May 14, 2025 / Uncategorized
RV travel is one of the best ways to explore the great outdoors with your family—and few places are better suited for a family adventure than Zion National Park and the surrounding Southern Utah area. With its stunning scenery, accessible trails, and wide-open spaces, Zion offers an experience that both kids and parents will love.
But let’s be honest—RVing with children comes with its own set of challenges. From meal prep and nap times to keeping kids entertained and safe, it takes a little planning to make the trip fun for everyone. This guide will walk you through how to make the most of your RV trip near Zion with kids, including what to pack, where to go, and how to keep the whole family happy.
Not all RV parks are created equal when it comes to kids. Here’s what to look for:
Wide, open spaces for safe play
Clean bathrooms and showers
Proximity to trails and local attractions
Family-friendly policies (quiet hours, pet allowances, etc.)
Range RV Campground checks all the boxes. Located just a short drive from Zion, it offers spacious sites, nearby walking paths, and a peaceful, low-traffic environment—ideal for kids to play and explore safely.
Bonus: It’s pet-friendly, so your furry family members are welcome too!
Zion offers plenty of trails that are both scenic and manageable for children. A few top picks:
Riverside Walk: This 2.2-mile paved trail follows the Virgin River with lots of shade and river access for splashing. Great for strollers!
Emerald Pools Trail: Choose between the Lower (easiest), Middle, or Upper Pools depending on your kids’ ages and energy levels.
Pa’rus Trail: A bike-friendly, mostly flat path perfect for scooters, strollers, and small children.
Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and heat. Bring plenty of water and snacks!
Kids feel more comfortable when the RV resembles home. Here’s how to make it cozy:
Pack their favorite snacks, toys, and books
Bring portable blackout curtains for better naps and nighttime sleep
Use hanging organizers to keep things tidy
Designate a kid zone with blankets and pillows for downtime or quiet activities
The more familiar the environment feels, the smoother the trip will go.
While nature is the best playground, having some backup entertainment never hurts. Try:
Scavenger hunts around the campsite
Nature journals or coloring books
Card games and board games
Marshmallow roasting and campfire stories
Stargazing with a telescope or star app
Many Southern Utah nights are clear and perfect for stargazing—something magical for kids of all ages.
Southern Utah has so much to offer outside the park. Keep your trip varied with these family-friendly side adventures:
Grafton Ghost Town: Explore historic buildings from a real pioneer settlement.
Toquerville Falls: A great off-road drive with shallow water to play in.
Snow Canyon State Park: Lava tubes and red rock formations make this a great add-on to your itinerary.
Sand Hollow State Park: Shallow beaches and calm waters perfect for younger swimmers.
These spots are often less crowded than Zion, giving your family space to roam and play.
RV cooking can be fun and stress-free with a little prep:
Stick to one-pot or foil packet meals
Prep pancake batter, chopped veggies, or marinated meats before the trip
Use portable grills or campfire cooking setups
Let kids help with tasks like skewering kabobs or wrapping foil packs
Don’t forget s’mores—it’s a camping classic!
Your RV trip should be all about fun—but safety is key, especially in desert environments. Keep these precautions in mind:
Bring sunscreen, hats, and lightweight layers
Pack a first aid kit with kid-safe supplies
Watch for local wildlife (like snakes or insects)
Stay on marked trails and teach kids basic trail etiquette
Make sure kids know what to do if they get separated—and consider walkie-talkies or kid-friendly GPS trackers if exploring larger areas.
Kids love feeling like part of the team. Here are ways to involve them:
Let them help pick hikes or activities
Give them a map to follow along
Assign simple tasks like checking the site for litter or organizing gear
Give each child a disposable camera or phone to document their favorite moments
These little touches give them a sense of ownership and engagement.
Traveling with kids means being flexible. Not every hike will be completed. Not every night will be perfectly quiet. And that’s okay.
The key is to focus on connection, curiosity, and exploration—not perfection. Build in downtime, accept the unexpected, and keep the vibe positive.
RV camping with kids near Zion is more than just a trip—it’s a memory in the making. With the right campground, thoughtful planning, and a sprinkle of flexibility, your family can enjoy the stunning beauty of Southern Utah together, stress-free.
Ready to plan your perfect family RV getaway? Book a stay at Range RV Campground and start building memories under the stars.