A Real Water Theme Park Is Finally Open in Southern Utah: Zion Jellystone Park Debuts

Southern Utah has a new reason for families and vacation rental guests to add Hurricane to their itinerary: the long-awaited Zion Utah Jellystone Park Camp-Resort. Opened to local and visiting crowds, the resort brings a family-friendly water-theme experience to the region without trying to be a mega-park — instead it offers accessible, locally-minded attractions and practical lodging options that pair well with vacation rental stays across St. George, Hurricane, and the greater Zion area.

Why the Zion Jellystone Park matters for Southern Utah visitors

The new Jellystone Park fills a gap for families who want water-park fun close to Zion National Park and other Southern Utah attractions. While it does not attempt to match the roller-coaster intensity of major theme parks, the resort emphasizes water play, convenient family lodging, and amenities tailored for RVers and glampers. The park provides a nearby, low-stress activity for those staying in vacation rentals who want a day of easy thrills and downtime between hikes and sightseeing.

Operations manager Roy Smith frames the park’s mission simply:

“We want to take care of our locals, man. It’s important.”

That community-first approach extends to pricing and day-pass options designed to welcome residents and short-term visitors alike.

What guests will find at the water zone

The heart of the resort experience is the water zone. For a day-pass fee just under $30, visitors gain access to:

• Three water slides with different speeds and profiles suitable for kids and teens
• A lazy river for relaxed floating and family tubing
• Multiple pools and spas for both active play and mellow relaxation
• A splash pad area designed for toddlers and younger children

Those prioritizing safety and sustainability should note the park’s water-management systems. Park staff filter water and reuse most of it, minimizing freshwater draw from city supplies. The resort even maintains its own well to help supply the property. These operational choices matter in a desert region where water resources are precious and many travelers want to support businesses that act responsibly.

Tips for maximizing a water-day while staying in a vacation rental

• Reserve a morning arrival to beat crowds and take advantage of cooler temperatures; the sun in Southern Utah intensifies quickly.
• Choose a vacation rental with a full kitchen — packing simple lunch items saves time and expense for families who want multiple park hours without leaving for food.
• Bring waterproof phone pouches and a small dry bag to protect essentials while on slides and in the lazy river.
• Check whether the chosen rental has private outdoor seating or shade areas for families rotating between the park and the rental property.

Lodging options on-site and how they compare to nearby vacation rentals

Zion Jellystone Park focuses on multi-night guests while remaining friendly to locals who want day trips. On-site lodging options include enclosed cabins and spacious RV pads:

• Enclosed “glamping” cabins — priced from about $149 per night for local-friendly options — provide quick access to the park for families who want a short break between swims.
• Larger cabins designed for extended stays suit groups or families planning multiple nights of recreation and sightseeing.
• RV sites exceed 80 feet in length and are configured to accommodate big rigs plus extra vehicle and side-by-side UTV parking.

Many guests still prefer vacation rentals off-site for additional privacy, space, and amenities like full kitchens, private pools, and hot tubs. Choosing a rental near Hurricane or St. George can combine the benefits of a quiet home base with easy day trips to Zion Jellystone Park and surrounding parks.

Vacation rental guests who favor a golf-view, luxury stay may consider properties in Copper Rock or Paradise Village at Zion for their comfort and central location. For convenient browsing, visit the main site: https://staycopperrock.com

Suggested itinerary: How to spend a long weekend that includes Zion Jellystone Park

This sample itinerary is tailored for families or groups staying in a vacation rental near Hurricane or St. George who want to combine water play and national park time.

1. Day 1 — Arrival and local exploration: Check into the vacation rental mid-afternoon. Unpack, walk local trails or green spaces, and stock up on groceries. Dinner at a nearby Hurricane eatery keeps the evening simple. For dining options in Hurricane, see: https://staycopperrock.com/places-to-eat/places-to-eat-in-hurricane-utah/
2. Day 2 — Water day at Zion Jellystone Park: Plan a morning arrival to maximize slides and lazy-river time. Rotate to the cabin or rental for midday rest and return for late-afternoon relaxation at the pools or spas. Carry sunscreen and hydrating drinks.
3. Day 3 — Zion National Park day: Park early, ride shuttle services through Zion Canyon, and pick family-friendly hikes like the Riverside Walk or Emerald Pools. For shuttle specifics and tips, consult: https://staycopperrock.com/what-to-know-to-ride-the-zion-canyon-shuttles/
4. Day 4 — Sand Hollow or local UTV trails: Reserve this day for Sand Hollow Reservoir water sports or a guided UTV tour in nearby trails. Return to the rental for a relaxed evening and pack up for departure the next morning.

Each day pairs high-energy outdoor adventures with deliberate downtime at the vacation rental, helping families stay refreshed and avoid overheating in Southern Utah’s sun.

Practical travel tips and seasonal advice

When planning a stay that includes a visit to Zion Jellystone Park, consider these actionable tips:

• Best seasons: Late spring and early fall provide warm water temperatures without the extreme summer heat. Summer is busy — plan early reservations for rentals and arrive at attractions early in the day.
• Packing list: Rash guards, reef-safe sunscreen, wide-brim hats, water shoes, and a reusable water bottle are essentials. For families staying in rentals, bring laundry detergent packets and a small first-aid kit.
• Transportation: A vehicle is recommended for flexibility. For Zion National Park days, rely on shuttles inside the park to avoid parking limitations.
• Water usage awareness: Guests should expect businesses to prioritize conservation. Respect local advisories, and select rentals with efficient systems to reduce environmental impact.

Nearby attractions to pair with a Jellystone visit

Zion Jellystone Park sits within easy reach of Southern Utah’s marquee attractions. A thoughtful vacation rental base enables quick access to:

• Zion National Park — slot canyons, iconic hikes, and family-friendly trails (vacation rental guide: https://staycopperrock.com/top-favorite-vacation-rentals-near-zion-national-park/)
• Sand Hollow State Park — reservoir activities and scenic off-road riding
• Snow Canyon State Park — shorter scenic hikes and geological formations for gentle exploration
• St. George — dining, golf at Copper Rock, and cultural amenities; more to do during a St. George stay: https://staycopperrock.com/5-things-to-do-during-your-st-george-vacation/

Sustainability and community focus

The resort’s use of a private well and a recirculating water filtration system demonstrates a conscious approach to resource management in a desert environment. For residents and vacation rental guests who prioritize sustainable travel, supporting properties that reduce municipal water draw and implement efficiency measures aligns with broader conservation goals in Southern Utah.

How families and locals save money

Local residents can access day passes at a reduced price point that encourages repeat visits without the premium of larger regional parks. For vacation rental guests, staying in a rental with a kitchen, laundry, and comfortable common areas reduces daily expenses and makes it easier to pace activities across multiple days.

FAQs

Is Zion Jellystone Park suitable for toddlers and very young children?

Yes. The park features a splash pad area specifically designed for the youngest visitors and shallower pools. Families should still supervise children tightly around water and verify height/age rules for slides.

How much does a day pass cost?

Day-pass pricing is positioned to be affordable; locals can expect admission at just under $30 for access to the water zone. Pricing for cabins and RV sites varies by season and site type.

Are there overnight accommodations on the property?

Yes. Options include enclosed cabins suitable for a family seeking a short on-site stay and larger cabins for multi-night accommodations. RV pads are generously sized — over 80 feet — to fit large rigs and extra vehicles.

How does the park manage water use?

The park uses a filtering system to reuse most of the water in its attractions and operates its own well to supplement the resort’s supply, helping to minimize demand on city water sources.

What should vacation rental guests look for when booking near Hurricane or St. George?

Guests should prefer rentals with a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and flexible check-in times. Properties with outdoor space, shade, and proximity to grocery stores make multi-day family trips more comfortable.

Are there discounts for vacation rental guests or package deals?

Packages may vary by season and park promotions. Vacation rental guests should check with their property host or the park’s reservation desk for any combined lodging-and-park offers.

Conclusion

Zion Jellystone Park Camp-Resort adds a practical, family-focused water option to Southern Utah’s portfolio of visitor experiences. It complements the region’s national parks and outdoor recreation by providing intentional amenities for families, locals, and RV travelers. For guests staying in vacation rentals, pairing a day at the park with comfortable lodging close by creates a balanced itinerary of adventure and relaxation. For more information about vacation rental options that pair well with a Jellystone visit — including properties with full kitchens, pools, and concierge-style assistance — see https://staycopperrock.com and the Zion rental guide at https://staycopperrock.com/top-favorite-vacation-rentals-near-zion-national-park/.