Red Cliffs Campground to Zion National Park: A Scenic Journey

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Red Cliffs Campground to Zion National Park offers a picturesque 42-mile journey through Southern Utah’s stunning landscapes. This route takes travelers from the serene Red Cliffs Recreation Area to the majestic Zion National Park, showcasing diverse ecosystems and geological wonders. The trip typically takes 45-60 minutes, passing through scenic highways and small towns, providing an ideal prelude to the awe-inspiring vistas of Zion.

What is the Best Route from Red Cliffs Campground to Zion National Park?

red cliffs campground to zion national park
Image ‘File:Personnel, 1982- naturalist division. ; ZION Museum and Archives Image ZION 10554 ; ZION 10554 (2520a3c7b80744f58ebae0112950ada8).jpg’ by Jasper L. Crawford, licensed under Public domain

To reach Zion National Park from Red Cliffs Campground, follow these directions:

  1. Exit Red Cliffs Campground and turn left onto Old Highway 91.
  2. Travel north for about 2 miles.
  3. Merge onto Interstate 15 north and continue for approximately 20 miles.
  4. Take Exit 16 for UT-9 towards Hurricane/Zion National Park.
  5. Follow UT-9 east for about 20 miles to the Zion National Park entrance.

Total distance: 42 miles
Estimated travel time: 45-60 minutes (depending on traffic and road conditions)

What Should I Know About Red Cliffs Campground Reservations?

red cliffs campground to zion national park

Booking Process and Costs

  • Number of campsites: 11
  • Cost per night: $15 per site
  • Reservation required: Yes
  • Booking methods:
  • Online: Recreation.gov website
  • Phone: 1-877-444-6777
  • First-come, first-served camping: Not permitted
  • On-site payments: Not accepted

What is the Cancellation Policy?

Cancellations are managed through Recreation.gov. Refund eligibility depends on the timing of the cancellation. It’s advisable to check the specific policies on the Recreation.gov website before making a reservation.

What Amenities are Available at Red Cliffs Campground?

Red Cliffs Campground offers several amenities to enhance your camping experience:

  1. Restroom Facilities:
  2. Modern, accessible vault toilets

  3. Located between sites 5 and 7

  4. Picnic Areas:

  5. Individual picnic tables at each campsite

  6. Additional picnic areas within the recreation area

  7. Water Sources:

  8. Potable water available at the campground

What Hiking Trails Can I Access from Red Cliffs Campground?

Red Reef Trail

  • Location: Within Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, near the campground
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate, family-friendly
  • Features:
  • Follows Quail Creek into Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness
  • Rock tunnels
  • Water pools
  • Petroglyphs
  • Note: Includes a rope/climbing area near the end, which may be challenging for those with a fear of heights

Other Nearby Trails

  1. White Reef Trail:
  2. Accessible from White Reef Trailhead
  3. Suitable for horseback riding

  4. Connects to Prospector Trail and Church Rocks Trail

  5. Quail and Leeds Creek Trails:

  6. Follow creek paths
  7. Offer scenic hikes and mountain biking opportunities
  8. Part of the non-motorized trail system in Red Cliffs Recreation Area

What Attractions are Near Red Cliffs Campground?

Attraction Distance from Campground Entrance Fee Points of Interest
Zion National Park 42 miles $35 per vehicle (7-day pass) or National Park Pass Zion Canyon, Kolob Canyons, Emerald Pools, The Narrows, various hiking trails
Quail Creek State Park 10 miles Utah State Park fee applies Boating, fishing, scenic views
Snow Canyon State Park 20 miles Utah State Park fee applies Scenic drive, hiking trails, paved bike trail

How Does the Landscape Change from Red Cliffs to Zion?

The journey from Red Cliffs Campground to Zion National Park showcases a dramatic transformation in landscape:

  1. Red Cliffs Area:
  2. Characterized by red sandstone cliffs and desert vegetation

  3. Lower elevation with warmer temperatures

  4. Transition Zone:

  5. Gradual increase in elevation as you travel east

  6. Shift from desert scrub to pinyon-juniper woodlands

  7. Zion National Park:

  8. Dramatic increase in elevation (3,000 to 8,000 feet)
  9. Diverse ecosystems including riparian areas, hanging gardens, and coniferous forests
  10. Iconic sandstone cliffs and canyons

This diverse route offers travelers a comprehensive view of Southern Utah’s varied landscapes, from arid lowlands to lush high-elevation environments.

What Should I Pack for the Journey?

For the trip from Red Cliffs Campground to Zion National Park, consider packing:

  • Full tank of gas (limited services along the route)
  • Water and snacks
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
  • Camera for scenic views
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting
  • Light jacket (temperatures can vary with elevation changes)
  • National Park Pass or cash/card for entrance fees
  • Map or GPS device (cell service may be limited)

Are There Any Scenic Stops Along the Way?

While the entire route is scenic, consider these stops:

  1. Hurricane Valley Viewpoint:
  2. Located along UT-9

  3. Offers panoramic views of the Hurricane Valley and Pine Valley Mountains

  4. Toquerville Falls:

  5. Short detour off UT-9

  6. Scenic waterfall and swimming hole (4×4 vehicle recommended)

  7. Virgin River Gorge:

  8. Visible from I-15
  9. Dramatic canyon carved by the Virgin River

These stops can add 1-2 hours to your journey but provide unique perspectives of the region’s diverse landscapes.

References:
1. Zion Adventure Photog
2. U.S. National Park Service – Zion Maps
3. Recreation.gov – Red Cliffs Campground

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