Watchman Campground

About

Watchman Campground occupies the mouth of Zion Canyon beside the Virgin River, surrounded by red and orange sandstone cliffs that catch sunrise and sunset light. The campground's 184 sites span several loops: A and B loops provide 30-amp electric hookups suitable for RVs or tents; C and D loops are non-electric with a 19-foot vehicle limit; E-loop holds group tent sites for 7 to 40 people; and F-loop offers walk-to tent sites under pergola shade structures. All sites include a picnic table, fire ring, and parking. The campground serves as a base for exploring Zion Canyon via the mandatory shuttle system, which stops at the nearby visitor center from approximately March through November. Hikers can walk directly to three trailheads: the moderate Watchman Trail ascending the peak behind camp, the short Archeology Trail, and the paved Pa'rus Trail, which is the only trail in the park allowing dogs and bicycles. Facilities include flush toilets, potable water, a dump station, and trash collection. No showers or laundry exist on site, but both are available in Springdale. Generators are prohibited. Campers should be aware that April and May bring tent caterpillar infestations, and July and August see elevated ant activity following monsoons. Toxic cyanobacteria in the Virgin River means campers should not submerge their heads or drink river water.

Directions

From the South Entrance of Zion National Park, take the first right after the entrance station toward the Visitor Center. After passing the Visitor Center, enter Watchman Campground and stop at the kiosk for site directions. From Interstate 15, take Exit 16 (from south) or Exit 27 (from north) to State Route 9 east through Springdale to the South Entrance.