Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area
4.34115 reviewsX624+67, Littlefield, AZ, 86432
Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area
$2.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$8.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight Use is $8/night for up to two vehicles. Day Use is $2/vehicle. Discounts of 50% apply with Senior or Access America the Beautiful Pass. Reservations incur an $8 processing fee per site.
About this campground
Where the thundering waters of the Virgin River carve through ancient stone, Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area beckons travelers with its remarkable beauty and unbeatable value. At just $8 per night, this hidden gem along Interstate 15 offers more than just a place to rest—it's a gateway to adventure. Wake up to towering canyon walls painted in desert hues, explore winding hiking trails that reveal the river's sculptural masterpiece, and enjoy the comfort of well-maintained facilities that make roughing it feel refined.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV camping, tent camping, and group camping. There are no glamping or cabin options.
Historical SignificanceStep into a geological time machine where ancient forces tell their story in stone. This miniature cousin of the Grand Canyon shares the same dramatic heritage—born from the monumental uplift of the Colorado Plateau millions of years ago. Each layer of rock whispers tales of prehistoric seas, ancient deserts, and the relentless force of water that carved this spectacular gorge, creating a living museum of Earth's dynamic history.
Weather and SeasonsIn this slice of the Mojave Desert, nature writes its own dramatic script. Summer arrives with fierce intensity, painting the landscape in shimmering heat waves and brilliant sunshine that transforms the canyon walls into a glowing amphitheater. Winter brings a gentler touch, with mild temperatures perfect for exploration. The canyon's towering walls create a natural wind tunnel, occasionally orchestrating desert breezes into theatrical gusts that remind visitors of nature's raw power.
ElevationNestled within the characteristic elevations of the Mojave Desert region, the campground sits at the perfect altitude where desert ecology thrives. This positioning creates an ideal climate for both desert-adapted vegetation and comfortable camping experiences throughout much of the year.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be mesmerized by nature's architectural prowess in the Virgin River Gorge, where towering walls of sandstone and limestone create a natural cathedral of color and texture. The landscape unfolds like a painter's palette—burnt oranges, deep reds, and cream-colored bands telling the story of eons past. Scattered groves of iconic Joshua Trees stand as sentinels across the desert floor, while the life-giving Virgin River hosts rare species like the endemic Virgin River chub. Lucky visitors might spot Southwestern Willow Flycatchers dancing among the riverside vegetation, adding their melodic calls to the desert symphony.
Geological RegionThe Virgin River Gorge stands as a magnificent testament to the power of water over stone, where the steep gradient of the Virgin River has carved a dramatic passage between two distinct worlds. This natural corridor bridges the elevated Colorado Plateau with the lower Mojave Desert, creating a spectacular transition zone painted in vibrant desert hues. The gorge's towering sandstone and limestone cliffs rise like ancient sentinels, their stratified faces revealing millions of years of geological history in a breathtaking mountain desert tableau that changes color with every shift of light.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers eight ADA-compliant campsites across both the Upper and Lower Loops, with accessible restrooms, drinking water, walkways, and fire rings. Specific sites include features like cement parking spots, shade structures, and proximity to restrooms.
Sites SizeCampsites are sized to accommodate a mix of RVs and tents, with some pull-through and some back-in parking.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some sites noted as clustered and others providing a decent amount of space between them. Many user reviews mention the lack of site privacy.
Total Campsites108 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAccessible sites are equipped with cement parking spots and proximity to restrooms. Site 25 is praised for its pavilion and scenic views.
Best CampsitesFavorites among reviewers include sites 99, 33, and 13 for tents. Accessible sites include 70, 46, and 94.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
- Upper Loop: 14-night maximum
- Lower Loop: 1-night maximum.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 2 vehicles per site
- guest limits are unspecified.
Groups
Group sites are available, with one notable accessible group site (site 103) offering a large shade structure and three picnic tables.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features Upper and Lower loops. Sites include pull-through parking, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season: February 16 - May 31; Non-peak season: June 1 - September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available; payment can be made via cash or the Scan and Pay feature on the Recreation.gov app.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee if done before the day of arrival. Late cancellations (day before or day of arrival) forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10 fee. No-shows are charged $20 and forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The recreation area offers ample activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, water play, and access to two designated wilderness areas. Scenic trails lead to the Virgin River and other natural attractions.
Hiking
Hiking options include the Sullivan Canyon Trail, which extends three miles into the Paiute Wilderness, as well as shorter trails leading to the Virgin River and Joshua Tree groves. User reviews highlight the trails' scenic beauty but note some are poorly marked.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Swimming
The Virgin River offers opportunities for casual swimming, particularly during warmer months. Some user reviews highlight the sandy beaches and relaxing river access.Boating
The Virgin River is occasionally runnable for small whitewater boats during spring runoff. Campers are advised to check flow conditions before attempting.Wildlife viewing
The area supports hundreds of species, including endangered ones like the Virgin River chub and woundfin. Reviewers mention sightings of wildflowers, lizards, and birds.Beach activities
The campground features sandy river beaches, which users describe as good for relaxation and light activities.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though the campground remains open year-round, and the mild winter climate may appeal to visitors.Water Sports
The campground supports water-based recreation, including swimming and occasional boating during high river flows.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in grills or designated fire pits. Restrictions may apply during high winds and summer fire orders.
- Quiet hours are 10 pm to 7 am
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include high winds, unstable river runoff areas, and wildlife such as snakes and ants.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 16.8 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not explicitly detailed, but the closest city, St. George, Utah, 20 miles away, has hospitals, police stations, and other services.
Good to know
Peak season datesFebruary 16 - May 31
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, and there are dumpsters for waste management. Recycling facilities are not mentioned specifically.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the Virgin River, with trails leading to sandy river beaches.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include road noise from Interstate 15, lack of privacy between sites, and occasional issues with campsite reservations.
HostOccasional campground hosts are present but are not guaranteed.
Campground Map
X624+67, Littlefield, AZ, 86432
Driving directionsVirgin River Canyon Recreation Area is located along Interstate 15 approximately 20 miles southwest of St. George, Utah and approximately 20 miles northeast of Mesquite, Nevada. The recreation area is at the Cedar Pocket Exit (Mile Post 18).
The campground is accessible via a paved road from Interstate 15, Cedar Pocket Exit. The road provides easy access for both RVs and passenger vehicles. No seasonal closures are mentioned, but the road may occasionally experience closures for maintenance.Nearby places
St. George, Utah (20 miles, approx. 20 minutes), Mesquite, Nevada (20 miles, approx. 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in nearby St. George (20 miles away) and Mesquite (20 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.3
115 reviews
Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area receives generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.0. Visitors praise the natural beauty, clean facilities, and affordability, though some express concerns about noise from I-15 and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 115 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive comments include 'spectacular views,' 'clean restrooms,' 'affordable rates,' and 'spacious, well-maintained sites.' Campers appreciate the scenic trails and river access.
Based on 115 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints involve road noise from I-15, lack of clear signage for reserved and first-come-first-serve sites, and limited privacy between campsites. Some users also noted issues with campsite...
Based on 115 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing earplugs due to road noise, checking site availability in advance, and downloading the Recreation.gov app for easier payment. Sites on the Upper Loop are noted for being...
Based on 115 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention extreme heat and wind, while winter reviews highlight the mild climate and quieter campground atmosphere. Spring and fall are praised for ideal camping conditions.
Based on 115 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautifully landscaped campground; clean restrooms; stunning natural environment." - Beverley Lynne Harris. "Bathrooms were clean and nice. Some hiking trails took you down to the river." - Austin...
Based on 115 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 99, 33, and 13 are favorites for tent campers. Accessible sites like 70 and group site 103 receive praise for their features. Some users indicate lower satisfaction with sites close to busy...
Based on 115 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites are well-regarded, but a few users note that signage could be improved to identify these spots more clearly.
Based on 115 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users report positive experiences bringing dogs to enjoy the river and trails. Leash rules are emphasized in the campground policies.
Based on 115 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025