How much does camping cost at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area range from $8/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area has 12 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area?

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area is open February 16 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area?

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area have?

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area has 108 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area?

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area include Hiking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area: Supplemental Rules - You must not remain or camp within the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area for more than 14 consecutive days in a 28-day period. After the 14th consecutive day, campers must move beyond a 30-mile radius from the boundary of the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area. - Quiet Hours are from 10 pm to 7 am Arizona Time. No person shall operate noise-producing devices or by other means create noise enough to disturb other visitors during these hours. - Campfires allowed only in fir. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.36

652 reviews

X624+67, Littlefield, AZ, 86432

Top 3% in AZSpring

Stargazing

Featured in:Spring Camping Arizona Camping Near Canyonlands National Park

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,251 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

108 campsites

Season

Peak season: Februar...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Bureau of Land Management Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,251 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

108 campsites

Season

Peak season: Februar...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Bureau of Land Management Official Website

Get Directions

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Site: $8.00; Not Available: $8.00; RV Site: $8.00; Small Camper Site (No area for tents): $8.00; Tent Site: $8.00. Plus Recreation.gov...

Standard Site Fee$8.00

Group Site Fee$8.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

435-688-3200BLM_AZ_ASDOWEB@blm.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

X624+67, Littlefield, AZ, 86432

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

X624+67, Littlefield, AZ, 86432

Nearby places

St. George, Utah (20 miles, approx. 20 minutes), Mesquite, Nevada (20 miles, approx. 20 minutes)

Weather at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Current alerts(1)

Cell Coverage The Recreation Area has spotty Verizon and T-Mobile cell phone coverage. There is no AT&T coverage. Due to the cell towers being remote and off grid, long outages can occur.

Best Time to Camp at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Best season: spring. Spring offers the most comfortable conditions and the river at its most scenic — daytime highs are typically in the mid-60s to low 80s°F (18–28°C) with cool nights, making long hikes and canyon photography pleasant. River flows are usually higher from winter runoff, riparian vegetation and cottonwoods green up, and wildflowers appear on canyon benches; this is prime time for hiking, wildlife viewing, and short swims or wading in cooler pools. Expect moderate crowds (this is the campground's peak Peak months: April, March, May, February Avoid: July, August

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

5.0 / 5

Top 3% in AZ

Spring called most comfortable and is peak season (Feb 16–May 31); reviewers praise ideal conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: February 16 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak season: February 16 - May 31; Non-peak season: June 1 - September 30.

About Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area sits in Arizona's northwestern foothills where the Virgin River cuts through dramatic red rock walls just off Interstate 15 near Littlefield. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this large campground offers budget-friendly tent, RV, and group camping with flush toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers hike canyon trails, photograph the riparian corridor, and enjoy seasonal river access during the spring months when flows are highest and cottonwoods green up.

The campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV camping, tent camping, and group camping. There are no glamping or cabin options.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the most comfortable conditions and the river at its most scenic — daytime highs are typically in the mid-60s to low 80s°F (18–28°C) with cool nights, making long hikes and canyon photography pleasant. River flows are usually higher from winter runoff, riparian vegetation and cottonwoods green up, and wildflowers appear on canyon benches; this is prime time for hiking, wildlife viewing, and short swims or wading in cooler pools. Expect moderate crowds (this is the campground's peak Peak months: April, March, May, February Avoid: July, August

Elevation2251 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe gorge's sandstone and limestone cliffs rise in bands of orange, red, and cream, revealing stratified layers of geology along the river corridor. Scattered Joshua trees grow on the desert floor. The Virgin River hosts endemic species including the Virgin River chub, and riparian vegetation along the banks attracts Southwestern Willow Flycatchers and other desert birds. The canyon walls shift color throughout the day as light angles change. Elevation sits at 2,251 feet where the plateau meets lower desert terrain.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges within the campground; accommodations are limited to camping facilities.

Programs & ActivitiesThere are no specific mentions of cultural or educational programs at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Upper Loop: 14-night maximum
Lower Loop: 1-night maximum.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 2 vehicles per site
guest limits are unspecified.

Groups

Group sites are available, with one notable accessible group site (site 103) offering a large shade structure and three picnic tables.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or mobile app.

AccessibilityThe campground offers eight ADA-compliant campsites across both the Upper and Lower Loops, with accessible restrooms, drinking water, walkways, and fire rings. Specific sites include features like cement parking spots, shade structures, and proximity to restrooms.

Site SizeCampsites are sized to accommodate a mix of RVs and tents, with some pull-through and some back-in parking.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some sites noted as clustered and others providing a decent amount of space between them. Many user reviews mention the lack of site privacy.

Total Campsites108 campsites

Recommended SitesAccessible sites are equipped with cement parking spots and proximity to restrooms. Site 25 is praised for its pavilion and scenic views.

Best CampsitesSites 99, 33, and 13 receive positive reviews from tent campers. Accessible sites include 70, 46, and 94. The Upper Loop tends to be quieter and more scenic than the Lower Loop, though Interstate 15 noise reaches all areas of the campground.

Need help booking Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area offers a variety of facilities and services to accommodate both day-use and overnight visitors. It features paved access roads, pull-through parking, drinking water, flush toilets, picnic tables, grills, and fire pits. The campground consists of 108 overnight sites with some ADA-compliant accommodations and 12 sites with shade shelters. However, it does not offer electrical or waste dump hookups. Day-use amenities also include interpretive trails and trail access to the Virgin River, and seven shade shelters.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The recreation area offers ample activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, water play, and access to two designated wilderness areas. Scenic trails lead to the Virgin River and other natural attractions.

Hiking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicySupplemental Rules - You must not remain or camp within the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area for more than 14 consecutive days in a 28-day period. After the 14th consecutive day, campers must move beyond a 30-mile radius from the boundary of the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area. - Quiet Hours are from 10 pm to 7 am Arizona Time. No person shall operate noise-producing devices or by other means create noise enough to disturb other visitors during these hours. - Campfires allowed only in fir

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 pm to 7 am

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, and there are dumpsters for waste management. Recycling facilities are not mentioned specifically.

Cell CoverageCell phone coverage is reported as spotty, with some Verizon and T-Mobile coverage but no AT&T service. Outages can occur due to the remote nature of the towers.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

652 reviews

Recommended

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area receives generally positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.0. Visitors praise the natural beauty, clean facilities, and affordability, though some express concerns about noise from I-15 and occasional maintenance issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 652 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive comments include 'spectacular views,' 'clean restrooms,' 'affordable rates,' and 'spacious, well-maintained sites.' Campers appreciate the scenic trails and river access.

Based on 652 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints involve road noise from I-15, lack of clear signage for reserved and first-come-first-serve sites, and limited privacy between campsites. Some users also noted issues with campsite...

Based on 652 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 99, 33, and 13 are favorites for tent campers. Accessible sites like 70 and group site 103 receive praise for their features. Some users indicate lower satisfaction with sites close to busy...

Based on 652 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing earplugs due to road noise, checking site availability in advance, and downloading the Recreation.gov app for easier payment. Sites on the Upper Loop are noted for being...

Based on 652 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often mention extreme heat and wind, while winter reviews highlight the mild climate and quieter campground atmosphere. Spring and fall are praised for ideal camping conditions.

Based on 652 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautifully landscaped campground; clean restrooms; stunning natural environment." - Beverley Lynne Harris. "Bathrooms were clean and nice. Some hiking trails took you down to the river." - Austin...

Based on 652 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites are well-regarded, but a few users note that signage could be improved to identify these spots more clearly.

Based on 652 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and users report positive experiences bringing dogs to enjoy the river and trails. Leash rules are emphasized in the campground policies.

Based on 652 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want dramatic canyon scenery and riverside hiking on a budget and can tolerate highway noise.

Skip if

You need privacy between sites or a quiet setting away from interstate traffic.

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Campgrounds

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (P)

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

About Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (P)

Context for the broader area surrounding Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

We are open! And we have 25 sites available for reservations through <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10086109" rel="nofollow">recreation.gov.</a> Site Renovations The recreation area has received many improvements including upgrades to electrical and water systems, repaving roads and parking areas, renovation of restroom facilities, demolishing condemned administrative use site, an updated water delivery system, sanded and stained picnic tables, new informational and fee kiosks, and accessibility improvements. Fourteen-day stay limit To increase recreation opportunities at the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area, the BLM's Arizona Strip Field Office issued a news release January 6, 2022, announcing the finalization of a supplementary rule that reinstates a stay limit of 14 consecutive days at the site. The change, which went into effect February 5, 2022, is consistent with camping limits for other BLM public lands, will allow more members of the public to enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, scenic viewing and boating from the popular site. Volunteers needed The BLM is looking for volunteers with excellent public lands stewardship ethics to work as campground hosts If interested, please visit <a href="https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000000g2Qn/campground-host-virgin-river-canyon-recreation-area" rel="nofollow">Volunteer.gov</a>.

Directions

The Recreation Area is located off of Interstate 15 about 20 miles southwest of St. George Utah and about 20 miles northeast of Mesquite, Nevada. Take the Cedar Pocket exit, located halfway through the Virgin River Gorge.

Fees

$8 per night fee ; $2 day use fee