Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

trailhead Take the Cedar Pockets Interchange and find yourself in the middle of a wilderness wonderland. The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area is the only developed campground you will find on the Arizona Strip. Whether you are having a picnic, or spending the night, don't neglect to hike the short trails leading to the Virgin River, and to a hilltop site where geology and history are explained. Keep a lookout for Bighorn Sheep who live on the rocky crags above the gorge.

Nestled in a pocket of the spectacular Virgin River Gorge, this recreation area is surrounded by colorful cliffs and rocky canyons. The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area offers a developed campground, picnic/day use area, hiking trails and access to the Virgin River and two wilderness areas.

The campground is open all year with 75 developed sites (many are pull-throughs), tables, charcoal grills, water, flush toilets, two handicapped-accessible sites and paved roads. The 33-site day use area offers picnic tables, charcoal grills, shade shelters and rest rooms. Three group sites are available by reservation.

The Recreation Area is located off of Interstate 15 about 20 miles southwest of St. George Utah and about 20 miles northeast of Mesquite, Nevada. Take the Cedar Pockets exit, located halfway through the Virgin River Gorge. Fees are charged for overnight camping and group use. Campsites are $8.00 per night. Holders of a Golden Age or Golden Access permit are entitled to a 50% discount. Your recreation fees are returned to the Recreation Area for continued operation and maintenance.

For additional information or to make a group reservation, contact the Campground Host or call the BLM Field Office at (435) 688-3200.

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