Tropic, Utah sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation in the high desert plateau region near Bryce Canyon National Park. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-90°F during day and 40-50°F at night, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms common between July and September. RV campers should note that many campgrounds in the area feature gravel sites requiring leveling blocks for comfortable setup.
What to do
Hiking Red Canyon trails: Just 30 minutes from Tropic, Red Canyon Village RV Park provides easy access to the Dixie National Forest. "There are a lot of activities for the kids or active adults (basketball, tetherball, corn hole, and swings)," notes Jody J. from Riverside Ranch.
Fishing opportunities: Despite the desert landscape, fishing spots exist near select campgrounds. "Fishing in this little creek was great. Even though the creek was small there were some BIG trout!" reports Laura F. about the waterfront at Riverside Ranch.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes for exceptional night skies. "At night it felt like you could see a million stars above," says Sam S. about The Riverside Ranch, adding that their riverfront site offered "amazing views of the mountains."
Explore nearby parks: The central location allows access to multiple national parks. "About a 30 minute drive to Bryce Canyon. A must do if you have time to go," recommends Jody J. "Kodachrome State Park is 10 miles away and is another great place to hike and Mossy Cave is 7 miles up the road and not to be missed," adds Clare P. from Bryce Valley Ranch.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the exceptional cleanliness standards at several parks. "The bathhouse is clean and the water was hot. This park has tent camping, RV sites, a one-story motel, and some original cabins from Bryce Canyon National Park," notes Nick W. from Bryce Pioneer Village RV Park.
Helpful staff: The friendly service makes a difference for many visitors. "Joel and Nicole are the campground managers and you simply couldn't ask for better people. They love the property and go above and beyond to accommodate everyone that comes through," remarks Sam S.
Level sites with adequate space: Several RV parks offer well-designed sites. "The spaces were roomy and all of ours were pretty level. The hookups on our sites were more to one end of the site and not so much in the middle of the site which was not a problem for any of us," shares Pamela about Ruby's Inn RV Park and Campground.
Versatile accommodation options: Beyond standard RV sites, unique lodging choices exist. "This park has tent camping, RV sites, a one-story motel, and some original cabins from Bryce Canyon National Park," explains Nick W. Another camper, Jeanene A., stayed "in a teepee along the highway" at Ruby's Inn.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Due to popularity, advance booking is essential. "We booked a reservation with a small group and asked to be next to each other. They accommodated that request," says Pamela.
Site variability: Sites differ considerably between and within campgrounds. "Campground has sites for all kinds of campers from tent/dry camping to huge sites for big rigs. Some are shaded and in the trees and some are open. Make sure you check with the staff as to which kind you're getting if that's important to you," advises Heather S.
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations can be extreme. "We stayed in September and by the middle of the night it was about 20 degrees so bundle up!!" warns Emily from Ruby's Inn RV Park.
Water pressure considerations: Laura F. recommends that RV campers at Bauer's Canyon Ranch RV Park be aware that "The bathrooms and laundry room were old, outdated but clean with unlimited showers."
WiFi variability: Connection quality varies widely. "Good cell signal and a wifi network also," notes Greg L. about Red Canyon Village, while another camper reports that at Bryce Valley Ranch, "The only issue we experienced was the wifi, which was not the best."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some campgrounds offer swimming amenities for children. "Pool looks like it would be a nice spot in the afternoon after a morning or early afternoon of adventure," suggests Andrew from Bryce Pioneer Village RV Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Several locations provide on-site recreation. "There are a lot of activities for the kids or active adults (basketball, tetherball, corn hole, and swings)," notes Jody J.
Cabin options for cold nights: Consider alternatives to tent camping with young children. "Stayed in a cabin. Nice grounds. The cabin was clean and well maintained. Nice alternative to camping and less expensive than a motel," says Michael G. from Bryce Pioneer Village RV Park.
Local attraction planning: "Highway 12 runs in front of this location and is great for road cycling in either direction," notes Clare P., adding that Willis Creek Slot Canyon "is a fantastic dog/kid friendly hike about 30 minutes away."
Tips from RVers
Hookup position: Check the layout before setup. "I needed three sewer hoses. I could not black tank flush. 25 ft hose too short. Fortunately I had an extra sewer hoses in my cargo area," reports Andrew about Zion RV and Campground.
Wind considerations: "Can be very windy at times so awnings stayed in the whole stay (4 nights)," advises Ron A. about The Riverside Ranch.
Water quality: "Use a filter to remove the slight odor to the water," recommends Nick W.
Site selection strategy: Some campers suggest considering location within the park. "There is a newer area towards the back that did not have the large trees but those sites had a nice little grass area at each site," notes Pamela about Ruby's Inn RV Park.
