Utah / Washington County / Zion National Park

South Campground

Closed — Closed for the 2025 season for complete rehabilitation. The project includes upgrades to all campsites, drinking water systems, sewer infrastructure, stormwater drainage, bathrooms, and installation of new food storage boxes. Reopening date has not been announced.

About

South Campground holds the distinction of being Zion National Park's oldest campground, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps between the early 1930s and completed in spring 1935. Situated near the park's south entrance along the Virgin River, the campground features a moderately forested setting with cottonwood trees that turn golden in fall. Most campsites receive partial to full sun, and the cold river provides relief during hot summer months. The location is exceptionally convenient for park exploration. The Zion visitor center and shuttle system are within walking distance, and the adjacent town of Springdale offers restaurants, shops, equipment rentals, and other services. Three trails are accessible directly from the campground: the moderate Watchman Trail ascending the peak behind the campground, the Archeology Trail leading to an archeological site, and the Pa'rus Trail, a paved path alongside the river that is the only trail in Zion allowing dogs. The park's main canyon and popular rock climbing routes are a short shuttle ride away. The campground operates on a unique rolling reservation system, with sites bookable up to 14 days in advance. Visitors should be aware that tent caterpillars are prevalent in April and May, ants emerge particularly after summer monsoons in July and August, and yellowjackets appear in August and September. The Virgin River, though narrow, is a powerful force that carved out the canyon over millennia and remains a defining feature of the camping experience.

Directions

From I-15 south (Las Vegas area): Take Exit 16 towards Hurricane, follow SR-9 east through La Verkin and Springdale to park's south entrance. Take second right after entrance station. From I-15 north (Salt Lake City): Take Exit 27 towards Toquerville, turn left onto SR-9 to park. From east (Bryce Canyon, US-89): Follow SR-9 west through east entrance, continue 12 miles, turn left at South Campground sign. Check in at campground kiosk.

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