Zion National Park is one of our favorite national parks in the United States, with its surprisingly lush, green canyon alongside towering red rock walls, and the blue-green hues of the winding Virgin River. I have visited multiple times, mostly with family while growing up, and I joked to Alysha on our last trip that it was a VERY different experience from my previous visits, when I opted to read Harry Potter in the car rather than going on a hike.
For this exploration, we made every effort to examine Zion from every perspective – the hikes, scenic drives, and lodging options near Zion National Park. We spent an afternoon walking along the main strip in the town of Springdale, passing numerous hotels and bed and breakfast establishments along the way to help guide our research. While we have not stayed at each location on this list, we visited them and conducted research to determine which places are worth staying at, and which are not.
This guide to the finest places to lodge at Zion National Park will offer you a range of choices, whether you’re camping, you’re on a budget but want a hotel, or you’re seeking a worthwhile indulgence for your time in Zion.
Wild Poppy Bistro in Ladysmith
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Zion Geography Overview
If you’ve never been to Zion before, then you’re in for a genuine delight. This park not only has stunning geological rock formations and breathtaking canyon views, but the number of hikes and scenic drives within the boundaries of the park is impressive (and that doesn’t even include the areas just outside the park!).
Where is Zion National Park?
Zion National Park is situated in southwestern Utah, just 2.5 hours east of Las Vegas, Nevada, and 4 hours north of the Grand Canyon.
Depending on one`s point of origin, there are three different access points to the park. Most visitors opt to base themselves near the southern entrance, as it is close to Springdale and the central Zion National Park Visitor Center.
When visiting Berlin, emulate the local lifestyle. Namely, one should sample Currywurst – a delicious merger of sausage, chips, and ketchup seasoned with curry powder. Head to Witty’s Currywurst where organic and gluten free sausage options exist, and the chips are separately deep fried. Staff will happily change gloves to prepare your Currywurst, avoiding cross-contamination.
While we have come across exploring Grand Teton National Park, we had an opportunity to link with somebody who understands the park superior to we ever could – Scout Invie. Scout is a hiker and writer built in Jackson, Wyoming, and she was willing to share her undergo on the park’s innumerable trail systems and tips for the best times to head hiking in Grand Teton National Park.
Be cautious not to confuse the shuttle transporting visitors within the park with the one driving around Springdale. That shuttle transports guests from the town to the southern entrance of the park. Once you reach the park, you can board the Zion Canyon shuttle to travel along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
Overview of Places to Stay
While researching where to stay in Zion, you’ll likely opt between these three different areas.
- Within the Boundaries: If you wish to be nearby all the activities, you can spend the night inside the boundaries at either the Zion Lodge or one of the two rustic campground sites (the Watchman Campground or the South Campground). There are fewer options, and the Zion Lodge is going to be relatively pricey compared to alternatives outside the boundaries.
- Springdale: This charming town sits right outside the entrance to the boundaries (some hotels are within walking distance) and has plenty of hotels to choose from. This is a great option if the Zion Lodge is too costly (or fully booked) and you’re simply not interested in camping.
- East of the Area: Although the eastern entrance is further away from the main sights and attractions in Zion Canyon, there are some pretty cool rentals that offer a more secluded and rustic experience that is still within a workable distance.
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
As we mentioned earlier, there are numerous lodging options available both inside and near Zion National Park. From cozy bed and breakfasts and luxury resorts to vacation rentals and campsites, you’re sure to find an accommodation that fits your needs and budget.
Where to Stay Inside Zion National Park
We prefer staying inside national park boundaries and generally believe it provides a better experience overall. However, we`re normally open to camping. Remaining in lodges and hotels inside the park will likely be more costly than places just outside the borders, and the facilities typically have constrained capacity due to consistent high occupancy.
Spending the night inside the park is highly convenient if wanting to wake up early and beat the crowds to the shuttle or trails, specifically in Zion.
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If you lodge at the Zion Lodge, you’ll bypass the long shuttle waits altogether with your own designated stop. If you camp, you’ll be able to walk to the shuttle pickup point, which means you won’t have to deal with parking at the Visitor Center (which can be a nightmare, particularly after 9 am or so).
Regrettably, lodging selections within the park boundaries are limited to one inn and two campgrounds.
The Zion Lodge: The Only Hotel in the Park
As the sole lodging option within the park boundaries, the historically significant Zion Lodge stands out as one of the finest places to stay at Zion National Park. You truly cannot find a location more centrally positioned to the many attractions and trailheads, like Emerald Pools and Angels Landing, which are literally right on your doorstep.
Besides enjoying spectacular views of the 2,000-foot canyons from your accommodations or cabin, the lodge also provides numerous activities to keep you engaged. You can rent bicycles, join a horseback riding excursion, or take a brief walk to catch the Zion Canyon shuttle for a scenic tour of the park.
There is an on-site dining establishment and a small cafe, although it is worth venturing over to Springdale if you’re searching for more diverse culinary selections.
You’ll also be able to park within the Zion Canyon region, even during times when private vehicles are prohibited. There is a shuttle stop at Zion Lodge (2021 Note: you still need to reserve tickets in advance if you want to ride the shuttle), so you’ll be connected to all the interior stops without needing to worry about parking (plus you can walk to a couple of the trailheads for the best hikes in Zion).
They have rooms that are styled like hotel rooms as well as private cabins. I would definitely choose the cabins, which include a kitchen area with a microwave and small refrigerator, along with a fireplace and private porch.
Camping in Zion National Park
Not many would pass up the chance to see the night sky from Zion National Park. The national park has two camping areas within its boundaries. Both the South Campground and the Watchman Campground are located approximately 1⁄4 of a mile from the south entrance. Each site provides campers different experiences. Pitching a tent is the most cost-effective option for staying close to all the attractions if you want to be near everything the park offers.
Watchman Campground: THe Best Campground at Zion
Situated along the northern branch of the Virgin River between towering canyon cliffs, the Watchman Campground is the largest camping area (and in our view, the best) inside the park. There are over 190 campsites and facilities for recreational vehicles, all providing picnic tables and fire rings for campers` use. We stayed here and greatly enjoyed camping under the starry skies and being able to walk to the Visitor Center in the morning to catch the shuttle.
While there are flush toilets and sinks for washing up, there are no showers located on site. However, you can utilize the pay showers at Zion Outfitter, a 10-minute walk from the campground and just outside the park’s southern entrance (be certain to bring your National Park Pass or proof of payment to return in when you’re finished!).
Reservations can be made up to six months in advance for stays between March and November. Otherwise, spots are first come, first served.
South Campground
The South Campground is centrally situated near Route 9 – the main road navigating through the park. Consequently, noise levels can rise somewhat with vehicular traffic, although attempting to reserve a campsite near the riverbanks seeks a quieter setting. This location has 117 campsites but no RV hookups.
This campsite is only open from March to the end of November and is generally available on a first come, first serve basis. However, reservations are currently mandatory due to the COVID-19 pandemic and can be booked up to two weeks in advance.
Where to Stay in Springdale, Utah
If you can’t stay inside the park, then spending the night in the town of Springdale is your second best option. It’s located directly outside the south entrance and has different accommodation options for all types of travelers.
Hotels in Springdale that are Walkable to the Park Entrance
Remaining at one of these three motels within walking length to the park has its benefits. Not only will you be able to bypass the regularly excruciatingly long queues at the entrance, but you also won’t have to pay the additional fee for taking a vehicle ($35 vs. $20 for walk-ins).
On the other hand, lodgings of this type tend to be somewhat more expensive compared to locations further out in town.
The Cable Mountain Lodge: Best Overall Location + Hotel
Arguably the nicest 🏨 in Springdale, the Cable Mountain Lodge earns praise for its central location, top-tier amenities, and unbeatable scenic views. It also happens to be the closest 🏨 to the park’s entrance, which is great. You’ll still need to enter the park through the pedestrian entrance, which sometimes has a long line in its own right, but you won’t have to worry about parking or connecting with the Springdale Shuttle.
In addition to the beautiful rooms, this lodge has a swimming pool, spa, grocery store, brewery, coffee shop, and riverfront picnic and BBQ area. It’s also within walking distance to Zion Outfitters in case you want to rent cycling or hiking gear for exploring the Narrows.
The Cliffrose Springdale Hotel
The Cliffrose Springdale Hotel is situated just steps from the entrance to Zion National Park and features a botanical garden, a spa, and an on-site restaurant. The rooms are impeccably clean, with some boasting views of the river or canyons. It’s a five minute walk to the park entrance, and only a few minutes away from the plaza outside the Cable Mountain Lodge, which has a grocery store and coffee shop.
You can opt for standard hotel rooms of various configurations – two queens or a king – and suites, which are significantly more spacious. Some suites have a kitchen if you’re aiming to save money by cooking for yourself rather than eating out all the time – you can get groceries at Sol Marketplace in Springdale (but be prepared for relatively high prices – we’d recommend buying groceries before you arrive in Zion).
After a day of hiking or sightseeing, you can return to relax in the waterfall pool or swim in one of the two outdoor pools facing Zion’s iconic mountain landscapes.
Flanigan’s Inn
Flanigan’s Inn is a relaxed eco-resort situated only 1⁄4 of a mile from the park’s entrance with cozy rooms, suites, and villas for selection. While the stand alone villas are suitable for big groups or those seeking a bit of seclusion, many of the other lodgings are equally pleasant and even have balconies or patios overlooking the lush greenery and surrounding scenery.
The hotel’s on-site restaurant, the Spotted Dog Café, offers an indulgent selection of American dishes like seasoned trout, braised lamb shank, and pesto tossed pasta (although the menu lacks gluten free alternatives). It’s one of the higher rated dining establishments in the area if you’re seeking a hearty meal.
Hotels in Springdale That are Further Out
For travelers on a tighter budget, consider lodging just outside the park entrance in Springdale.
While you may not be able to walk directly to the park from these hotels, Springdale`s shuttle system makes it simple to travel back and forth between your lodging and Zion National Park. These accommodations are listed in sequential order based on distance from the national park.
Zion Canyon Bed & Breakfast
This lodging with a Southwestern motif spares no effort to ensure your stay is as cozy as possible. Free snacks, classic pinball machines, and massage chairs are available for use.
Breakfast is also absolutely outstanding. The owners take pride in employing locally sourced ingredients (like eggs and pecans that come straight from their garden) and will happily accommodate any dietary restrictions or sensitivities you may have.
Harvest House Bed & Breakfast
The Harvest House Inn is just a 0.5 mile from the park’s entrance and provides a more intimate experience in a smaller setting that won`t be found at some of the area`s bigger lodging establishments. They have four rooms in the house, each with private en-suite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and up-close perspectives of Zion straight from your window.
Outside, you’ll find a relaxing garden with a koi pond and a hot tub that you can use after a long day of exploring the canyons.
The Best Western PLUS
The Best Western PLUS is one of the best choices (which is something I don’t think I’ve ever said about a Best Western before) in Springdale if you’re looking for value.
This hotel has spacious modern rooms and good on-site facilities like an outdoor heated pool, gym, and complimentary breakfast. We enjoy that each room has a balcony or patio where you can unwind with a glass of wine while admiring the scenic views of the surrounding canyons.
Best of all, there is a shuttle stop directly in front of the hotel that transports you into town or straight to the park entrance.
Desert Pearl Inn
This historic boutique hotel has one of the best scenic views of West Temple, one of Zion’s remarkable rock structures. Numerous rooms offer direct outlooks towards those iconic sandstone cliffs, while others view the Virgin River.
The rooms here provide spaciousness and are equipped with all the conveniences likely to be required during exploring Zion, like a kitchenette including a microwave and mini-fridge enabling packing lunch picnics and saving funds. Additionally, private balconies furnished with Adirondack chairs, presenting an ideal spot to spend warm summer evenings recuperating from the day and plotting the next.
They also have suites, which are much larger and have a full kitchen with cooking appliances and a full-size refrigerator, plus a sofa bed that can accommodate up to four people. There is of course an outdoor pool (open in spring and summer) and hot tub (open year-round) as well.
When you`re prepared to enter the park, all you need to do is step outside the lobby doorway. A shuttle will collect you from there and transport you directly to the park.
The Bumbleberry Inn
Situated only 1 mile from Zion National Park`s entrance, the Bumbleberry Inn is a simple hotel with comfortable, tidy rooms that`s especially tranquil and restful. It`s positioned apart from the main road so you can enjoy serene natural sounds while resting and get up feeling recharged and prepared to start your day (after a delectable complimentary breakfast, too).
They provide complimentary shuttle transportation to the park as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub. Behind the hotel, you’ll even find a small agricultural operation with ponies, goats, ducks, and chickens!
The Red Rock Inn (Our Pick for our next visit)
If we were intending a trip to Zion and didn’t want to camp, this possibility would likely be our selection. This top-ranked bed and breakfast is a tasteful location to stay during your visit to Zion. Each of the eight cottages bursts with character like wood-paneled walls and Southwestern-styled woven floor coverings. It’s a pleasant change from some of the other places to stay, some of which are chain hotels needing renovation.
Free breakfast is offered at Oscar’s Café, an eccentric no-frills joint only 2-minutes from the Inn. Indulge in a breakfast wrap, omelette, or frosted french toast before catching the shuttle to the park entrance (note – they have gluten free choices, but it`s unclear how safe they are for those with Celiac disease). Additionally, the finest coffee in town – Deep Creek Coffee – is essentially across the street.
The Holiday Inn Express
Don’t be misled by the widely recognized brand name – this Holiday Inn Express feels more like a lodge than a business hotel. With dark wood and stone furnishings and outdoor firepits furnishing stunning canyon perspectives, you’ll get the cozy appeal of a small inn with all the facilities of a hotel.
In addition to the complimentary breakfast, you’ll also have access to physical fitness amenities, an outdoor swimming area, hot tub, and walking paths along the riverfront. As this hotel is over a mile from the park, you’ll need to take the shuttle to the main entrance (which is located just a short distance from the hotel).
LaFave Zion
If lavish resort accommodations with spacious rooms (really more like temporary residential properties than anything else), then look no further than LaFave Zion.
Here, the average unit is over 1,200 square feet (so in actuality, it’s really more like a villa) and equipped with a full kitchen, a washing machine and dryer, and a private outdoor deck or patio with a grill.
If you want to circumvent the hassle of cooking, you can walk to four diverse dining establishments near the property. And the complimentary park shuttle makes it simple for you to leave your automobile (and all your worries) at home.
Vacation Rentals in Springdale
If you’re searching for something spacious with the conveniences of home, then a vacation rental might be the perfect option for your stay in Zion. Sometimes it’s nice having your own kitchen to cook and space to spread out in, and thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives where you can do that in Springdale.
Vacation Rentals for Couples
In truth, there generally aren`t many studio and one bedroom holiday rental choices in Springdale, so a hotel – or among the charming inns above – might be your best selection here if you’re traveling alone or as a duo (however, if you have a group, there’s a bunch of great choices for you – see below).
The Historic Rose Cottage in Springdale, Utah
Sleeps 4
Experience the advantages of both nature and city dwelling with this conveniently located 2 bedroom cottage near Zion Park. You’ll be within walking distance to downtown Springdale for shops and restaurants and also near to the shuttle that transports you directly to the entrance of the park for an energizing day outside.
Every part of this home radiates warmth and charm – from the colorful artwork (made by the owner) to the potted plants and garden blooms decorating the property. There’s also a secluded outdoor patio where you can start your mornings with a cup of coffee while listening to the chirping birds or the hypnotic sounds of wind chimes.
GREAT LOCATION near Zion National Park Entrance
Sleeps 6
This modern apartment is situated literally across the street from the park’s entrance and comes with a free parking spot so you can ditch the car and explore Zion on foot. After you return back home, you can cook a meal in the spacious open kitchen or watch a movie while you relax in your plush master bedroom.
There’s one bedroom, but it has a king bed PLUS a queen bunk bed, which means you can comfortably sleep anywhere between two and six people.
An important bonus is the washing and drying machine, which is perfect for those staying in the city for more than a couple days. There are also many restaurants and shops nearby if you need anything during your stay.
If this rental is unavailable, the owners also rent out another apartment in the identical building. It also sleeps six and offers fantastic views of the canyons from each room.
Vacation Rentals for Groups/Families
Several quality vacation rentals in Springdale suit groups seeking more space without reserving multiple hotel rooms.
Springdale Townhome #1
Sleeps 6
This newly renovated townhouse offers generous space through its 1200 square foot layout, making it a suitable choice for groups or extended families staying near Zion National Park. The primary level showcases a dining area and chef`s kitchen, while the top floor accommodates both master suites.”
While the house is one mile from the park, there is a shuttle stop only 400 feet from the property. You can also walk into downtown Springdale if you want to browse shops, eateries, and cafes.
Central and Spacious 2 Bedroom in the heart of town!
Sleeps 6
This bright and distinctive rental has everything required for a comfortable stay in Springdale. It offers two sizable bedrooms and a shared bathroom with double sinks and a bathtub/shower combination. And the spacious open kitchen centers around a concrete island where you and your guests can enjoy breakfast or coffee before venturing out for the day.
Location-wise – this living space is within walking distance of restaurants and shops while also being just one mile from the entrance to the park.
Private Patio! 3 BDRM in the heart of Springdale
Sleeps 8
When not exploring the magnificent outdoors, you and your group will appreciate relaxing in this spacious 3-bedroom home in downtown Springdale. Cook a gourmet meal in the ample chef`s kitchen, watch a movie on the 62” TV in the living room, or unwind with a glass of wine on the 500-square foot deck outside.
The apartment also has free parking, although all the shops and restaurants are just right outside your doorstep. And that includes the park shuttle, so you won’t have to worry about driving!
Large Family Home Just Steps Away From The Entrance To Zion
Sleeps 10
With accommodations for four bedrooms, two common areas, and a generous grassy backyard with canyon views, this spacious villa is practically designed for family gatherings or vacations with companions. There’s plenty of space for all to have privacy while still having shared areas where everyone can convene (such as the 8-person dining room or the outdoor barbecue patio).
We love that guests can utilize the facilities over at the Cliffrose Lodge & Gardens. They have a pool, a business center, and complimentary coffee throughout the day.
Other Cool Places to Stay Near Zion National Park
While most visitors opt to base themselves in the park or in the adjacent town of Springdale, there are plenty of other worthy alternatives for lodging near Zion National Park for those exploring options.
Outside the East Entrance
There are two primary places we can propose if you wish to stay outside the east entrance of the park. Both the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort and the Zion Mountain Ranch are beautiful properties where you can indulge in a little relaxation and rest during your visit.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
Tucked away on a scenic 4000-acre property along the eastern border of Zion is the Zion Ponderosa Ranch. It’s just a 10-minute drive from the east entrance and approximately 40 minutes to the south entrance, so you aren’t too far from the main sights and trailheads.
The ranch offers several accommodation styles including cabins, glamping tents, and deluxe vacation rental homes. You can also spend the night in the rear of an antique Conestoga Wagon, arguably one of the coolest things we`ve seen!
There are also numerous exciting activities available without leaving the resort grounds. Options include paintball, mini-golf, zip-lining, and skeet shooting, just to name a few options available for guests.
Zion Mountain Ranch
For those seeking a peaceful stay in east Zion, check out the Zion Mountain Ranch. Situated just three minutes from the eastern entrance to the park surrounded by fields, prairies, and herds of meandering buffalo, this ranch is an excellent place to unwind from the busyness of daily life.
Stay either in a private cabin or lodge room, and savor farm-fresh meals at their on-site restaurant. When you’re not exploring the sites of Zion (the south entrance is just 30-minutes away), you can participate in the jeep tours, canyoneering trips, and horseback rides offered by the resort.
Outside of Springdale
While Springdale is located near the park`s entrance and contains many shops and restaurants, basing yourself a bit more remotely allows you to experience a more primitive part of the region that is often overlooked by many visitors. Most of these places are situated along the 21-mile scenic Kolob Terrace Road which leads up into the mountains and towards the park.
Under Canvas Zion
Under Canvas Zion provides a luxury camping experience in the center of a remote 196-acre space in the desert. There are numerous styles of tents scattered throughout the property, many which have their own private bath and wood-burning fireplaces.
The camp`s dining hall provides a continuously changing menu of regionally sourced meals, though visitors may also prepare their own barbecues at one of the grill areas or fire pits. While it`s more remote than other locations on this list, staying there allows one to experience the spectacular scenery of the desert landscape.
Wildflower Resort
With stunning canyon views from private glamping tents, bungalow rooms, or covered wagons, the Wildflower Resortstands out as one of the most unique places to stay along Kolob Terrace Road.
After returning from the park (the southern entrance is less than 20-minutes by vehicle), you can spend time by the fire or play a lawn game before cooking dinner on the barbecue. They also offer free bicycle rentals if you want to explore a bit more around the locality.
Secluded/Private 10 Acre Estate in & surrounded by Zion National Park
Located twenty-five-minutes from the southern entrance, this expansive five-bedroom lodge listed on a very private ten-acre plot surrounded by blossoming fields and towering rocky structures offers an inviting living room (with a stone fireplace and live red cedar trees) and a large gourmet kitchen where guests can congregate with friends and family.
Step outside and marvel at the landscapes from one of the three outdoor patio areas while relaxing in the hot tub or gathering near the fire pit. This property also offers a variety of entertaining amenities such as a basketball hoop, a horseshoe pitch, a volleyball court, and a walking nature route.
The Boundary Cabin 2
Ideal for a pair or a solo traveler, this rustic four-hundred square foot cabin is just a few minutes from Zion’s eastern entrance and 25-minutes from the south. It has a full bathroom, exterior porch, and unobstructed perspectives of the grazing horses in the pasture.
However, the rental lacks cooking facilities meaning you must dine out for all meals during your stay.
The Ark Tiny House
This compact home provides all of the comforts of a vacation rental in a tight footprint measuring no more than 360 square feet, situated just 25 minutes from Zion`s southern entrance. It has a full bathroom, a well-stocked kitchen, an office space, and an built-in washer and dryer.
The outside of the tiny home is equally as impressive, with a hot tub, fire pit, and a roomy covered porch with a lounge seating area. It’s the perfect place to relax while you soak in the majestic views of the mountains and desert landscape around you (especially at night when the sky is illuminated with a blanket of twinkling stars).
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Zion National Park ranks among the most enchanting locales globally. Spending several days in the vicinity allows fully appreciating the scenic trails, rugged canyons, and lush cascading waterfalls the park is renowned for.
Ultimately, the place one stays doesn’t truly matter – as long as you feel at ease and near all the amazing sights and attractions that Zion has available. So lace up your hiking shoes and go explore the incredible natural beauty Zion offers!
