How much does camping cost at South Campground (Ut)?

Camping fees at South Campground (Ut) range from $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is South Campground (Ut) first-come first-served or reservation?

South Campground (Ut) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at South Campground (Ut) before I book?

Yes! South Campground (Ut) has 30 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit South Campground (Ut)?

South Campground (Ut) is open Peak season runs from March to October.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at South Campground (Ut)?

South Campground (Ut) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Is there cell service at South Campground (Ut)?

Cell phone service at South Campground (Ut) is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does South Campground (Ut) have?

South Campground (Ut) has 126 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at South Campground (Ut)?

Yes, pets are allowed at South Campground (Ut). Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at South Campground (Ut)?

South Campground (Ut) offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

South Campground (Ut)

Q: Can I have a campfire at South Campground (Ut)?

Fire policies at South Campground (Ut): Campfires are allowed only in designated rings, subject to restrictions during dry or windy conditions. Extinguish fires with water until cool to the touch.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.28

868 reviews

State Hwy 9, Springdale, UT 84767, USA

StargazingGreat Hiking

Featured in:Zion#2 Camping Near Zion National Park#2 Hiking Camping Utah

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,940 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

126 campsites

Season

South Campground is ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

South Campground (Ut) is a popular campground. Set up a free alert to catch cancellations.

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,940 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

126 campsites

Season

South Campground is ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

South Campground (Ut)

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Individual site reservations require a $10 service fee for modifications or cancellations. Group site cancellations less than 14 days before arrival...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

435-772-3256zion_south_campground@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.28

Satisfactory

Based on 868 reviews

523 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeaceful

Some mention

noise

"South Campground is praised for its convenient location near the Zion Visitor Center, shuttle system, and trails. However, many users highlight issues with privacy, outdated facilities, and occasional noise. Views of the surrounding mountains and proximity to the Virgin River are consistently appreciated."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

State Hwy 9, Springdale, UT 84767, USA

South Campground (Ut)

State Hwy 9, Springdale, UT 84767, USA

Nearby places

Springdale, UT (0.5 miles, approximately 10 minutes walking)

Hurricane, UT (18 miles, approximately 25 minutes driving)

St. George, UT (42 miles, approximately 45 minutes driving)

Kanab, UT (40 miles, approximately 50 minutes driving)

Nearby supplies

Grocery, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Springdale, UT (0.5 miles away). Local businesses include markets, gas stations, restaurants, and rental shops for outdoor equipment.

Driving directionsFrom 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 South Entrance of Zion. Take the second right after the entrance station. Stop at campground kiosk and speak with hosts to check-in and 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 second right after the entrance station. Stop at campground kiosk and speak with hosts to check-in and 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 South Campground. Stop at campground kiosk and speak with hosts to check-in and for directions to your campsite. 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 South Campground. Stop at campground kiosk and speak with hosts to check-in and for directions to your campsite.

The campground is easily accessible by major paved highways (State Route 9), but seasonal traffic congestion near Zion National Park's South Entrance and Springdale can cause delays. The roads to the campground are well-maintained, allowing vehicles of various sizes, including RVs, to reach the campsite without challenges.

Best Time to Camp at South Campground (Ut)

Fall delivers the best conditions. September and October bring daytime temps in the mid-60s to low-80s, fewer crowds than summer, and cottonwood color along the river in late October. Summer days push above 100°F, making early morning the only tolerable time for hiking. Spring is mild but busier. Expect strong winds year-round. The campground stays open through October. Mornings and evenings cool off even in warm months, so bring layers.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in UT

Sept–Oct bring best temps, fewer crowds and cottonwood color—cited as best season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season runs from March to October.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: South Campground is open from early March to the end of October each year.
Current Alerts: Current alert: Weeping Rock Shuttle Bus Stop, Parking Area, and Trail are closed due to rockfall. Additional non-emergency alerts available on Zion's website.

About South Campground (Ut)

South Campground sits at the heart of Zion National Park, a short walk from the visitor center and shuttle stop. The campground has 126 sites for tents, RVs, and groups, tucked among cottonwood groves along the Virgin River. Fees run $10 per night. Sites fill quickly, and while the location is hard to beat for trail access, expect minimal privacy and occasional road noise from the nearby highway.

South Campground caters to both tent and RV campers, with several group sites available. It is known for its scenic views and convenient proximity to Zion National Park's visitor center and shuttles.

Historical Significance

The Civilian Conservation Corps built the original campground infrastructure in 1935, including an amphitheater that still stands. Their Depression-era work laid the foundation for what's now one of the most-visited national park campgrounds in the country.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions. September and October bring daytime temps in the mid-60s to low-80s, fewer crowds than summer, and cottonwood color along the river in late October. Summer days push above 100°F, making early morning the only tolerable time for hiking. Spring is mild but busier. Expect strong winds year-round. The campground stays open through October. Mornings and evenings cool off even in warm months, so bring layers.

ElevationWhile specific elevation data awaits confirmation, campers can expect the gentle terrain and accessible layout that makes South Campground suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits at 3,940 feet elevation in Zion Canyon, where cottonwoods shade the Virgin River and red Kayenta Formation rocks rise into cream-colored Navajo Sandstone cliffs. The river runs through camp, offering a cooling spot on hot days. Many sites are open with partial sun, though cottonwoods provide some shade. Mule deer wander through at dawn and dusk. The canyon walls change color with the light, and strong winds funnel through the valley, especially at night.

Geological RegionSouth Campground sits at the intersection of geological time and human adventure, where the Virgin River continues its patient work of carving through layers of ancient seabed turned to stone. This moderately forested oasis within Zion Canyon tells a story written in rock—from cream-colored Navajo Sandstone to the deep reds of the Kayenta Formation. The cottonwood groves that shade the campground thrive in the same river corridor that has revealed two billion years of Earth's history. Here, beneath partially sunny skies and surrounded by some of the most dramatic canyon landscapes in North America, campers become part of an ongoing geological narrative that began long before the first humans gazed up at these magnificent cliffs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.

Check-out

Check-out is by 10:00 AM.

Stay Limit

Campers may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground, with a maximum of 14 nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No explicit guest limits mentioned for individual sites.

Groups

Four group sites are available, accommodating both tents and RVs. Specific capacity details for these sites are not provided in the source materials.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites spread across loops near the river. Many are pull-through but lack level tent pads. The ground is hard. Bring extra stakes or rock anchors for wind. Sites cluster close together with minimal spacing. Shade varies by location.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the mobile app.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available for first-come-first-served reservations, but securing them often requires arriving early, especially during peak season.

Cancellation PolicyIndividual site cancellation policies include a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations made less than 2 days prior. Group sites incur the same $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations less than 14 days prior.

AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not detailed in the available data, and there is no mention of ADA-compliant amenities or accommodations for visitors with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating tents, RVs, and group camping setups. Several spots are spacious and can fit larger setups, but others are noted to be smaller and more clustered.

PrivacyPrivacy is minimal at South Campground, as many sites are open and located close together. A few sites offer slightly more seclusion due to their location closer to the river or away from main roads.

Total Campsites126 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites near Pa’rus Trail for improved privacy and reduced noise. For shade, choose spots under remaining live trees. Site 29 is recommended for early morning sunshine.

Need help booking South Campground (Ut)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

South Campground offers easy access to a variety of outdoor activities in Zion National Park. Hiking is the most prominent activity, with trails accessible directly from the campground. Visitors can also enjoy cycling along the Pa'rus Trail, wildlife viewing, and river access.

Hiking

Climbing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include high winds at night, occasional flooding during rainstorms, and ants, yellowjackets, and tent caterpillars during certain months.

Active AlertsCurrent alert: Weeping Rock Shuttle Bus Stop, Parking Area, and Trail are closed due to rockfall. Additional non-emergency alerts available on Zion's website.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed only in designated rings, subject to restrictions during dry or windy conditions. Extinguish fires with water until cool to the touch.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are located at Springdale Health Clinic in Springdale, Utah, which is approximately 0.5 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. However, some users noted that trash bins are spaced far apart, and recycling options could be improved.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to the Virgin River with direct access points at certain campsites. River views and sounds enhance the camping experience.

Camp HostHosts are generally friendly and helpful but may be absent at times. Some reviewers noted issues with hosts managing reservations onsite.

Weather at South Campground (Ut)

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.3

868 reviews

Satisfactory

South Campground (Ut) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

South Campground is praised for its convenient location near the Zion Visitor Center, shuttle system, and trails. However, many users highlight issues with privacy, outdated facilities, and occasional noise. Views of the surrounding mountains and proximity to the Virgin River are consistently appreciated.

Review Summaries

Based on 868 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlight the campground's proximity to the visitor center, shuttle system, and popular trails like the Watchman Trail. Many describe the stunning views of Zion’s mountains and the peaceful...

Based on 868 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the outdated and poorly maintained restrooms, lack of onsite showers, and minimal privacy between campsites. Visitors have also noted issues with insects like ants and...

Based on 868 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend securing reservations early and choosing campsites closer to the river for better views and slightly more privacy. Bringing extra tent stakes and rock anchors is advised due to the...

Based on 868 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During the peak summer months, high temperatures and increased insect activity (like ants and yellowjackets) can be problematic. Conversely, spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures and...

Based on 868 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful views of the Watchman mountains and easy access to two trails." - Jessica Turney. "We stayed at campsite 18, and the tree provided some nice shade." - Paola Martin del Campo. "Flush...

Based on 868 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 69 and 79 are noted for their excellent views of the mountains and proximity to the river. Site 18 is praised for its shade, while site 117 is described as awkwardly located due to its proximity...

Based on 868 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not frequently mentioned in user reviews, suggesting limited accommodations for people with disabilities.

Based on 868 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is described as pet-friendly, but pets are restricted to specific areas like the Pa'rus Trail. Some reviewers caution against leaving pets unattended, as fines may apply.

Based on 868 reviews

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Nearby Campgrounds

S.R. 9, Springdale, UT, 84767, USA

Watchman Campground sits at Zion National Park's south entrance, less than a mile from the visitor center and shuttle system. With 176 sites spread across six loops, it accommodates tents, RVs (some with electric hookups), and groups. Sites run $35-$130 per night. Rangers maintain clean facilities year-round, and the Virgin River flows along the eastern edge of the campground.