Tom and I enjoyed a week in Southern Utah exploring Zion National Park and surrounding areas.
Boondocking
Zion is one of the most popular national parks in the country and the few park campgrounds book up quickly. There are many additional campgrounds and RV parks outside the park. But they can all fill quickly and can get expensive if you spend more than a few nights. Tom and I rarely plan far enough ahead and never know how long we'll want to stay. So, boondocking generally works best for us. Saving money is a bonus!
There are many beautiful public boondocking sites on BLM land near the south entrance to Zion National Park. We had originally planned to camp there but ended up staying with an old friend and former colleague of Tom's near Apple Valley. The drive from Apple Valley to the south entrance of the park was on dirt roads through BLM land with beautiful views of the surrounding mesas.
Highlights
We enjoyed catching up with Tom's friend, Walter, and his beautiful dogs. Tom and I didn't bring our dog, Aly, because we expected to spend a lot of time in Zion, which isn't a dog-friendly park. But, Aly would have had a great time playing with Walter's dogs and harassing the chukar and quail he raises for hunting. I had hoped to see some of his chukar eggs hatch but we were just a few days too early.
From our location in Apple Valley, Tom and I explored Zion National Park and even joined my old friend and former colleague, Scott, for an off-road adventure to Lost Spring Mountain.
Photos
You can view our boondocking photos on the Carpe Diem Facebook page by clicking on the image below.
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