Easy Access to Zion National Park: Camp in the Utah Desert Canyons with an RV

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Woman on cliff at sunrise

If you’ve ever dreamed of living that carefree van life through an off-the-grid getaway, that fantasy likely included a visit to Zion National Park. The natural red hues of the sandstone arches and cliffs at Zion make it one of the most popular and picturesque national parks in the U.S. Aside from the serene beauty of Zion National Park, its history is equally enriching, as it has the honor of being the first national park in Utah.



In order to best experience the beauty of Zion, get in your campervan and head to one of the most gorgeous RV resorts in the area. Desert Canyons RV Park, located in St. George, Utah, is one of the best places to base your Utah adventures. The resort features amenities that will keep you comfortable and entertained throughout your stay, and former guests particularly rave about the park’s cleanliness and prime location.

RV park amenities galore

Campervan at Zion National Park

What could be so special about a camper resort? Desert Canyons RV Park isn’t just somewhere to park your van and spend the night. Well, sure, it’s a place to park your van and sleep, but there are also plenty of exciting ways to stay occupied during your stay. For starters, there are several pickleball courts. Learn a new skill if you haven’t yet tried this new super popular recreational activity, with the backdrop of Utah’s jaw-dropping scenery. And when your tired leg and arm muscles are sore from the intense exercising of pickleball, soak away the stresses in the resort’s jacuzzi or swimming pool. If you need to get some work done, Desert Canyons RV Park also offers fast-working Wi-Fi. And you can work away while your furry friend sits by you because the resort is also pet-friendly.

Perhaps the best perk is its easy access to Zion National Park, being just a 40-minute drive away. Zion is jam-packed with things to do. For some of the most popular things to do in Zion, enjoy a scenic, easy hike at Riverside Walk. If you care to continue onward, embark on a more strenuous adventure with The Narrows, which got its name from being the most narrow part of Zion, and be prepared to get wet as it cuts through the Virgin River.

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What’s nearby the RV park

sign at Desert Canyon RV park

cabooseadventures/Instagram

It’s not only about what’s on the resort, but if you’re living that sweet van life, you’ll also want to know what’s off the resort. As stated, Desert Canyons RV Park is close to Zion National Park, which welcomes over 4 million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular national parks. It’s one thing to visit it, but it’s another thing to wake up early and be one of the first people to arrive thanks to the prime location of your camping resort.



It’s not only about national parks, though; there are plenty of state parks nearby, too. Sand Hollow State Park might not be as popular as Zion, but it’s equally worth the visit. Get in an RV and go off-roading in the sand dunes, or grab a kayak and get out on the vibrant blue waters. Snow Canyon State Park is another underrated state park and offers hiking trails through stunning scenery, in true Utah fashion. Take in the views of the Navajo sandstone, dunes, and ancient lava flows. For some live entertainment, the Tuacahn Center for the Arts is a must. They host a weekly Saturday market and a rotating variety of live shows, which are all listed on their calendar.

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.