Rock Inn felt so homey. We could easily walk to the park or cafes in town during the day then have a barbecue on our porch at night."
For a splash of Southwestern charm, Desert Thistle B&B's adobe casitas transport you to Santa Fe. Handcrafted woodwork, Saltillo tile floors, and kiva fireplaces exude regional style within the park. Their location next to Desert Pearl Inn grants easy canyon access too. As Amanda who visited last fall described it, "Our casita at Desert Thistle made me feel like I'd escaped to the American Southwest. The adobe architecture created such a tranquil vibe."
Travelers seeking solitude appreciate Zion Mountain Ranch's remote setting near Kolob Canyons. Their cottage accommodations blend into the natural landscape with private patios overlooking mountains and canyons. Guest Luis remarked, "Waking up to panoramic views from our cottage's porch was incredible. We felt immersed in the scenic splendor of Zion's high country."
Creekside Cottages blend homey vibes with proximity to Zion's attractions. These cabins snuggled along the Virgin River are just a mile from the park. You can play lawn games on site or stroll into town for dinner. As summarized by a recent visitor, "Our family of five fit comfortably in our Creekside cottage. We loved the location near shops and trailheads and all the on-site amenities like the fire pit."
Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Adventure Bunkhouses: Hostels for Hikers
For budget travelers and solo adventurers, Zion's adventure bunkhouses provide affordable lodging ideal for the park's active lifestyle. These hostel-style accommodations give hikers a place to swap trail stories and refuel between adventures in the wilderness. If you don't mind sacrificing some privacy for camaraderie, staying at a bunkhouse grants both convenience and cost savings.
The appropriately named Zion Guru Hostel caters directly to hikers and backpackers. Guests gather in the outdoor kitchen for cookouts under the stars or chill in one of the hammocks overlooking the canyon. The vibe is relaxed and social, making it easy to meet fellow adventurers. They offer both shared and private rooms starting at just $30 per night.
Recent guest Nathan commented, "As a solo traveler, I loved staying at Zion Guru and meeting cool people from around the world at the nightly bonfires. Sharing hiking tips and swapping stories made for an unforgettable stay."
The Bunk House at Zion sits right outside the massive Court of the Patriarchs rock formation. After scaling Angels Landing or hiking The Narrows, you can kick back in one of their social spaces and high five your bunkmates. Amenities like laundry facilities and a shared kitchen help you recover between adventures.
Marie who visited last spring remarked, "The Bunk House had just the right vibe for weary hikers looking to connect after epic days on the trails. I stayed in an 8-bed female dorm and befriended awesome girls from five different countries!"
For unparalleled access to The Narrows and Emerald Pools, you can't beat Zion Adventure Company. Their bunk-bed filled rooms provide prime trail proximity at a fraction of hotel rates. Onsite guides lead canyoneering excursions while the living room offers the perfect hangout for planning your next foray into Zion's wilderness.
As Gabriel who stayed last summer described it, "After splashing up The Narrows with my new friends from the hostel, we'd crack open beers in the living room and chat late into the night about the next day's adventure. Zion Adventure Company was like summer camp for grown-up hikers!"
Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Splurge-Worthy Suites: Luxury Stays with Views
After backpacking Zion's trails, you deserve to spoil yourself with a splurge-worthy suite boasting jaw-dropping canyon views. While not cheap, these luxurious lodgings let you unwind in total comfort after tackling challenging hikes. Weary muscles will appreciate rain showers and cloud-like beds as you gaze out at striking rock walls from your private patio or balcony.
The Cliffrose Lodge sets the standard for indulgence with rooms showcasing floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Virgin River. Sink into your pillowtop mattress after soaking in the jetted tub or curl up by your gas fireplace. The property's lush grounds encourage relaxation with water features and zen gardens. What's more, complimentary cruiser bikes let you pedal to eateries or the park entrance with ease.
A recent guest named Amy raved, "The furnishings and amenities made me feel like royalty after exhausting days hiking Observation Point and Angels Landing. Gazing out my panoramic window with a glass of wine was the perfect way to unwind."
For rustically elegant accommodations, Cable Mountain Lodge's deluxe king rooms spoil you with handcrafted furniture, rainfall showers, and private patios facing the Watchman. Dine on Southwestern cuisine at the on-site restaurant before indulging in a massage at the spa. The property grants exclusive early access to the canyon too, so you can beat crowds on iconic trails.
Gabriel who visited last fall said, "Cable Mountain Lodge was well worth the splurge. The exquisitely decorated room, top-notch service and privileged park access exceeded my expectations. Watching the setting sun paint the cliffs pink from my patio was pure magic."
The Majestic View Lodge boasts suites with some of the park’s most jaw-dropping vistas, including the Court of the Patriarchs and the Great White Throne. Oversized jetted tubs, imported Italian linens, and slate gas fireplaces encourage luxuriating after full days exploring Zion. For sunrise and sunset, head up to the inn's Lookout Point with views rivaling Angels Landing.
A recent guest named Ryan commented, "I've stayed in 5-star hotels around the world, but none compare to watching the desert bloom from a bubble bath in my Majestic View Suite. This special property combines luxury, vistas and hospitality for an experience I'll never forget."
Of course, the flagship Zion Lodge provides historic cabins with pioneer charm and canyon views. While cozy rather than opulent, lakeside cottages grant close proximity to trails like Emerald Pools. Kick back after adventures in your quaintly furnished quarters or rocking chairs perched atop the red cliffs.
Michael who stayed last May said, "No television or modern frills, yet our rustic Zion Lodge cabin had everything we needed. We preferred chatting on the porch amid stunning scenery to in-room entertainment anyway. The prime location made this humble historic property feel like an indulgence."
Pitch a Tent or Book a Room: The Top 10 Places to Stay in Zion National Park in 2024 - Vacation Rentals: Private Homes in Springdale
Beyond hotels and campgrounds, vacation rentals provide a cozy home-away-from-home right in Springdale. These private residences range from quaint cottages to sprawling luxury estates. Opting for a whole house rental allows families and groups to spread out with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and ample living space. After cramming into a hotel room, you’ll appreciate the privacy to unwind amid Zion’s splendor.
Abundant amenities set vacation rentals apart from other lodging options. Many boast backyard fire pits, hot tubs, and BBQ grills that encourage relaxing after adventures. Feel at home whipping up meals in fully stocked kitchens. Entertain the whole gang in spacious living rooms with games, books, and cable TVs.
Having your own house also provides flexibility to come and go as you please. No more tiptoeing down hotel hallways late at night or rushing to make breakfast before checkout. You can sleep in, lounge by the pool, then hit trailheads at your leisure. There are no noisy neighbors either – just your crew beneath one roof.
Recent guests rave about the gorgeous views from many Springdale vacation rentals too. Properties like Coucou Cabin and Desert Pearl Mansion offer elevated patios with outdoor seating to admire the glowing canyon as the sun dips behind crimson cliffs. Imagine sipping your morning coffee enveloped by the breathtaking scenery.
Of course, proximity matters when choosing a vacation rental. Opt for a place within walking distance of shuttles and the park entrance, like Zion View Paradise. This grants easy access to trails without battling traffic or hunting for parking. Being able to pop back midday to regroup is a huge perk.
Travelers also appreciate the cost savings versus multiple hotel rooms, especially for large groups. As Brittney from Coucou Cabin put it, “Splitting the price of this gorgeous 5 bedroom house among 3 couples was way cheaper than us each booking a hotel. And we got a hot tub, grill, and stunning views too!”
Meanwhile, Nina who stayed at Cliff View Lodge said, “Our family of 7 would’ve needed 3 hotel rooms, but this stunning 5 bedroom vacation home let us all stay together. We saved money and enjoyed home cooked meals on the back patio.”
Of course, the downside is you won’t have hotel perks like daily cleaning service or room service. But most guests report the added amenities and space outweigh minor conveniences.
As Katie from Desert Pearl Mansion summed it up, “Staying in this amazing mansion felt like I’d rented a luxury resort all to myself! Having a gourmet kitchen, home theater, and private pool let my whole extended family enjoy quality time together. Much better than cramming into separate hotel rooms.”