Overview
For visitors to Zion National Park, Watchman Campground is an ideal place to stay. Located near the park's south entrance, the campground is just a short walk from the main visitor center, the Zion Canyon Shuttle System and the adjacent town of Springdale. The canyon and most of the park's trails are only accessible by shuttle bus from approximately March through November each year.
Great Facilities and Amenities
Bbq
(6 of 184 campsites have Bbq)
Campfire Allowed
(169 of 184 campsites have Campfire Allowed)
Checkin Time
(All campsites have Checkin Time)
Checkout Time
(All campsites have Checkout Time)
Driveway Entry
(Majority of the campsites have back in)
Firepit
(All campsites have Firepit)
Hike In Distance To Site
(Up to 404')
Max Num Of People
(Up to 20)
Max Num Of Vehicles
(Up to 8)
Pets Allowed
(All campsites have Pets Allowed)
Picnic Table
(All campsites have Picnic Table)
Shade
(88 of 184 campsites have Shade)
Site Access
(There are variety of Site Acceses. Such as hike in and drive in.)
Natural Features
Zion is known for it's dynamic geologic history and Watchman Campground is no exception. Named for the rocky peak that rises above it, the campground is surrounded by tall sandstone cliffs that glow red and orange during sunrise and sunset. The Virgin River, a narrow but powerful river that has carved out the canyon over time, runs adjacent to the campground. Cottonwood trees surrounding the campsite turn golden in the fall. Most of the campsites are in partial to full sun, however in the Group sites (E-Loop) and the Walk-To sites (F-Loop) visitors may receive some shade under pergulas that are constructed over the picnic tables. Visitors can also cool off in the cold river when temperatures peak during summer.
Be Advised: The months of April and May bring an unusual infestation of Tent Caterpillars, which fall from trees onto tents, tables, and unsuspecting campers and can make it quite uncomfortable to sit outside. The months of July and August in particular bring a higher concentration of ants in the campsites, which seem to come out especially after the monsoons, but are present all summer long. Insecticidal treatment by visitors is not permitted.
Recreation
Hikers can access three trails directly from the facility: the Watchman Trail, a moderate trail that ascends the peak behind the campground; the Archeology Trail, which offers a light hike to an archeological site nearby; and the Pa'rus Trail, a paved walking and biking trail that runs alongside the river, and the only trail in the park that allows dogs.
Although there are no rock climbing routes in the campground, many popular climbs are within a short shuttle bus ride into the main canyon.
Use of OHVs and ATVs is prohibited in Zion National Park.
Permitted Equipment
rv-Up to 99ft
tent-Up to 50ft
trailer-Up to 99ft
vehicle-Up to 99ft
5th wheel-Up to 99ft
camper van-Up to 99ft
pickup camper-Up to 99ft
pop up camper-Up to 99ft
Nearby Attractions
The town of Springdale has shopping, art galleries, restaurants, and a public library. Throughout the year, concerts, festivals, and parades are held in the town.