Cedar Canyon
3.6924 reviewsDIXIE NF, ., CEDAR CITY, UT 84721, USA
Cedar Canyon
$28.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $28 for standard nonelectric sites to $75 for group sites. Additional fees may apply for late cancellations, extra vehicles, and reservation adjustments.
About this campground
Tucked into the cool mountain forests near Cedar City, Utah, Cedar Canyon Campground serves as your gateway to the stunning Cedar Breaks National Monument. Here, where Crow Creek whispers through groves of towering fir and quaking aspen, you'll discover a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness escape. Though major highways lie nearby, the campground feels worlds away, offering a tranquil basecamp for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts seeking adventure in southern Utah's high country.
Cedar Canyon Campground provides family and group camping options. Sites cater to both tent and RV campers, but there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups.
Historical SignificanceCedar Canyon sits at the doorstep of two remarkable protected areas: the otherworldly Cedar Breaks National Monument, where ancient forces carved a natural amphitheater of brilliant red rock, and the pristine Ashdown Gorge Wilderness Area. These lands tell a story millions of years in the making, showcasing dramatic geological formations and supporting diverse ecosystems that have captivated visitors and scientists alike for generations.
Weather and SeasonsAt this elevation, Cedar Canyon experiences refreshingly cool conditions even during summer months. Winter visitors can expect crisp temperatures hovering between 12°F and 32°F, with light dustings of snow transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. Moderate winds sweep through the canyon, while the generally dry climate keeps conditions comfortable for camping. The sweet spot for visiting runs from late spring through summer, when wildflowers dot the meadows and the forest comes alive with birdsong.
ElevationPerched at 8,100 feet on the western rim of the mighty Colorado Plateau, Cedar Canyon offers a high-altitude escape where the air is crisp and the views stretch endlessly across southern Utah's dramatic landscape. This lofty setting provides natural air conditioning during summer months and frames spectacular vistas that remind you why the plateau country is considered one of America's most scenic regions.
Natural Features and SceneryRising 8,100 feet above sea level on the Colorado Plateau's western edge, Cedar Canyon immerses you in a living cathedral of evergreen fir and shimmering aspen. Crow Creek threads through the campground like a silver ribbon, its gentle murmur providing the soundtrack to your stay. The interplay of dappled sunlight through the forest canopy, the creek's soothing presence, and the surrounding peaks create an enchanting atmosphere that captures the essence of Utah's high country.
Geological RegionCedar Canyon occupies a spectacular perch at 8,100 feet on the western rim of the Colorado Plateau, one of North America's most distinctive geological provinces. Here, ancient uplift meets erosion in dramatic fashion, creating a landscape where dense forests of fir and aspen cloak the mountainsides while Crow Creek carves its patient path through the terrain. This unique position offers campers a front-row seat to the geological forces that shaped the American Southwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source material.
Sites SizeThe campground offers a mix of family and group sites. Some sites are described as spacious, with room for tents and parking.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of the sites varies. Some user reviews note that sites are spaced out, providing a sense of privacy, while others mention proximity to roads and noise as detractors.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near Crow Creek drainage during wet seasons to prevent damp conditions. Sites close to the highway may experience higher noise levels.
Best CampsitesCampsite 017 and group sites (e.g., campsite 019) are highlighted for their beauty and proximity to the creek and meadow.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during a visit, with a rolling 30-day maximum.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Information unavailable
- likely varies by site type.
Groups
The group site accommodates larger parties, but specific details about guest or vehicle limits are not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features paved spurs and roads, and campsites include small group and family setups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025, through September 13, 2025, for reservations. Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, the app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation unavailable but walk-up likely limited due to reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee and additional penalties for late cancellations. Specific rules for fees and refunds vary based on site type.
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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities include hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Nearby attractions like Cedar Breaks National Monument and Navajo Lake offer additional opportunities for outdoor activities.
Hiking
Hiking is a significant activity, with trails both nearby and within a short driving distance. Highlights include the 10 miles of trails in Ashdown Gorge Wilderness and the 34-mile Virgin River Rim Trail.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at nearby Navajo and Duck Lakes, which are within a 20-minute drive.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on trails like the Virgin River Rim Trail, which is accessible via a short drive from the campground.Boating
Boating is allowed at nearby Navajo and Duck Lakes, which are accessible within 20 minutes.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, and the campground is closed during the off-season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing are available at nearby lakes, as mentioned in the authoritative source.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings only. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are Unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to highways presents noise issues. Crow Creek drainage can make certain campsites damp. Seasonal road construction may disrupt access.
Active alertsRecurring road construction and traffic noise are noted in user reviews.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Cedar City, UT, approximately 11 miles away, offers emergency services including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 13, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresCrow Creek runs through the campground. Navajo Lake and Duck Lake are within a 20-minute drive, offering fishing and boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently cite highway noise, proximity to road construction, and unclean campsites. Complaints about camp host behavior have also been noted.
HostMixed feedback on campground hosts: Some reviews praise their friendliness and helpfulness, while others criticize unprofessional behavior.
Campground Map
DIXIE NF, ., CEDAR CITY, UT 84721, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cedar City, Utah, take Highway 14 east for 11 miles. Campground is located just below the S turn on your left.
The campground is accessible via Highway 14, a paved road, though the campground itself is directly adjacent to busy highways, creating noise challenges. Seasonal road construction has caused closures and disruptions in the past.Nearby places
Cedar City, UT (11 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive)
Navajo Lake (20 minutes drive)
Duck Lake (20 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Cedar City, UT, approximately 11 miles away, provides groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
3.7
24 reviews
Cedar Canyon has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews. Positives include the beautiful surroundings, friendly camp hosts, and clean facilities. However, issues like road noise, occasional uncleaned campsites, and vault toilet maintenance are mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the scenic beauty, presence of a creek, friendly camp hosts, and well-maintained sites. One user stated, 'This campground was wonderful. Small, quiet - went over Memorial Day...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include excessive road noise due to proximity to highways, vault toilet cleanliness issues, and a lack of cell service. One user noted, 'This campground is right in between TWO...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs if sensitive to noise due to the highway. Check signage thoroughly to avoid accidentally occupying double sites. Be prepared for no cell phone reception.
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer. Memorial Day weekend was described as cold and windy despite being at a lower elevation than other nearby sites. Road noise and construction seem to be...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great location if you don’t mind being near some traffic to Brianhead/lake.' 2. 'This was a nice place to camp. Beautiful trees and the sites are spaced out... There is no cell service, but we...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the road (e.g., 004, 006, 017) received complaints about noise. Sites near the creek were praised for their beauty. The group site (019) was appreciated for its spaciousness and...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features or issues were not highlighted in the user reviews.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several reviews mention pets. One user stated, 'Campground host allowed his dog to run free even though signs say all pets must be leashed.'
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025