Roomer

Under Canvas Zion

Book this if You want the Instagram-famous Zion experience without the crowds of Springdale, and you're willing to trade AC for a wood-burning stove.

Why People Love It

  • Stargazing windows above the bed in Stargazer tents
  • Access to the quieter Kolob Terrace section of Zion
  • Communal campfire culture with nightly s'mores and live music

Quick Take: It is a very expensive tent with no electricity and no AC, so if you can't handle 90°F heat or a spider in your shower, go to the Marriott.

Reviewed by @BlondyinsiderI stayed here for a few nights to explore Zion and it was such a cool experience. The tent was surprisingly spacious and the wood stove kept me toasty all night. Sipping coffee on the deck while watching the sunrise over the desert was the highlight of my trip.


Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Guests are blown away by the views and the 'glamping' novelty, but many are shocked by the heat in July/August and the noise from wind flapping the canvas.

Reality check

The 'zippers' on the tents are a frequent failure point, leading to bugs entering or difficulty closing up for the night.

  • You want to disconnect (literally no WiFi)
  • You plan to be hiking all day and only use the room for sleep
  • You are okay with 'nature' noises like coyotes and wind

Cleanliness & Maintenance

8.2
  • Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping is thorough, but fighting red dust in a canvas tent is a losing battle.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Ensuite bathrooms are surprisingly modern and clean, though low-flow toilets can be finicky.
  • Maintenance: Canvas shows wear and tear (zippers, small tears) due to the harsh desert sun and wind.
  • Linens & towels: West Elm bedding is high quality, plush, and generally spotless.
  • Odors & scents: Smells like canvas, sagebrush, and woodsmoke. No chemical cleaner smells here.

Sleepability™

6.5MODERATE
MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Wind flapping the tent fabric (loudest issue)
  • Highway noise from Kolob Terrace Road (in lower tents)
  • Neighbors talking/zipping tents nearby

Before you book

Good to know

  • Resort fee is ~10% of the room rate, not a flat fee.
  • Showers are 'pull-chain' style: you must hold the chain to keep water flowing (conserves water).
  • Food is not allowed inside tents to avoid attracting rodents/ants.

What to pack

  • High-capacity power bank (provided ones are small)
  • Headlamp (it gets PITCH black walking to the lobby)
  • Slip-on shoes (for late-night bathroom runs or s'mores)

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Stargazer Tent (Tent #35 mentioned as great view)
  • Angels Landing Suite (for families, huge deck)

Rooms to avoid

  • Safari Tents (unless you want to walk to a communal bathroom at 3am)
  • Tents near the main lobby/road (more foot traffic and noise)

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

I am a light sleeper and would love a tent as far from Kolob Terrace Road and the lobby as possible to minimize noise. If available, a tent with an unobstructed view of the red rocks would be amazing.

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is there really no AC?

Correct. No AC. They provide fans and misters, but in July/August, the tent will be hotter than outside during the day.

Can I charge my phone?

Yes, they provide USB battery packs. They cannot power standard plugs (laptops, hair dryers).

Is there a private bathroom?

Yes, in 'Deluxe', 'Stargazer', and 'Suite' tents. 'Safari' tents use a shared bathhouse.

How far is it from Zion National Park?

It's 20-30 minutes to the main Springdale entrance, but it's located ON the road to the Kolob Terrace section (Subway hike).

Are pets allowed?

Yes, dogs are welcome for a $35/night fee. They cannot be left unattended in tents.

Is there food on site?

Yes, 'Embers' restaurant serves breakfast and dinner. No lunch service (grab-and-go only).


Insider Tips

  • The 'Stargazer' tent viewing window can get dusty/dirty, obscuring the view—ask housekeeping to wipe it if needed.

  • Don't rely on the on-site restaurant for every meal; it's pricey. Stock up on snacks in La Verkin before driving up.

  • Quiet hours start at 10pm and are strictly enforced; this isn't a party resort.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The 'pull-chain' shower means you shower with one hand while holding the chain with the other.

  • 💡The zipper on the tent door is the most common failure point—check it immediately upon check-in.

  • 💡You can hear your neighbors' entire conversation if they are on their deck.

  • 💡The 'misters' in the tent add humidity, which can make the heat feel swampy if there's no breeze.

  • 💡There is a 'resort fee tax' of ~10% added to your bill, which is substantial on a $500 room.

Local Playbook


Map

See where Under Canvas Zion is located and what's nearby.


Key amenities & services