Roam Glade Editorial · Updated November 2026
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Zion has a wide choice of nature stays, from canvas safari tents on open desert to cabins under ponderosa pines. Where you stay changes your trip: Springdale puts you on the shuttle line, while Virgin and East Zion are quieter and darker at night.
Below we cover where to base yourself, the kinds of nature stays available and how to book.
Where to Base Yourself
Springdale
The gateway town at the South Entrance, with hotels, lodges and restaurants. The free town shuttle connects to the park, and the Pa'rus Trail starts a short walk from the entrance.
Virgin and La Verkin
About 15–20 minutes west of Springdale on Highway 9. Wide desert views and most of the area's large glamping sites. Cheaper than Springdale but you'll drive into the park.
East Zion and Mount Carmel
Higher, cooler and greener, on the east side of the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel. Cabins and ranch-style resorts close to the Canyon Overlook Trail; a long drive to the main canyon shuttle.
Types of Nature Stays
Glamping tents and safari tents
Large canvas tents with real beds, wood stoves and private decks are the most common nature stay around Zion. The biggest sites are in Virgin, off Highway 9 and Kolob Terrace Road. Under Canvas Zion, for example, is a large safari-tent camp on open desert near Virgin. Most close or run reduced seasons in winter.
Covered wagons and tiny cabins
A few resorts near Virgin offer Conestoga-style covered wagons and small cabins, such as Zion Wildflower. They suit families who want a camping feel with beds and electricity.
Cabins and lodges
Zion Lodge is the only lodging inside Zion Canyon, with Western-style cabins. In East Zion, ranch resorts rent cabins and cottages among ponderosa pines. In Springdale, several lodges have rooms with direct canyon views.
Campgrounds
The park's Watchman and South campgrounds sit by the Virgin River near the Visitor Center. Sites are released on Recreation.gov and go quickly in spring and autumn.
Booking Tips
- Spring and autumn are peak season; book glamping and in-park lodging three to six months ahead.
- Summer nights in a tent are warm and days are very hot; look for tents with fans or swamp coolers if you're visiting June to August.
- Check the cancellation policy: thunderstorms and flash-flood closures happen in late summer.
- If you stay outside Springdale, park at the Visitor Center early or use the Springdale shuttle stops.
Search for a stay
Questions People Ask
Where is the best place to stay for Zion?
Springdale, right outside the South Entrance, is the most convenient: the free Springdale shuttle takes you to the park, so you can leave the car. Virgin and East Zion are quieter and better for glamping and cabins.
Can you stay inside Zion National Park?
Yes. Zion Lodge has rooms and cabins in Zion Canyon, and the Watchman and South campgrounds are near the South Entrance. All book up months ahead; campground reservations are made through Recreation.gov.