Winter in Zion National Park

Written By Bastian Graf

Winter might not be the first season that comes to mind when planning a trip to Zion National Park. But with icy waterfalls and frost-dusted trails waiting to be explored, winter flips the usual Zion experience on its head, giving you a whole new perspective on one of the most beautiful places in the world. Not to mention, the quieter winter months mean you’ve got more freedom to explore without jostling for space like in the busy tourist seasons!

However, when you’re camping here in winter, there are certain things you need to take into account. For instance, some trails and campgrounds might be closed, which means you might need to spend some more time planning. That’s what we’re here to help you with. Below, you’ll find all the information you need about camping in Zion National Park during the winter, including where to pull up in your campervan for a warm, comfortable night and all the trails and attractions that remain open once the snow begins to fall.

What is Zion National Park Like in Winter?

Winter in Zion National Park stretches from December through February, with daytime temperatures sitting at around 50°F, but feeling much colder in windy conditions and areas shaded by the canyons. This is just the daytime temperature, though; at night, temperatures aren’t uncommon to dip below freezing, especially at higher elevations.

Snow doesn’t blanket the entire park often, but when it does, it’s usually a light dusting that melts quickly in the lower elevations. Higher spots, like Kolob Canyons and Zion’s East Side, tend to hold onto snow a little bit longer, which creates some of the most amazing scenery you don’t get any other time of the year, with the brilliant red of the Navajo sandstone contrasting against the pure white snow.

Winter is also the season when fog frequently rolls through the canyons in the mornings, creating another atmosphere you don’t get when camping here in the summer.

“I was a bit hesitant about camping in Zion in winter, but honestly, it turned out to be magical. Having fewer people around made the hikes feel more intimate, and watching the sunrise over snow-dusted cliffs from the warmth of my campervan was unforgettable.” Mary – Travellers Autobarn Customer.

Zion National Park Winter Camping Options

One of the best things about camping in Zion National Park in winter is that, unlike many other National Parks, there are still some fantastic RV camping spots open. After all, having a cozy, heated space to retreat to at night after a long day on the trails is a huge bonus! Here are some of our recommendations on where to camp in Zion National Park during winter.

Watchman Campground

Just a 5-minute walk from the South Entrance Visitor Center, Watchman Campground is one of the few campgrounds open all year round that is actually based within the National Park itself. It’s a pretty basic set up, but there are some good amenities on offer, including flush toilets, a dump station, trash cans, and drinking water, and staff are also available year-round.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that reservations are highly recommended, especially during winter when availability across the usual number of sites is reduced.

Zion Canyon Campground & RV Resort

Another campground conveniently located near Zion National Park, Zion Canyon Campground & RV Resort, is a 5-minute drive away in the town of Springdale. This is a fabulous spot for winter camping, as it is open all year round and offers full hookup RV sites and excellent winter-friendly amenities like hot showers, laundry facilities, and a camp store selling all of your essentials.

There’s also a swimming pool, but it’s important to note that it is closed between October and April, so don’t expect to use it if you’re staying here in winter. Reservations are also recommended, as it’s one of the most popular winter camping options near Zion National Park.

Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground

If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground is an excellent choice. It’s only 20 minutes from Zion National Park and, along with RV sites that are open all year round, has some fantastic amenities, including coin-operated laundry facilities, private restrooms with showers, a convenience store, a playground with swings and a climbing wall, and even a heated swimming pool and spa.

It’s also dog-friendly, so it’s ideal if you’ve got your canine companion with you. Just note that only three dogs under 20 lbs are allowed, and no aggressive breeds are allowed in the park. And like all other campgrounds open during the winter, reservations are highly recommended.

WillowWind RV Park

A little further out from the park, but still an excellent choice for winter camping in Zion, WillowWind RV Park is 30 minutes away and has year-round sites and some excellent amenities. These include full hookups, restrooms with hot showers, cable TV, WiFi, laundry facilities, fire pits, a picnic area, and a log clubhouse with plenty of games and a pool table.

You’ll need to make a reservation to camp here, but once you’ve arrived and settled in, not only are you fairly close to Zion National Park, you’re also less than 5 minutes from the town of Hurricane and its shops, cafes, and bars. This location also makes the campground an ideal spot if you’re road-tripping through Southern Utah in the winter and need a base that isn’t solely Zion-focused.

The Best Winter Hiking Trails in Zion National Park

Those are your camping options covered. But when you’re ready to step out of your RV and experience the beauty of Zion National Park in the winter, where should you go? Here are some hiking trails we think you’ll love.

Pa’rus Trail

This flat, paved trail remains open all year round and loops for 3.5 miles from the Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, making it ideal for a gentle winter walk. You’ll also pass by the Virgin River and plenty of open meadows on the Pa’rus Trail, potentially even spotting mule deer grazing as you make your way around it. It is also open to bicycles and leashed dogs, making it perfect if you’ve got your furry friend with you, and it’s wheelchair accessible.

Watchman Trail

One of the most accessible moderate hikes in Zion National Park, the Watchman Trail is a 3.3-mile round trip that climbs to the Watchman Overlook for views across Springdale and the towering Watchman Peak. Even in winter, this trail gets some sun, so it’s a good pick if you’re trying to warm up a bit while enjoying a quieter route, and you’ll also find benches at the viewpoint that provide you with the perfect spot to open a thermos of coffee and enjoy a snack break.

Canyon Overlook Trail

A great option if you’re looking for a shorter hike, the Canyon Overlook Trail runs for 1 mile on the East Side of Zion National Park and also has some of the best views. However, while it’s short, it’s considered fairly challenging, and you’ll cross a narrow ledge (don’t worry, there is a railing) but end up at the namesake Canyon Overlook. Just be aware that certain sections can be icy in shaded sections during the winter, so take it slow and bring traction if snow is forecast.

If you’re looking at doing the Narrows Hike, check out our ultimate Narrows Hike campervan getaway!

Winter Attractions in Zion National Park

Of course, Zion isn’t all about hiking, and winter is the perfect time to slow down and appreciate some of the park’s top attractions without having to worry about crowds!

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

Winter is the time of year when private vehicles are allowed into the main canyon, and no shuttle pass is needed. This means you can cruise down the 6-mile Zion Canyon Scenic Drive at your own pace, stopping to snap Instagram-worthy photos, spot wildlife, or simply enjoy the incredible views. This is particularly beautiful in the early mornings, when frost is still glistening on the trees and fog curls between the cliffs.

Court of the Patriarchs

A short trail and staircase from the road takes you to a viewpoint of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, three towering monoliths named after biblical patriarchs. The Court of the Patriarchs look particularly magical under a dusting of snow and when the winter light hits in the early afternoon, you’ve got the perfect photo opportunity.

Tips for Camping in Zion National Park in Winter

Camping in Zion National Park during the winter is a truly unforgettable experience. But winter camping here also comes with its own set of challenges, and it’s important to prepare for a whole new experience, even if you’re staying at a high-end RV resort. Here’s how to stay warm, comfortable, and ready for anything.

Choose the Right RV

Having an RV that’s up for the challenge of winter camping is half the battle. That’s where our Beeva Camper comes to the rescue. With a built-in heater, it takes the edge off those frost desert nights, so you’re not waking up in a sleeping bag that feels like an icy cocoon! Also, the compact size makes it easy to navigate Zion’s winding roads, and the comfort level is exactly what you want after a long day on the trails.

Power Up for Comfort

Winter in Zion can bring cold snaps and cloudy skies, which isn’t exactly ideal for solar charging or devices with low battery stamina. That’s why we recommend adding our Premium Winter Pack to your setup. It comes with a 12V electric heated car blanket (a total game-changer when you’re stargazing) and a 240 Watt Jackery Explorer Portable Power Station.

This portable power station lets you charge your phones, power lights, or run small appliances without needing to idle your vehicle or find a powered site, which is super hand if you’ve chosen to stay at a more rustic campground like Watchman. It’s also gives you that extra layer of security and protection, especially if a winter storm rolls in and temperatures drop significantly overnight.

Stay Dry and Layer Up

Zion’s winter weather is very unpredictable, and even if the forecast says it’s going to be dry and sunny, shaded canyon trails can stay icy or damp for days. With this in mind, make sure you pack plenty of warm, moisture-wicking layers and have a backup set of clothes in case things get soggy. Waterproof boots are also a must, especially if you’re hiking or navigating snow-covered campsites.

Check Conditions Daily

Trial closures, icy roads, and rapidly changing weather are all part of the winter Zion camping experience. To stay as safe as possible, we recommend stopping by the Visitor Center when you arrive or checking the park’s official website daily for updates. Some hikes, even those that are great choices for winter treks, can be very dangerous in snow or ice, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry, simply by checking before you head out.

For more tips on how to stay safe in winter, check out our top safety tips here.

Book Ahead and Arrive Early

Even in winter, popular RV parks and campgrounds near Zion National Park can fill up fast, especially around the holidays. So, make your reservations as far in advance as possible and plan to arrive early. After all, winter daylight hours are short, so it’s a good idea to set up camp and settle before dark, using the extra evening time to relax, recharge, and warm up your RV ahead of those cold nights.

FAQs

Technically, yes. However, there are some things to point out. First of all, while The Narrows is open year round, it might be closed if there is particularly heavy snowfall or when snowmelt raises the river over 150 CFS. It’s also worth remembering that, even if it is open, you’ll be wading through cold water which could be partially frozen in places, so extreme care should be taken at all times. Winter hiking in The Narrows certainly isn’t for the inexperienced hiker and you’ll also need a drysuit, neoprene socks, and proper footwear to remain safe.

With fewer crowds around and the quieter landscape, winter can be one of the best times for wildlife spotting in Zion. Mule deer are commonly seen along the trails, and you might even catch a glimpse of wild turkeys or bighorn sheep navigating the rocky cliffs. Birds of prey like golden eagles are also active in Zion during the winter, but whatever you spot, be sure to keep your distance and never feed the wildlife.

Yes, but they’re a little more limited compared to the busier seasons. The Visitor Center remains open year round but hours are shorter during the winter, closing at 5pm instead of 7pm. Rangers are usually available to answer questions and offer trail advice, and if you’re keen on a ranger-led activity, it’s definitely worth chatting with them about what’s planned during your visit.

Generally speaking, yes, but with the usual winter travel caveats. Roads leading into Zion itself, especially from the east via Highway 9, can be icy after snow or early morning frost, and while the park staff do a great job of keeping the roads are clear and safe as possible, you should always check conditions before setting out.

They are, but with some limits. For example, dogs are only allowed on the Pa’rus Trail and in developed areas like campgrounds and roads. Never take them on trails where they’re not permitted, no matter how hard they pull you in that direction! They’ll also need to be leashed at all times, and you’ll need to clean up after them.

Get the Best Rates on Campervan Rentals Across the USA

Excited to start planning your winter escape to Zion National Park? At Travellers Autobarn, you’ll find affordable campervan rental in Las Vegas with free unlimited miles as standard, so you can explore to your heart’s content without worrying about extra charges.

Looking for some other awesome winter road trip ideas? Here are some other articles you might want to check out:

DISCLAIMER: All information provided, including prices, availability, and site details, is correct at the time of publishing. We recommend contacting campsites or caravan parks directly to confirm the latest details before planning your visit. Please review our Terms and Conditions for additional information.

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About the Author

Bastian Graf

Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.

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