How much does camping cost at Watchman Campground?

Camping fees at Watchman Campground range from $35-$130/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Watchman Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Watchman Campground 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 Watchman Campground before I book?

Yes! Watchman Campground has 26 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 Watchman Campground?

Watchman Campground is open January 01 to December 31. 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 Watchman Campground?

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

Is there cell service at Watchman Campground?

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

How many campsites does Watchman Campground have?

Watchman Campground has 176 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Watchman Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Watchman Campground. 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 Watchman Campground?

Watchman Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Watchman Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Watchman Campground?

Fire policies at Watchman Campground: Campfires. Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings. If it is especially dry or windy, Zion may not allow campfires in the fire rings, either. The park will post any fire restrictions on the Current Conditions page. Campers are responsible for understanding current fire restrictions. Do not leave fires unattended. Extinguish them with water until they are cool to the touch. Wood gathering is prohibited in the park.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.57

1.3K reviews

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

Top 24% in UTFall

Scenic ViewsStargazingGreat Hiking

Featured in:Zion#1 Camping Near Zion National Park#1 Hiking Camping Utah +2 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,930 ft

Price

$35 - $130/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

176 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,930 ft

Price

$35 - $130/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

176 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Watchman Campground

$35.00 - $130.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP SITE MAX 15: $50.00; GROUP SITE MAX 25: $90.00; GROUP SITE MAX 40 : $130.00; RV ELECTRIC: $45.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $45.00; Standard...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$45.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$35.00

Group Site Fee$130.00

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 20 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

435-772-3837zion_watchman_campground@nps.gov

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Watchman Campground

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Campground Map

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

Watchman Campground

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

Nearby places

Springdale (0 miles, walking distance)

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 first right after the entrance station towards the Visitor Center. After passing the Visitor Center, you will enter Watchman Campground. Stop at campground kiosk 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 first right after the entrance station towards the Visitor Center. After passing the Visitor Center, you will enter Watchman Campground. Stop at campground kiosk 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 Watchman Campground and Visitor Center. Stop at campground kiosk 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 Watchman Campground and Visitor Center. Stop at campground kiosk for directions to your campsite.

Weather at Watchman Campground

Current alerts(10)

Don't Move Firewood : Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
Entrance fee: Zion National Park collects a separate park entrance. You may pay this fee upon arrival or purchase in advance. The park also honors valid America the Beautiful-the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands passes (also known as interagency passes, e.g.,…
Food and garbage must be stored properly at all times. Food should be stored inside a vehicle or a lockable hard sided container. Garbage should be secured in the same way or be disposed of in the receptacles provided in the campground.
Generators are not allowed in the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Watchman Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of mild daytime temperatures (typically 60–80°F), crisp nights (40s–50s), and dramatic cottonwood color along the Virgin River, making hiking and photography exceptional. Trails are in great condition, crowds thin compared with summer, and you can comfortably do long hikes, biking, and scenic drives without the intense desert heat. Weekends can still be busy, but weekdays in October–November feel uncrowded and ideal for exploring Zion's iconic features. Peak months: October, April, May, November Avoid: July, August

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in UT

Best conditions: mild days, cool nights, cottonwoods ablaze and fewer crowds.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Watchman Campground

Watchman Campground sits at the mouth of Zion Canyon in Springdale, Utah, with direct views of the Watchman peak and the Virgin River running nearby. Operated by the National Park Service, this very large campground serves as base camp for exploring Zion's famous slot canyons and high-country trails. Sites accommodate tents, RVs, and groups, with electric hookups and a dump station available.

Watchman Campground accommodates a variety of campers with its mix of tent-only, RV, and group sites.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of mild daytime temperatures (typically 60–80°F), crisp nights (40s–50s), and dramatic cottonwood color along the Virgin River, making hiking and photography exceptional. Trails are in great condition, crowds thin compared with summer, and you can comfortably do long hikes, biking, and scenic drives without the intense desert heat. Weekends can still be busy, but weekdays in October–November feel uncrowded and ideal for exploring Zion's iconic features. Peak months: October, April, May, November Avoid: July, August

Elevation3930 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryMassive sandstone cliffs rise directly from the campground, their layered faces shifting from crimson to amber as sunlight changes throughout the day. The Watchman peak dominates the western skyline. The Virgin River runs along the campground's edge, lined with cottonwood trees that turn brilliant gold in fall. At 3,930 feet elevation, the site occupies a relatively flat bench within the canyon, surrounded by the vertical geology that defines Zion. Vegetation is sparse in open areas. This is desert terrain. But cottonwood galleries provide pockets of shade where the river allows.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style accommodations within Watchman Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesRanger-led evening programs are held at the amphitheater.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Campers may stay up to 14 nights during a visit
totals may not exceed 14 nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 people per standard site. Group sites may accommodate up to 40 attendees.

Groups

Group sites can accommodate 7-40 people. Amenities include shared picnic tables and fire pits.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov starting six months in advance.

AccessibilityRestrooms feature accessible entrances. Paths within the campground are described as paved and easy to navigate.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating tents, RVs, and group campers. Some RV sites feature pull-through options.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are closely spaced, while others like F-Loop offer more seclusion. Vegetation and shade availability differ between sites.

Total Campsites176 campsites

Recommended SitesFor shade, choose sites in Loop F. For privacy, opt for Loop D sites. Riverside sites in Loop B provide scenic beauty.

Best CampsitesLoop F gets consistent praise for walk-in sites with shade structures and more seclusion. Loop A offers electric hookups and direct views of The Watchman. Site selection matters here. Spacing varies significantly, and many spots have little natural shade or vegetation between neighbors.

Need help booking Watchman Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There are no full-hookup campsites. Electric sites are all 30 amp, with only a handful of sites that supply 50 amp; a dump station with potable water is available at the entrance to the campground. Generators are not allowed in the campground.

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Watchman Campground offers direct access to trails, opportunities for photography, and proximity to the Virgin River. Activities include hiking, biking, and stargazing. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent deer sightings.

Hiking

Swimming

Biking

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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. Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings. If it is especially dry or windy, Zion may not allow campfires in the fire rings, either. The park will post any fire restrictions on the Current Conditions page. Campers are responsible for understanding current fire restrictions. Do not leave fires unattended. Extinguish them with water until they are cool to the touch. Wood gathering is prohibited in the park.

Trash & RecyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground. Recycling facilities are limited and located near the entrance.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is generally available. Verizon is noted to have reliable coverage.

Trip Planning Tools

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

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

1.3K reviews

Top-Rated

Watchman Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Watchman Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, location, and accessibility. Some campers noted challenges such as noise, lack of showers, and exposure to the sun.

Review Summaries

Based on 1347 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 1347 reviews.

D037Mentioned
D037 is described as lacking shade but close to facilities.
Site F012Issues noted
Site F012 is noted for privacy but has ant issues.
Site B048Issues noted
Site B048 had drainage problems.

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, proximity to the park's entrance and visitor center, and stunning views of the Watchman peak. Rangers are helpful and the site is well-maintained. The Virgin River provides a...

Based on 1347 reviews

Common Concerns

Lack of showers and laundry facilities. Some sites lack privacy and shade. Noise from neighboring campers and occasional maintenance issues (e.g., restrooms under repair).

Based on 1347 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring shade structures and extra water during summer. Opt for sites with natural shade when possible. Utilize off-site showers in Springdale. Reserve early for desirable sites.

Based on 1347 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter offers peaceful stays with fewer crowds but can be cold. Spring and fall are ideal with moderate weather. Summer brings heat and more visitors, making shaded sites desirable.

Based on 1347 reviews

Camper Quotes

"No bad views from this campsite." "Bathrooms were clean and the water was decent." "Bring a canopy to combat the heat." "It's hard to beat the location."

Based on 1347 reviews

Accessibility Features

Campground is well-laid out with paved paths. Restrooms feature accessible entrances. Limited reports from users with disabilities.

Based on 1347 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but limited to specific areas. The Pa'rus Trail is the only pet-friendly trail. Users appreciated the pet policy but noted restrictions on park access.

Based on 1347 reviews

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Go if

You want to stay inside Zion National Park with modern amenities and easy access to shuttle stops and canyon trails.

Skip if

You need shower facilities or prefer quiet, uncrowded camping away from high-traffic park entrances.

Nearby Campgrounds

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4.3

(868)

South Campground (Ut)

State Hwy 9, Springdale, UT 84767, USA

South Campground sits inside Zion National Park near Springdale, operated by the National Park Service at the base of towering Navajo sandstone cliffs. The large campground offers tent, RV, and group sites with flush toilets, a dump station, and direct access to the park's shuttle system and trailheads including the Watchman Trail. Mule deer frequent the grounds, and the Virgin River runs nearby for cooling off between hikes through red-rock canyons.