Lava Point Campground
4.2631 reviewsQuick Facts
7,890 ftPrice
$20 - $25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Typically open May t...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
7,890 ftPrice
$20 - $25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Typically open May t...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Lava Point Campground
$20.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Each individual campsite costs $25 per night during peak season (June through September 28). Reservations must be made through Recreation.gov....
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Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$25.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(435) 772-3256zion_fee_management@nps.gov
What Campers Say
4.26
Satisfactory
Based on 31 reviews
56 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanfriendlysites
"User reviews for Lava Point Campground highlight the serenity, scenic views, and the helpfulness of the camp host. Common praises include the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the beauty of the nearby overlook. Criticisms focus on the lack of water, limited privacy between sites, and the occasional presence of bees."
Fees & Passes at Lava Point Campground
$20 - $25/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay duration is limited to 14 nights per visit.
Cancellation: A $10 cancellation fee applies for cancellations made before the arrival date. For late cancellation...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Zion National Park website.
Best Time to Camp at Lava Point Campground
At nearly 8000 feet elevation, Lava Point offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat that dominates lower Zion Canyon. Summer days are pleasantly warm while nights can be surprisingly crisp, with temperature swings often exceeding 30°F between afternoon highs and pre-dawn lows. Pack layers even in July and August. Winter transforms this high-altitude retreat into an inaccessible wonderland, as heavy snows close the access road and blanket the landscape in pristine white from late fall through early spring.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: June 11, 2025 - September 28, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Typically open May through September, exact dates depend on snow clearance on Kolob Terrace Road. Closed October through April.
- Current Alerts: Weeping Rock Shuttle Bus Stop, Parking Area, and Trail Closed due to rockfall.
About Lava Point Campground
Perched at an impressive 7890 feet above sea level, Lava Point Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience in Zion National Park. This remote primitive campground rewards those who make the journey with some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the park, pristine night skies perfect for stargazing, and direct access to iconic trails including Barney's Trail and the legendary West Rim Trail. Here, far from the crowds of Zion Canyon below, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where wildlife roams freely and the silence is broken only by the whisper of wind through ancient pines.
Lava Point Campground offers primitive camping with six sites designated for tents. There are no RV-specific sites, group camping, or glamping options.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 8000 feet elevation, Lava Point offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat that dominates lower Zion Canyon. Summer days are pleasantly warm while nights can be surprisingly crisp, with temperature swings often exceeding 30°F between afternoon highs and pre-dawn lows. Pack layers even in July and August. Winter transforms this high-altitude retreat into an inaccessible wonderland, as heavy snows close the access road and blanket the landscape in pristine white from late fall through early spring.
ElevationRising to 7890 feet above sea level, this high-altitude sanctuary provides a dramatically different Zion experience. While visitors in the main canyon swelter in summer heat, campers at Lava Point enjoy cool mountain breezes and comfortable temperatures. The elevation brings its own rhythm to the seasons here, with wildflower meadows blooming later in summer and autumn colors arriving earlier, while winter snows typically close access from November through May.
Natural Features and SceneryA natural cathedral of towering ponderosa pines and quaking aspens creates an intimate forest setting, their canopy providing welcome shade and shelter from mountain winds. Just steps from your campsite, the renowned Lava Point Overlook unveils a breathtaking 360-degree panorama that stretches from the crimson temples of Zion Canyon to the distant blue ranges of the Colorado Plateau. On clear days, the view extends over 100 miles, encompassing a tapestry of canyons, mesas, and mountain peaks that defines the American Southwest.
Geological RegionSituated atop the Kolob Terrace in southern Utah's high country, this 7890-foot campground occupies a unique geological position where ancient lava flows meet sedimentary canyon country. The surrounding forest of ponderosa pines and trembling aspens thrives in this cooler, moister microclimate, creating an unexpected oasis that feels worlds away from the red rock desert below. This elevated plateau offers a rare perspective on Zion's geological story, where volcanic history intersects with the layered sandstone formations that have made the park famous.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited information about accessibility features; likely not fully accessible due to the primitive nature of the campground.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; some are described as large and flat, suitable for hammocks.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites is minimal as noted in user reviews.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 4 is noted as being spacious, flat, and shaded. Site 5 offers convenient access to the overlook and is described as quiet and scenic.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 noon MT
Check-out
11:00 AM MT
Stay Limit
Maximum stay duration is limited to 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 occupants per site, including children aged 24 months and older.
Groups
No group camping sites available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of six primitive sites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, and trash receptacle.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically open May through September, exact dates depend on snow clearance on Kolob Terrace Road. Closed October through April.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov or its reservation line at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability. Reservations are required at least 14 days in advance.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for cancellations made before the arrival date. For late cancellations (less than 1 day before check-in), the first night's recreation use fee is also forfeited.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to scenic trails such as Barney’s Trail, connecting to Lava Point Overlook and the West Rim Trail. Wildlife watching, stargazing, and visits to the Kolob Reservoir for fishing and water activities are popular activities for campers.
Hiking
Barney's Trail starts from the campground, providing access to Lava Point Overlook and the West Rim Trail. Campers mention the trails are scenic and suitable for leisurely walks or more extended hikes.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available nearby at Kolob Reservoir, located a few miles south of the campground.Boating
Water activities, including boating, are available at Kolob Reservoir, just a few miles away.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently report seeing mule deer, owls, and other wildlife around the campground.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during the winter months due to snow, and winter recreational opportunities are not noted.Water Sports
Water-based activities such as fishing and boating are available at Kolob Reservoir, but no specific water sports are detailed.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings and are subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Wood gathering is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Generator use is limited to 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife presence such as bees (reported as excessive at some campsites) and sharp hairpin turns on the access road.
Active alertsWeeping Rock Shuttle Bus Stop, Parking Area, and Trail Closed due to rockfall.
Weather at Lava Point Campground
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
Weather History
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Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Virgin, UT, approximately 25 miles away. Campers requiring emergency medical or law enforcement services should travel to Virgin.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 11, 2025 - September 28, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available at each campsite for proper waste disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is a few miles south of Kolob Reservoir, which offers opportunities for fishing and water recreation.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include the excessive presence of bees at some campsites, lack of running water, and isolated location making access to supplies challenging.
HostThe campground host, Guy, is frequently praised for being helpful, friendly, and providing useful tips.
Campground Map
Driving directionsLava Point Campground can be reached by taking the Kolob Terrace Rd. for 25 miles North of the town of Virgin, UT. Turn right on Lava Point Rd. and follow for a short distance to the signed campground entrance.
The campground is accessible via Kolob Terrace Road, which is 25 miles north of Virgin, UT. Vehicles longer than 19 feet are not permitted on the road due to sharp hairpin turns, which could present challenges for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Virgin, UT: 25 miles (45 minutes drive)
Springdale, UT: 1 hour 20 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies including groceries and fuel can be found in Virgin, UT, approximately 25 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
31 reviews
Lava Point Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lava Point Campground highlight the serenity, scenic views, and the helpfulness of the camp host. Common praises include the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the beauty of the nearby overlook. Criticisms focus on the lack of water, limited privacy between sites, and the occasional presence of bees.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
"The bathrooms were clean, campsites were simple and nice." "The campsite host, Guy, was friendly and knowledgeable." "Light pollution is practically non-existent, making it great for stargazing."...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"No running water on-site, so bring plenty of water." "Not a lot of space between campsites, reducing privacy." "Some reviewers mentioned a large number of bees at certain sites."
Based on 31 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water and provisions since there is no potable water on-site. Be prepared for the primitive setting. Visit the nearby Lava Point Overlook for stunning views.
Based on 31 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Most reviews praise the cooler temperatures during summer, while the campground is closed during the snowy winter months. Wildlife sightings and clear skies for stargazing are mentioned as highlights...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Nice place to camp, pretty awesome, so quiet." "The bathrooms were clean, campsites were simple and nice." "The campsite host was a highlight—friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful."
Based on 31 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 4 is described as "large, flat, and somewhat shaded." Site 5 is noted for its "convenient fireplace and partial shade." Site 3 was criticized for excessive bees, making outdoor dining...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews mention the accessibility features of the campground, but the primitive conditions suggest limited accessibility.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be restrained at all times. One reviewer noted that the camp host graciously helped watch their dog while they visited areas where pets were not permitted.
Based on 31 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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