Nizhoni
4.5550 reviewsMANTI-LASAL
Nizhoni
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric sites cost $20/night during peak and first-come, first-served seasons. Group Standard Area Nonelectric sites cost $50/night. Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled at the base of the majestic Abajo Mountains within the Manti-La Sal National Forest, Nizhoni Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This peaceful mountain retreat combines the comforts of well-maintained single-family and group campsites with endless opportunities for exploration. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings, while vault toilets ensure convenience without compromising the natural setting. Whether you're drawn to challenging hiking trails, thrilling off-road adventures, or simply watching wildlife wander through camp, Nizhoni serves as your gateway to unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Nizhoni Campground offers a range of camping options, with single-family sites and two group sites capable of hosting up to 50 guests each.
Historical SignificanceThe lands surrounding Nizhoni Campground whisper stories of ancient civilizations and geological wonders. Your basecamp sits within easy reach of three crown jewels of the National Park system—the otherworldly landscapes of Canyonlands, the gravity-defying stone arches of Arches National Park, and the mysterious cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde. Hidden trails wind through the surrounding wilderness, leading intrepid hikers to preserved Native American cliff dwellings where ancestral Puebloans once made their homes. These archaeological treasures offer glimpses into lives lived centuries ago, adding layers of human history to an already remarkable natural landscape.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Nizhoni into a high-country paradise where warm days invite exploration and cool nights demand cozy campfires. Daytime temperatures hover pleasantly between 80-90°F, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities, before dropping to a refreshing 55-65°F after sunset—ideal sleeping weather under star-filled skies. The mountain climate delivers predominantly clear, dry conditions punctuated by occasional afternoon breezes that can reach up to 26 mph, rustling through the pines and bringing welcome relief from the day's warmth. These pristine conditions create those perfect camping weeks where blue skies stretch endlessly above and every sunrise promises another day of adventure.
ElevationPerched at 7,000 feet above sea level, Nizhoni Campground offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides welcome relief from the desert heat of surrounding towns. This elevated position creates a natural air conditioning system, where temperatures can be 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below, making summer camping not just bearable but genuinely pleasant.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic Ponderosa pines stretch skyward throughout the campground, their vanilla-scented bark and spreading branches creating a natural cathedral that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The understory bursts with native Gambel oaks and aromatic sagebrush, painting the landscape in varying shades of green and silver. This diverse ecosystem attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters—graceful mule deer browse through camp at dawn and dusk, wild turkeys strut between campsites, playful Abert's squirrels chatter from the treetops, and lucky visitors might even glimpse a black bear foraging in the distance. Each day brings new wildlife encounters and photo opportunities.
Geological RegionNizhoni Campground occupies a unique position in southeast Utah's diverse geological tapestry, where the forested slopes of the Abajo Mountains meet the iconic red rock country below. This transition zone within the Manti-La Sal National Forest showcases nature's artistry—from the towering Ponderosa pines and twisted Gambel oaks of the high country to glimpses of the famous red rock canyons that have made southern Utah legendary. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient seas, volcanic activity, and erosion have sculpted a terrain that continues to inspire awe in every visitor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility features is available.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious, and group sites can accommodate up to 50 guests.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are well-spaced and offer a degree of privacy due to the surrounding ponderosa pines, gambel oaks, and sagebrush.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 009 and 007 are recommended for privacy and views. Site 018 is ideal for trailers. Avoid sites close to heavy ATV activity.
Best CampsitesSite 009: 'Lovely camp spot with lots of space between neighbors.' Site 007: 'Lovely, wide open with a nice view.' Site 018: Noted for its size and suitability for trailers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
14 days per visit, with a maximum total of 14 days within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Single-family sites accommodate small groups
- group sites accommodate up to 50 guests each.
Groups
The two group sites can each accommodate up to 50 people, making them suitable for reunions or other large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes two group sites and several single-family sites, accessed by gravel roads and parking spurs. Sites are well-spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 15 - September 30 (reservable). First-come, first-served availability: October 1 - December 31, and March 1 - May 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability from October 1 - December 31 and March 1 - May 14.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled online, via the app, or through the contact center prior to check-in. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late (after midnight 1 calendar day before check-in for single sites).
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
Visitors to Nizhoni Campground can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and off-road vehicle riding. The proximity to several trailheads, such as Shay Ridge, Aspen Flat, and Red Ledges, enhances the hiking experience, while the diverse wildlife, including mule deer, wild turkeys, and Abert's squirrels, makes it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
Multiple hiking trails are accessible from the campground, including Shay Ridge, Aspen Flat, and Red Ledges. These trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views of the surrounding area.Biking
Biking is feasible, particularly for those exploring the Abajo Loop State Scenic Backway.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly observed includes mule deer, wild turkeys, and Abert's squirrels. Occasional sightings of black bears have also been reported.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are described for this campground.Water Sports
The campground does not feature specific water sports activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood may be collected in and around the campground. Fire bans may be imposed during particularly dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are typically observed after 9 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include black bears and coyotes. Low-hanging branches pose risks to RVs. Occasional loud ATV activity can disrupt campers.
Active alertsNo current alerts are listed.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 17.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Mainly clear
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 are located in Blanding, Utah, approximately 2 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - September 30 (peak season pricing).
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack-in, pack-out' facility with no trash or recycling bins available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresNo major water features are within the campground itself, though nearby hiking trails may lead to lakes and streams.
Common complaintsSome users noted issues such as dusty conditions, loud ATV activity, poor bear-proofing measures, and subpar pit toilets.
HostHosts received mixed reviews, praised for upkeep but criticized for hosting dogs that bit visitors. Hosts were generally friendly and helpful, with consistent restroom maintenance.
Campground Map
MANTI-LASAL
Driving directionsFrom Blanding, Utah, travel north on Highway 191 approximately two miles. Turn left on E. Pinion Ridge Road (National Forest Access sign: Dry Wash Reservoir) and proceed 3/4-mile to the stop sign. Turn right on Forest Road 079 and continue approximately 10 miles to the campground on the right side of the road.
The campground is accessed via a well-maintained packed gravel road. The Abajo Loop State Scenic Backway, which passes by the campground, is suitable for passenger vehicles from late spring through fall but is not recommended for large RVs.Nearby places
Blanding: approximately 2 miles north
Monticello: approximately 25 miles northeast.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Blanding, Utah, approximately 2 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
50 reviews
Nizhoni is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users have rated Nizhoni Campground highly for its cleanliness, friendly camp hosts, and the abundance of wildlife. The natural beauty and tranquility of the location are commonly praised. Some users, however, have voiced issues with noise, trash collection (pack-in, pack-out policy), and occasional restroom cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 50 reviews
What Campers Love
Campground is described as quiet, shaded with ponderosa pines, and well-spaced, providing privacy. Camp hosts are frequently praised as helpful and friendly, and the facilities are noted to be clean...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users have reported issues with noise, especially from off-road vehicles, and occasional disruptions from other campers. The 'pack-in, pack-out' trash policy is noted as inconvenient by some....
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own trash bags due to the pack-in, pack-out policy.
- Use bug repellent to avoid gnat bites.
- Be prepared for limited cell phone service.
- Ideal for ATV enthusiasts due to nearby...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and early summer receive the most favorable reviews due to mild temperatures and abundant wildlife. Late summer can be dusty, and the campground tends to be noisier with increased ATV activity.
Based on 50 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The camp host was so helpful and kind. The facilities were kept clean. The space was gorgeous.' - Sara M.
2. 'The temperature is cooler than nearby Blanding and Monticello. Just have to pack out...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Popular campsites mentioned include Site 9, which is described as spacious and well-located near restrooms but still private. Group sites are appreciated for their size and suitability for large...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features or experiences were found.
Based on 50 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some users highlight that the area is dog-friendly. However, one reviewer mentioned stress caused by their dog's reaction to the frequent wildlife sightings near the campsite.
Based on 50 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025