I’ve Camped in National Parks Across the U.S. for 30+ Years—This Is the 1 Campground Everyone Should Visit

Key Points

• Watchman Campground has 184 sites near the Virgin River, with drinking water, flush toilets, and easy access to Zion Canyon.

• Riverfront sites offer added privacy and water views, while showers, laundry, and camping supplies are a short walk away.

• Fall brings cooler weather and colorful leaves, while winter offers fewer crowds but freezing nights and possible snow and ice.

The first time I stayed in Watchman Campground was through sheer luck. Despite it being the middle of the peak summer season, a last-minute cancellation allowed my dad and me to spend a night in Zion National Park . I spent our entire stay with my head on a swivel, amazed by the red-banded sandstone walls that soar above the campground, listening to the breeze in the cottonwood trees, and watching the powder-blue waters of the Virgin River flow by.

I've since stayed in Watchman Campground several more times, but no matter how often I come back, I still feel the same sense of wonder as I did during that first trip. Beyond the stunning scenery, it doesn't hurt that Watchman also has its fair share of "creature comforts," like drinking water, clean flush toilets, and dish-washing sinks—perks that any serious camper knows you can't take for granted.

True, just about every national park has a stellar campground or two. But if you ask me, there's something truly special about sleeping out under the stars surrounded by some of the most magical sights in the West, then waking up the next day to tackle iconic hikes like Angels Landing —and I've camped every year of my life. 

Here's what you need to know before planning a trip to Watchman Campground in Zion National Park.

Know Before You Go

My dad and I happened to get lucky and score a walk-in site during our first trip, but unless you want to roll the dice, you should book your site at Watchman Campground well in advance. This is one of the most popular campgrounds in the western U.S. (for good reason), and reservations fill up fast, particularly during the summer and fall.

If you're wondering which of Watchman's 184 sites to choose from, I'd highly recommend booking a site on the banks of the Virgin River. The flowing water adds a soothing soundtrack to your stay, and these sites tend to be slightly more private compared to the ones in the heart of the campground. 

Though Watchman Campground has flush toilets and running water, it does lack one particular amenity: showers. Don't worry, though. The campground is just a five-minute walk away from Zion Outfitter , which has paid, clean showers and even coin-operated laundry machines available for public use.

Zion Outfitter is also conveniently located right next to Happy Camper Market , a small grocery store that sells just about any camping essential you might have forgotten. Before you pick up firewood or s'mores supplies, though, check your campsite for signs on fire restrictions. Campfires are prohibited in Watchman Campground on particularly windy or dry days, and speaking from experience, the signage can be easy to miss unless you look for it.

Best Time to Go

Like most national parks, Zion is at its busiest during summer. From June through September (and beyond, really), the park is thronged with visitors looking to walk the submerged trails of The Narrows and complete the legendary trek to Angels Landing. Of course, it's also incredibly hot during this time of year, which is great for water activities on the Virgin River but poses more challenges for hikers on exposed, dry trails.

For a slightly less crowded, cooler experience, plan your trip during fall. I say "slightly" because there will still be plenty of other people out and about in the park, but that's nothing compared to the summer crowding. You can also enjoy leaf peeping and comfortable weather , with brisk nights perfect for campfires (if allowed, of course).

With that said, I've visited Zion National Park in all four seasons, and I'd recommend early or late winter if you have the right gear. You'll find far fewer people in the park and will generally have a much easier time booking a site at Watchman. 

Daytime temperatures are typically in the 50s and 60s, but by nighttime, those temps can plunge into the teens and 20s. So, pack lots of extra layers and your warmest sleeping system, especially since snow and ice are common sights during this time of year.

How to Get There

If you're flying in, the nearest commercial airport to Zion National Park is located in the town of St. George, Utah. From St. George Regional Airport (SGU), take Utah 7 East, then pick up Utah 9 East. This highway will bring you through the town of Springdale, the gateway to Zion's South Entrance. When you drive in, Watchman Campground will be to your right, next to the visitor center.

For those coming from Salt Lake City and other locations north of Zion, take I-15 South to Kolob Canyon Road. Or, take the scenic route via Utah 28 South, U.S. 89 South, and Utah 9 West to the East Entrance at the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. The highway winds past some seriously impressive views before depositing drivers right on the floor of Zion Canyon. From there, follow signs to the visitor center and Watchman Campground, which will both be to your left.

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