If you’re planning a visit to Zion National Park, then understanding the Springdale parking cost is one of the most important parts of planning your trip. Since Zion is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, parking at or near the park can become competitive and confusing — especially during peak months. Because the park itself fills up early in the day, nearly all visitors choose to park in Springdale, Utah, and take a shuttle to the park entrance. Knowing how much it costs, where to park, what zones there are, how long you can stay, and how to avoid fees can save you both time and money on your Zion adventure.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything about Springdale parking cost — from official town parking rates to tips for avoiding charges, shuttle information, oversized vehicle rules, multi-day parking, and best practices for budget-friendly travel.
What Is Springdale Parking Cost? (Detailed Overview)
Springdale parking cost refers to the fees charged by the Town of Springdale for parking your vehicle in designated areas around the town — mainly to visit Zion National Park or explore local restaurants, shops, hotels, and shuttle stops. Springdale is situated immediately outside the south entrance of Zion National Park, on Highway 9, and serves as the primary parking area for visitors when park lots fill up early in the morning.
Why There Is a Parking Fee in Springdale
Parking in Springdale isn’t free because the town must manage high tourist volume, reduce congestion, and fund infrastructure improvements like:
- Shuttle systems
- Road and sidewalk maintenance
- Parking enforcement and signage
- Traffic safety enhancements
Springdale’s parking program also helps prevent illegal roadside parking that can block traffic and create hazards near a major national park entrance.
Springdale Parking Zones & Cost (2025)
Springdale divides its public parking into zones — each with its own pricing structure. This zoning helps visitors choose a parking option that fits both their budget and convenience.
🅿️ On-Street Parking (Paid Street Parking)
Springdale’s main paid parking runs from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily (enforcement hours).
| Zone | All Day Cost | Half Day After 1:00 pm |
|---|---|---|
| Zone A | $25 | $20 |
| Zone B | $20 | $15 |
| Zone C | $15 | $10 |
| Oversized Vehicles (Zone C only) | $30 | $15 |
| Note: Zone A is closest to the Zion entrance, Zone B is mid-town, and Zone C is farther south. |
This is the core of Springdale parking cost — the deeper into town you park, the cheaper it tends to be, but the longer your walk to the shuttle or park entrance.
Off-Street Parking & Lot Parking Costs
In addition to street parking, Springdale has off-street lots managed by the town.
📍 Bit and Spur Lot — 1212 Zion Park Boulevard
- $5 per hour
- $15 all day
- Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily
This lot is convenient for shorter visits or flexible timing.
Multi-Day Parking Costs
Springdale meters allow payment for up to three consecutive days. The maximum rates are:
- Standard vehicles: Zone A $25/day, Zone B $20/day, Zone C $15/day
- Oversized vehicles: $30/day (Zone C only)
(Three-day max applies.
This makes Springdale useful if you’re staying more than one day — for example, for long hikes or multi-day visits to Zion.
Springdale Parking Cost for Oversized Vehicles
Large vehicles like RVs, trailers, box trucks, or motorhomes longer than 24 feet must park in specific zones.
- Zone C all day: $30
- Zone C half day after 1:00 pm: $15
- Oversized vehicles are not permitted in Zones A or B.
Off-Season Discounts on Springdale Parking
Springdale sometimes offers 50 % off parking rates between December 1 and March 1, although rates and discounts are subject to change based on town policy.
If you visit Zion in the winter (off-peak), you might find cheaper parking deals.
Springdale Residential Parking Permits
Residents of Springdale can obtain parking permits that allow:
- Free parking in residential permit areas
- Extended parking in some paid zones beyond typical time limits
To qualify, you must provide a local utility bill or rental agreement.
How Springdale Parking Works with Zion National Park Shuttle
Because Zion National Park lots fill very early in the morning (often by 8 – 9 a.m.), most visitors park in Springdale and use the free town shuttle to reach the park entrance.
🚍 Shuttle System Overview:
- Springdale shuttles are free and run regularly from early morning to evening.
- Shuttle stops are evenly spaced along the main road — often near where you park.
- All parking receipts and shuttle usage are separate from the Zion National Park entrance pass — they don’t substitute for park admission.
Parking in Springdale and riding the shuttle is generally easier and cheaper than trying to park inside Zion itself.
Comparing Springdale Parking Cost vs Zion Visitor Center Parking
If you arrive extremely early (before 7 – 8 a.m.), you may find a parking spot at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center or other in-park lots.
- In-park parking can be free early in the morning if spaces are available.
- Private lots or commercial parking near the park entrance can charge $30 – $40+ per day.
- Springdale parking rates tend to run $15 – $25+ per day, depending on location and time of day.
For most visitors, the Springdale parking cost and shuttle system offer the best balance of convenience and cost.
Tips to Save on Springdale Parking Cost
Here are some ways to reduce your parking expenses when you visit Zion:
🅿️ Park in Lower-Cost Zones
Zone C is cheaper than Zones A and B — often $15/day versus $25/day.
🚐 Arrive Early
Shuttle lots in Springdale and in-park spots are most available early in the morning.
🚌 Use the Town Shuttle
Once parked, the free shuttle takes you directly to park entrances, reducing your need to search for premium parking.
🏨 Stay Overnight in Springdale
Many hotels and motels offer free parking for guests. Check with your lodging provider.
🏕 Consider Nearby Public Land
Boondocking or free BLM land may be available outside town, though this often requires a longer shuttle ride.
Rules & Enforcement – What to Know Before You Park
- Parking enforcement operates daily from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Pay stations and meters are clearly marked — failure to pay may result in citations.
- Overnight sleeping or camping in paid parking spots is not allowed.
- Vehicles may be left for up to three consecutive days in Springdale paid zones.
FAQ
1. Do I need to pay for parking in Springdale?
Yes, most public parking areas in Springdale are paid during enforced hours, especially near shuttle stops and the main road.
2. What time does paid parking start and end?
Parking enforcement generally runs from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late afternoon (around 5:00 PM), depending on the season.
3. Are there any free parking options in Springdale?
Free parking is very limited and usually only available for hotel guests or in restricted residential permit areas.
4. Can I park overnight in Springdale?
Overnight parking is allowed in some paid zones, but sleeping or camping in vehicles is not permitted.
5. Is parking available for RVs and large vehicles?
Yes, but large vehicles are restricted to specific zones designed to handle oversized parking.
6. How close is Springdale parking to the park entrance?
Many parking spots are within walking distance of shuttle stops that connect directly to the main park entrance.
7. Do parking fees include shuttle access?
No, parking fees are separate, but the town shuttle itself is free to use.
8. Can I pay for parking using a mobile app or card?
Most parking meters accept credit cards and mobile payments, though availability may vary by location.
9. What happens if I don’t pay for parking?
Vehicles parked without payment during enforced hours may receive a citation or fine.
10. Is parking harder to find during peak season?
Yes, parking fills up quickly during spring, summer, and holiday weekends, especially after mid-morning.
11. Can I leave my car parked for multiple days?
Yes, most paid areas allow parking for up to several consecutive days if payment is made accordingly.
12. Are parking rates the same all year?
Rates can change seasonally, and discounts may be available during winter or off-peak months.
13. Is parking accessible for people with disabilities?
Designated accessible parking spaces are available near shuttle stops and public facilities.
14. Are private parking lots available in town?
Yes, some businesses and private lots offer parking for a fee, which may be higher than public rates.
15. Is it better to arrive early or later in the day for parking?
Arriving early in the morning increases your chances of finding convenient and lower-cost parking.
Springdale Parking Cost — Final Thoughts
Understanding Springdale parking cost is essential for a stress-free visit to Zion National Park. Whether you’re choosing a lower-cost Zone C spot or the convenient Bit and Spur Lot, planning ahead will save time and money while ensuring you have a place to leave your vehicle.
Combining affordable parking with the free Springdale shuttle system allows you to explore Zion’s most iconic trails without the hassle of searching for a parking space near the crowded park entrance. Visit Utah
Happy travels and enjoy Zion! 🌄
