Lava Flat Designated Dispersed Camping Area
4.379 reviewsOff Mammoth Road near Duck Creek, UT
Lava Flat Designated Dispersed Camping Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fees charged for camping at Lava Flat Designated Dispersed Camping Area.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil wilderness of Lava Flat, a hidden gem tucked away in the Dixie National Forest, just off Mammoth Road near Duck Creek, Utah. This pristine dispersed camping area beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience without the crowds or fees. Here, the only sounds you'll hear are the whisper of wind through the pines and the occasional call of wildlife. With the mysterious Mammoth Cave waiting to be explored nearby, Lava Flat serves as your perfect basecamp for discovering the untamed beauty of southern Utah's high country.
Primitive dispersed camping with no formal campsites or facilities.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of Utah's high country at Lava Flat. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for those brave enough to face the freezing temperatures. As spring awakens the forest, wildflowers burst through the melting snow, and temperatures gradually climb to comfortable camping conditions. Summer brings perfect weather for outdoor adventures, with pleasant daytime temperatures reaching up to 70°F—ideal for hiking, exploring, and gathering around evening campfires under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched high in Utah's mountainous terrain, Lava Flat offers camping at elevation where the air is crisp and pure. The natural topography creates a diverse landscape of ridges, valleys, and gentle slopes that provide both shelter and stunning vantage points throughout the dispersed camping area.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of Dixie National Forest at Lava Flat, where towering pines and aspens create a natural cathedral above your campsite. This mountainous sanctuary comes alive with seasonal surprises—from curious sheep that graze peacefully through the meadows to an abundance of fallen timber perfect for crackling campfires. The dispersed sites are thoughtfully spaced among the native vegetation, offering privacy while maintaining the wild character that makes this area so special. Each site feels like your own private piece of wilderness, where you can truly disconnect and reconnect with nature.
Geological RegionNestled within the remarkable geological tapestry of Dixie National Forest near Duck Creek, Lava Flat occupies a fascinating corner of Utah's volcanic past. The mountainous terrain tells ancient stories through its rugged features, while nearby Mammoth Cave offers a glimpse into the underground wonders carved by time and water. This dispersed camping paradise sits amid rolling hills and natural meadows that transform with the seasons—from sheep-dotted grasslands in summer to snow-covered wonderlands in winter. The diverse landscape provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery in one of Utah's most captivating wilderness areas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo accessibility features are noted or available.
Sites SizeSites are dispersed and not formally designated.
Sites PrivacyThe area is described as secluded by some visitors, but proximity to roads may limit privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReview suggests choosing sites located farther from the road to avoid noise and dust. 'OHV area but some sites on side roads minimize noise and dust.'
Best CampsitesUser reviews and highlights do not point out specific campsites. Most camping is dispersed.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No designated group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is dispersed, offering secluded sites across the area.
Walk-in AvailabilitySince reservations are not required and no fees apply, sites are first-come-first-served. User reviews suggest the area is generally quiet with few groups present even during the summer.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
Lava Flat offers opportunities for outdoor activities typical of dispersed camping areas, such as hiking, enjoying nature, and exploring nearby attractions.
Hiking
"Plenty of diverse hikes all over!" according to Abraham Covarrubias.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife, such as sheep and sheep herding dogs, are commonly observed. Amber mentions that sheep presence is significant in this area.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not outlined, but the area does experience snow in colder months.Water Sports
No water sports are referenced.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- User reviews mention the availability of fire pits; no specific fire restrictions are noted.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews caution about rough roads for regular vehicles, sheep grazing (and waste) in the camping area, and lack of facilities like restrooms and potable water.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.7 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
Closest emergency services are likely located in Duck Creek or Cedar City (specific facilities not listed).
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available on-site. Gregory Jones mentions dumpsters being available a few miles south at the highway.
Proximity to water featuresNo notable water features mentioned directly within the camping area; visitors may need to explore the larger Dixie National Forest region.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight concerns about 'people throwing large amounts of toilet paper in the bushes' and 'glass at the campsite.' Another common issue is roads being rough for regular cars.
Campground Map
Off Mammoth Road near Duck Creek, UT
Driving directionsFrom Main Street in Cedar City, go east on UT-14/ E Center Street. Go 31 miles. Turn left on Mammoth Rd. and go 1.7 miles to the camping area.
The roads leading to the camping area are rough in some areas, which may pose a challenge for regular cars. User review highlights: 'Some of the roads in this camping area are pretty rough for a regular car. I think the roads are passable with a normal car and some driving skills in most areas but be prepared to turn around or back up for a while.'Nearby places
Duck Creek (approximately 5-10 minutes away), Cedar City (approximately 31 miles from Lava Flat)
Nearby supplies
User review highlights: 'There’s a True Value hardware store 2 miles or so away that really has everything you need if you forget anything for your trip. They also have a good selection of groceries for a small town store.' Nearby Duck Creek also has gas stations, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and camping supply vendors.
Camper Reviews
4.4
9 reviews
Lava Flat Designated Dispersed Camping Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lava Flat Dispersed Camping Area are generally positive, highlighting the seclusion, natural beauty, and lack of fees but noting the absence of facilities and occasional litter issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
"Secluded," "free," "fire pits," and nearby hiking opportunities were praised. Gregory Jones described it as a "quiet place," and Abraham Covarrubias rated it highly for its proximity to diverse...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include littering, specifically toilet paper in the bushes (as noted by Adrenaline Jackie), proximity to roads and occasional noise, and the presence of sheep and their droppings (Amber).
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Adrenaline Jackie recommends bringing trash bags to manage litter. She also advises caution with low-clearance vehicles due to rough roads. Gregory Jones mentions that dumpsters are available a few...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer sees higher activity, with users like Adrenaline Jackie enjoying the area during warm months. Winter conditions may make access more challenging due to snow.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
Adrenaline Jackie: "I'm from Nevada and this is one of my favorite places to camp in the summer." Michael Anys: "Awesome dispersed camp site, free, secluded!" Abraham Covarrubias: "A beautiful spot...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or areas are mentioned, as this is a dispersed camping area.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not restricted, and Adrenaline Jackie mentions bringing her dogs to the site.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025