Crackfoot Campground
00 reviewCrackfoot Campground, Pine Valley Recreation Area, Dixie National Forest, Utah
Crackfoot Campground
$19.00 - $38.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$19.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single campsites are $19 per day, double campsites are $38 per day. 'America the Beautiful' Senior or Access discount pass is accepted only for single sites.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Dixie National Forest, Crackfoot Campground beckons adventurers with its intimate single-loop design and gateway access to the pristine Pine Valley Wilderness. This mountain retreat features 23 thoughtfully arranged sites—including 15 single campsites, 3 spacious double sites, and 5 secluded walk-in tent sites perfect for those seeking a more primitive experience. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables, fire pits for evening gatherings, and level tent pads that make setup a breeze. Modern vault toilets and fresh potable water ensure comfort without compromising the authentic outdoor experience.
Crackfoot Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including single, double, and walk-in tent sites. RV camping is not supported due to the absence of pull-throughs or hookups. Group accommodations are not explicitly noted, though the nearby Effie Beckstrom Group campground is mentioned.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the pines at Crackfoot, where echoes of the 1860s still linger. Just a stone's throw from the campground, remnants of an old keg factory tell tales of frontier enterprise and pioneer ingenuity. The surrounding trail network follows ancient pathways once used by traders and travelers, transforming your hike into a journey through time. These historic routes now serve as gateways to wilderness adventure, connecting past and present in every footstep.
Weather and SeasonsAt Crackfoot, Mother Nature paints each season with distinct character. The high-elevation climate delivers crisp, dry air that ranges from frosty winter mornings to pleasantly moderate summer afternoons. Spring brings a dramatic transformation as snowmelt swells the nearby Santa Clara River, though by late summer, the riverbed often reveals its sandy bottom as waters recede. This seasonal rhythm creates an ever-changing landscape that rewards visitors with different experiences throughout the year.
ElevationPerched at 6,900 feet above sea level, Crackfoot Campground offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat below. This lofty elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, delivering temperatures that can be 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and the promise of star-filled nights, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking respite from summer's intensity.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering Ponderosa Pines creates a natural canopy above Crackfoot, their vanilla-scented bark and needle-carpeted floor setting the stage for your outdoor adventure. Deciduous trees add splashes of seasonal color, particularly stunning during autumn's golden display. The campground's crown jewel vista overlooks the shimmering Pine Valley Reservoir, where morning mist dances across the water. While the open layout offers expansive views and a sense of freedom, it also fosters a friendly, community atmosphere among campers. The adjacent Santa Clara River provides a natural soundtrack, its seasonal flow adding life to the landscape.
Geological RegionCrackfoot Campground sits at the doorstep of the magnificent Pine Valley Wilderness, a protected sanctuary within the greater Dixie National Forest. This geological wonderland showcases the Colorado Plateau's dramatic handiwork, where ancient forces carved deep canyons and sculpted towering peaks. The surrounding forest ecosystem thrives in the nutrient-rich volcanic soils, supporting majestic Ponderosa Pines and diverse deciduous vegetation. Strategic trailhead access points fan out from the campground like spokes on a wheel, inviting exploration into this pristine wilderness where granite cliffs meet azure skies and hidden meadows await discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityA wheelchair-friendly, paved walking trail follows the Santa Clara River in the Pine Valley Recreation Area. Vault toilets are described as wheelchair-friendly.
Sites SizeSingle campsites accommodate up to 8 people; double sites accommodate up to 16 people; tent sites are described as spacious with gravel tent pads.
Sites PrivacyMinimal privacy; campsites are located in open grass areas. Walk-in tent sites are spaced 100 yards apart.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWalk-in tent sites provide more isolation, as they are spaced along a gravel path with each site being 30-50 yards back from the trail and 100 yards from the nearest site.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay: 14 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per single campsite and 16 people per double campsite.
Groups
- No group sites are listed for Crackfoot Campground itself
- however, the adjacent Effie Beckstrom Group campground is mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a single loop featuring 15 single sites, 3 double sites, and 5 walk-in sites. Paved interior roads and parking aprons provide accessibility.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 11 through September 24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available. Sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only, as reservations are not accepted. First-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Crackfoot Campground and its surrounding Pine Valley Recreation Area offer diverse outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, beachcombing, horseback riding, and biking. The area provides opportunities to explore trails near Ponderosa Pine trees and offers proximity to the Pine Valley Reservoir, which supports fishing and non-motorized boating activities. However, swimming is not permitted, and there are no power boating or water skiing options.
Hiking
The Pine Valley Recreation Area includes 18 trails. Notable trails near the campground include Whipple Trail (foot only, 6 miles), Brown's Point Trail (foot and horse, 4 miles), and Gardner Peak Trail (foot only, 3 miles). The trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views. The campground is convenient to the Whipple trailhead.Fishing
Fishing is permitted at Pine Valley Reservoir, which spans about 5 acres. The reservoir features a wheelchair-friendly fishing pier and offers Rainbow Trout as the primary catch.Biking
Bike riding opportunities are available near the campground, though specific trails or paths are not detailed.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed at Pine Valley Reservoir, which is accessible via carry-down boat access. Motorized water activities such as power boating or water skiing are not permitted.Beach activities
Beachcombing is listed as an activity, but further details on the quality or features of the beach are not provided.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described for Crackfoot Campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are permitted at Pine Valley Reservoir. Motorized water sports are prohibited.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are only allowed in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife, dry riverbeds after spring thaw, and uneven terrain.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Closest emergency services include Pine Valley Ranger District office, Veyo Police Department, and hospitals in St. George.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay through September
Trash and recyclingNo garbage disposal services are available. Visitors are required to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Santa Clara River and overlooks Pine Valley Reservoir. A wheelchair-friendly fishing pier is available at the reservoir.
Common complaintsSome user reviews indicate minimal privacy between sites and unclear road signage.
Campground Map
Crackfoot Campground, Pine Valley Recreation Area, Dixie National Forest, Utah
Driving directionsFrom St. George, travel north on State Route 18 to Central, UT and turn east on forest route number 035. Continue east for 7 miles to Pine Valley. Turn east in town and drive 3 miles toward the Pine Valley Recreation Area.
The roads to the campground include paved sections, but there are unclear signs for the Pine Valley turnoff on State Route 18. Driving directions recommend watching closely for the turnoff sign.Nearby places
Veyo (6 miles, 10 minutes), St. George (approximately 35 miles, 45 minutes), Central (7 miles, 12 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Veyo and St. George, including groceries, fuel, camping supplies, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Crackfoot Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Crackfoot Campground are limited, but official sources describe the campground as spacious and scenic while emphasizing its minimal privacy. The lack of garbage disposal and shower facilities are noted as inconveniences.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the availability of potable water, wheelchair-friendly vault toilets, well-maintained tent pads, and proximity to popular trailheads such as Whipple and Gardner Peak.
Common Concerns
Complaints center around the lack of garbage disposal services, absence of flush toilets, and minimal privacy due to open grass areas.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to pack out their garbage, bring their own firewood, and prepare for minimal cell service. Those seeking privacy may prefer the walk-in tent sites.
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends are not specifically noted in user reviews, but the campground is open from early May to early September, aligning with warmer months and higher usability.
Camper Quotes
"The campground is spacious but lacks privacy due to open grass areas." "Vault toilets are clean and wheelchair-friendly." "Pack out your trash as no garbage disposal services are available."
Site-Specific Reviews
The walk-in tent sites are highlighted as more private, located 30-50 yards back from the trail and spaced 100 yards apart.
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are noted for being wheelchair-friendly, as is the paved walking trail along the Santa Clara River.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs must be on leashes as per campground rules. Pet owners should keep this restriction in mind during their stay.
Last updated August 10, 2025