A New Glamping Spot Near Zion National Park—Here’s What to Expect

Insights from Dinogo

In the realm of glamping—where luxury meets camping—AutoCamp is renowned for turning vintage Airstream trailers into stylish, cozy retreats for stargazers. The brand debuted in 2013 in Santa Barbara, California, and although that location has since closed, it has expanded to other stunning destinations across the U.S.

Driven by the surge in glamping’s popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic—evidenced by a 63 percent increase in interest from July 2019 to July 2020, according to Google Trends—AutoCamp continues to broaden its offerings. The company now boasts nine locations, including the Russian River, Cape Cod, and, most recently, Utah.

AutoCamp Zion is one of four new locations introduced this summer, having opened in May 2023 in a quaint town just outside Zion National Park. Nestled against a striking red-brown mesa on a 16-acre site, it provides a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Springdale, the park’s gateway town, while remaining close enough to explore all that Zion National Park and its surroundings have to offer. Unlike many other glamping sites, it operates year-round.

The architects and designers of AutoCamp Zion have crafted a central hub known as “The Clubhouse,” an inviting indoor-outdoor space that highlights the area's natural beauty with a warm, earthy color scheme and expansive windows that showcase the stunning Utah desert. With live music on weekends, an outdoor swimming pool, and a children's playground, it fosters a vibrant social atmosphere perfect for enjoying time with travel companions or meeting new friends. For those seeking solitude, the Airstreams are thoughtfully spaced for privacy, offering comfortable living areas and individual firepits with outdoor dining setups.

Who is it for?

Outdoor enthusiasts, couples, and families looking to enjoy the finest elements of camping—like s’mores, campfires, and stargazing in a picturesque setting—without sacrificing comforts such as cozy beds and air conditioning, all conveniently located near Zion National Park.

The Venue

Located just a short 15-minute drive from Springdale, the primary gateway to Zion National Park, AutoCamp Zion is found in the quaint town of Virgin, Utah, adjacent to the Virgin River.

This location offers guests easy access to the northwest entrance of Zion National Park (near Kolob Canyons), which is less frequented and consequently less crowded than the Springdale entrance. It's an ideal base for discovering attractions beyond the park's famous sites. Additionally, guests can explore nearby areas outside the national park that many tourists overlook. AutoCamp is nestled right next to a comprehensive network of mountain biking trails, including the J.E.M. Trail, and the scenic Kolob Terrace Road, known for its incredible stargazing, begins just across from its entrance.

The Accommodations

Every one of the 72 custom-crafted Airstreams boasts a surprisingly spacious bathroom, a well-appointed kitchenette equipped with an induction stove, mini-fridge, and microwave, a queen-size bedroom, and, of course, air-conditioning. At 31 feet long, these trailers provide ample space for two adults (or two adults and two children) to move comfortably. The living room sofa conveniently folds out to offer additional sleeping accommodations.

Delightful amenities such as a skylight over the bed, a private firepit, and an outdoor lounge area allow guests to fully embrace the surroundings and enjoy their time outdoors. While there is a TV inside, on clear nights filled with stars, you might completely forget it’s even there.

In addition to the signature Airstreams, the accommodations include:

• 10 BaseCamps, featuring both an Airstream and a luxurious canvas tent (each equipped with a queen-size bed)
• Nine X Suites, designed like cabins, each offering a queen-size bed, walk-in shower, kitchenette, and a small living area with a flat-screen TV and sofa
• 5 ADA Suites that include a queen-size bed, a full living area, and an accessible shower.

Culinary Offerings

For those who prefer not to cook in their kitchenette, the Clubhouse provides complimentary granola and coffee every morning. The on-site eatery, the Kitchen, offers delicious and simple ready-to-eat meals such as pizza and burgers, which can be enjoyed by the pool or at the communal firepit. Additionally, the General Store on the property stocks beer, wine, snacks, and cooking essentials. I suggest igniting the campfire and picking up a grill kit from the General Store, which comes complete with everything needed for a delightful dinner for two: steaks or chicken, cornbread, sides, and—naturally—AutoCamp’s signature artisanal s’mores.

Accessibility Features

Alongside its Airstreams, AutoCamp Zion offers five ADA cabins nestled in a shaded area beside the clubhouse. Each cabin is equipped with a ramp, accessible bathroom, and kitchenette.

Adventures and Activities

AutoCamp Zion collaborates with Zion Adventure Co. to arrange tours and provide any necessary equipment for guests wishing to explore Zion National Park and its surrounding areas—whether it's hiking the Narrows, mountain biking near Virgin, or taking a guided scenic sunset drive to uncover the region's natural and cultural history. On-site amenities include a pool, playground, and complimentary loaner bikes.

Dedication to Sustainability

For every night booked, AutoCamp Zion contributes $1 to the Zion National Park Forever Project, which focuses on restoring trails and caring for Zion's flora and fauna.