Zion National Park’s South Campground will close for 2024 season for major renovations

Zion National Park’s oldest campground, South Campground, will be closed for the 2024 season for significant infrastructure improvements. Established in the 1920s, this campground is undergoing a major renovation to address its outdated facilities, including drinking water systems, stormwater management, and comfort stations.

The project, financed by the Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund, disaster recovery appropriations, and visitor entrance fees, aims to modernize the campground. Planned upgrades include new bathrooms, modern drinking water systems, enhanced sewer infrastructure, expanded and reinforced stormwater drainage, and improved campsites.

According to Jonathan Shafer, Zion National Park spokesman, these improvements at South Campground will greatly benefit visitors. Additionally, a new building will be constructed where rangers will issue wilderness recreation permits and manage campground reservations. “Wildlife and campers will also benefit from the new food storage boxes we’re installing that make it easier to keep human food away from animals,” Shafer told St. George News.

The Great American Outdoors Act has been crucial in securing the necessary funds for these upgrades. Combined with other funding sources, the act has enabled the park to address its maintenance and repair needs.

Jeff Bradybaugh, Superintendent of Zion National Park, emphasized that the construction is just beginning. He noted that the efforts of skilled park employees and craftspeople will benefit visitors for years to come by rehabilitating one of the park’s most popular and historic campgrounds.

Besides infrastructure upgrades, the project will also enhance water drainage systems to reduce flooding risks and boost climate resilience.

Over the past 20 years, park visitation has more than doubled, significantly straining the campground’s infrastructure. This increased usage, along with regular maintenance needs, has overwhelmed the existing facilities.

The construction timeline will depend on various factors. Ally O’Rullian, communications specialist for Zion National Park, stated that the timeline will become clearer once the final plans are finalized.

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