Cedar City sits at 5,800 feet elevation in southwestern Utah, making it an ideal base for cabin camping adventures year-round. The area experiences significant temperature swings between day and night, with summer highs averaging in the 90s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Cabin accommodations in this region span from primitive structures with minimal amenities to fully-equipped lodging options with modern conveniences.
What to do
Explore Cedar Breaks National Monument: Located approximately 23 miles east of Cedar City, this natural amphitheater offers hiking trails and spectacular views. "Cedar Canyon Retreat is a cute little campground close to Cedar Breaks National Monument and to the town of Brian Head. We stayed in our 30' TT and site 20 was plenty big enough," notes a visitor to Cedar Canyon Retreat RV Park and Campground.
Hike Kanarra Falls: This slot canyon hike requires advanced permits and features ladder climbs. "We chose this place because of its proximity to the Kanarraville Falls trailhead (it is less than a half-mile away)," reports a camper who stayed at Red Ledge RV Park. "You should definitely put this hike on your list but make sure you purchase a permit in advance as they sell out most days."
Mountain biking: Cedar City offers extensive trail systems for riders of all skill levels. "We stayed here to get in some MTB riding. The park is conveniently located whether you want to ride the East or West side/s of Cedar City," explains a visitor to Cedar Breaks RV Park.
What campers like
Proximity to multiple national parks: Cabin accommodations near Cedar City provide access to several parks within driving distance. "This trip was a part of a kids baseball tournament. The staff was friendly and the grounds were still clean and well maintained," shares a repeat visitor to Cedar City RV Resort by Rjourney, noting its strategic location.
Heated pools and hot tubs: Several cabin providers offer year-round swimming options. "Third time to visit here (they give a discount for repeat customers). Nice heated pool area with hot tub. Some areas have nice shade trees and grass areas," mentions a guest at Zion River Resort.
Clean bathroom facilities: Cabin campers appreciate access to well-maintained restrooms. "The bathrooms with flush toilets, sinks and showers. They are well maintained and very clean," reports a tent camper at Cedar Canyon Retreat, highlighting amenities available to all guests including those staying in cabins.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin camping requires preparation for snow conditions. "We stayed five nights at this campground. It is a smaller, family ran campground. It's about 1.5 hours to Bryce and about 1 hour to Zion with only being a few minutes from Cedar City," explains a visitor at Cedar Canyon Retreat.
Highway noise: Some cabin locations experience traffic sounds. "Although it's right on Highway 14 and can be noisy, we didn't have any issues sleeping," reports a camper. Similarly, another notes: "The only drawback is that it's right next to Hwy 14 which is the main route into Cedar Breaks and continuing onto Brian Head and can get a bit noisy."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Iron Springs Resort, cabins must be reserved well in advance during summer months when demand peaks.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose cabins near play areas for convenience. "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," shares a family who stayed at Cedar City RV Resort.
Cabin sizing considerations: Select accommodations based on bed configurations. "We camped in one of the cabins for the first night because there was no availability for the campground sites. The back bunk beds were super cozy," mentions a visitor at Cedar Breaks RV Park.
Entertainment options: Some properties offer recreational facilities beyond basic accommodations. "We were able to bring our camp stove to the patio, cook and eat dinner," explains a visitor to Red Ledge RV Park, highlighting the community amenities available to cabin guests.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives for RVers: Cabins provide options when RV sites are unavailable. "We took my Oofos on my camping trip to switch out of once we were done hiking and setting up camp. It was a great idea but these shoes aren't really geared for people who have blisters," comments a visitor to Zion Canyon Campground who alternated between RV and cabin accommodations.
Mixed-use facilities: Many locations cater to both RV and cabin visitors. "This campground is right outside the east entrance to Zion, which was super convenient. It's right off the highway, which makes it easy to get to but not super quiet," notes a camper at Zion RV and Campground, describing facilities shared between cabin and RV guests.
Site selection strategy: Request specific cabin locations based on needs. "The first night of our stay had us next to the playground (spot G8) whose quiet hours were not observed or enforced. This time we were in spot C12 and the noise was never an issue," advises a return visitor to Cedar City RV Resort.
