Zion National Park First Come First Serve Camping

Zion National Park’s first come, first serve camping options have significantly decreased in recent years. Most campgrounds now require reservations, with Lava Point Campground being the primary exception. This primitive campground offers 6 free sites from May to September, weather permitting. While South Campground no longer officially provides first come, first serve sites, campers may occasionally secure spots through cancellations. Understanding the limited availability and planning accordingly is crucial for those seeking spontaneous camping experiences in Zion.

Where Can I Find First Come First Serve Campsites in Zion National Park?

Lava Point Campground

• Location: Kolob Terrace Road, approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Zion’s south entrance
• Number of sites: 6 primitive campsites
• Availability: May through September, weather permitting
• Reservation system: None, strictly first come, first serve

South Campground

• Official first come, first serve sites: No longer available
• Potential for securing sites: Through cancellations only (not guaranteed)

What Amenities Are Available at First Come First Serve Campgrounds?

Lava Point Campground

• Pit toilets
• Trash cans
• No water or showers
• Cost: Free
• Vehicle restrictions: No vehicles over 19 feet allowed on access road

South Campground (if securing through cancellation)

• Flush toilets
• Running water
• Picnic tables
• Fire pits with grills
• Dump station
• Cost: $35 per night
• Generator use: Allowed 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• No hookups
• 14-day stay limit during peak season

When Is the Peak Season for Camping in Zion National Park?

• Mid-March through late November
• Campgrounds typically full during this period
• Reservations highly recommended

What Are the Wait Times for First Come First Serve Sites?

• Lava Point Campground: Sites fill quickly, no specific time provided
• South Campground: Any remaining spots usually claimed by 8:00 a.m. during peak season
• No guarantee of securing a spot
• May need to wait for cancellations

What Are the Camping Regulations in Zion National Park?

1. Group Size Limits:
2. Maximum 6 people per campsite

3. Maximum 2 vehicles per campsite

4. Fire Restrictions:

5. Fires allowed in designated fire pits only
6. Must ensure fire is completely extinguished before leaving unattended

7. Check current fire regulations before visit

8. Quiet Hours:

9. 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.

10. Pet Policy:

11. Pets allowed on leash (maximum 6 feet)
12. Permitted only on roads and Pa’rus Trail

How Can I Check Current Campsite Availability?

1. Online Resources:
2. Recreation.gov website

3. National Park Service website

4. Cancellation Alerts:

5. Set up alerts on Recreation.gov

6. Use services like Campflare for notifications

7. Contact Information:

8. Reservations: 877-444-6777 or www.recreation.gov
9. General inquiries: National Park Service website or Zion visitor center

What Are Some Tips for Securing a First Come First Serve Campsite in Zion?

1. Arrive Early:
2. Especially important during peak season

3. Consider arriving a day before your intended stay

4. Have a Backup Plan:

5. Research nearby campgrounds or dispersed camping options

6. Consider booking a cancellable reservation as a safety net

7. Be Flexible:

8. Weekdays typically have less competition than weekends

9. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (early spring or late fall)

10. Monitor Cancellations:

11. Check Recreation.gov regularly for last-minute openings

12. Use cancellation notification services

13. Explore Alternative Camping Options:

14. BLM land near the park
15. Private campgrounds in nearby towns

What Should I Pack for First Come First Serve Camping in Zion?

Essential Items:
– Tent and sleeping gear
– Water containers (especially for Lava Point)
– Food and cooking supplies
– First aid kit
– Map and compass
– Flashlight or headlamp
– Sun protection
– Warm layers (temperatures can drop at night)
– Trash bags (practice Leave No Trace principles)

How Can I Maximize My Chances of Getting a First Come First Serve Campsite?

1. Timing Strategies:
2. Arrive mid-week when possible

3. Target less popular months (e.g., early May or late September)

4. Networking:

5. Talk to departing campers about their plans

6. Check with park rangers for insider tips on availability

7. Be Prepared to Pivot:

8. Have a list of alternative camping locations outside the park

9. Consider dispersed camping on nearby public lands as a backup

10. Utilize Technology:

11. Use campsite tracking apps to monitor real-time availability

12. Set up alerts for cancellations at multiple campgrounds

13. Consider Split Stays:

14. Book a reservation for part of your trip and attempt first come, first serve for the rest

By understanding the limited first come, first serve options in Zion National Park and employing these strategies, campers can increase their chances of securing a spot. However, it’s crucial to remain flexible and have alternative plans in place, especially during peak seasons when competition for campsites is fierce.

References:
1. https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/all-about-camping-in-zion-national-park/
2. https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/campgrounds-in-zion.htm
3. https://nationalparkobsessed.com/camping-in-zion-national-park/