Effie Beckstrom East Group Campground
4.3237 reviewsEffie Beckstrom East Group Campground, Pine Valley Recreation Area, Pine Valley, UT
Effie Beckstrom East Group Campground
$5.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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
Fees range from $5 for individual campsites to $50 for group facilities. Pass discounts are available for Interagency Access and Senior Pass holders. The discount does not apply to premium sites or utilities like electricity and water.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Pine Valley, Effie Beckstrom East Group Campground offers an intimate escape with 9 thoughtfully designed sites perfect for gatherings of family and friends. Choose from 7 cozy single sites, each featuring its own picnic table, fire ring, utility table, and level tent pad, or opt for one of 2 spacious double sites that accommodate larger groups with expanded tent pads and extra tables. At the heart of the campground, a covered group picnic area invites campers to share meals and stories under shelter, while modern vault toilets and convenient water hydrants ensure comfort during your mountain retreat.
Effie Beckstrom East Group Campground is specifically designed for group camping. It accommodates tents at single and double sites, with no provisions for RVs, cabins, or glamping setups.
Historical SignificanceThe campground serves as a gateway to the timeless wilderness of the Pine Valley Mountains, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have found solace and adventure in these protected forests.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of mountain seasons at Effie Beckstrom East, where spring awakens the forest with crisp mornings and mild afternoons, autumn paints the landscape in golden hues with refreshingly cool days, and winter transforms the campground into a snow-dusted wonderland. The changing seasons offer distinct adventures, from spring wildflower hikes to cozy autumn campfires and winter's peaceful, snow-covered serenity.
ElevationPerched high in the Pine Valley Mountains, the campground's elevated position creates a natural air-conditioned haven that offers blessed relief from the desert heat of nearby St. George. Here, temperatures run 15-20 degrees cooler than the valley floor below, making summer camping a refreshing delight rather than a sweaty ordeal.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering old-growth pines stand as ancient sentinels throughout the campground, their massive trunks and spreading canopies creating a cathedral-like atmosphere that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The lush understory of ferns and wildflowers thrives in the cool, shaded environment, while glimpses of the surrounding Pine Valley Mountains peek through the trees, reminding visitors of the vast wilderness that surrounds this peaceful haven.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Dixie National Forest, Effie Beckstrom East occupies a special corner of the Pine Valley recreation area, where ancient volcanic activity and millions of years of erosion have sculpted dramatic mountainous landscapes. The campground sits amidst one of Utah's most pristine old-growth pine forests, a rare ecosystem where centuries-old trees create a living monument to the enduring power of nature in this unique geological wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Sites SizeSingle sites include 12'x12' tent pads, while double sites feature 12'x20' tent pads.
Sites PrivacySites are spaced out fairly well, providing a sense of privacy according to user reviews.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites based on proximity to the restroom or central locations, particularly during crowded periods.
Best CampsitesNot explicitly mentioned
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly mentioned
Check-out
Not explicitly mentioned
Stay Limit
Not explicitly mentioned
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly mentioned
Groups
Group sites include double sites with two picnic tables, fire rings, two utility tables, and larger 12'x20' tent pads. The maximum group size per site is not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 9 sites spaced out with additional areas marked with boulders to prevent access.
Open and Closed SeasonEarly May through Early September. Seasonal closures may occur due to fire risks.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed via Recreation.gov. First-come, first-served availability is also an option.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable, as noted by reviewers, but sites may be hard to secure during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyNot explicitly mentioned
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to natural areas and serves as a gateway for outdoor activities such as hiking. Multiple trails are nearby, providing opportunities for exploration. Seasonal weather variations impact the enjoyment of these activities.
Hiking
Several hiking trails originate from the campground, including paths leading to Signal Peak. Trails vary in difficulty, and visitors are advised to bring adequate water and pace themselves. The dense forest can make navigation challenging.Wildlife viewing
The campground’s forested setting offers opportunities to observe local wildlife, with visitors appreciating the natural sounds of birds and flowing water.Winter Activities
Snow and freezing conditions are common during winter weeks, but no specific winter activities like snowshoeing or ice fishing are mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are described.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings. Fire restrictions during heightened risk periods.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned
Hazards
General hazardsReviewers noted risks like dense forest and brush making trails easy to lose, presence of dog feces, full pit toilets, and aggressive ATV drivers.
Active alertsCampground closures during fire risks noted by reviewers.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Nearest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in St. George, approximately 30 minutes away. Ranger stations may be located within Pine Valley Recreation Area.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly mentioned
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Users have noted the need to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresShort hike to a creek is available.
Common complaintsIssues include overcrowding, lack of site markings, garbage, full pit toilets, and dog waste. Drop boxes for fees were sometimes difficult to use due to lack of envelopes.
HostNot explicitly mentioned
Campground Map
Effie Beckstrom East Group Campground, Pine Valley Recreation Area, Pine Valley, UT
Driving directionsFrom St. George, Utah, go north on Highway 18 to Central. Go right on Forest Highway 35 to Pine Valley. Go left on Main Street 3 miles to the Pine Valley Recreation Area.
The road is described as well-serviced but includes single-track sections with blind turns and pull-outs for passing. Some reviewers noted that it might require high-profile vehicles for smoother travel.Nearby places
St. George (approx. 30 miles, 30 minutes by car), Hurricane Valley (distance not specified), Snow Canyon State Park (approx. 30 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Supplies and groceries available in St. George, approximately 30 minutes away. No exact locations for fuel or camping supplies provided.
Camper Reviews
4.3
37 reviews
Effie Beckstrom East Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and tranquility of the campground, with the dense forest and cooler temperatures being particular draws. However, concerns include overcrowding during peak times, inconsistent maintenance, and the need to bring essentials such as water and trash bags.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
The natural beauty, including views of Signal Peak and the pine forest, is frequently praised. Campers appreciate the cooler temperatures compared to nearby areas. The vault toilets and designated...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include overcrowding, limited maintenance (e.g., full vault toilets and lack of toilet paper), and waste left by other users. Some visitors reported confusion over campsite markings and...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing sufficient water and other supplies due to limited amenities. Arriving early is advised during peak seasons to secure a spot. Navigation aids are recommended for exploring...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and early fall are favored for their mild weather and opportunities to observe seasonal changes, such as foliage in October. Visitors caution about extreme heat in summer and cold in winter,...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful!! It was all about getting away and having that relaxing moment in time where you only hear birds chirping and water flowing." - James Parnell. "Great place with tons of room to camp!...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews mention the spaciousness of sites and the inclusion of picnic tables and fire rings. However, some users reported confusion due to unmarked or blocked-off sites.
Based on 37 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed experiences with pets, as some users noted issues with dog waste being left in the campground.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025