Camping in Zions National Park



Zions National Park is popular for its awe-inspiring scenery and views. The canyon is the park’s main feature, expanding 229 miles.

Approximately 8,000 years ago, the Anasazi Indians dwelled in this area. In 1858 the Mormons discovered the area and then settled it in the 1860s. It received its title “Zions National Park” in 1917 when the director of the National Park Service suggested changing its name. It became a park in 1919.

Many believe the name “Zion” is appropriate for the park. This word means “sanctuary” in Hebrew.

Nowadays there are approximately 2.5 million people who make a trip to the park. Zions is home to various plateaus, sandstone canyons, mesas, and interesting rock formation.

There are also an estimated 900 plant species. Zions is known to have the largest variety of plants compared to any other park in Utah.

As far as animals are concerned, there are 78 mammal species, 290 bird species, 44 reptile and amphibian, and 8 fish species. Zions is also home to a few endangered species: Mexican Spotted Owl, Southwest Willow Flycatcher, and the Desert Tortoise.

Zions National Park has two visitor’s centers to help you plan your trip. There is one at the South entrance and the other is off of Interstate 15 at Exit 40 (about 45 miles north of Springdale and 17 miles south of Cedar City).

You can find maps, books, and film for sale at these locations. There are also exhibits that explain about the park’s natural and cultural history. Rangers are also available to help with any questions you many have.

There are various lodging locations if you plan on staying for awhile. The Zion Lodge is situated inside the park. There is also motel lodging. You will find that there are adequate amenities to make your stay comfortable.

There is also lodging outside of Zions National Park. A couple popular locations include the Zion Canyon Bed and Breakfast.

Hopefully, your stay at Zions is a great experience. There is so much to explore while you are visiting.

1 Comment so far

  1. xioni on June 3rd, 2009

    you have some typos here.

    it’s Zion without an ’s’, that is, not Zions

    and it was never Zions National Park

    people in utah seem to commonly make this error.

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