Ponderosa Grove Campground
4.6030 reviewsKanab Field Office 669 S Highway 89A Kanab, UT 84741
Ponderosa Grove Campground
$12.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$12.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$12 per night for individual campsites; $50 per night for a group site accommodating up to 40 people. Fees are non-refundable, and reservations for group sites are managed via Recreation.gov.
About this campground
Perched at 6,300 feet in the high desert just eight miles northwest of Kanab, Utah, Ponderosa Grove Campground offers adventurers a perfect basecamp for exploring southern Utah's most spectacular landscapes. This Bureau of Land Management gem features 34 thoughtfully placed sites—26 for car camping, 6 equipped for RVs, and 2 secluded walk-in spots for those seeking extra solitude. Whether you're here to tackle off-highway vehicle trails, explore hiking paths that wind through ancient geological wonders, or use it as your launching point for day trips to the famous Coral Pink Sand Dunes and Zion National Park, Ponderosa Grove provides the ideal blend of accessibility and wilderness escape.
The Ponderosa Grove Campground is versatile, offering options for individual tent sites, RV parking, and group camping. The campground is designed to cater to different camping preferences, from primitive tents to RV setups.
Historical SignificanceSince its establishment in the 1970s, Ponderosa Grove has served as a gateway to some of the Southwest's most treasured landscapes. The campground sits at the crossroads of ancient history and modern adventure, offering direct access to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument's paleontological wonders and the otherworldly Coral Pink Sand Dunes. These surrounding lands tell stories spanning millions of years, from ancient seas to dinosaur habitats, all waiting to be discovered by today's explorers.
Weather and SeasonsThe high desert climate here brings dramatic seasonal contrasts that shape your camping experience throughout the year. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland with temperatures that can plunge well below freezing, while summer days can soar past 100°F in the valleys below. However, the campground's elevated position at 6,300 feet offers a natural respite—expect temperatures to be 10-15 degrees cooler than the surrounding lowlands, making those summer nights surprisingly comfortable under a blanket of stars.
ElevationAt 6,300 feet above sea level, Ponderosa Grove occupies a sweet spot in southern Utah's varied topography. This elevation places you above the desert floor's intense heat while remaining below the alpine zones, creating an ideal microclimate where desert and mountain ecosystems meet. The altitude not only provides welcome relief from summer heat but also offers expansive views across the layered landscape that stretches endlessly toward the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views of the Vermilion Cliffs' fiery red walls and the pastel layers of the White and Pink Cliffs that inspired the naming of nearby Bryce Canyon's geological formations. The campground nestles among aromatic sagebrush and hardy desert scrub that paint the hills in subtle grays and greens. This high desert habitat buzzes with life—watch for mule deer browsing at dawn, listen for coyotes calling across the canyons at dusk, and keep your eyes skyward where golden eagles and red-tailed hawks patrol the thermals. Desert cottontails dart between the brush while coveys of quail scurry along ancient game trails.
Geological RegionPositioned atop the majestic Vermilion Cliffs, Ponderosa Grove offers front-row seats to one of Earth's most spectacular geological theaters. The campground overlooks layer upon layer of ancient history written in stone—from the White Cliffs' Navajo Sandstone to the pink-hued Claron Formation that creates the famous hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. Just minutes away, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes showcase nature's artistry in motion, where ancient Navajo Sandstone has been ground into flowing waves of coral-colored sand. This unique location places you at the intersection of multiple geological wonders, where sagebrush-dotted hills give way to some of the most photographed rock formations in the American Southwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the source data. Vault toilets are available, and the sites have gravel parking areas, which may provide basic accessibility.
Sites SizeStandard sites are designed to accommodate up to two vehicles and one to two tents. RV sites can handle trailers up to 24 feet in length.
Sites PrivacySites offer moderate privacy, with some areas offering more shade and seclusion. The campground as a whole is described as quiet by users.
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended CampsitesMany reviews suggest staying close to shaded areas for comfort during hot weather. Sites near the north side provide convenient access to the sand dunes.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 12 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 2 PM.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
10 guests maximum per individual campsite
Groups
The group camping site accommodates up to 40 people and includes features like a locking gate, group fire pit, shade pavilion with a barbeque grill, and parking for 13 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFeatures include a gravel loop road allowing access to 26 car-camping sites, 6 RV sites, and 2 walk-in campsites. Group camping areas are also available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Individual campsites are first-come, first-served but reservable during peak season for the group site.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for group sites can be made through Recreation.gov. Individual sites operate on Scan & Pay.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is offered for individual campsites. Payment is made onsite via Scan & Pay or fee collection tubes.
Cancellation PolicyFees are non-refundable. Scan & Pay transactions cannot be modified or refunded.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Ponderosa Grove Campground caters to outdoor enthusiasts with a mix of activities including ATV/UTV riding, hiking, photography, horseback riding, and OHV recreation. Proximity to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes and other regional attractions makes it a hub for adventure seekers.
Hiking
The surrounding area offers hiking opportunities, including short walks to the nearby dunes and other scenic trails. User reviews highlight the beauty of sunsets from the nearby ridges.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, raptors, coyotes, and rabbits. Visitors may enjoy wildlife viewing from the campground or nearby areas.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed, but the area experiences extremely cold temperatures during the winter, which may discourage recreational use during this season.Water Sports
Water sports are not supported as there is no water source nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated grates. Gathering firewood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7:30 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rattlesnakes, coyotes, and extreme weather conditions (heat in summer, frost in spring).
Active alertsCheck BLM's website for fire restrictions and advisories.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.8 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
The nearest emergency services are in Kanab, approximately 8 miles away, providing access to hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingA trash dumpster is provided at the entrance of the campground. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSand dunes are directly across the road; there are no natural water bodies onsite.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints highlighted include lack of water availability and poor cellular service.
Campground Map
Kanab Field Office 669 S Highway 89A Kanab, UT 84741
Driving directionsDrive northwest on Highway 89A from Kanab, Utah, approximately 8 miles to reach Ponderosa Grove Campground. The campground is accessible via a compacted gravel loop road.
The campground is accessible via compacted gravel roads. It is close to Highway 89A but requires a short gravel road drive to reach the campground. No seasonal closures are mentioned.Nearby places
Kanab (8 miles, 15 minutes), Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park (approximately 5 miles, 10 minutes), Zion National Park (approximately 45 miles, 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Kanab offers the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. No specific stores are mentioned.
Camper Reviews
4.6
30 reviews
Ponderosa Grove Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Ponderosa Grove Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with an average sentiment of 4.6 out of 5. Campers appreciate the affordability, cleanliness, and peaceful atmosphere. Some reviews highlight issues like the lack of water and cell service, but these are generally regarded as minor inconveniences.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
- Affordable with a $12 per night fee for individual sites.
- Clean and well-maintained vault toilets.
- Scenic views and proximity to Coral Pink Sand Dunes.
- Quiet and peaceful environment, even...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of potable water on-site.
- Limited to no cell service.
- Presence of flies near the vault toilets.
- Extreme temperatures during summer and winter months.
Based on 30 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own water as there is no potable water on-site.
- Arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
- Visitors recommend exploring the sand dunes at sunset for the best views.
- Pack...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months receive mixed reviews due to high daytime temperatures, but nights cool off significantly. Fall is highlighted as an ideal time to visit for milder weather. Winter and early spring...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Quiet, shady, beautiful views. Have fun!' - Lorraine Jackson
2. 'Flat spots with RV sites separated from tent sites. Fire pits and picnic tables. Pit toilets. No water.' - Paisley Close
3. 'Great...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Specific sites are not reviewed individually, but users frequently note the separation of RV and tent sites as a well-thought-out design.
Based on 30 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews or comments address accessibility issues or features.
Based on 30 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. User reviews do not specifically address pet-related amenities or issues.
Based on 30 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025