Official park context
Zion is known for a wide range of weather conditions. Temperatures vary with changes in elevation and day/night temperatures may differ by over 30°F. In summer, temperatures in Zion National Park often exceed 100°F/38°C. Zion experiences monsoons from mid-July into September that result in an increased risk of flash floods. Always be aware of the threat of storms and lightning and be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. Winters are generally mild.
Zion National Park's main, south entrance and administrative offices are located near Springdale, Utah You may drive yourself on all open park roads except the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. During most of the year, the Scenic Drive is accessed by shuttle bus only. Shuttles are free to ride. Board one in Springdale or at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
Current alerts in the NPS snapshot
- Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program Information
Everyone who hikes Angels Landing needs to have a permit. Learn why you need a permit and how to get one. This requirement does not affect entering the park or riding the park shuttle (when it is running).
- Large vehicle restrictions now in effect for Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway Caution
As of June 7, 2026, the park is enforcing size and weight limits for vehicles on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway. Vehicles that exceed length, width, height, or weight limits cannot travel between Canyon Junction and the park's East Entrance. See the current limits on the page linked below.
- Please park legally and responsibly in Zion National Park and the Town of Springdale Information
Zion has limited parking space. Park only in designated stalls. Vehicles parked outside of designated stalls are subject to citation and may be towed. Once all designated parking stalls in Zion are full, visitors should park in Springdale.
- Stage 2 fire restrictions in effect Caution
No setting, building, maintaining, attending, or using open fires of any kind in the park. This includes campfires and charcoal fires in Watchman Campground, South Campground, and picnic areas in Zion Canyon. Stoves fueled by petroleum or liquid propane gas are allowed. Smoking is allowed only in non-vegetated areas.
- Toxic Cyanobacteria in the Virgin River and the streams of Zion National Park Caution
Do not submerge your head in or filter drinking water from still or moving water.
Visitor centers and planning stops
Visitor center records help decide whether to start with a map, restroom, ranger question or same-day route check before a gentle trail.
- Human History Museum
Immerse yourself in the human history of Zion National Park! Rangers staff an information desk during operating hours. Indoor exhibits explore the people, places, and stories of Zion. Rotating exhibits feature regional artists, local discoveries, and more. A 22-minute orientation film examines the history of the canyon and highlights the dramatic landscapes of the park. Visit the bookstore for books, gifts, and souvenirs. There are also dramatic views of the Towers of the Virgin and Bridge Mount
- Kolob Canyons Visitor Center
Closed daily from 12pm-1pm This is the entry point to the Kolob Canyons area of the park. It is located 45 miles north of Springdale and 17 miles south of Cedar City at Exit 40 on Interstate 15. Park rangers are available to answer questions. Exhibits explore the geology, vegetation, and wildlife of this unique landscape.
- Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Located near the South Entrance of the park, the Zion Canyon Visitor Center is an excellent place to begin your exploration of Zion Canyon. Park rangers and outdoor exhibits will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time. Inquire at the Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk about permits for backpacking, canyoneering, and other trips into the wilderness. Visit the bookstore for maps, books, and gifts.
- Zion Nature Center
During the summer, come visit the Zion Nature Center! This is a perfect place to learn about geology, animals, and the history of Zion. Take a break from the sun to explore different habitats, enjoy bird songs, listen to canyon tree frog calls, and participate in Junior Ranger programs. The inside of the Nature Center has a variety of interactive exhibits, animal models, changing activities, and crafts. Park rangers host educational programs throughout the day.
Campground logistics near route planning
Campground records are useful when a trail day starts or ends from inside the park. Treat reservation and site counts as planning context, not live availability.
- Lava Point Campground
Lava Point Campground is open as weather allows, typically from May through September. Situated at 7890 feet above sea level, the campground can be reached via the Kolob Terrace Road, 25 miles (45 minutes) north of the Virgin. It takes approximately 80 minutes to drive to the campground from the South Entrance of Zion Canyon. Six (6) primitive campsites are available for reservation. The campground has pit toilets and trash cans, but no running water. Vehicles longer than 19 feet are not permitt
- South Campground
South Campground is located between the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and Zion Nature Center, ½ mile from the South Entrance in Springdale, Utah. Campsites are typically available from mid-March through October 31. All sites include a parking space, a picnic table, a fire ring, a food storage box, and space for a tent or RV/camper. All campsites in South Campground require reservations. Reservations can be made up to 2 weeks in advance. First-come, first-served sites are not available.
- Watchman Campground
Watchman Campground is located next to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, ¼ mile away from the South Entrance in Springdale, Utah. Tent, RV, and group campsites are typically available year-round. All sites include a parking space, a picnic table, a fire ring, and space for a tent or RV/camper. All campsites in Watchman Campground require reservations. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance for standard sites or 12 months for group sites. First-come, first-served sites are not available
Fees and operating-hours clues
Entrance - Private Vehicle
$35
Admits private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants to Zion National Park. Valid for 1-7 days.
Entrance - Motorcycle
$30
Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
Entrance - Snowmobile
$20
Admits one individual with no car to Zion National Park. Typically used for bicyclists, hikers and pedestrians. Youth 15 and under are admitted free. Valid for 1-7 days.
Entrance - Per Person
$20
Admits one individual with no car to Zion National Park. Typically used for bicyclists, hikers and pedestrians. Youth 15 and under are admitted free. Valid for 1-7 days.
Entrance - Non-commercial Groups
$20
$20 per person. Non-commercial vehicles with a capacity of 16 or greater. Fees will not exceed the commercial fee for the same-sized vehicle. Youth 15 and under are free. Individuals or families with any valid Annual or Lifetime pass may us