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Where to Stay in Zion National Park

Where to Stay in Zion National Park

Zion National Park Southwest, USA Travel Guide

Lodging Spectrum

Hotels and Motels

  • Location

    Mainly in Springdale, Utah, just outside the park's south entrance.

  • Variety

    Options span from budget-friendly chains to more exclusive independent properties. Many include comforts like pools, hot tubs, and morning meals.

  • Access

    Numerous Springdale hotels are on the free Springdale Town Shuttle route, making park entrance simple.

Lodges

  • Zion Lodge

    The sole in-park lodging choice, offering hotel rooms, cabins, and suites.

  • Booking

    Very popular, reserved well in advance (often 12-18 months). Zion Lodge Official Website.

  • Camping

    Developed sites (Watchman, South) inside the park are reservable via Recreation.gov. Dispersed camping on BLM land outside park boundaries (e.g., Kolob Terrace Road) lacks amenities. Private campgrounds in Springdale often present more comforts, such as full RV hookups.

  • Rentals and Glamping

    Many houses and apartments are available via Airbnb and Vrbo in Springdale and neighboring towns. Glamping options, like Under Canvas Zion, blend camping with comfort outside the park.

Area Information

Each area near Zion National Park has a distinct atmosphere, comforts, and closeness to the park.

Springdale

Benefits
  • Near park access, shuttle route.
  • Many dining and shopping choices.
  • Generally secure.
  • Moderate noise levels.
Drawbacks
  • Can be busy and costly in peak season.
  • Parking might be limited.
  • No specific concerns other than crowded conditions.
  • No further specifics.

Inside Zion National Park

Benefits
  • Direct access to trails and nature.
  • Unbeatable location for early/late park visits.
  • Wonderful for stargazing.
  • Generally quiet.
Drawbacks
  • Hard to secure lodging.
  • Often more costly.
  • Fewer amenities.
  • No specific concerns other than booking difficulty.

Rockville / Virgin

Benefits
  • Quieter, rural setting.
  • More affordable lodging.
  • Peaceful atmosphere.
  • Very quiet.
Drawbacks
  • A drive to Springdale and park access.
  • Few dining/shopping options.
  • Car dependence.
  • No specific concerns other than travel time.

St. George

Benefits

Most affordable accommodation. Wide array of amenities, including medical services. Good for exploring the wider region. An hour's drive to Zion's south entrance.

Drawbacks

A significant daily drive to Zion. Less of a "park immersion" feel. Adds travel time to daily plans. Noise levels are typical for a larger city.

Booking Tactics

Advance booking is usually the best approach, especially during busy times.

Advance Booking Timelines

  • Peak Season (Spring, Summer, Fall): Book 6-12 months ahead for Zion Lodge and park campgrounds.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Book 3-6 months ahead.
  • Low Season (Winter, excluding holidays): Book 1-3 months ahead. Holidays like Christmas and New Year will be busier.
  • Walk-in rate negotiation is uncommon. Pre-booking usually has better rates.

Trusted Booking Platforms

Deposit and Cancellation Policies

Policies
  • These vary by property and booking platform.
  • Many accommodations need a deposit upon booking.
  • Review all terms prior to booking.
  • Specific point not covered.
Cancellation Terms
  • Most hold specific cancellation deadlines (e.g., 24-72 hours prior) for a full refund.
  • Specific point not covered.
  • Specific point not covered.

Seasonal Pricing

Peak Season

Prices are considerably higher during peak season and holidays. A premium price is to be expected.

Low Season

The lowest prices typically exist in winter, outside of major holidays. Travel during these periods offers cost savings.

General Information

Prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking early often yields better rates.

Accommodation Picks

Selecting the right place to stay makes a big difference.

Budget Options

Watchman Campground

Inside the park. If a reservation is secure, this has unbeatable value and proximity.

  • Basic amenities.
  • Advance booking useful.
  • Opportunities to meet other travelers.
  • Consider Hostelworld for options in larger nearby towns.
Local Motels and Private Campgrounds

In Springdale, these present more comforts than NPS sites at a fair cost.

Mid-Range Options

Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton

Has good amenities, pleasant grounds, and convenient closeness to the park entrance.

  • Booking.com link
  • A relaxing environment.
  • Comfortable stay.
  • No further specifics.
Holiday Inn Express Springdale

A dependable choice with standard chain hotel comforts and shuttle access.

  • IHG Hotels link
  • Familiar and comfortable.
  • Easy park access.
  • No further specifics.

Luxury Options

  • Zion Lodge

    For an immersive, in-park stay. Book far ahead. Official website.

  • Under Canvas Zion

    A glamping experience outside the park, with comfortable tents and a distinctive atmosphere. Undercanvas website.

  • Further Details

    Properties in Springdale with high-end comforts and views also present luxury experiences. Check Booking.com or Agoda for options.

  • Booking Advice

    Luxury choices are often reserved well in advance, especially during peak periods.

Traveler Specifics

  • Family-Friendly

    Many Springdale hotels present family rooms or suites. Vacation rentals offer a home-like setting with multiple bedrooms and kitchens. Campgrounds are a popular adventure choice.

  • Solo Traveler

    Watchman Campground is good for those on a budget and for meeting other hikers. Any Springdale hotel with simple access to the shuttle. Hostels in St. George are an option for a social atmosphere if the drive is acceptable.

  • Long-Stay

    Vacation rentals often present better value for longer stays, especially with kitchen facilities. Some hotels in Springdale may present weekly rates in the off-season. Consider TrustedHousesitters for house/pet sitting exchanges.

  • Historical Significance

    Zion Lodge, built in 1924, is a historic structure directly connecting to the park's early tourism legacy.

Accommodation Comparison

Camping Inside Park, NPS

Average Price: $20 - $50. Park access, budget-friendly. Limited amenities, very difficult to book.

  • Booking Platform: Recreation.gov
  • Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Advance planning is .
  • No further specifics.
Budget Hotel Springdale/Rockville

Average Price: $100 - $180. Affordable, some basic comforts. Basic in style, might not have much charm.

  • Booking Platform: Booking.com, Expedia, hotel websites.
  • Practical choice.
  • Offers fundamental needs.
  • No further specifics.

Additional Accommodation Types

Mid-Range Hotel Springdale

Average Price: $180 - $350. Good comforts, shuttle access. Can be busy, not always budget-friendly.

Luxury Hotel Springdale

Average Price: $350 - $600+. High-end comforts, views, service. High cost.

Vacation Rental Springdale/Rockville

Average Price: $200 - $500+. Privacy, kitchen, group-friendly. Variable quality, might include cleaning fees.