Cedar City, Utah offers camping options across diverse elevations from 5,800 to 10,000 feet, creating a significant temperature difference between valley and mountain sites. In summer months, valley temperatures often reach 95°F while higher-elevation campsites maintain cooler conditions in the 70s. Cedar Breaks National Monument's Point Supreme Campground sits at 10,000 feet, making it one of the coolest summer camping destinations in the region.
What to do
Mountain biking access: The area around Bear Flat provides excellent mountain biking opportunities with trails connecting to Brian Head resort. "Great spot for a quick stop. Close to ceeder breaks and Zion," reports Ryan A. The dispersed camping area features a grove of aspen trees with easy trail access, as Stefanie I. notes: "Our go-to campsite for MTB…as Brian Head reaort is only a couple of minutes away."
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Kolob Reservoir offers water-based recreation with equipment rentals available onsite. "SUP and kayak rentals right there at the lake front so no hauling yourself, affordable rentals. And the most friendly people," shares Tanya D. The reservoir provides calm waters ideal for beginners and families with "amazing camping, just drive along the banks until you find an open spot."
Stargazing at higher elevations: Cedar Breaks National Monument provides exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities due to its remote location and high elevation. Brian P. describes Point Supreme Campground as having "some of the darkest skies in all of the country." The 10,000-foot elevation puts you above much of the atmospheric disturbance, creating ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: Many campers appreciate natural water features during hot summer months. At Coal Creek dispersed camping area, Jeff K. mentions that the "waterfall and creek noise to lull you to sleep" creates a peaceful atmosphere despite being near the highway. The creek offers a refreshing spot to cool off when temperatures in Cedar City climb.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The transitional zones between desert and mountain ecosystems support diverse wildlife. At Watchman Campground near Zion, Bonnie M. reports: "We had deer strolling through our campsite in the morning." While this campground is farther from Cedar City, it demonstrates the wildlife viewing potential throughout the region's public lands.
Cooler temperatures at elevation: Higher elevation campgrounds offer relief from summer heat. At Kolob Reservoir, Oguz notes: "Stayed one night 8k feet (2500 meters) elevation in a cool weather. 70-50 Fahrenheit in September." These moderate temperatures allow for comfortable camping when valley locations experience intense heat.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many dispersed camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. At Pyramid Ridge Campground, Jared K. notes: "The road in, Shirts Canton Road, is starting to washboard pretty good." Coal Creek access also presents challenges as Will describes: "Easy to miss pulloff and extremely rough road. I was able to get a 24ft class C up and off the road a bit but was definitely nerve racking."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Fire regulations fluctuate based on conditions, particularly during dry months. As Johanna A. notes about Point Supreme Campground: "Starting August 1, no fires are allowed." Always check current fire restrictions before planning your trip, as they may differ between federal, state, and private lands.
Weather changes rapidly at high elevations: Mountain camping requires preparation for sudden weather shifts. Amber N. experienced this at Kolob Reservoir: "We stayed in our RV camper And it was absolutely freezing thank God we had that our friends stayed in tents in the dispersed camping area...and they came and crashed in our RV it was so cold!!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: For families with children, recreational facilities are valuable amenities. Lane H. recommends Cedar City RV Resort by Rjourney: "Our site was directly across from the playground and 50 steps from the off-leash dog park. Both the kids and the dog greatly appreciated both." The proximity to town also provides access to additional family activities and supplies.
Consider cabin options for weather flexibility: When camping with children, having weather contingency plans is important. Cedar Canyon Retreat offers cabin accommodations alongside tent sites. Taleah U. notes: "My partner and I tent camped here with our two dogs for 2 nights and it was such a great trip! The tent area we stayed in was a little closely packed and kinda awkward to get to because we had to walk through our neighbors campground."
Choose campgrounds with clean facilities: When traveling with children, clean restrooms become essential. Jennifer T. comments on Cedar Canyon Retreat RV Park: "The restroom/showers were extremely clean. It seemed they were cleaned several times a day. Each time we would use one, the toilet would be spotless." This attention to cleanliness makes the camping experience more comfortable for families.
Tips from RVers
Understand site layouts and access: Many RV parks have specific access considerations. Michele H. notes about Sand Hollow State Park's Westside Campground: "The campground is on a hill, the spaces at the top have the best view, the lower spaces are below the level of the reservoir so don't have a water view."
Secure reservations well in advance: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, particularly those in national parks. For Watchman Campground in Zion, Brittany S. advises: "You MUST make reservations online 6 months in advance to get a spot and they go SO FAST!" This principle applies to many established campgrounds in the region during peak seasons.
Consider site location relative to noise sources: Site selection impacts the quality of your stay. At Cedar City RV Resort by Rjourney, Aaron notes: "Our site was near the entrance, which meant we were close to Main St and quite a bit of traffic noise. Next time, I'd look for a place more towards the back of the park." This insight applies to many campgrounds near highways or urban areas.
