Best Campgrounds near Santa Clara, UT

Camping near Santa Clara, Utah centers around a mix of state parks, BLM lands, and private campgrounds scattered throughout the surrounding red rock region. Snow Canyon State Park Campground, just 3 miles north of Santa Clara, provides established camping with tent and RV sites amid dramatic sandstone formations. McArthur's Temple View RV Resort in nearby St. George offers full-hookup camping with cabin accommodations, while dispersed camping can be found on public lands surrounding the area. The landscape transitions from desert valleys to higher elevations, providing year-round camping opportunities depending on the location.

Road conditions vary significantly between developed and primitive camping areas. State parks like Sand Hollow and Quail Creek maintain well-graded access roads suitable for most vehicles, while dispersed camping often requires high-clearance or 4WD transportation. "No frills, dispersed camping location just off the highway at the Arizona/Utah border. Great sunset/sunrise views," notes one visitor about Black Rock Road dispersed camping. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F in lower elevations, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Water is scarce on undeveloped lands, requiring campers to pack in their own supply. Most established campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak spring and fall seasons when Zion National Park visitors overflow into surrounding areas.

The region includes a mix of waterfront and desert camping experiences with distinct characteristics. Campgrounds at Quail Creek and Sand Hollow State Parks provide direct lake access, attracting water recreation enthusiasts. "All camp sites overlook the lake. There are flush toilets and outdoor coin showers," explains one camper about Quail Creek. Sites near Zion National Park, approximately 30 minutes east, experience high visitation and often fill quickly. Primitive camping areas tend to have minimal facilities but offer greater solitude and stargazing opportunities. Red rock formations and mountain views dominate the landscape, with some camping areas providing access to slot canyons and hiking trails. Night temperatures can drop significantly even in warmer months, requiring proper preparation for temperature fluctuations regardless of season.

Best Camping Sites Near Santa Clara, Utah (188)

    1. Westside Campground — Sand Hollow State Park

    569 Reviews
    Hurricane, UT
    15 miles
    +1 (435) 680-0715

    $50 / night

    "It’s fun of all sorts, kayaking, lake beach, boating, cliff jumping, bbq, off-roading everywhere!!! And the beauty that surrounds is unreal!!"

    "It’s always a family favorite when we go to Southern Utah"

    2. Snow Canyon State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Ivins, UT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 628-2255

    $40 - $200 / night

    "2.5 mike hike in, 300 ft elevation gain, easy trail to beautiful overlook of southern Utah. Camp is a sandy open area next to the overlook and cliffs of Snow Canyon State Park. Free to camp."

    "Snow Canyon is a still relatively unknown place near St George, Utah. There is SO much to do around there and there are great hikes that leave from this campground which makes it even better."

    3. McArthur's Temple View RV Resort

    25 Reviews
    St. George, UT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 673-6400

    $52 - $67 / night

    "We were on a road trip around Utah and decided to stop in the town of Saint George to get a bite to eat. We ended up taking our time to eat."

    "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."

    4. Quail Creek State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    Hurricane, UT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 879-2378

    $28 - $40 / night

    "Beautiful location! All camp sites overlook the lake. There are flush toilets and outdoor coin showers. If the camp ground fills, they allow primitive camping in the parking lot for a minimal fee."

    "The big pro is that you are really close to a lake where you can go for a swim, quite a rare feature for a campground in Utah. Beautiful surroundings, new showers and restrooms."

    5. St. George / Hurricane KOA Journey

    35 Reviews
    Leeds, UT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "We had a fun trip to Utah this past weekend for an off-road event. We found the KOA and set up camp for a few days. Internet connection wasn’t great and the weather was moody since it was March."

    "This KOA is located about ten minutes outside of St George and right off the I-15 freeway. It was all the amenities that your typical KOA has; dog park, hookups, cabins, and store."

    6. Red Cliffs Campground

    27 Reviews
    Leeds, UT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 688-3200

    $5 - $15 / night

    "Stopped here late on my way through Utah. Short drive off the highway and easy to find. Very clean sites, I was only there in the dark but area was quiet and easy to setup camp."

    "Water spigots are everywhere, and there are trash cans close by. Plus, there are two vault toilets not too far away. The roads and campsites are all paved."

    7. Virgin River Gorge Recreation Area Campground (BLM)

    26 Reviews
    Littlefield, AZ
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 688-3200

    $8 / night

    "Close to freeway but quiet. Very clean, some trails. Need to register at kiosk, one bar T mobile not enough to pay at site."

    "Walmart only 18 m away in Utah, Mesquite NV stores are the same distance west."

    8. Southern Utah RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Washington, UT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 669-2242

    $59 - $79 / night

    "This is a great, clean, relatively affordable spot to spend the night on your way to the sites in Southern Utah. This place is new, so it's very clean. No mature trees."

    "Right off the highway so there is road noise but you’re close to town to stock up on essentials or get delivery!"

    9. Watchman Campground — Zion National Park

    242 Reviews
    Springdale, UT
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 772-3837

    $35 - $130 / night

    "Sites were typical National Park, small and close together but well positioned.  We had close access to a modern restroom that was clean and well maintained.  "

    "Watchman is conveniently located within walking distance of the Zion National Park south entrance. The camp sites are shaded with trees and red gravel/sand ground structure."

    10. Cedar Pockets Pass Road - Dispersed Camping

    20 Reviews
    Littlefield, AZ
    15 miles
    Website

    "We drive by this all the time when we go to and from Las Vegas to Utah."

    "Easy access a great pull off on the way to southern Utah national parks. There are a couple of nice trails If you want to do a morning or evening hike."

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Recent Reviews near Santa Clara, UT

1601 Reviews of 188 Santa Clara Campgrounds


  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Gunlock State Park Campground

    Nice spot for short stay

    Very well maintained. New bathrooms with lots of (free to campers) showers. Water and electric worked great the whole time we were here. Super friendly staff.

    Looks like the roads were just paved and in need of more directional arrows. The layout is confusing as the campsites blend into the road so it’s easy to drive through an empty campsite. We were in a 24ft van and were able to be level without blocks by entering from the wrong way. Larger rigs would have had difficulty because of the slope. Many sites were sloped quite a bit so choose your site accordingly. We had site 21 that had great views but was exposed to ferocious winds one of the nights.

    We prefer campgrounds with walking access to trails. This one didn’t have that so we’d come back but just for an overnight.

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

    Hidden Springs Rv Resort

    Very nice campground, clean with all the amenitites

    Great camping, lot's of grass and landscaping, great pool, laundry, facilities, store, etc. When booking really take a look at the relief of the campground, there are spots with incredible views over St. George, Warner Valley, Hurricane and if I had noticed that I would have booked other sites.

    Staff is great and super helpful, would recommend this campground as an A+

  • Cali C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Wire Mesa

    Beautiful campground but a nerve wracking drive in

    This spot is secluded and we were the only ones there. The last mile of the drive to the site is extremely rocky and uneven. We did make it in our dually van that is RWD, but there were several spots we were holding our breath!!

    It is VERY secluded, so prepare accordingly. It won’t be somewhere you want to drive in and out of frequently, but it is stunning! Trails in walking distance as well.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    St George/Hurricane KOA Journey

    Ok for a night

    Like most KOAs this had good amenities but it was off I15. We were on the farthest loop from the highway and could still hear traffic. Many of the sites are on a slope and while they tried to level them, leveling blocks it were still necessary.

    The laundry, restrooms and showers were very clean. WiFi was weak at the campsite but great in the laundry room. I even streamed some Y ou Tube videos while waiting. The clubhouse is undergoing a remodel. Conveniently located just a few minutes from St. George for all services you might need.

  • Rick W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Hurricane Cliffs BLM Dispersed Sites 20-35 spur

    Small and crowded

    I was here in early Oct. It was busy, is close to small town. Beautiful scenery but very rough roads. It seems to me it is a small area for the # of visitors. I only stayed a day. It was the weekend also.

  • Logan K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Leeds Canyon Dispersed #6

    Beautiful views

    Not far up a pretty rough washboard road (easily passable, but rough) we found a lovely spot tucked back into the red cliffs. The road is busier than we expected, but not obnoxiously. During the day s truck passes every half hour or so, during the night every few hours. Amazing proximity to Red Cliffs, nice proximity to Zion.

  • Hans V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    BLM Dispersed N Kolob Terrace Road

    Busy spot but good location

    Close to the road and with many other campers and tents. Not bad though for a free night close to Zion NP.

  • Kim G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Hidden Springs Rv Resort

    Beautiful RV Park

    This is our second time staying here. We loved it even more this time as we had two days to really enjoy the area. Welcoming staff and amazing amenities including air conditioned club house, pool, bbq, fire pit, and beautiful bathrooms. The fact that this was a family farm is especially cool. We will definitely stay here again!


Guide to Santa Clara

Dispersed camping options near Santa Clara, Utah include public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management where primitive camping is permitted. Located in Washington County at approximately 2,800 feet elevation, Santa Clara enjoys a desert climate with dramatic temperature differences between seasons. Winter temperatures average 35-60°F while summer months regularly reach 95-105°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons for most visitors.

What to do

Hiking at Snow Canyon State Park: Located just 3 miles north of Santa Clara, the park offers multiple trail options through volcanic landscapes. "There are 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," notes one visitor at Snow Canyon State Park Campground.

Water recreation at Quail Creek: About 25 minutes from Santa Clara, this reservoir provides opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. "The dock for non-motorized water craft is easy to access from the parking lot next to the camp ground. If you do not have gear with you, there is a rental shop on site," explains a camper at Quail Creek State Park Campground.

Mountain biking: The St. George area surrounding Santa Clara is known for its quality trails. "Great mtn biking in St. George area (including a roller coaster ride on hard packed single track: Bear Claw Poppy and Snake Pit Loop trails. Many other trails in area)," shares a visitor to Snow Canyon State Park Campground.

What campers like

Red rock formations and hiking: The distinctive geology creates memorable experiences for visitors. "Red Cliffs Campground is a beautiful area, nested in the red cliffs and with hiking MTB trails right from the cg," comments a visitor to Red Cliffs Campground.

Stargazing opportunities: Many campsites in the area provide excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Southern Utah RV Resort noted the "Absolutely beautiful views" while another visitor to Cedar Pockets Pass described their experience as a "Quiet and star studded night."

Lake and water access: Several campgrounds offer direct access to water features. "Sand Hollow State Park Camping is such a good time. The summer nights by the beach camping out with your people and your dogs is one of my favorites," shares a camper at Westside Campground — Sand Hollow State Park.

What you should know

Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can be extreme in this desert region. "We stayed in late June and the temps were hot so it was nice to have the lake nearby for swimming, boating, kayaking, etc.," notes a visitor to Westside Campground at Sand Hollow State Park.

Campground operating hours: Some park campgrounds have strict entry and exit times. "Only problem here is that they lock you out of the park by 10pm, that is kind of annoying," mentions a camper at Quail Creek State Park.

Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Watchman Campground — Zion National Park, "You MUST make reservations online 6 months in advance to get a spot and they go SO FAST!"

Wind conditions: Several camping areas experience significant wind, particularly in canyons. At Virgin River Gorge Recreation Area Campground, a camper noted, "At about 3 am the wind became too much and the tent was almost flying out from under our bodies."

Tips for camping with families

Sand Hollow for water activities: The reservoir provides family-friendly beach access. "There's always a ton of people here! But there is plenty of space, you barely even notice. It's always a family favorite when we go to Southern Utah," explains a visitor to Westside Campground at Sand Hollow State Park.

Playground amenities: Some campgrounds include facilities specifically for children. Southern Utah RV Resort features "Basketball half court, small playground for kids, corn hole area, community fire pit area," making it suitable for family camping trips.

Educational opportunities: Many sites offer interpretive trails or natural features for learning. Red Cliffs Campground provides access to "dinosaur tracks" according to one visitor, creating opportunities for nature education with children.

Tips from RVers

Site selection at Snow Canyon: RV sites have specific limitations to consider. "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," cautions a visitor to Snow Canyon State Park Campground.

Full hookups availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services for RVs. At McArthur's Temple View RV Resort, one camper noted it provides "50amp full hookups including cable TV and strong wifi" making it convenient for longer stays.

Size restrictions: Some campgrounds have tunnel or site size limitations. A camper at Red Cliffs Campground warns, "Note you have to go under the interstate thru two narrow concrete tunnels, they are 11.9 high, so be careful, many large RVs, 5th wheels, Class As will not fit!"

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Santa Clara, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Santa Clara, UT offers a wide range of camping options, with 188 campgrounds and RV parks near Santa Clara, UT and 67 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Santa Clara, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Santa Clara, UT is Westside Campground — Sand Hollow State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 569 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Santa Clara, UT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 67 free dispersed camping spots near Santa Clara, UT.