Zion National Park draws families with its iconic red cliffs, stunning hikes, and kid-friendly adventure. Selecting a hotel that caters to families can make or break a trip. For families traveling with children, choosing between family-friendly hotels is more than convenience; it’s about safety, comfort, and creating memorable experiences.
A family-friendly hotel in the Zion region should offer features like swimming pools, large multi-room options, recreational games, and easy access to trails and shuttles.
Without further ado, let us begin.
10. Desert Pearl Inn (Springdale, UT)
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Spacious suites cater to families who want plenty of room. Each one features full kitchens, comfy beds, and private balconies with mountain views.
Pool sits beside the Virgin River, offering a scenic spot for kids to splash and relax. Guests walk to restaurants, cafes, and the Springdale shuttle with ease.
- Lodging Types: Suites with kitchens and private balconies
- Top Perks: Pool, riverside lounging, full kitchens, walkability
- Ideal For: Large families wanting space, views, and dining options
9. AutoCamp Zion (Virgin, UT)
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Adventure meets modern design at AutoCamp Zion. Families stay in stylish Airstreams or canvas tents with cozy interiors.
Firepits become gathering places after sunset. Children pedal around on cruiser bikes or browse snacks in the general store. Despite the outdoor vibe, Wi-Fi and proper beds keep everyone happy.
- Lodging Types: Airstreams, canvas tents
- Top Perks: Firepits, bikes, stocked store, stylish design
- Ideal For: Design-loving families wanting a fresh take on camping
8. The Dwellings (La Verkin, UT)
Ideal for budget-conscious families who want easy access to Zion without Springdale prices. Each tiny home features a fully stocked kitchen, private deck, and smart layout.
Children swing into the river or explore nature just outside the door.
Quiet setting makes it perfect for families seeking downtime after hikes.
- Lodging Types: Tiny homes with full kitchens
- Top Perks: Rope swings, stocked kitchens, river access
- Ideal For: Affordable, family-focused getaways with nature play
7. East Zion Resort (Orderville, UT)
Creative architecture sets East Zion Resort apart. Treetop cabins, yurts, and tiny homes create memorable stays that feel adventurous without sacrificing convenience.
Each unit includes private decks and compact kitchens.
A heated pool and hot tubs let guests relax under the stars. Families also look forward to a new lazy river opening soon.
- Lodging Types: Treetop cabins, yurts, tiny houses
- Top Perks: Heated pool, hot tubs, private decks, upcoming lazy river
- Ideal For: Visitors planning to see both Zion and Bryce
6. Zion Lodge (Inside Zion National Park)
Your home to world-class hiking trails and a true photographer’s paradise is waiting.
Get started at https://t.co/6pujXRFnq1. #ZionLodge #XanterraTravel #ZionNationalPark pic.twitter.com/gRkEkXU0F0
— Zion Lodge (@ZionLodges) August 24, 2024
Located inside the park, Zion Lodge lets families avoid shuttles and crowds during peak hours. Guests walk straight to Emerald Pools or hop on a rental bike to explore scenic trails.
Cabins and hotel rooms blend rustic style with simple comforts. Deer and turkeys roam the grounds, giving kids up-close wildlife encounters.
- Lodging Types: Historic cabins, standard hotel rooms
- Top Perks: In-park access, bike rentals, wildlife spotting
- Ideal For: Families seeking immersion and early access to trails
5. Timber & Tin (Kanab, UT)
Built with teens and older kids in mind, Timber & Tin focuses on entertainment. Cottages and suites include access to a game barn packed with ping-pong, air hockey, and foosball.
A private movie room gives families a place to unwind with popcorn and blankets. Pool area is stylish and well-kept, while Kanab’s location allows day trips to Zion, Bryce Canyon, or Coral Pink Sand Dunes.
- Lodging Types: Cottages, modern suites
- Top Perks: Game barn, theater room, pool with sun loungers
- Ideal For: Families with older kids seeking fun and flexibility
4. Cliffrose Lodge by Hilton (Springdale, UT)
@jourdancole Stayed at the amazing Cliffrose Lodge in Springdale, Utah, while visiting Zion. #zionnationalpark #cliffrosespringdalehilton #hiltonhotel #vacationmode #hotelroom #traveltiktok #travelbucketlist #nationalparkgeek #utahtravel #hikingadventures #hikingtok #natureadventures #clifflife #luxurytravel #howdoyouhilton #springdaleutah ♬ Summer day – TimTaj
Combines resort luxury with unbeatable proximity. Families stroll to the Zion Visitor Center or relax on landscaped grounds featuring native plants and botanical gardens.
Pool and hot tub areas face canyon walls, creating a peaceful end to action-packed days. Rooms and suites include balconies with scenic views, ideal for morning coffee or evening stargazing.
- Lodging Types: Standard rooms, spacious suites with balconies
- Top Perks: Walkability to park, botanical gardens, scenic pool area
- Ideal For: Families wanting comfort, views, and upscale touches
3. Cable Mountain Lodge (Springdale, UT)
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Cable Mountain Lodge sits within walking distance of Zion’s main entrance, which is perfect for families avoiding parking and shuttle waits. Studio and suite options come with kitchenettes or full kitchens, making mealtimes easier.
Children enjoy swimming with views of the Virgin River, while parents grill near the riverside or stroll to nearby cafes. Hiking gear shops and shuttle stops are just minutes away.
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- Lodging Types: Studios, suites with kitchens
- Top Perks: Walkable to park, pool with river views, riverside grilling area
- Ideal For: Families wanting hassle-free access and creature comforts
2. Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort (East Zion)
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A true adventure base for families wanting more than just hiking. Zion Ponderosa offers glamping tents, log cabins, and large vacation homes for multi-generational stays.
Kids can splash in pools with waterslides, tackle a climbing wall, or take part in mini-golf competitions.
For a thrill, families join guided UTV tours, go horseback riding, or explore nearby slot canyons. On-site dining, a zipline, and evening bonfires add to the experience.
- Lodging Types: Glamping tents, rustic cabins, vacation homes
- Top Perks: Waterslides, mini-golf, rock wall, UTV and horseback tours
- Ideal For: High-energy families looking for all-day activities
1. Zion Wildflower Resort (Virgin, UT)
@livinwithlittles We just spent a few days at the beautiful Zion Wildflower! It was everything I had hoped for and beyond for a family glamping getaway. This property is so peaceful, nestled in the beauty of Virgin, Utah. We were only a short 15 minute drive into Zion National Park, shops and dining. Let’s talk more about Zion Wildflower! We stayed in 2 Grand Mesa Tents for our family of 7. One had 2 queen beds and the other was a bunk/king combo with pull out couch. Both had air conditioning and heat, full bathrooms with showers, mini fridge, coffee maker and Wi-Fi. We slept so good in these cozy, soft beds! On property you can enjoy a beautiful pool and hot tub, complimentary s’mores kits, ice, bicycles, board games, yard games, yoga mats, charcoal/propane grills and coffee, tea and hot chocolate. This resort is also pet friendly! We enjoyed every minute here and will definitely return on our next Zion adventure! Thank you so much @zionwildflower for our wonderful stay. #staywild #zionwildflower #zionwildflowerresort #zionnationalpark #zionnps #familyglamping ♬ Country Morning Background Music – Keith Fane
Zion Wildflower Resort mixes adventure and comfort in one spot. Glamping tents give families a camping experience with proper beds and electricity, while covered wagons and bungalows offer more structure and warmth for cooler nights.
Children race bikes on the property’s open grass or gather at fire pits for s’mores.
A heated pool gives parents and kids a place to unwind after hiking canyon trails. Lawn games like cornhole, ladder toss, and giant Jenga keep energy high when trails are done for the day.
- Lodging Types: Glamping tents, covered wagons, modern bungalows
- Top Perks: Heated pool, complimentary cruiser bikes, lawn games, fire pits
- Ideal For: Stylish outdoor lodging close to park entrances
What to Consider When Booking
Planning a family trip to Zion means more than just picking any hotel near the park. Where you stay shapes your entire experience—especially when children are part of the adventure. Several key factors deserve careful attention when narrowing down accommodation choices.
Location
Location should be the first consideration. Springdale places you steps from the main entrance to Zion, with the added convenience of being near shuttle stops, restaurants, and rental shops.
Parents with younger kids often find Springdale ideal for minimizing time spent in transit. Virgin, just west of the park, offers a little more space, making it attractive for those seeking glamping resorts or modern bungalows.
The East Entrance, home to places like Zion Ponderosa, delivers a quieter stay and direct access to less crowded trailheads like Observation Point and Cable Mountain.
Shuttle Access
Shuttle access can be a day-saver. Avoiding the hassle of parking and navigating traffic reduces stress and gives families more time to enjoy the park. Springdale accommodations often line the shuttle route, giving you near door-to-trail access.
In contrast, East Entrance and Virgin locations usually require a short drive to park entrances, so plan accordingly.
Dining Options
Dining options also influence your stay. Resorts that provide on-site restaurants with kid-friendly meals can help avoid meltdowns at mealtime.
For those who prefer flexibility, cabins and suites with full kitchens or kitchenettes allow families to prep their own breakfasts or snacks before a long hike. A stocked fridge and stove may not sound exciting, but for parents, it’s priceless.
Room Type
Room type should reflect your family’s needs. Suites work well for families wanting separate sleeping spaces and living areas. Cabins provide more privacy and often include outdoor patios or decks for late-night chats or early coffee.
Glamping tents inject excitement and novelty, especially for kids who like the idea of camping without giving up comfort. Families looking for something memorable often gravitate toward treehouses or covered wagons for a stay kids will rave about.
On-site Amenities
On-site amenities often decide how restful or chaotic downtime becomes. Pools offer a break after dusty hikes. Playgrounds let younger kids burn energy.
Fire pits encourage storytelling and marshmallow roasting. Game rooms and theaters can entertain teens when it’s too hot to hike.
- Pools (heated or seasonal)
- Fire pits and lawn games
- Kitchen or kitchenette access
- Bikes or hiking gear rentals
- Outdoor gathering areas and grills
- Nature trails directly accessible from the property
Summary
Family-focused amenities, variety in room styles, and access to the park all factor into a successful Zion trip.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially for in-park lodging or spots in Springdale, where availability goes quickly.
Family trips to Zion become more memorable with accommodations that go beyond just a bed, they become part of the experience itself.