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Camping near Dixie National Forest

1,549 Reviews

Camping in Dixie National Forest encompasses a range of experiences from developed campgrounds to free dispersed sites across Utah's largest national forest. The area features ponderosa pine forests and red rock landscapes, with popular camping areas including Tom Best Spring Road (FR117) dispersed camping and Red Canyon Campground. Located between Bryce Canyon National Park and Panguitch, these camping options serve as convenient bases for exploring the region's natural attractions. Visitors can find both Forest Service managed sites with basic amenities and completely undeveloped dispersed camping areas on forest roads where self-sufficiency is required.

Most campgrounds in Dixie National Forest operate seasonally from May through October, with higher elevation areas closing earlier due to snow. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day and can drop to the 40s at night, even in July. Winter camping is limited to lower elevations and requires cold-weather gear as temperatures frequently drop below freezing. Cell service varies throughout the forest, with better reception near highways and towns. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, and campers should check with the Forest Service office in Panguitch for current conditions and regulations.

The camping experience varies significantly across the forest. Established campgrounds like Red Canyon offer amenities including flush toilets, potable water, and coin-operated showers, making them suitable for families and those seeking basic comforts. Dispersed camping areas such as those along Forest Road 117 provide no facilities but allow for more solitude and flexibility. According to reviews, "Dispersed camping in the beautiful Ponderosa pines of Dixie National Forest is convenient to Bryce (about 15 minutes). The Forest Service road is easy to navigate with many dirt roads branching off with sites to choose from." Many dispersed sites accommodate RVs and large vehicles, though campers should scout locations before attempting access with larger rigs, especially after rain when dirt roads can become muddy and difficult to navigate.

Map showing campgrounds near Dixie National Forest, UtahExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Dixie National Forest (250)

    1. Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest

    71 Reviews
    Tropic, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "Bryce Canyon campgrounds were full, as well as the nearby designated campsites at Red Canyon.   "

    "Lots of great trails close by and super close to the park entrance - all for FREE! Couldn’t ask for more!"

    2. Rubys Inn RV Park and Campground

    78 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 834-5341

    "Campground Review Ruby’s Inn RV Park and Campground Definitely the closest campground outside of Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah with all the amenities (absolutely positively everything) and even"

    "Our camper was nestled in the trees with a hill behind the camper, where we could also explore."

    3. North Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park

    78 Reviews
    Tropic, UT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 834-5322

    $30 / night

    "The sites are tucked into cozy piney woods that belies the massive red, rocky hoodoos just a few yards away in the amphitheater. "

    "I was only able to spend a short time here on my Utah National Park road trip this year but I really fell in love with this place."

    4. Red Canyon Campground

    30 Reviews
    Dixie National Forest, UT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 676-2676

    $12 - $23 / night

    "About 38ish mixed use sites (tents and campers mixed in, although most RVs and campers were on the one side and tents on the other loop) right on Highway 12, so there is road noise all day (but it quiets"

    "It's in the Dixie National Forest about 12 miles from the entrance to Bryce Canyon NP."

    5. Toms Best Spring Road - Dispersed Camping

    33 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "Dispersed camping in the beautiful Ponderosa pines of Dixie National Forest. The Forest Service road is easy to navigate. There are many dirt roads branching off of it with sites to choose from."

    "It's a beautiful drive coming up here from Flagstaff and especially through Kanab, a sweet little town with such amazing people."

    6. Sunset Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park

    54 Reviews
    Tropic, UT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 834-5322

    $30 - $100 / night

    "Sunset is one of two campgrounds in Bryce Canyon National Park in Southwest Utah. Bryce is a beautiful canyon and a must see if you are touring southern Utah."

    "Sunset Campground in Bryce Canyon National Park is beautiful and spacious, and is very close to some overlooks and the visitor's center."

    7. FS #117 Rd Dispersed Camping

    24 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, OR
    10 miles

    "It was pretty busy when we arrived so our spot was next to the road. One bonus: short off-road drive to our spot"

    "Plenty of available sites, many drive through. Many could accommodate our 35' motorhome. Among the tall pines yet enough sunlight for solar panels. Four bars of AT&T 4G."

    8. FR 090 - dispersed camping

    38 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 865-3700

    "Do not park near the road if you can avoid it. Ruined our time here as groups with dirt bikes and ATVs speeding by. We could eat outside for the dust."

    "This little area is so close to Bryce, we camped literally less than a mile away from the park entrance, for free, can't beat it.  "

    9. Great Western Trail Dispersed

    28 Reviews
    Fern Ridge Lake, OR
    14 miles

    "Based on a map posted at the entrance, we followed the road to find a bunch of spots about 20 minutes down the dirt road."

    "The campground is beautiful with woods surrounding our site. Lots of wildlife walking around our tent area at night. It’s very clean with a few fire pits and is a great temperature in early August."

    10. Hitch-N-Post RV Campground

    10 Reviews
    Panguitch, UT
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 749-0534

    $20 - $36 / night

    "Full hookups drive through or back in however I did tent camping. perfect place to use as a hub when traveling the national parks in Utah!"

    "This campground will be rated as a Basecamp — grounds that offer a comfortable home base that you’re happy to return to after a day of exploring the surrounding area."

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Recent Camping Photos near Dixie National Forest

435 Photos of 250 Dixie National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Dixie National Forest

1549 Reviews of 250 Dixie National Forest Campgrounds

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Sunset Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park

    Shaded and clean

    No hookups but flush toilets and community sink to wash dishes. Parking pads are asphalt. Nice picnic tables and fire pit at each site. Walking distance to Sunset and Rim trails. Location is full and it’s Sunday evening in mid-October.

  • Iris V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2025

    FR3623 Dispersed

    Boondocking at Tom’s Best Spring Road – Bryce Canyon, Utah

    What a spot! Tom’s Best Spring Road is everything you want in a boondocking experience near Bryce Canyon. Easy access off Highway 12, wide open spaces, and stunning views in every direction. You’re surrounded by tall pines and red rock cliffs that light up at sunrise and sunset.

    We stayed a few nights and loved the peace and quiet. The sites are large, level, and spaced well apart. The road in is graded and manageable for most rigs, though take it slow if you’re towing. AT&T and Starlink both worked great for us. Nights were crisp and beautiful, and mornings started with golden light pouring through the trees.

    We explored Bryce Canyon during the day (a quick 15-minute drive) and came back to camp under a sky full of stars. No hookups, no fees, no crowds—just fresh air and freedom.

    Tips: • Bring your own water and pack out trash. • Expect some washboard on the road in. • Arrive before dark to pick your spot.

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    FR 090 - dispersed camping

    Open calling area

    I loved this place! It was relatively quiet during our stay. Even in some rain the road was passable and we found some cool agates. Fire pit and flat where we camped. Perfect for RV

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Coal Creek

    Dumping ground

    This could be a real nice little Stop over if it wasn’t full of dumped homeless encampment garbage. Derelect vehicles with Police tow stickers and what looks to be homeless Living in cars and shooting up. Not staying and not Coming back.

  • Iris V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Lizzie & Charlies RV-ATV Park

    Great Stay and Perfect Access to Trails

    We stayed a week and loved it. Most sites are pull-through with full hookups, which made setup easy. The staff was friendly and welcoming. The park is in a great location for SxS trail access. Laundry room and showers onsite were clean and convenient. Highly recommend this place and definitely looking forward to coming back.

  • Tyler M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Rocky Peak Campground

    Campsite with plenty of space

    Plenty of space in each of the campsites. A couple trails nearby and other activities to do. Not a bad place to spend the night. $20 to reserve online.

  • Mike M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    East Zion RV Park

    I see rough reviews but I loved this place

    Is it close to Hwy 89, yes, is the Thunderbird Lodge closed on Wednesday and Thursday and maybe not there to help immediately, yes. This is a small town but the facility is awesome, when staff is not there they answer the texting options they communicate with you very quickly and I really didn't notice the traffic noise as RV's are hardly sound proof.

    While there we visited Zion, Bryce, Navajo Lake, Corral Pink Dunes, how central do you need to be to get a great review here. Very clean and well kept up, executive golf course (it took me a bit to recognize what 89 & 9 meant, call me slow), pool and spa, store, and you can't leave without trying a "Ho"made pie.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Arch Campground — Kodachrome Basin State Park

    Amazing Views at a Baby Bryce Park

    Utah State Parks near National Parks are hidden gems. They’re dog friendly unlike National Parks and like Kodachrome, share a lot of the beauty but without the crowds.

    There are plenty of hikes for all levels here.

    We spontaneously decided to see if there were any openings at the visitor center and got the last dry camping spot in an overflow area. It was fine for a night.

    Vault toilets are spotless. Water is available at campsites and there are many fhu sites. Super quiet and peaceful.

    Your camp fee includes admission fee not the park. There’s no cell in the park but the wifi at the visitor center is some of the best we’ve experienced in a very comfortable setting— babbling water feature, swinging lounge chairs and a gas pit fire.

Guide to Dixie National Forest

Camping near Dixie National Forest, Utah, offers a fantastic mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to suit your style.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers have noted that the North Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park provides direct access to biking and hiking trails. One reviewer mentioned, "Direct access to biking and hiking trails. There is also a shuttle stop right at the entrance of the campground."
  • Stargazing: The clear skies around Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest are perfect for stargazing. A visitor shared, "The stars were unbelievable though. A little buggy out there but we had plenty of bug spray."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. Campers at Duck Creek have enjoyed the peaceful surroundings, with one saying, "Cool at night even for August."

What campers like

What you should know

  • No Showers at Some Sites: Many campgrounds, like North Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park, do not have shower facilities. A camper mentioned, "Bathrooms do not have any kind of hand soap or sanitizer so come prepared."
  • Uneven Ground: If you're camping in a van, be aware that some sites may have uneven surfaces. A review stated, "The driveway surface for most sites is uneven, something to consider if you have a camper van."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, like Sunset Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park. A visitor shared, "I was worried it would already be packed since I was visiting over Labor Day weekend. Thankfully there were plenty of open spots."

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Extra Supplies: Campers at Duck Creek recommend bringing extra toilet paper, as it can run out. One family noted, "Restrooms sometimes are out of toilet paper, but we always bring spare rolls for any situation."
  • Choose Secluded Sites: For a more family-friendly experience, look for sites that offer privacy. A camper at Tom Best Spring Road FR117 Dispersed - Dixie National Forest mentioned, "Sites felt far enough apart and had good views!"
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Basin Campground — Kodachrome Basin State Park said, "There are several enjoyable trails nearby."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers at Ruby's Inn RV Park and Campground recommend checking site sizes before booking. One RV traveler noted, "Another area is more out in the open which looked to be newer and great for big rigs."
  • Use the Shuttle: If you're visiting Bryce Canyon National Park, take advantage of the shuttle service to avoid parking hassles. A camper mentioned, "The park shuttle picks up right in front."
  • Bring a Leveling Kit: Some sites may not be level, so having a leveling kit can be helpful. A visitor at Sunset Campground — Bryce Canyon National Park said, "Some spots are on a bit of a slope."

Camping near Dixie National Forest, Utah, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Dixie National Forest?

Dixie National Forest offers excellent camping options for all preferences. King Creek Group Site is a secluded gem just 13 miles from Bryce Canyon with large, flat sites spaced well apart. For those seeking dispersed camping, Mammoth Dispersed provides beautiful spots next to Mammoth Creek with pit toilets available. Other notable options include Red Canyon Campground along Highway 12, White Bridge Campground along Panguitch Creek, and Navajo Lake Campground with both walk-in and drive-up sites. Cedar Canyon is well-maintained and perfect for beginner campers, offering proximity to Cedar Breaks and Duck Creek.

Do I need permits for camping in Dixie National Forest?

Permits are not required for most camping in Dixie National Forest, but there are important regulations to follow. At dispersed sites like Tom Best Spring Road FR117 and Yankee Designated Dispersed Camping Area, camping is free with a 16-day stay limit. For developed campgrounds, fees apply but no advance permits are needed—most operate on a first-come, first-served basis or through recreation.gov reservations. Always check current fire restrictions which may require permits for campfires depending on the season. Contact the nearest Dixie National Forest ranger district office before your trip for the most up-to-date regulations.

What is the best time of year to camp in Dixie National Forest?

Late spring through early fall is ideal for camping in Dixie National Forest. May provides a quiet experience with fewer crowds at places like Yankee Meadows, though be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Summer is popular but Cabin Hollow on Forest Road 121 fills up quickly during this season. The forest's elevation ranges from 2,800 to over 10,000 feet, creating variable conditions. Fall offers colorful foliage and cooler temperatures. Winter camping is possible in lower elevations, but many forest roads and campgrounds close due to snow, especially those at higher altitudes where temperatures can drop significantly.

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