Camping near Cannonville, Utah typically experiences temperature fluctuations of 30-40°F between daytime and nighttime readings, even in summer months. The area sits at approximately 5,800 feet elevation, with surrounding national forest lands reaching over 7,000 feet. Winter camping often involves temperatures dropping below 20°F after sunset, requiring appropriate cold-weather gear.
What to do
Hike Shakespeare Arch Trail: This 1.7-mile round-trip trail in Kodachrome Basin State Park offers moderate terrain suitable for most skill levels. "The hikes and bike trails are pretty rad in Kodachrome itself. Grovesnor's Arch is nearby and you can get up close," notes a visitor to Basin Campground — Kodachrome Basin State Park.
Visit during winter months: Off-season camping provides unique views of snow-covered landscapes with significantly fewer visitors. "This place is like a winter wonderland if you come during or after a snowfall. Breathtakingly beautiful," reports a camper from North Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park.
Utilize the shuttle system: The Bryce Canyon shuttle stops at major viewpoints and eliminates parking concerns during peak season. "Great views, close to trails and easy bus system! The hoodoos are so neat- it was nice to see them at all times of the day and against the brilliant night sky!" shares a visitor.
What campers like
Free camping options: Multiple dispersed camping areas provide no-cost alternatives within 15-20 minutes of Bryce Canyon. "This place is great! I was planning on camping at Bryce Canyon but all the tent spots were taken... I found this hidden gem of a camping spot. It is secluded and the camping spots are pretty far apart from each other," notes a camper at Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed.
Quality shower facilities: State park campgrounds often feature better shower amenities than national park options. "The bathrooms are gorgeous! What? I know, the showers, the toilet stalls, its just a fancy five star hotel experience," describes a Basin Campground visitor.
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping areas, several sites maintain reliable connectivity. "I would have preferred to tell you a bear encounter story," notes one camper, while another at FR117 shares, "I had full bars with Verizon so that was a plus."
What you should know
Winter closures: Some campgrounds close earlier than published dates depending on conditions. "Talked to the ranger at North Campground (which was full by 4 pm) and she said they closed Sunset a week or so ago due to cold temps and no campers. Now the weather is perfect but they are not re-opening Sunset, despite loads of campers here today," reports a visitor to Sunset Campground.
Tent staking challenges: Several campgrounds have compacted soil making traditional tent stakes ineffective. "Because there are no trees around the upper sites (and it's nearly impossible to drive a tent stake into the ground), windy nights can get really crazy," cautions a camper.
Reservation timing: National park campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. One visitor noted, "Had booked a couple of RV spots. Reservations fill up quick." Another camper advised arriving "by 4P for a guaranteed spot on the weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Junior Ranger programs: Children can participate in educational activities that enhance their visit. "The junior ranger program was awesome!" shares a visitor to Rubys Inn RV Park and Campground.
Consider campground layout: Some sites provide better family configurations than others. "The camps are spread out with plenty of space to roam for the kids. The trails are located close by and offer plenty of opportunity to explore," notes a North Campground visitor.
Pet-friendly trail selection: For families traveling with dogs, certain trails accommodate four-legged members better. "Hiking trails accommodate four-legged companions" with specific areas designated for pet exercise. "This campground was well kept and the hosts very friendly," adds another camper.
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Many pull-through sites won't accommodate staying hitched for shorter visits. "Pull through sites would not be long enough for a one night stay where we want leave truck hitched to 32' trailer," warns a visitor to Bryce Valley KOA.
Hookup positions: Utility connections aren't always optimally placed. "The hookups on our sites were more to one end of the site and not so much in the middle of the site which was not a problem for any of us," notes a camper at Ruby's Inn.
Overflow options: During peak season, alternative areas open for additional RV camping. "We stayed in their overflows behind Best Western. Also large spots. Good mobile phone access, spotty WiFi though," shares an RVer.
Scout
