Pine Valley Equestrian Campground sits at 5,500 feet elevation in the Pine Valley Recreation Area about 45 minutes from Zion National Park. The campground provides dedicated sites for visitors traveling with horses, allowing riders direct access to forest trails that range from gentle valley terrain to more challenging mountain routes. During summer months, the elevation offers significantly cooler temperatures than surrounding areas, making it an ideal retreat when lower elevations become uncomfortably hot.
What to do
Hike at Snow Canyon State Park: Located near St. George, Snow Canyon offers desert landscapes with red rock formations and hiking trails. "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," notes Jake C. from Snow Canyon State Park Campground.
Visit waterfalls: The area has several notable waterfall sites accessible by off-road vehicles. "Roughly 10 mi out of Toquerville on Spring drive is The Falls. 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," reports Glen B. from Toquerville Falls Primitive.
Explore stream ecosystems: Many campsites feature nearby streams that offer recreational opportunities. "Gets cooler at night, great for the fire and sleeping. A nice break from the heat of the Valley. Has a gorgeous, peaceful stream running a very short walk from the sites. I spent most of my time walking through shaded woods along the stream and collecting water for boiling along with firewood," describes Tony W. from Pine Valley Equestrian Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many equestrian camping areas offer secluded spots. "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. Restrooms really clean," notes Chad M. from Pine Valley Equestrian Campground.
Cool night temperatures: The higher elevation provides relief from summer heat. "Days are hot in late spring and summer, nights can get cold especially in the early spring. Be prepared for both. Dark nights mean amazing stars an I mean amazing, bring some lounging chairs and a good wine and just lay back," recommends Glen B. from Toquerville Falls Primitive.
Mesa views: Some sites offer expansive vistas from elevated positions. "The views were amazing right at our campsite. There was a fair amount of privacy with everyone spread out through the field. Proximity to Zion (40 minutes to the park entrance or just up the road for some hiking)," writes Christopher N. from Zion Wright Family Ranch.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require appropriate vehicles to access. "This trail has 3 major obstacles. Rough most of the way, 2 big rock bumps and a rock bed that are unavoidable. Got it done in my stock 2020 Ford Ranger no scrapes. Definitely NOT for Beginners," warns Hunter W. from Toquerville Falls Primitive.
Weather awareness: Flash flooding can occur quickly in this region. "If it is even hinting of rain I personally would find another place to go. Not just for the unpredictable road conditions, but flash flooding is a real danger. Watch the weather reports and take then into consideration when setting up camp," cautions Glen B.
Facilities vary widely: From primitive to developed campgrounds, amenities differ significantly. "This is BLM land so its free, and no amenities. Pack it in and pack it out. You drive down a gravel road into a ravine. There's a large gravel lot to the left and a bit of a half loop near a river on the right a little further down the road," explains Patti M. from Twin Hollows Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with natural play areas: Children enjoy exploring natural features. "Playing in the creek was great for my eight-year-old (be careful of cyanobacteria in area) as well as exploring the tunnel. Oh and the tadpoles and snakes in the creek are awesome too!" shares Kristen S. from Twin Hollows Canyon.
Consider ranch resorts for amenities: Some locations offer additional activities. "We stayed in one of 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!" recommends John B. from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant day-to-night changes. "I camped at this site for a week during a trip to Zion National Park. It's a great place to stay with scenic areas, potable water, and vault toilets," notes Gabriel A. from Pine Valley Equestrian Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Check site dimensions before booking. "Only the RV sites have power, and the RV sites were pathetically small. They were basically parking spots with tiny shared picnic tables between them. It looked more like a Walmart parking lot than a campsite," cautions Matthew K. from Snow Canyon State Park Campground.
Full hookup options: Some locations offer complete RV services. "Sites are pull through with full hookup. Showers and bathrooms onsite. Small campground, close to Zion NP. Flat spots, quite small though. Full hookups, pull through," observes Merel J. from Mount Carmel Motel & RV Park.
Road clearance concerns: Assess vehicle capabilities against terrain. "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. Steep. Slick. 2 ft rock boulderings straight drop offs and roads cut towards them," warns Jody S.
