When you stay at Zion National Park KOA Holiday, you’re not just booking a campsite—you’re setting yourself up for restful nights, convenient access, and easy day trips that make your adventure simple and stress-free. Whether you’re looking for something inexpensive, family-friendly, or just a quick “near me” getaway from your base camp, Zion National Park campgrounds put you in the perfect location.
Why Stay at a Zion National Park Campground?
After a long day exploring, nothing beats a comfortable night’s sleep. Campgrounds like Zion National Park KOA Holiday give you that balance of affordability, convenience, and relaxation. You’ll have clean amenities, pool, showers, space for the family, and the peace of mind that you’re close to all the best local destinations. From here, you can wake up refreshed and ready for easy, inexpensive day trips without worrying about long commutes or complicated travel plans.
Nearby Attractions:
1. Bryce Canyon National Park
Distance from Zion: About 1.5–2 hours.
Looking for those otherworldly rock formations called hoodoos? Bryce Canyon is a must-do. It’s close enough for a simple day trip yet feels like an entirely new world. Families love the scenic overlooks, and hiking trails range from easy to more challenging. Plus, it’s a cheap and easy drive from your Zion campsite—pack a lunch, save money, and enjoy the views.
When you take a day trip from Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park, you’ll be greeted with the park’s world-famous hoodoos—towering red and orange rock spires that create a breathtaking landscape. Start with the Bryce Amphitheater, home to popular overlooks like Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point, each offering incredible views and photo opportunities.
Families can enjoy the Navajo Loop Trail, a moderate hike that winds through Wall Street, a narrow slot canyon surrounded by giant hoodoos, while those looking for something easier can stick to the Rim Trail for simple, scenic walking paths. Horseback riding tours and ranger-led programs are also available for visitors who want a more guided experience.
Whether you’re exploring the trails, stargazing at one of the park’s famous dark-sky programs, or just enjoying a picnic, Bryce Canyon offers a variety of inexpensive and family-friendly activities that make the short drive from your Zion campground well worth it.
2. Snow Canyon State Park
Distance from Zion: About 1 hour.
If you want a local spot that’s less crowded but just as stunning, Snow Canyon is a hidden gem. Known for its lava flows, red cliffs, and family-friendly hikes, it’s perfect for a quick half-day trip. It’s inexpensive, simple to get to, and a great option when you want something close to “home base” at the campground.
Visitors can hike family-friendly trails like the Petrified Dunes Trail, where you can climb and explore rolling sandstone formations, or the Lava Flow Trail, which takes you past old lava tubes you can actually walk through. Adventurers can try rock climbing, biking along the scenic paved trail, or even horseback riding through the park’s striking red rock canyons. Snow Canyon is also inexpensive to visit, making it a great “near me” option for a quick and easy day trip. If you don’t want to drive, several local shuttle and tour companies—such as St. George Shuttle and private day tour operators out of Springdale—offer transportation from the Zion area to Snow Canyon, so you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the views on the way.
3. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Distance from Zion: About 1 hour.
For something unique, head out to Coral Pink Sand Dunes. For a fun and unique family adventure, head to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, just about an hour from Zion National Park KOA Holiday. Kids love running, rolling, and climbing on the soft, shifting sand dunes, which stretch across the desert in shades of deep pink and orange.
Families can bring along sleds or rent sandboards at the park to enjoy sliding down the dunes—a simple and inexpensive activity that will keep everyone entertained for the summer. There are also picnic areas perfect for a packed lunch, and easy walking trails that let you explore the dunes at your own pace.
For older kids and adults, guided ATV tours are available, offering an exciting way to see more of the park. With its open space, natural playground atmosphere, and budget-friendly entrance fee, Coral Pink Sand Dunes makes for a memorable day trip the whole family can enjoy.
4. Kanab, Utah
Distance from Zion: Less than 1 hour.
Kanab is a charming local town with small shops, restaurants, and access to scenic drives. It’s also the gateway to famous spots like The Wave and Buckskin Gulch. If you’re looking for a cheap, family-friendly excursion with local flavor, this is the place.
Known as “Little Hollywood” for its history as a filming location for classic westerns, Kanab, Utah is a charming town less than an hour from Zion National Park KOA Holiday and perfect for a simple, inexpensive day trip. Families can stroll through downtown Kanab, exploring local shops, art galleries, and small restaurants serving everything from hearty diner meals to local Southwestern fare.
For animal lovers, the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is a must-visit, offering tours where you can see and even interact with rescued animals. Outdoor enthusiasts can check out nearby attractions like Moqui Cave, a natural history museum inside a sandstone cave, or venture to scenic hikes such as The Toadstools, where kids and adults alike will marvel at the whimsical rock formations.
Kanab also serves as a gateway for bucket-list spots like The Wave and Buckskin Gulch, though those require permits or guided tours. Whether you’re looking for family fun, local culture, or outdoor exploration, Kanab offers an easy and affordable way to add variety to your Zion camping trip.
5. Kolob Canyons (Part of Zion)
Distance from Zion Main Entrance: About 45 minutes.
You don’t even have to leave Zion to enjoy a different experience. Kolob Canyons offers stunning red rock formations and quieter trails. It’s the perfect “near me” option if you don’t want to drive far. Families love it because it’s simple, close, and just as beautiful as the main canyon—without the crowds.
Just 45 minutes from Zion National Park KOA Holiday, Kolob Canyons offers a quieter, less crowded side of Zion that’s perfect for a family-friendly day trip. The scenic Kolob Canyons Road is only five miles long but delivers incredible red rock views and easy pull-offs where you can stop for photos.
Families can take short hikes like the Timber Creek Overlook Trail, a simple one-mile round trip that rewards you with panoramic vistas of the Kolob Canyons and Pine Valley Mountains. For those wanting a bit more adventure, the Taylor Creek Trail is a moderate hike that follows a stream and leads to historic homestead cabins tucked in the canyon. Because Kolob is part of Zion, your park pass works here—making it an inexpensive and convenient way to explore a new area without the crowds of the main canyon. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views, Kolob Canyons is an easy, simple getaway that lets you experience another side of Zion’s beauty.
Common Questions About Day Trips and Year Round Camping at Zion Canyon Campgrounds
Is it simple to get to these day trip spots?
Yes! From Zion National Park KOA Holiday, you can hop on well-marked highways and be at most destinations in under two hours. Jump on a shuttle bus and discover all there is to offer.
Are these trips inexpensive?
Most state parks charge low entrance fees, and national parks are covered if you already have an annual pass. Packing food and drinks makes them even more affordable.
Are they family-friendly?
Absolutely. Most of these destinations have easy trails, scenic overlooks, and picnic areas perfect for families and year round camping.
Why stay at a campground instead of a hotel?
Campgrounds like Zion KOA Holiday are affordable, comfortable, and convenient. You’ll have a restful night’s sleep in a quiet, natural setting. Plus, you’re already close to all these great local attractions. There are year round camping options at a beautiful rv resort equipped with swimming pool, spa, playground, convenience store, river and trail access, tent camping, picnic tables, and more. Whether you make a summer reservation or winter, a family gathering at a campground in Zion National Park is sure to be the adventure of a lifetime.
Whether you’re searching “day trips near me” while staying in Zion or planning ahead, campgrounds like Zion National Park KOA Holiday are the best base for adventure. You’ll rest easy at night, save money compared to hotels, and enjoy simple access to incredible family-friendly destinations. With so many inexpensive and easy options nearby, every day can be a new adventure for you and the kids!
