Basecamp Zion: Choosing the Right Town for Your Adventure
Zion National Park is a wildly popular destination, famous for its breathtaking canyon views and incredible hiking. That popularity, however, means you need to plan carefully when it comes to finding a place to stay.
This article will help you choose the best town near Zion National Park for your needs. We’ll explore the towns closest to the park, giving you insights into what makes each one unique and how suitable it is for different types of travelers.
When choosing your basecamp, you’ll want to consider a few key factors: how close it is to the park, what amenities are available, your budget, and your overall travel style. Let’s explore some of the best options!
Accommodation Options Inside Zion National Park
If you want to stay inside the park, you have a few options.
- Zion Lodge: This is the only hotel inside the park. It offers the most convenient access to trails and amenities, but it’s also the most expensive. Reservations open 13 months in advance and fill up fast.
- Campgrounds: Zion has three campgrounds. Watchman Campground requires reservations months in advance. South Campground is bookable a few weeks out. Lava Point Campground, which is only open from May to September, is first-come, first-served.
- Campervan rentals: Renting a campervan is an option for staying inside or outside the park.
Springdale: The Closest and Most Convenient
If you want to be as close to Zion National Park as possible, Springdale is the town for you. It sits right outside the park’s entrance, offering unparalleled convenience.
Because of its location, Springdale has a ton of amenities for visitors. You’ll find hotels, restaurants, and shops, plus convenient shuttle access right into the park. Some popular hotels include the Zion Lodge (located inside the park!), the Cable Mountain Lodge, and the Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton.
The downside? Springdale’s popularity means higher prices and bigger crowds, especially during peak season. If you’re looking for something a little quieter and more budget-friendly, you might consider some other towns further away.
Rockville and Virgin: Affordable Alternatives with Charm
If you’re looking for somewhere a little less touristy and a bit more affordable, the towns of Rockville and Virgin might be just the ticket. Both are smaller than Springdale and offer a quieter, more laid-back vibe.
Rockville: Quaint and Close
Rockville is the closest town to Zion National Park after Springdale. It’s only about 5 miles from Zion’s south entrance. While you’re there, be sure to check out the historic Grafton ghost town nearby.
Rockville has a few hotels, plus some vacation rentals and bed and breakfasts.
Virgin: Scenic and Slightly Further
Located about a 20-minute drive from Springdale, the town of Virgin offers stunning scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. The Virgin River runs through the town, and the surrounding landscape is characterized by red rock cliffs and mesas.
Like Rockville, Virgin offers a mix of hotels, vacation rentals, and smaller inns.
La Verkin and Hurricane: Budget-Friendly Options with Amenities
If you want to save some money without sacrificing access to amenities, consider staying in La Verkin or Hurricane.
La Verkin: A Growing Town with Affordable Stays
La Verkin is about 20 miles from Zion’s south entrance. It’s growing in popularity, and more services and amenities are popping up all the time. You can find some great deals on hotels and vacation rentals in La Verkin.
Hurricane: Close to Quail Creek and Sand Hollow Reservoirs
Just a couple of miles south of La Verkin is Hurricane, Utah. Hurricane is a popular spot because it’s close to outdoor recreation areas like Quail Creek and Sand Hollow Reservoirs. As in La Verkin, you’ll be able to find a variety of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals in Hurricane, Utah.
St. George: More City, More Options, More Driving
If you’re looking for something bigger than a small town, St. George might be a good choice. It has a wider variety of restaurants, shopping, and services than you’ll find closer to Zion.
Keep in mind, though, that St. George is about 40 miles from Zion’s south entrance, so you’ll have a bit of a drive each day. On the other hand, it’s also close to the Kolob Canyons section of Zion, which is about 35 miles north of St. George.
You’ll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals in St. George, from budget-friendly options to more luxurious resorts.
Orderville, Mount Carmel Junction, and Glendale: Exploring the East Side
The towns of Orderville, Mount Carmel Junction, and Glendale offer a different perspective on Zion, one that’s a little quieter and more laid-back.
Orderville and Mount Carmel Junction: Gateway to the East Entrance
Located along US Route 89, Orderville is close to Zion’s east entrance (about 15 miles, or 25 miles to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center). Mount Carmel Junction is a bit closer to the park’s entrance.
In both Orderville and Mount Carmel Junction, you’ll find comfortable hotels and motels as well as vacation rentals that can serve as a home base for exploring Zion and the surrounding area.
Glendale: A Quieter Option
Glendale is north of Orderville, a little further from Zion. Expect a drive of 30 minutes to an hour to reach the park.
Like Orderville and Mount Carmel Junction, Glendale offers a range of lodging options, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of hiking and sightseeing.
Kanab: A hub for exploring southern Utah
If you want to make the most of a trip to southern Utah, Kanab can be the perfect home base. Nestled among red rock cliffs, Kanab offers easy access to multiple national parks and monuments.
Zion Canyon is just 40 miles to the west, while Bryce Canyon is about 75 miles north. You can also quickly reach the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, as well as attractions like Lake Powell and the scenic Highway 89A corridor.
Kanab has hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, offering a wider variety of accommodation options than you’ll find in Springdale or Orderville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the old town near Zion?
When people talk about the “old town” near Zion, they’re most likely referring to Springdale. It’s been a gateway community to Zion National Park for decades, evolving from a small agricultural settlement into a bustling tourist destination. It retains a charming, small-town feel while offering modern amenities.
What town should I stay in when visiting Zion National Park?
Springdale is the most convenient choice, offering immediate access to the park’s south entrance. However, if you’re looking for more budget-friendly options or a quieter experience, consider staying in Hurricane or St. George, though you’ll have a longer drive to the park.
What towns are closest to Zion National Park?
Springdale is the closest, literally bordering the park’s entrance. Rockville is also very close, just a few minutes’ drive west of Springdale. Hurricane and La Verkin are a bit further, but still within a reasonable driving distance (approximately 30-45 minutes) to Zion.
What town is at the base of Zion National Park?
Springdale sits right at the base of Zion National Park’s south entrance. From Springdale, you can easily walk, bike, or take the free shuttle into the park, making it the ideal location for exploring Zion’s iconic scenery.
Putting It All Together
The “best” town near Zion National Park really depends on what you want and need. Are you looking for a luxurious experience, or are you hoping to rough it in the great outdoors? Do you want to be right next to the park, or are you okay with a bit of a drive?
When you’re weighing your options, consider how close you want to be to the park, what you can afford, and what amenities you’d like to have nearby. Also, think about your travel style. Do you like to camp, stay in hotels, or rent a vacation home?
Keep in mind that accommodations near Zion fill up quickly, especially the most popular spots like Zion Lodge and Watchman Campground. Booking well in advance is essential.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Zion National Park adventure today!