Category: Campgrounds

Campgrounds are serene havens nestled in natural landscapes, offering a rustic retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike. Surrounded by towering trees, babbling brooks, or expansive meadows, campgrounds provide a tranquil setting to pitch tents or park RVs, fostering a connection with nature. Trails for hiking or biking often wind through these sites, leading adventurers to hidden vistas or peaceful lakeshores. Campfire circles crackle with warmth in the evenings, where stories are shared under starlit skies. Facilities may range from basic amenities like fire pits and picnic tables to more modern conveniences such as restrooms with showers and designated cooking areas. Whether for a weekend escape or an extended wilderness adventure, campgrounds offer a refreshing escape from urban life, inviting visitors to unwind and recharge in the great outdoors.

Monte Cristo Campground

Posted on by

Monte Cristo Campground is a serene camping destination located in the Angeles National Forest, just outside of Los Angeles, in the San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California. The campground is situated in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by towering pine trees and offering a peaceful escape from the city. The campground is situated at an elevation of 6,300 feet (1,920 meters) above sea level and is surrounded by towering pine trees.

The campground offers 19 campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 22 feet in length. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill, making it easy for campers to cook and enjoy meals outdoors. The campground also has vault toilets, drinking water, and trash collection facilities.

One of the main draws of Monte Cristo Campground is its proximity to outdoor recreation activities. The campground is located near several hiking trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The nearby Monte Cristo Creek is also stocked with trout for fishing, making it a popular spot for anglers.

Overall, Monte Cristo Campground offers a peaceful and enjoyable camping experience for anyone looking to escape the city and enjoy the outdoors. The campground’s proximity to Los Angeles makes it a convenient destination for city dwellers looking for a quick getaway, while its natural setting provides a serene and beautiful backdrop for camping and outdoor recreation activities.

Campground Summary

NameMonte Cristo Campground
LocationSan Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles County, California
Latitude, Longitude34.3422, -118.1081
Elevation6,300 feet (1,920 meters)
Number of sites19
Amenities picnic tables, fire rings & grill, vault toilets, drinking water, and trash collection facilities.

Campground Map

Table Mountain Campground

Posted on by

Table Mountain Campground is situated in the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California. The campground is surrounded by a beautiful and serene forest environment, with stunning views of the mountain range. It is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a peaceful camping experience.

The campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. The tent sites are situated on a grassy area, with fire rings, picnic tables, and access to water nearby. The RV sites offer full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewage. The cabins are well-equipped with modern amenities, including kitchen facilities, bathrooms, and heating.

One of the best things about the campground is its location. It is situated near several hiking trails, offering visitors the chance to explore the mountain range and the surrounding forests. The trails range in difficulty, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Some of the most popular trails include the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs through the campground, and the Table Mountain Trail, which offers stunning views of the valley below.

In addition to hiking, the campground offers plenty of other activities for visitors to enjoy. There is a playground for children, a volleyball court, and a horseshoe pit. There is also a campfire area, where visitors can gather around the fire and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest.

The campground is well-maintained, with clean and modern facilities. There are restrooms and showers available, as well as a laundry facility. The staff are friendly and helpful, and are always on hand to answer any questions or provide assistance.

Table Mountain Campground is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing camping experience. Its beautiful surroundings, modern amenities, and variety of activities make it the perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you are looking to hike, explore, or simply relax in nature, this campground has something for everyone.

Campground Summary

NameTable Mountain Campground
LocationSan Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles County, California
Latitude, Longitude34.3863, -117.6894
OpenSpring – Fall
Elevation7,261 Feet
Number of Sites111 single site(s), 2 double site(s)
AmmenitiesVault Toilets, Potable Water

Campground Map

References

Lava Point Campground

Posted on by

Lava Point Campground is a remote, backcountry campground located in the Kolob Terrace area of Zion National Park in Utah. Situated at an elevation of 7,890 feet, the campground offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Zion Canyon and the Pine Valley Mountains.

Location and Access Lava Point Campground is located in the northwest section of Zion National Park, approximately 25 miles from the main entrance. To access the campground, visitors must take the Kolob Terrace Road, a scenic, winding road that climbs more than 2,000 feet in elevation over the course of 10 miles. The road is narrow and steep in places, and visitors should be prepared for challenging driving conditions.

Once at the campground, visitors will find 6 campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There are no RV hookups, and generators are not allowed. The campground is open from May through October, weather permitting. Reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance.

Amenities Lava Point Campground is a primitive campground, meaning there are no showers, running water, or flush toilets. Visitors must bring their own water or obtain it from a nearby water source, such as the North Creek or the nearby Lava Point Spring. Visitors must also pack out their trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Despite the lack of amenities, Lava Point Campground offers a unique camping experience for those seeking a backcountry adventure. The campground is situated in a ponderosa pine forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can relax in a peaceful, secluded environment and enjoy the quiet of nature.

Activities The Lava Point area of Zion National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking is a popular activity, and visitors can access a number of trails from the campground, including the West Rim Trail, which offers stunning views of the Zion Canyon and the surrounding mountains.

The Kolob Reservoir is also located nearby, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, and visitors can rent boats from nearby outfitters.

Visitors can also explore the nearby North Creek, which runs through a narrow slot canyon and offers a challenging and rewarding hiking experience. The creek is known for its crystal-clear water and stunning rock formations.

Finally, the Lava Point area offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the park. The campground is situated far from the light pollution of nearby cities, and visitors can enjoy a clear view of the stars on a clear night.

Tips for Visitors Visitors to Lava Point Campground should be prepared for the remote, backcountry experience. The campground is located at a high elevation, and temperatures can drop significantly at night, even during the summer months. Visitors should bring warm clothing and be prepared for cold and windy conditions.

Because of the campground’s remote location, visitors should also bring all the food and supplies they will need for their stay. There are no stores or restaurants nearby, and the nearest town is more than an hour’s drive away.

Visitors should also be prepared for challenging driving conditions on the Kolob Terrace Road. The road is narrow and steep in places, and visitors should take their time and drive cautiously.

Finally, visitors should remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash and waste. The remote location of the campground means that visitors must be responsible for their own impact on the environment.

Conclusion Lava Point Campground offers a unique and rewarding camping experience for those seeking a backcountry adventure in Zion National Park. The campground’s remote location and lack of amenities

South Campground

Posted on by

South Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds in Zion National Park, located in Springdale, Utah. It is situated at an elevation of 3,900 feet, surrounded by the towering cliffs of Zion Canyon and offering access to some of the park’s most iconic hikes and attractions.

South Campground, Zion National Park, Utah, Medium Format Photograph: James L Rathbun
Temple of Sinawava, Zion National Park, Utah, Medium Format Photograph: James L Rathbun

Amenities and Facilities:

South Campground offers a range of amenities and facilities to make your camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Some of the key amenities include:

  1. Campsites: South Campground offers a total of 127 campsites, including 13 group sites and 4 accessible sites. The campsites are arranged in loops, with each loop offering its own set of amenities and facilities.
  2. Restrooms: There are two sets of restrooms located within South Campground, each with running water and flush toilets. The restrooms are cleaned daily and are equipped with hand dryers and baby changing stations.
  3. Picnic tables and fire pits: Each campsite at South Campground comes with a picnic table and a fire pit, allowing campers to enjoy meals and roast marshmallows over a campfire.
  4. Water: There are several water spigots located throughout, allowing campers to fill up their water bottles and clean their dishes.
  5. Dump station: There is a dump station located near the entrance, allowing campers to dispose of their waste.
  6. Camp store: There is a camp store located near the entrance, offering a range of supplies and souvenirs for campers.

Features:

South Campground is known for its stunning natural beauty and its proximity to some of Zion National Park’s most iconic features. Here are some of the key features of South Campground:

  1. Zion Canyon: South Campground is located in Zion Canyon, which is known for its towering cliffs, narrow canyons, and stunning vistas. The canyon can be accessed via the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which is closed to private vehicles from April to October.
  2. Hiking trails: South Campground offers access to a range of hiking trails, including the famous Angels Landing and The Narrows hikes. Angels Landing is a strenuous hike that involves a steep ascent up a narrow ridge to a scenic overlook, while The Narrows is a water hike that takes you through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon.
  3. Wildlife: The area is home to a range of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, and a variety of birds. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from wildlife and to store food and other items in bear-proof containers.
  4. Dark skies: Zion National Park is known for its dark skies, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy views of the Milky Way and other celestial objects on clear nights.

Reservations

South Campground is a popular destination, and reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season (March to November). Reservations can be made up to six months in advance through the National Park Service website or by calling the reservation line. There are no walk-in sites available and campers are required to have a reservation before arriving.

Campground Map

References

Watchman Campground

Posted on by

Watchman Campground is located in Zion National Park in southwestern Utah and offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty of Zion up close while also enjoying the convenience of modern amenities.

History:

Watchman Campground was established in the 1960s and was named after the Watchman rock formation that rises above the campground. The campground was designed to provide a comfortable and convenient base for visitors to explore the park, while also preserving the natural beauty of the area.

Amenities:

Watchman Campground offers a variety of amenities to make visitors’ stay comfortable and enjoyable. These include:

  • Campsites: The campground offers a total of 176 campsites, including 95 RV sites and 81 tent sites. All sites are equipped with a picnic table and fire pit or grill, and most sites have electric hookups.
  • Restrooms: The campground has three modern restroom facilities with flush toilets and sinks, as well as several water filling stations.
  • Dump station: There is a dump station located at the entrance to the campground for RVs to use.
  • Laundry facilities: The campground has a coin-operated laundry facility available for guests to use.
  • Camp store: The Watchman Campground store offers a variety of camping supplies, snacks, souvenirs, and other items.

Activities:

There are numerous activities available to visitors at Watchman Campground and the surrounding area. Some of these include:

  • Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails in Zion National Park that are easily accessible from the campground, including the Watchman Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Biking: Biking is allowed on the Pa’rus Trail, which is accessible from the campground and offers a scenic route through the park.
  • Rock climbing: Zion National Park is a popular destination for rock climbers, and there are numerous climbing routes available throughout the park.
  • Wildlife viewing: Zion is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and numerous bird species. Visitors can often see these animals while hiking or exploring the park.
  • Ranger programs: The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including guided hikes, campfire talks, and stargazing events.

Reservations

Reservations for Watchman Campground can be made online or by phone up to six months in advance. The campground is open year-round, although some sites may be closed during the winter months due to snow. During peak season (March through November), reservations are highly recommended, as the campground often fills up quickly.

Fees

The nightly fee for a campsite at Watchman Campground varies depending on the season and type of site. Tent sites are generally less expensive than RV sites, and fees are higher during peak season. In addition to the nightly fee, visitors to Zion National Park are required to pay an entrance fee. The fee varies depending on the type of vehicle and the length of stay.

Recreation.gov

Accessibility

Watchman Campground is accessible to visitors with disabilities, with several ADA-accessible campsites and restrooms available. The Pa’rus Trail, which is accessible from the campground, is also ADA-accessible.

Conclusion

Watchman Campground is a popular destination for visitors to Zion National Park, offering modern amenities and convenient access to the park’s many activities and attractions. With its stunning scenery, numerous hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, Zion is a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty of the American Southwest. Whether you’re camping in a tent or RV, Watchman Campground provides the perfect base for your Zion adventure.

Campground Map