Red Canyon Campground
4.56106 reviewsnull
Red Canyon Campground
$30.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$56.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single Campsite: $30.00 for 1-8 people; Double Campsite: $60.00 for 1-16 people; Day Use Group Area: $56 for 1-100 people; Extra vehicle fee: $10.00; Trailer dump station and water: $10.00; Showers: $2.50 per 8 minutes.
About this campground
Nestled among towering ponderosa pines and dramatic pink limestone formations, Red Canyon Campground offers an enchanting basecamp along Utah's scenic Highway 12. Here, vibrant coral-hued cliffs rise like ancient sentinels while miles of trails wind through this geological wonderland, providing outdoor enthusiasts with world-class hiking and mountain biking adventures. Just minutes from the famous Bryce Canyon National Park, this hidden gem delivers all the stunning scenery with a more intimate, peaceful atmosphere.
Red Canyon Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, including tent camping and RV camping. It provides facilities for both single and double occupancy sites, but does not support equestrian camping or glamping.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Red Canyon, where the remarkable stone amphitheater in Loop B stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps who built it between 1933 and 1936. This designated historic site echoes with stories of Depression-era workers who shaped these grounds. Adding to the mystique, local legends tell of the notorious outlaw Butch Cassidy, who reportedly used Red Canyon's maze of hidden alcoves and secret passages as hideouts during his Wild West escapades.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the high desert's dramatic seasonal shifts at Red Canyon, where crisp mountain air greets visitors year-round. Spring arrives with frosty mornings that give way to wildflower blooms, while summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for exploration—though the elevation keeps evenings refreshingly cool. As autumn paints the canyon in golden hues, temperatures begin their descent, and by late fall, frost returns to dust the pink rocks with morning sparkle.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet above sea level, Red Canyon Campground offers a refreshing mountain escape where the air is crisp and clear. This elevated setting provides natural air conditioning during summer months and creates perfect conditions for stargazing under some of Utah's darkest skies. The altitude brings cooler temperatures year-round, making it an ideal retreat from the desert heat below.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where nature has painted with a bold palette—brilliant pink and orange limestone spires contrast against deep green ponderosa pines and gnarled junipers. The campground's prime location offers front-row seats to Red Canyon's spectacular amphitheater of eroded cliffs and hoodoos. During seasonal rains, Red Canyon Wash comes alive, adding the gentle sounds of flowing water to this already magical setting. Every sunrise and sunset transforms these ancient rocks into a glowing canvas of color.
Geological RegionRed Canyon showcases the same stunning Pink Claron Limestone formations that make neighboring Bryce Canyon world-famous, yet offers a more intimate encounter with these 60-million-year-old sculptures. Towering ponderosa pines have found their home among these coral-colored cliffs, creating a striking contrast between living forest and ancient stone. This unique geological wonderland tells the story of ancient lakes and rivers that once covered this high plateau, leaving behind layers of sediment that erosion has carved into today's breathtaking formations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is noted as being wheelchair-friendly, with accessible toilets and coin-operated showers in Loop A.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as large and spacious, accommodating various types of campers, including RVs, trailers, and tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is excellent, according to several reviews, with sites being widely spaced and surrounded by trees. Loop B, in particular, has some sites set deeper into the trees, adding to the sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites37 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoop A is flatter and offers fewer shrubs, ideal for those preferring open spaces. Loop B has sites deeper within trees for privacy.
Best CampsitesSite 12 praised for its location; Site 23 is near the historic amphitheater.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 p.m.
Check-out
11:00 a.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Single site: 8 people
- Double site: 16 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops: Loop A (flatter with fewer shrubs) and Loop B (hillside sites offering greater privacy).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen late April to early October.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served with no reservations. Many reviews mention the campground filling up by late afternoon during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations accepted; first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Red Canyon Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily focused on hiking and biking. The area is surrounded by a scenic trail system, including the Buckhorn Trail and Golden Wall Trail, making it ideal for campers looking to explore the natural beauty of Red Canyon.
Hiking
Hiking trails in and around the campground include the Buckhorn Trail (1 mile) and the Golden Wall Trail, which can be combined into a scenic 5-mile round-trip hike. These trails offer stunning views of the Red Canyon's limestone formations. Some user reviews highlight the 'spectacular' scenery and recommend starting early for a more peaceful experience.Biking
The Red Canyon Bicycle Trail, located near the campground, is a 5-mile paved trail that is accessible to both bikers and hikers. The trail provides an excellent way to enjoy the area's scenic beauty.Winter Activities
There are no mentions of winter-specific activities; however, the campground is open seasonally from late April to early October.Water Sports
No water sports are available due to the absence of significant natural water bodies.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in developed fire pits; seasonal fire bans may apply.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include traffic noise from Rt. 12, wildlife like rattlesnakes, and seasonal fire bans.
Active alertsSeasonal fire bans may be in effect and are subject to change.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are available in Panguitch, approximately 6.1 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate spring to late fall.
Trash and recyclingGarbage disposal stations are available at the campground. However, recycling facilities are not mentioned in the authoritative sources or reviews.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the seasonal Red Canyon Wash.
Common complaintsTraffic noise from Rt. 12, occasional cleanliness issues with showers, and the strictness of camp hosts have been noted.
HostCamp hosts are generally described as friendly and helpful. Some reviews mention strictness in enforcing rules.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsThe campground is located approximately 4 miles east on SR12 from US 89. It is on the right side of the road.
Located adjacent to State Rt. 12, the campground has easy access from major roads. However, traffic noise from Rt. 12 can be heard throughout the campground.Nearby places
Panguitch (6.1 miles), Bryce Canyon National Park (13 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are in Panguitch, which offers grocery stores and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.6
106 reviews
Red Canyon Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Red Canyon Campground receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from campers, earning praise for its clean facilities, spacious campsites, and proximity to Bryce Canyon National Park. However, some complaints include road noise, lack of cell phone service, and occasional maintenance issues with facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 106 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms and showers, spacious and private campsites, friendly and helpful camp hosts, scenic views, and proximity to Bryce Canyon.
Based on 106 reviewsCommon Concerns
Road noise from nearby Highway 12, restrictions on OHVs and ATVs, occasional lack of soap in restrooms, and the need for quarters to operate showers.
Based on 106 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a spot as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring quarters for showers and soap for restrooms. Select sites away from Highway 12 for less noise.
Based on 106 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during weekends and holidays in peak season (late spring to early fall). Some reviews suggest that weekdays are less crowded. Late-season visits may offer more tranquility.
Based on 106 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Loved staying here! It's only 10 minutes from Bryce Canyon City." - Charles Torello
"The best campsite hosts in a long time! The hosts are extremely friendly and funny." - Vidya Gopal
"Spots are...
Based on 106 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop A is flatter and more open, while Loop B offers more secluded sites with denser vegetation. Sites 2 and 19 are particularly recommended for their views and privacy.
Based on 106 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews highlight the wheelchair-friendly facilities, including accessible showers and toilets.
Based on 106 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. No specific pet-friendly features are mentioned, but the campground's natural setting is conducive to outdoor activities with pets.
Based on 106 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025