Pine Valley Equestrian Campground is situated at approximately 6,500 feet elevation, offering a cooler alternative to the surrounding desert landscapes. The area serves as a hub for horseback riding with multiple access points to surrounding wilderness trails. Temperatures typically range from 40-85°F during the camping season, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Wilderness trail rides: From Pine Valley, riders can access extensive trail networks that connect to areas like the Paiute Wilderness. As one visitor noted, "I spent most of my time walking through shaded woods along the stream and collecting water for boiling along with firewood. Can't wait to go again!"
Explore nearby canyons: The Snow Canyon State Park Campground is approximately 45 minutes from Dammeron Valley and features distinctive geological formations. According to a camper, "Great red rock/lava flow hiking trail options, most are easy/moderate, nice loop through Snow Canyon and around on mesa and back for road cycling."
Waterfall visits: Toquerville Falls Primitive offers a natural swimming area about an hour's drive from Dammeron Valley. One visitor reports, "A really sweet place to stop, cool off, I saw some people swimming during the day, and just relax and take in the gorgeous canyon."
What campers like
Secluded camping sites: At Pine Valley Equestrian Campground, campers appreciate the privacy between sites. A recent visitor mentioned, "Very quiet campground and felt like we were alone. Can't see other sites. Horse stables away from tents and didn't smell at all."
Elevation advantages: The higher altitude provides relief from summer desert heat. One camper at Pine Valley noted, "Gets cooler at night, great for the fire and sleeping. A nice break from the heat of the Valley."
Water features: The streams near equestrian camping areas provide natural amenities. "Has a gorgeous, peaceful stream running a very short walk from the sites," reported one Pine Valley camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some of the best equestrian camping locations requires appropriate vehicles. For Toquerville Falls Primitive, a visitor warned: "This is NOT a 2 wheel drive adventure to see a water fall. It's strictly 4 wheel drive only. Hike it first to end don't ruin your vehicle for this."
Seasonal limitations: Most higher elevation camping areas close during winter months due to snow. Pine Valley Equestrian Campground operates from May 11 to September 24.
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be significant. One visitor at Zion Wright Family Ranch shared: "We got caught in high winds one day/night that nearly blew our tent down and covered everything in a thick layer of dust so beware."
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: Families with children might enjoy natural water features during hot months. A visitor to Snow Canyon recommended: "I'd recommend this as an early spring camp outing. The temps climb quickly in Southern Utah in late spring. My kids had a blast in the sand dune area."
Alternative accommodations: Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort offers activities beyond horseback riding. A visitor noted, "We stayed in the 'Cowboy Cabins'. The cabin itself was clean and cozy! The facilities are likewise clean and there are tons of activities right on property. The recreation room is fantastic for antsy teens!"
Easy access camp spots: For families with young children, consider sites close to facilities. As one camper pointed out, "Site 82 is a great site, level parking area and right off the Pa'rus trail (paved walking trail that leads to a shuttle stop and the visitor's center)."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When bringing RVs for equestrian camping near Dammerton Valley, research site dimensions carefully. One RVer at Snow Canyon warned, "The hookup sites are VERY narrow (some as little as 10 feet wide) and difficult to pull into. I would not recommend staying in them."
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation campgrounds offer cooler temperatures but may have limited RV amenities. When camping at Zion Wright Family Ranch, one visitor noted, "The road is rough, both up to the campground and within it. Take it slow and you will be fine but it can be a bit intimidating. I would be concerned trying it when wet."
