******* The state has leased land for a gravel pit within the main access road
to Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site. See directions at left for more
information. Be warned the routes don't hold up as well in rains and is
completely impassible during heavy rain. *******

The site contains some outstanding rock art, representing 6,000 years of human
habitation and use. The site has over 500 individual rock-art designs and
elements on the cliffs and boulders surrounding the base of a 500-foot mesa.
The different designs are associated with the cultures of the Great Basin,
Western Anasazi and Lower Colorado River, only a few of the many cultures that
have passed this way. Some of the representations of turtles, lizards and bear
paws may be symbols with social or religious meanings that are now lost to us.

******* The state has leased land for a gravel pit within the main access road to Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site. See directions at left for more information. Be warned the routes don't hold up as well in rains and is completely impassible during heavy rain. *******The site contains some outstanding rock art, representing 6,000 years of human habitation and use. The site has over 500 individual rock-art designs and elements on the cliffs and boulders surrounding the base of a 500-foot mesa. The different designs are associated with the cultures of the Great Basin, Western Anasazi and Lower Colorado River, only a few of the many cultures that have passed this way. Some of the representations of turtles, lizards and bear paws may be symbols with social or religious meanings that are now lost to us.

Bird's eye view of the park

Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site

Dirt Bikes, Mountain bikes, and ebikes are welcome in this area. Note there
are many motorized trails in this area making it very easy to become lost.
Please get a good map for adventuring off in this area. Recommended seasons of
use are Fall, Winter and Spring.

Dirt Bikes, Mountain bikes, and ebikes are welcome in this area. Note there are many motorized trails in this area making it very easy to become lost. Please get a good map for adventuring off in this area.  Recommended seasons of use are Fall, Winter and Spring.

Sunshine Loop and Dutchman Mountain Bike Trails

Early Trails, Wagon Roads, and Auto RoutesLong before the first Anglo-
Europeans began to explore and settle in the Intermountain West, long distance
trails had been developed by Native Americans across this region, as they
traveled to obtain scarce resources, such as salt or obsidian, and to trade.
In the late 18th century, when Spanish colonists in New Mexico sought travel
routes to the California colonial settlements, they engaged Native Americans
to guide them on their westward explorations. Their Indian guides led them
along the well-traveled footpaths that they followed to trade with tribes
living along the California coast for shell beads and other products. Between
1820 and 1850, the stock trail known as the “Old Spanish Trail” between Santa
Fe and Los Angeles was regularly traveled by New Mexico traders, fur trappers,
and hardy immigrants. After 1850, Mormon settlers, who had arrived in the Salt
Lake Valley in 1847, and “49ers” headed to the California gold fields took ox
and horse-drawn wagons over this trail and created alternative routes to avoid
terrain that could not be negotiated by wagons. Wagon roads proliferated in
the Intermountain West during the latter half of the 19th century, as silver
mining districts in this region boomed and new Mormon colonies were
established in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona. By the first decades of the 20th
century, “horseless carriages” were replacing horse-drawn wagons and new roads
had to be constructed to accommodate this mode of travel. Several of the
widely-known early trails, wagon and automobile roads crossed Washington
County. These include the Dominquez-Escalante Trail, the Old Spanish National
Historic Trail, the Mormon Road, the Honeymoon Trail, and the Arrowhead
Highway. To learn more, click on the links for each travel route.

Early Trails, Wagon Roads, and Auto RoutesLong before the first Anglo-Europeans began to explore and settle in the Intermountain West, long distance trails had been developed by Native Americans across this region, as they traveled to obtain scarce resources, such as salt or obsidian, and to trade.   In the late 18th century, when Spanish colonists in New Mexico sought travel routes to the California colonial settlements, they engaged Native Americans to guide them on their westward explorations.   Their Indian guides led them along the well-traveled footpaths that they followed to trade with tribes living along the California coast for shell beads and other products.  Between 1820 and 1850, the stock trail known as the “Old Spanish Trail” between Santa Fe and Los Angeles was regularly traveled by New Mexico traders, fur trappers, and hardy immigrants.  After 1850, Mormon settlers, who had arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847, and “49ers” headed to the California gold fields took ox and horse-drawn wagons over this trail and created alternative routes to avoid terrain that could not be negotiated by wagons.  Wagon roads proliferated in the Intermountain West during the latter half of the 19th century, as silver mining districts in this region boomed and new Mormon colonies were established in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona.  By the first decades of the 20th century, “horseless carriages” were replacing horse-drawn wagons and new roads had to be constructed to accommodate this mode of travel.    Several of the widely-known early trails, wagon and automobile roads crossed Washington County.  These include the Dominquez-Escalante Trail, the Old Spanish National Historic Trail, the Mormon Road, the Honeymoon Trail, and the Arrowhead Highway.   To learn more, click on the links for each travel route.

Early Trails

Experience peacefulness and solitude as you ride the BLM's Sunshine Loop
through fascinating desert scenery. Interesting dry washes, colorful buttes
and abruptly rising escarpments impress mountain bikers all along this half-
day trip. The 8.5-mile (13.5 km) loop trail has a More Difficult Rating mostly
because of difficult trial surfaces in some stretches.

Experience peacefulness and solitude as you ride the BLM's <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/sunshine-loop-and-dutchman-mountain-bike-trails" rel="nofollow">Sunshine Loop</a> through fascinating desert scenery. Interesting dry washes, colorful buttes and abruptly rising escarpments impress mountain bikers all along this half-day trip. The 8.5-mile (13.5 km) loop trail has a More Difficult Rating mostly because of difficult trial surfaces in some stretches.

Sun Valley Mine

Armijo Route, 1829-1830 ,is one of the Old Spanish Trail’s alternative routes,
the Armijo Route, was pioneered by 31 New Mexico traders, under the leadership
of Antonio Armijo between 1829 and 1830. This group left Abiquiu, New Mexico,
in November of 1829 with a horse and mule pack train loaded with woven goods
to sell in California. They followed a route that took them through the Four
Corners area to the Colorado River where the Dominquez-Escalante party had
crossed in 1776. From this crossing, the route headed across northeastern
Arizona to the Virgin River in Utah. The party then followed the Virgin River
to the Colorado River, diverted southwesterly across the Mojave Desert of
Nevada, arriving in Santa Barbara, California three months later. Their return
trip to New Mexico, driving horses and mules purchased in California, took
only 40 days, as they were now traveling a known route. Armijo’s party
pioneered a new trail and demonstrated the feasibility of commercial trade
between New Mexico and California. In Washington County, the Northern and
Armijo Routes cross public lands managed by the St. George Field Office. The
Northern Route entered the county near New Castle, traversing the Dixie
National Forest to Mountain Meadows. Mountain Meadows was an important resting
spot for the traders and their stock, as water and forage were predictably
available there. The route then followed the Santa Clara River to Camp Spring,
on the Shivwits Indian Reservation, and then left the river to go overland in
a southwesterly direction to the Virgin River, near Beaver Dam, Arizona. The
exact route of the trail probably varied somewhat by season and the
availability of water and feed. Some traders may have followed the Santa Clara
River south to its intersection with the Virgin River near St. George, Utah,
rather than taking the overland route. Few traces of the OST remain, although
the travel corridor and the rugged landscape through which the pack mule
trains and New Mexico traders passed can still be experienced and appreciated
by modern visitors.The Armijo Route followed Fort Pearce Wash in Washington
County, bearing northwesterly to intercept the Virgin River, just west of
Hurricane, Utah. The party continued south along the Virgin River to a
campsite near Littlefield Arizona, ultimately traveling along the Virgin River
to its confluence with the Colorado River, east of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Armijo Route, 1829-1830 ,is one of the Old Spanish Trail’s alternative routes, the Armijo Route, was pioneered by 31 New Mexico traders, under the leadership of Antonio Armijo between 1829 and 1830. This group left Abiquiu, New Mexico, in November of 1829 with a horse and mule pack train loaded with woven goods to sell in California. They followed a route that took them through the Four Corners area to the Colorado River where the Dominquez-Escalante party had crossed in 1776. From this crossing, the route headed across northeastern Arizona to the Virgin River in Utah. The party then followed the Virgin River to the Colorado River, diverted southwesterly across the Mojave Desert of Nevada, arriving in Santa Barbara, California three months later. Their return trip to New Mexico, driving horses and mules purchased in California, took only 40 days, as they were now traveling a known route. Armijo’s party pioneered a new trail and demonstrated the feasibility of commercial trade between New Mexico and California. In Washington County, the Northern and Armijo Routes cross public lands managed by the St. George Field Office. The Northern Route entered the county near New Castle, traversing the Dixie National Forest to Mountain Meadows. Mountain Meadows was an important resting spot for the traders and their stock, as water and forage were predictably available there. The route then followed the Santa Clara River to Camp Spring, on the Shivwits Indian Reservation, and then left the river to go overland in a southwesterly direction to the Virgin River, near Beaver Dam, Arizona. The exact route of the trail probably varied somewhat by season and the availability of water and feed. Some traders may have followed the Santa Clara River south to its intersection with the Virgin River near St. George, Utah, rather than taking the overland route. Few traces of the OST remain, although the travel corridor and the rugged landscape through which the pack mule trains and New Mexico traders passed can still be experienced and appreciated by modern visitors.The Armijo Route followed Fort Pearce Wash in Washington County, bearing northwesterly to intercept the Virgin River, just west of Hurricane, Utah. The party continued south along the Virgin River to a campsite near Littlefield Arizona, ultimately traveling along the Virgin River to its confluence with the Colorado River, east of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Armijo Route

Sand Mountain was designated as an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Open Area in the
1999 St. George Field Office Resource Management Plan (RMP). Adjacent to Sand
Hollow State Park, the OHV Area hosts miles of technical trails and open
riding opportunities suitable to a spectrum of OHVs. Sand Mountain provides a
360-degree panorama of the region that includes downtown St. George, the
Hurricane Cliffs, the Arizona Strip, the Pine Valley Mountains, and the Red
Cliffs National Conservation Area. The maximum elevation of Sand Mountain is
approximately 4,000 feet.

Sand Mountain was designated as an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Open Area in the 1999 St. George Field Office Resource Management Plan (RMP). Adjacent to Sand Hollow State Park, the OHV Area hosts miles of technical trails and open riding opportunities suitable to a spectrum of OHVs. Sand Mountain provides a 360-degree panorama of the region that includes downtown St. George, the Hurricane Cliffs, the Arizona Strip, the Pine Valley Mountains, and the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. The maximum elevation of Sand Mountain is approximately 4,000 feet.

4-wheel, off-highway vehicles navigate rugged, orange sandstone pinnacles above Sand Hollow Reservoir, Hurricane Valley, and Black Ridge far in the distant background.

Off-highway vehicles navigate the Sand Mountain Open Off-Highway Vehicle Area

Sand Mountain Open Off-Highway Vehicle Area

Recommended Trail Users: Hikers. Two-track. 0.2 miles in length. Difficulty:
Easy.This trail leads to the Warner Valley Dinosaur Track Site, where over 400
tracks can be found imprinted in the sandstone. Interpretive signs on site
provide information to the visitor.

Recommended Trail Users: Hikers. Two-track. 0.2 miles in length. Difficulty: Easy.This trail leads to the Warner Valley Dinosaur Track Site, where over 400 tracks can be found imprinted in the sandstone. Interpretive signs on site provide information to the visitor.

Therapod

Dominquez-Escalante Trail, 1776-1777, is a segment of the likely route
followed by the Dominquez-Escalante exploration party in 1776. The trail is
found on public lands managed by the St. George Field Office. As this small
party of hardy explorers from the Spanish colonies in New Mexico, led by
Franciscan friars Atanasio Dominguez and Silvestre Velez de Escalante, made
just a single trek here, there are no visible traces of their trail. The route
that they traveled has been reconstructed by historians, based on the journal
that was kept by Velez de Escalante. White obelisk-shaped stone markers have
been placed on public lands to show the general trace of the Dominquez-
Escalante party through central Washington County. In July of 1776, the two
friars, accompanied by eight volunteers and outfitted with saddle horses, pack
animals, and some beef cattle on the hoof, left Santa Fe, New Mexico, on a
journey of exploration. Their goal was to find a route to the Spanish colonies
in coastal California that would take them north of the Grand Canyon and the
Colorado River. By such a route, they would avoid the Indian Tribes that had
been hostile to prior Spanish explorers and travel through less arid lands.
The trek of the Dominguez-Escalante party took them northwesterly into
Colorado, then to Utah, crossing the Colorado River near Moab. Relying on
information from Indian guides, the explorers reached Utah Lake, near Salt
Lake City, proceeding from there in a southwesterly direction. They arrived
near Cedar City in October of 1776. Low on provisions and fearing that the
approaching winter, the party decided to return home, rather than press on to
California. They traveled south along Ash Creek to its confluence with the
Virgin River, near modern-day Hurricane, in Washington County. Escalante's
journal suggests that the party camped on top of Sand Mountain, before
traveling south along Ft. Pearce Wash. From this point, they continued on a
meandering course east, fording the Colorado River near today's Navajo Bridge,
turned south to visit the villages of the Hopi and Zuni Tribes, and eventually
headed north along the Rio Grande River to Santa Fe. Arriving in Santa Fe on
January 2, 1777, the Dominquez-Escalante party had spent nearly six months
traveling a distance of approximately 2,000 miles. Fray Escalante's maps and
journal, which described the landscape and Native American tribes that they
encountered, were used by future explorers, including Lewis and Clark in 1803.
One of the routes that Dominguez-Escalante helped to pioneer by their travels
was the Old Spanish Trail, now a designated National Historic Trail.

Dominquez-Escalante Trail, 1776-1777, is a segment of the likely route followed by the Dominquez-Escalante exploration party in 1776. The trail is found on public lands managed by the St. George Field Office.  As this small party of hardy explorers from the Spanish colonies in New Mexico, led by Franciscan friars Atanasio Dominguez and Silvestre Velez de Escalante, made just a single trek here, there are no visible traces of their trail.  The route that they traveled has been reconstructed by historians, based on the journal that was kept by Velez de Escalante.  White obelisk-shaped stone markers have been placed on public lands to show the general trace of the Dominquez-Escalante party through central Washington County. In July of 1776, the two friars, accompanied by eight volunteers and outfitted with saddle horses, pack animals, and some beef cattle on the hoof, left Santa Fe, New Mexico, on a journey of exploration.  Their goal was to find a route to the Spanish colonies in coastal California that would take them north of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River.  By such a route, they would avoid the Indian Tribes that had been hostile to prior Spanish explorers and travel through less arid lands.  The trek of the Dominguez-Escalante party took them northwesterly into Colorado, then to Utah, crossing the Colorado River near Moab.  Relying on information from Indian guides, the explorers reached Utah Lake, near Salt Lake City, proceeding from there in a southwesterly direction.  They arrived near Cedar City in October of 1776.  Low on provisions and fearing that the approaching winter, the party decided to return home, rather than press on to California.  They traveled south along Ash Creek to its confluence with the Virgin River, near modern-day Hurricane, in Washington County.  Escalante's journal suggests that the party camped on top of Sand Mountain, before traveling south along Ft. Pearce Wash.  From this point, they continued on a meandering course east, fording the Colorado River near today's Navajo Bridge, turned south to visit the villages of the Hopi and Zuni Tribes, and eventually headed north along the Rio Grande River to Santa Fe.  Arriving in Santa Fe on January 2, 1777, the Dominquez-Escalante party had spent nearly six months traveling a distance of approximately 2,000 miles.  Fray Escalante's maps and journal, which described the landscape and Native American tribes that they encountered, were used by future explorers, including Lewis and Clark in 1803.  One of the routes that Dominguez-Escalante helped to pioneer by their travels was the Old Spanish Trail, now a designated National Historic Trail.

Dominquez-Escalante Trail

Camping along the Sand Mountain Pipeline Road is authorized in eight numbered
sites each with a steel fire ring. Campsites are first-come, first-serve and
occupancy is limited to 14 days in a 28 day period.

This area provides full access to the Sand Mountain Open Off-Highway Vehicle
Area. Campsites are managed by the St. George Field Office in cooperation with
the Washington County Water Conservancy District.

PLEASE BE ADVISED: Campsites are typically accessible from the south by any
vehicle with at least medium clearance. Access from Waddy’s Corral requires
four-wheel drive.

Adjacent restrooms are located at 37.1053, -113.4327, just north of the
camping area along the Sand Mountain Pipeline Road.

It is your responsibility to adhere to current fire restrictions. Campfires
are permitted in steel fire rings only. Never leave a campfire unattended and
make sure it’s DEAD OUT before leaving.

Camping along the Sand Mountain Pipeline Road is authorized in eight numbered sites each with a steel fire ring. Campsites are first-come, first-serve and occupancy is limited to 14 days in a 28 day period.

This area provides full access to the Sand Mountain Open Off-Highway Vehicle Area. Campsites are managed by the St. George Field Office in cooperation with the Washington County Water Conservancy District.

PLEASE BE ADVISED: Campsites are typically accessible from the south by any vehicle with at least medium clearance. Access from Waddy’s Corral requires four-wheel drive.

Adjacent restrooms are located at 37.1053, -113.4327, just north of the camping area along the Sand Mountain Pipeline Road.

It is your responsibility to adhere to current fire restrictions. Campfires are permitted in steel fire rings only. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure it’s DEAD OUT before leaving.

Gravel campsite with metal fire ring and brown, numbered placard (#3) against a backdrop rolling red dirt hills and the Pine Valley Mountains.

Graveled campsite against a backdrop of rolling red dirt hills and the Pine Valley Mountains.

Sand Mountain Pipeline Designated Dispersed Camping Area

The public is invited to visit the interpreted Fort Pearce Historic Site,
listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the State of Utah
Register of Historic Places. Located approximately 12 miles south of St.
George, Utah, the historic site is generally accessible year-round, via the
unpaved Warner Valley Road. Other heritage points of interest on public lands
are nearby, including the Honeymoon Trail and the interpreted Warner Valley
Dinosaur Track Site. The small structure at the Fort Pearce Historic Site is
one of only three remaining stone guard posts built during Utah’s Black Hawk
War. This “war” was actually period of intermittent raiding between 1865 and
1870, during which the Ute Tribe, led by Chief Black Hawk (Antonga), and other
Native Americans allies attempted to drive the Mormons from the Ute
traditional homelands. Mounted Ute raiding parties, often joined by Navajos,
stole Mormon livestock, attacked outlying ranches and settlements, and killed
settlers who interfered with the raids. More than 100 Native Americans and at
least 70 Mormons were killed during the raiding. To protect their herds and
homes, local Mormon militia constructed a series of protected guard or sentry
posts, called ‘forts’, along major trails and travel corridors in central and
southern Utah. Four to six armed men with horses were stationed at each post,
to attack and delay the Indian raiding parties, while a rider raced to the
nearest settlements with a warning. Horses were stabled at night in the guard
posts, to ensure that the early warning ride could be made without delay. Fort
Pearce Wash was one of the primary routes along which Ute-Navajo horsemen
traveled to raid the livestock herds and settlements of the St. George Basin.
A site was selected in the spring of 1866, on a high bluff overlooking a
narrow, steep-sided canyon, just above the only natural spring for miles, for
a guard post along Fort Pearce Wash. A small number of armed men could easily
defend this location and water from the spring would support the defenders and
their stock. A work party of 20 men began construction on that guard post on
December 4, 1866, working for nearly a month to quarry enough local sandstone
to construct the dry-laid or mud-mortared defensive structure and a stock
corral; the post and the drainage were named in honor of Major John D.L.
Pearce of the Iron County Militia. The dimensions of the roofless guard post
were approximately 42 feet north-south by 22 east-west, with 7 to 8 foot high
walls and one exterior doorway. The interior of the structure was divided by a
partition wall into two rooms. Small protruding rectangular abutments were
added off the northwest and southeast corners as flanking walls and 10
vertical firing slits or gun ports were constructed near the tops of the
walls. No armed conflicts are known to have taken place at Fort Pearce, but
the guard post was manned, at least intermittently, from 1866 until 1873, when
peace negotiations and U.S. Army actions ended the raiding that was known in
Utah as the Black Hawk War.

The public is invited to visit the interpreted Fort Pearce Historic Site, listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the State of Utah Register of Historic Places.  Located approximately 12 miles south of St. George, Utah, the historic site is generally accessible year-round, via the unpaved Warner Valley Road.   Other heritage points of interest on public lands are nearby, including the Honeymoon Trail and the interpreted Warner Valley Dinosaur Track Site. 

The small structure at the Fort Pearce Historic Site is one of only three remaining stone guard posts built during Utah’s Black Hawk War.  This “war” was actually period of intermittent raiding between 1865 and 1870, during which the Ute Tribe, led by Chief Black Hawk (Antonga), and other Native Americans allies attempted to drive the Mormons from the Ute traditional homelands.  Mounted Ute raiding parties, often joined by Navajos, stole Mormon livestock, attacked outlying ranches and settlements, and killed settlers who interfered with the raids.  More than 100 Native Americans and at least 70 Mormons were killed during the raiding.  

To protect their herds and homes, local Mormon militia constructed a series of protected guard or sentry posts, called ‘forts’, along major trails and travel corridors in central and southern Utah.  Four to six armed men with horses were stationed at each post, to attack and delay the Indian raiding parties, while a rider raced to the nearest settlements with a warning.   Horses were stabled at night in the guard posts, to ensure that the early warning ride could be made without delay.

Fort Pearce Wash was one of the primary routes along which Ute-Navajo horsemen traveled to raid the livestock herds and settlements of the St. George Basin.  A site was selected in the spring of 1866, on a high bluff overlooking a narrow, steep-sided canyon, just above the only natural spring for miles, for a guard post along Fort Pearce Wash.  A small number of armed men could easily defend this location and water from the spring would support the defenders and their stock.  A work party of 20 men began construction on that guard post on December 4, 1866, working for nearly a month to quarry enough local sandstone to construct the dry-laid or mud-mortared defensive structure and a stock corral; the post and the drainage were named in honor of Major John D.L. Pearce of the Iron County Militia.  

The dimensions of the roofless guard post were approximately 42 feet north-south by 22 east-west, with 7 to 8 foot high walls and one exterior doorway.  The interior of the structure was divided by a partition wall into two rooms.  Small protruding rectangular abutments were added off the northwest and southeast corners as flanking walls and 10 vertical firing slits or gun ports were constructed near the tops of the walls.   No armed conflicts are known to have taken place at Fort Pearce, but the guard post was manned, at least intermittently, from 1866 until 1873, when peace negotiations and U.S. Army actions ended the raiding that was known in Utah as the Black Hawk War.

Fort Pearce Historic Site

Scenic views, chance wildlife sightings and a sense of history await you on
the Mokaac Trail. Mokaac Trail was once part of a main road onto the western
Arizona Strip beginning in the early 1900's. The trail is no longer a part of
the active road system but remains a symbol of earlier times and modes of
transportation.

Scenic views, chance wildlife sightings and a sense of history await you on the Mokaac Trail. Mokaac Trail was once part of a main road onto the western Arizona Strip beginning in the early 1900's. The trail is no longer a part of the active road system but remains a symbol of earlier times and modes of transportation.

Mokaac Trail

Experience red sand beaches, visually stunning red rock formations and some of
the best trails and ATV riding in the state. This easy-to-access park has a
variety of activities for adventurers of any age, type and skill level, and is
an ideal spot if you are looking for watersports, fishing, motorized
recreation, or family camping.

The park’s 1,322-acre reservoir is warm, which makes it great for swimming and
water skiing as well as boating. In addition to the water fun, Sand Hollow is
one of the area’s most popular spots for ATVs and OHVs, offering riders more
than 6,000 acres of sand dunes that have open riding as well as technical
trails where you can test your skills.

This off-road attraction is the ideal complement on your Road to Mighty
itinerary to the nonmotorized trails of nearby Zion National Park, meaning you
can enjoy both the quiet of the national park and the buzzing adrenaline of
wide-open and free off-road adventure. Rentals are available. Make a
reservation on the Utah State Parks reservation site.

Experience red sand beaches, visually stunning red rock formations and some of the best trails and ATV riding in the state. This easy-to-access park has a variety of activities for adventurers of any age, type and skill level, and is an ideal spot if you are looking for watersports, fishing, motorized recreation, or family camping. 


The park’s 1,322-acre reservoir is warm, which makes it great for swimming and water skiing as well as boating. In addition to the water fun, Sand Hollow is one of the area’s most popular spots for ATVs and OHVs, offering riders more than 6,000 acres of sand dunes that have open riding as well as technical trails where you can test your skills.


This off-road attraction is the ideal complement on your Road to Mighty itinerary to the nonmotorized trails of nearby Zion National Park, meaning you can enjoy both the quiet of the national park and the buzzing adrenaline of wide-open and free off-road adventure. Rentals are available. <a href="http://utahstateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/sand-hollow-state-park/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=UT&parkId=345761" rel="nofollow">Make a reservation on the Utah State Parks reservation site</a>.

$10/car up to 8 people. Senior (Utah residents over 62 years of age): $5/car
up to 8 people. Walk-in: $4/person. Camping starts at $18/night.

Sand Hollow State Park

Wagon travel on the Northern Route of the Old Spanish Trail began in 1847,
when the first Mormon settlement in Utah Territory was established east of the
Great Salt Lake. Exploration parties were immediately sent by church leaders
to identify locations suitable for colonization along the Old Spanish Trail,
to gain political control of the most important travel corridor in the
Intermountain West. In October of 1847, Jefferson Hunt, who had served in the
Mormon Battalion in California, led a group of 18 men, 130 pack mules, and a
single wagon to southern California to buy cattle, seed grain, and other
needed goods. The party arrived in San Bernardino after 45 days of travel,
having reportedly brought the first wagon over the Old Spanish Trail. The
success of this expedition encouraged others to follow, including large
numbers of prospectors and merchants “rushing” to the newly-discovered gold
deposits at Sutter’s Mill in northern California during the winter months when
the passes of the high Sierras would be impassable. Over time, the wagon road
that developed was labeled on maps as the “Old Southern Road”, the “Immigrant
Road” or the “Old Mormon Road”. By the first decade of the 20th century, early
automobiles were traveling this same route and paved highways eventually
replaced the wagon ruts.

Wagon travel on the Northern Route of the Old Spanish Trail began in 1847, when the first Mormon settlement in Utah Territory was established east of the Great Salt Lake.   Exploration parties were immediately sent by church leaders to identify locations suitable for colonization along the Old Spanish Trail, to gain political control of the most important travel corridor in the Intermountain West.   In October of 1847, Jefferson Hunt, who had served in the Mormon Battalion in California, led a group of 18 men, 130 pack mules, and a single wagon to southern California to buy cattle, seed grain, and other needed goods.   The party arrived in San Bernardino after 45 days of travel, having reportedly brought the first wagon over the Old Spanish Trail.  The success of this expedition encouraged others to follow, including large numbers of prospectors and merchants “rushing” to the newly-discovered gold deposits at Sutter’s Mill in northern California during the winter months when the passes of the high Sierras would be impassable.  Over time, the wagon road that developed was labeled on maps as the “Old Southern Road”, the “Immigrant Road” or the “Old Mormon Road”.    By the first decade of the 20th century, early automobiles were traveling this same route and paved highways eventually replaced the wagon ruts.

Old Mormon Wagon Road

The Honeymoon Trail During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a primitive
wagon road was the principle travel route between the Mormon settlements in
northeastern Arizona and southern Utah. In the late 1870s, Mormon colonists
had been sent by church leaders to pioneer new settlements along Arizona’s
Little Colorado River. As the new settlements were remote and isolated, many
goods and services could only be obtained from the established Mormon
communities of southern Utah. After 1877, the Arizona Mormon settlers also
traveled to St. George, Utah to conduct church business and have their
marriage vows solemnized in the newly-completed St. George Temple. So many
newlyweds traveled the wagon road that it came to be known as “the Honeymoon
Trail”.Couples would travel in small groups for safety and companionship to
make this long-distance trek across the varied and rugged terrain of
northeastern Arizona and southwestern Utah. This journey typically began in
mid-November and required many weeks of hard travel to complete. The wagons
jolted across deep dry washes and slick rock, bogged down in deep sandy soils,
and became mired in muddy stream crossings. At Lee’s Ferry, John D. Lee and
his wife Emma provided regular ferry service for travelers, at one of the few
feasible crossings of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Their
journey then took them to Kanab, Utah, south to Pipe Springs, Arizona, finally
heading north into Washington County. Here, the Honeymoon Trail followed Fort
Pearce Wash and headed north through the Warner Valley into St. George. The
spring at the historic Fort Pearce site was a popular overnight camping spot
for these travelers, some of whom inscribed their names and the dates of their
visits on the rocky cliff faces at the spring. After their marriage
ceremonies, the newlyweds would often spend the winter months in St. George,
enjoying the social activities of this established community and purchasing
needed supplies. They began the long trip home in the early spring. The
Honeymoon Trail continued in use well into the 20th century, when modern
highways were finally constructed across northeastern Arizona.

The Honeymoon Trail During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a primitive wagon road was the principle travel route between the Mormon settlements in northeastern Arizona and southern Utah.   In the late 1870s, Mormon colonists had been sent by church leaders to pioneer new settlements along Arizona’s Little Colorado River.  As the new settlements were remote and isolated, many goods and services could only be obtained from the established Mormon communities of southern Utah.   After 1877, the Arizona Mormon settlers also traveled to St. George, Utah to conduct church business and have their marriage vows solemnized in the newly-completed St. George Temple.  So many newlyweds traveled the wagon road that it came to be known as “the Honeymoon Trail”.Couples would travel in small groups for safety and companionship to make this long-distance trek across the varied and rugged terrain of northeastern Arizona and southwestern Utah.   This journey typically began in mid-November and required many weeks of hard travel to complete.   The wagons jolted across deep dry washes and slick rock, bogged down in deep sandy soils, and became mired in muddy stream crossings.   At Lee’s Ferry, John D. Lee and his wife Emma provided regular ferry service for travelers, at one of the few feasible crossings of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.   Their journey then took them to Kanab, Utah, south to Pipe Springs, Arizona, finally heading north into Washington County.  Here, the Honeymoon Trail followed Fort Pearce Wash and headed north through the Warner Valley into St. George.  The spring at the historic Fort Pearce site was a popular overnight camping spot for these travelers, some of whom inscribed their names and the dates of their visits on the rocky cliff faces at the spring.   After their marriage ceremonies, the newlyweds would often spend the winter months in St. George, enjoying the social activities of this established community and purchasing needed supplies.  They began the long trip home in the early spring.  The Honeymoon Trail continued in use well into the 20th century, when modern highways were finally constructed across northeastern Arizona.

Honeymoon Trail

Camping on the south side of Quail Creek Reservoir is authorized in eight
sites, each with a picnic table and metal fire ring. Campsites are available
on a first-come, first-served basis and occupancy is limited to ONE NIGHT. A
portable toilet and dumpster are available on site.

This area provides convenient access to Quail Creek Reservoir and miles of
non-motorized trails nearby.

Camping amenities are provided by the Washington County Water Conservancy
District in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management. Please park, camp,
and concentrate activity on durable surfaces to limit impacts to vegetation
and fragile soil crusts.

It is your responsibility to adhere to current fire restrictions. Campfires
are permitted in steel fire rings only. Never leave a campfire unattended and
make sure it’s DEAD OUT before leaving.

Camping on the south side of Quail Creek Reservoir is authorized in eight sites, each with a picnic table and metal fire ring. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and occupancy is limited to ONE NIGHT. A portable toilet and dumpster are available on site.

This area provides convenient access to Quail Creek Reservoir and miles of non-motorized trails nearby.

Camping amenities are provided by the Washington County Water Conservancy District in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management. Please park, camp, and concentrate activity on durable surfaces to limit impacts to vegetation and fragile soil crusts.

It is your responsibility to adhere to current fire restrictions. Campfires are permitted in steel fire rings only. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure it’s DEAD OUT before leaving.

Official Washington County Water Conservancy entrance sign states, “Day use or overnight camping only. One day limit. Please clean up after yourself and your pets. Violators will be prosecuted. Please call 435-673-3617 for additional information.

Washington County Water Conservancy entrance sign

Rolling hills with striated, red rock formations surround a flat, gravel camping pad with associated picnic table and metal fire ring.

Gravel camping pad and picnic table at Quail Creek Reservoir Designated Dispersed Camping Area

Flat, gravel campsite with an associated picnic table and metal fire ring with a desert wash full of lush vegetation in the background.

Flat, gravel campsite with a desert wash full at Quail Creek Reservoir Designated Dispersed Camping Area

Quail Creek Reservoir Designated Dispersed Camping Area

There are numerous trails for hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers within
the Santa Clara River Reserve (SCRR). These trails offer a variety of
experiences including discovering prehistoric rock art, hiking sandy washes,
viewing scenic desert landscapes, and savoring the cottonwood rich riparian
corridor of the Santa Clara River. For more information on the Reserve, visit
the Santa Clara River Reserve website.The SCRR is managed by zones. Trail
markers reference these zones so you will always know which zone you are in.
Each zone has different restrictions and limitations intended to protect
resources and ensure quality visitor experiences. To find out more about zones
visit the Management Zones webpage.

There are numerous trails for hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers within the Santa Clara River Reserve (SCRR). These trails offer a variety of experiences including discovering prehistoric rock art, hiking sandy washes, viewing scenic desert landscapes, and savoring the cottonwood rich riparian corridor of the Santa Clara River. For more information on the Reserve, visit the Santa Clara River Reserve website.The SCRR is managed by zones.  Trail markers reference these zones so you will always know which zone you are in.  Each zone has different restrictions and limitations intended to protect resources and ensure quality visitor experiences.  To find out more about zones visit the Management Zones webpage.

Santa Clara River Reserve

Utah State Parks: At 3,300 feet above sea level, relatively low elevation for
Utah, Quail Creek Reservoir boasts some of the warmest waters in the state and
a mild winter climate. Quail Creek lures boaters and anglers year-round. Spend
a day on the water or visit a nearby state or national park, then retire to a
campsite in a spectacular red rock desert setting.

The maximum depth of Quail Creek can reach 120 feet, so it is cold enough to
sustain the stocked rainbow trout, bullhead catfish, and crappie. The Utah
Division of Wildlife Resources also stocks largemouth bass and bluegill, which
thrive in the warmer, in the upper layers of the reservoir. Make a reservation
on the Utah State Parks reservation site

Utah State Parks: At 3,300 feet above sea level, relatively low elevation for Utah, Quail Creek Reservoir boasts some of the warmest waters in the state and a mild winter climate. Quail Creek lures boaters and anglers year-round. Spend a day on the water or visit a nearby state or national park, then retire to a campsite in a spectacular red rock desert setting.


The maximum depth of Quail Creek can reach 120 feet, so it is cold enough to sustain the stocked rainbow trout, bullhead catfish, and crappie. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources also stocks largemouth bass and bluegill, which thrive in the warmer, in the upper layers of the reservoir.
<a href="http://utahstateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/quail-creek-state-park/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=UT&parkId=345711" rel="nofollow">Make a reservation on the Utah State Parks reservation site</a>

$10/car up to 8 people. Senior (Utah residents over 62 years of age): $4/car
up to 8 people. Camping starts at $15/night.

Quail Creek State Park

The Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness now contains a total of 11,712 acres and is
managed by the Bureau of Land Management. All of the Wilderness is in the
state of Utah. In 2009 the Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness became part of the now
over 109 million acre National Wilderness Preservation System. In wilderness,
you can enjoy challenging recreational activities and extraordinary
opportunities for solitude. In an age of _"...increasing population,
accompanied by expanding settlement and growing mechanization,..."_ you play
an important role in helping to _"...secure for the American people of present
and future generations the benefits of an enduring resource of wilderness"_ as
called for by Congress in the Wilderness Act of 1964. Please follow the
regulations in place for this area, and use Leave No Trace techniques when
visiting to ensure protection of its unique natural and experiential
qualities.

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in
different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of
the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply.

**Leave No Trace principles:**

  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
  2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
  3. Dispose of Waste Properly
  4. Leave What You Find
  5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
  6. Respect Wildlife
  7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

**Regulations:**  
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally
prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the
use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment,
bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of
aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation.
In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or
mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a
specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.

**Contact Information:**

> OUTDOOR RECREATION PLANNER: Dave Kiel  
> 345 East Riverside Drive  
> St. George, UT 84790  
> Phone: 435-688-3210  
> Fax: 435-688-3252  
> Email: david_kiel@blm.gov  
> 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday

The Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness now contains a total of 11,712 acres and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. All of the Wilderness is in the state of Utah. In 2009 the Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness became part of the now over 109 million acre National Wilderness Preservation System. In wilderness, you can enjoy challenging recreational activities and extraordinary opportunities for solitude. In an age of "...increasing population, accompanied by expanding settlement and growing mechanization,..." you play an important role in helping to "...secure for the American people of present and future generations the benefits of an enduring resource of wilderness" as called for by Congress in the <a href="http://www.wilderness.net/index.cfm?fuse=NWPS&sec=legisact" rel="nofollow">Wilderness Act of 1964</a>. Please follow the regulations in place for this area, and use Leave No Trace techniques when visiting to ensure protection of its unique natural and experiential qualities.How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply.Leave No Trace principles:<ol><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_1.php" rel="nofollow">Plan Ahead and Prepare</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_2.php" rel="nofollow">Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_3.php" rel="nofollow">Dispose of Waste Properly</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_4.php" rel="nofollow">Leave What You Find</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_5.php" rel="nofollow">Minimize Campfire Impacts</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_6.php" rel="nofollow">Respect Wildlife</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_7.php" rel="nofollow">Be Considerate of Other Visitors</a></li></ol>Regulations: Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation. In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.Contact Information:<blockquote>OUTDOOR RECREATION PLANNER: Dave Kiel 345 East Riverside Drive St. George, UT 84790 Phone: 435-688-3210 Fax: 435-688-3252 Email: <a href="mailto:"david_kiel@blm.gov"" rel="nofollow">david_kiel@blm.gov</a> 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday</blockquote>

Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness

The Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness now contains a total of 17,600 acres and
is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Arizona contains approximately
15,000 acres. Utah contains approximately 2,600 acres. In 1984 the Beaver Dam
Mountains Wilderness became part of the now over 109 million acre National
Wilderness Preservation System. In wilderness, you can enjoy challenging
recreational activities and extraordinary opportunities for solitude. In an
age of _"...increasing population, accompanied by expanding settlement and
growing mechanization,..."_ you play an important role in helping to
_"...secure for the American people of present and future generations the
benefits of an enduring resource of wilderness"_ as called for by Congress in
the Wilderness Act of 1964. Please follow the regulations in place for this
area, and use Leave No Trace techniques when visiting to ensure protection of
its unique natural and experiential qualities.

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in
different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of
the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply.

**Leave No Trace principles:**

  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
  2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
  3. Dispose of Waste Properly
  4. Leave What You Find
  5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
  6. Respect Wildlife
  7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

**Regulations:**  
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally
prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the
use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment,
bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of
aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation.
In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or
mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a
specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.

The Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness now contains a total of 17,600 acres and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Arizona contains approximately 15,000 acres. Utah contains approximately 2,600 acres. In 1984 the Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness became part of the now over 109 million acre National Wilderness Preservation System. In wilderness, you can enjoy challenging recreational activities and extraordinary opportunities for solitude. In an age of "...increasing population, accompanied by expanding settlement and growing mechanization,..." you play an important role in helping to "...secure for the American people of present and future generations the benefits of an enduring resource of wilderness" as called for by Congress in the <a href="http://www.wilderness.net/index.cfm?fuse=NWPS&sec=legisact" rel="nofollow">Wilderness Act of 1964</a>. Please follow the regulations in place for this area, and use Leave No Trace techniques when visiting to ensure protection of its unique natural and experiential qualities.How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply.Leave No Trace principles:<ol><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_1.php" rel="nofollow">Plan Ahead and Prepare</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_2.php" rel="nofollow">Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_3.php" rel="nofollow">Dispose of Waste Properly</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_4.php" rel="nofollow">Leave What You Find</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_5.php" rel="nofollow">Minimize Campfire Impacts</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_6.php" rel="nofollow">Respect Wildlife</a></li><li><a href="http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles_7.php" rel="nofollow">Be Considerate of Other Visitors</a></li></ol>Regulations: Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation. In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.

Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness

We are open! And we have 25 sites available for reservations through
recreation.gov.

**Site Renovations**  
The recreation area has received many improvements including upgrades to
electrical and water systems, repaving roads and parking areas, renovation of
restroom facilities, demolishing condemned administrative use site, an updated
water delivery system, sanded and stained picnic tables, new informational and
fee kiosks, and accessibility improvements.

**Fourteen-day stay limit**  
To increase recreation opportunities at the Virgin River Canyon Recreation
Area, the BLM's Arizona Strip Field Office issued a news release January 6,
2022, announcing the finalization of a supplementary rule that reinstates a
stay limit of 14 consecutive days at the site. The change, which went into
effect February 5, 2022, is consistent with camping limits for other BLM
public lands, will allow more members of the public to enjoy camping, hiking,
fishing, scenic viewing and boating from the popular site.

**Volunteers needed**  
The BLM is looking for volunteers with excellent public lands stewardship
ethics to work as campground hosts If interested, please visit Volunteer.gov.

We are open! And we have 25 sites available for reservations through <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10086109" rel="nofollow">recreation.gov.</a>
Site Renovations 
The recreation area has received many improvements including upgrades to electrical and water systems, repaving roads and parking areas, renovation of restroom facilities, demolishing condemned administrative use site, an updated water delivery system, sanded and stained picnic tables, new informational and fee kiosks, and accessibility improvements.
Fourteen-day stay limit 
To increase recreation opportunities at the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area, the BLM's Arizona Strip Field Office issued a news release January 6, 2022, announcing the finalization of a supplementary rule that reinstates a stay limit of 14 consecutive days at the site. The change, which went into effect February 5, 2022, is consistent with camping limits for other BLM public lands, will allow more members of the public to enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, scenic viewing and boating from the popular site. 
Volunteers needed 
The BLM is looking for volunteers with excellent public lands stewardship ethics to work as campground hosts If interested, please visit <a href="https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a093d000000g2Qn/campground-host-virgin-river-canyon-recreation-area" rel="nofollow">Volunteer.gov</a>.

## Overview

The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area is located along Interstate 15
approximately 20 miles southwest of St. George, Utah and approximately 20
miles northeast of Mesquite, Nevada. It's accessed from the Cedar Pocket Exit
(mile post 18). The overnight-use fee is $8 per site per night and the day-use
fee is $2 per vehicle. Overnight use is limited to a 14-night stays. The
recreation area currently has 25 of the best sites only available through
recreation.gov reservations. The remaining 83 sites are _first come, first
serve_ (FF) payable by using the _Scan and Pay_ feature on the recreation.gov
app. Please come prepared by either making a reservation here before arrival
OR having the recreation.gov app installed with login setup to pay onsite with
the scan and pay option.

## Recreation

The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area provides many recreational
opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, water play, and more. It is
surrounded by two designated wilderness areas. The Paiute Wilderness east of
Interstate 15, and Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the west. The Sullivan
Canyon Trail starts within the recreation area and heads into the heart of the
Paiute Willderness.

The campground and day-use areas also both have scenic trails leading to the
Virgin River. The Virgin River is occassionally runable to small whitewater
boats during spring runoffs. Please check for information on the fish barriers
and flow conditions prior to running.

Additional opportunities for recreation are available outside of the
recreation area. A short drive on the Cedar Pocket Road (directly across the
interstate from the campground) leads to the Cedar Pocket Wash Trailhead. This
trail leads down a steep path to the narrows of the Cedar Pocket Wash and is a
nice short stroll through a Joshua Tree forest.

The Virgin River Gorge is also frequented by rock climbers and canyoneers.
Additional information about recreation available in the area can be obtained
by calling the visitor center at 435-688-3200.

## Facilities

The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area provides many recreational
opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, water play, and more. It is
surrounded by two designated wilderness areas. The Paiute Wilderness east of
Interstate 15, and Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the west. The Sullivan
Canyon Trail starts within the recreation area and heads into the heart of the
Paiute Willderness.

The campground and day-use areas also both have scenic trails leading to the
Virgin River. The Virgin River is occassionally runable to small whitewater
boats during spring runoffs. Please check for information on the fish barriers
and flow conditions prior to running.

Additional opportunities for recreation are available outside of the
recreation area. A short drive on the Cedar Pocket Road (directly across the
interstate from the campground) leads to the Cedar Pocket Wash Trailhead. This
trail leads down a steep path to the narrows of the Cedar Pocket Wash and is a
nice short stroll through a Joshua Tree forest.

The Virgin River Gorge is also frequented by rock climbers and canyoneers.
Additional information about recreation available in the area can be obtained
by calling the visitor center at 435-688-3200.

## Natural Features

The Virgin River Gorge, where the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area resides,
was cut by the Virgin River. Though the Virgin River is relatively small, it
is incredibly steep, dropping an average of 70 feet per mile - 10 times
steeper than the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. This steepness,
caused by the uplift of the Colorado Plateau, has given the Virgin River the
ability to cut through sandstone and limestone canyons.

The gorge provides a stunning and colorful mountain desert setting. The gorge
mimics, on a smaller scale, the colorful layers and striking depths of the
Grand Canyon. In fact, many of the very same geologic formations are present
in both areas. The gorge connects the southwestern rim of the Colorado Plateau
and the northeastern part of the Mojave Desert.

The climate of the gorge is typical of the Mojave Desert with hot summers and
mild winters. This desert climate allows for some of the most northern Joshua
Tree populations. The canyon is usually about 5 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than
St George, Utah, however the canyon can occasionally amplify winds.

Many species depend on the water of the Virgin River. The Virgin River
directly supports hundreds of wildlife species including, woundfin, Virgin
River chub, Virgin spinedace, flannelmouth sucker, desert sucker, speckled
dace, and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Many of these species are endangered
or are considered sensitive species within the State of Arizona and Utah.

## Nearby Attractions

  * The recreation area has an easy, short paved trail accessed near the fee instruction station. This trail goes up to a Joshua Tree grove and a nice developed viewpoint of the Virgin River Gorge.
  * The recreation area also has a trailhead to Sullivan Canyon. This trail crosses the river and traverses 3 miles through wilderness to Sullivan Canyon. 
  * Follow the high clearance road about 2 miles northwest across from the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area, you will reach the Cedar Pocket Wash trailhead. Here, there is a short trail to a Joshua Tree grove and plenty of views. A side trail leads steeply down to the wash where you can hike through a limestone slot canyon. 

## contact_info

This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general
information, please call: (435) 688-3200.

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations*: *cancellation becomes a "late cancellation" at 12:01 am EST on
the day before arrival.

• $10.00 fee if reservation is changed/cancelled earlier than the day before
arrival.

• $10.00 plus first night's camping fee is charged if reservation is cancelled
the day before or the day of the arrival, except when the reservation is only
for 1 night (in which case only the first night's camping fee is charged).

No Shows: customer does not arrive and/or does not cancel reservation by check
out time (11 :00am) the day after the scheduled arrival date.

$20.00 service fee charged and forfeit the first night's user fee

• If requested before the late cancellation window: NRRS will handle

• If requested during the late cancellation window (day before arrival, or day
of arrival): Customer will be

charged first night's use fee, and refunded rest

• If requested after arrival, during or after departure from site:
recreation.gov processes and field office has to approve

<h2>Overview</h2>
The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area is located along Interstate 15 approximately 20 miles southwest of St. George, Utah and approximately 20 miles northeast of Mesquite, Nevada. It's accessed from the Cedar Pocket Exit (mile post 18). The overnight-use fee is $8 per site per night and the day-use fee is $2 per vehicle. Overnight use is limited to a 14-night stays. The recreation area currently has 25 of the best sites only available through recreation.gov reservations. The remaining 83 sites are first come, first serve (FF) payable by using the Scan and Pay feature on the recreation.gov app. Please come prepared by either making a reservation here before arrival OR having the <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app" rel="nofollow">recreation.gov app</a> installed with login setup to pay onsite with the <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app#scanAndPay" rel="nofollow">scan and pay</a> option. 
<h2>Recreation</h2>
The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area provides many recreational opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, water play, and more. It is surrounded by two designated wilderness areas. The Paiute Wilderness east of Interstate 15, and Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the west. The Sullivan Canyon Trail starts within the recreation area and heads into the heart of the Paiute Willderness. 
The campground and day-use areas also both have scenic trails leading to the Virgin River. The Virgin River is occassionally runable to small whitewater boats during spring runoffs. Please check for information on the fish barriers and flow conditions prior to running.
Additional opportunities for recreation are available outside of the recreation area. A short drive on the Cedar Pocket Road (directly across the interstate from the campground) leads to the Cedar Pocket Wash Trailhead. This trail leads down a steep path to the narrows of the Cedar Pocket Wash and is a nice short stroll through a Joshua Tree forest. 
The Virgin River Gorge is also frequented by rock climbers and canyoneers. Additional information about recreation available in the area can be obtained by calling the visitor center at 435-688-3200.
<h2>Facilities</h2>
The Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area provides many recreational opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, water play, and more. It is surrounded by two designated wilderness areas. The Paiute Wilderness east of Interstate 15, and Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness to the west. The Sullivan Canyon Trail starts within the recreation area and heads into the heart of the Paiute Willderness. 
The campground and day-use areas also both have scenic trails leading to the Virgin River. The Virgin River is occassionally runable to small whitewater boats during spring runoffs. Please check for information on the fish barriers and flow conditions prior to running.
Additional opportunities for recreation are available outside of the recreation area. A short drive on the Cedar Pocket Road (directly across the interstate from the campground) leads to the Cedar Pocket Wash Trailhead. This trail leads down a steep path to the narrows of the Cedar Pocket Wash and is a nice short stroll through a Joshua Tree forest. 
The Virgin River Gorge is also frequented by rock climbers and canyoneers. Additional information about recreation available in the area can be obtained by calling the visitor center at 435-688-3200.
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The Virgin River Gorge, where the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area resides, was cut by the Virgin River. Though the Virgin River is relatively small, it is incredibly steep, dropping an average of 70 feet per mile - 10 times steeper than the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. This steepness, caused by the uplift of the Colorado Plateau, has given the Virgin River the ability to cut through sandstone and limestone canyons.  
The gorge provides a stunning and colorful mountain desert setting. The gorge mimics, on a smaller scale, the colorful layers and striking depths of the Grand Canyon. In fact, many of the very same geologic formations are present in both areas. The gorge connects the southwestern rim of the Colorado Plateau and the northeastern part of the Mojave Desert. 
The climate of the gorge is typical of the Mojave Desert with hot summers and mild winters. This desert climate allows for some of the most northern Joshua Tree populations. The canyon is usually about 5 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than St George, Utah, however the canyon can occasionally amplify winds.
Many species depend on the water of the Virgin River. The Virgin River directly supports hundreds of wildlife species including, woundfin, Virgin River chub, Virgin spinedace, flannelmouth sucker, desert sucker, speckled dace, and Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Many of these species are endangered or are considered sensitive species within the State of Arizona and Utah.

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<ul>
<li>The recreation area has an easy, short paved trail accessed near the fee instruction station. This trail goes up to a Joshua Tree grove and a nice developed viewpoint of the Virgin River Gorge.</li>
<li>The recreation area also has a trailhead to Sullivan Canyon. This trail crosses the river and traverses 3 miles through wilderness to Sullivan Canyon. </li>
<li>Follow the high clearance road about 2 miles northwest across from the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area, you will reach the Cedar Pocket Wash trailhead. Here, there is a short trail to a Joshua Tree grove and plenty of views. A side trail leads steeply down to the wash where you can hike through a limestone slot canyon.  </li>
</ul>

<h2>contact_info</h2>
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (435) 688-3200.<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
Cancellations*: *cancellation becomes a "late cancellation" at 12:01 am EST on the day before arrival.
•	$10.00 fee if reservation is changed/cancelled earlier than the day before arrival.
•	$10.00 plus first night's camping fee is charged if reservation is cancelled the day before or the day of the arrival, except when the reservation is only for 1 night (in which case only the first night's camping fee is charged).
No Shows: customer does not arrive and/or does not cancel reservation by check out time (11 :00am) the day after the scheduled arrival date.
$20.00 service fee charged and forfeit the first night's user fee
•	If requested before the late cancellation window: NRRS will handle
•	If requested during the late cancellation window (day before arrival, or day of arrival): Customer will be
charged first night's use fee, and refunded rest
•	If requested after arrival, during or after departure from site: recreation.gov processes and field office has to approve

Overnight Use is $8/night (for up to two vehicles). Discount of 50% with
_Senior_ or _Access_ America the Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal
Recreational Lands Pass.

Day Use is $2/vehicle. Day Use is free when you display in your car's dash any
America the Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands
Pass.

Popular spot on the Virgin RIver from the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Compass at the end of the interpretative trail

Site in the Virgin River Canyon with Joshua Trees

Accessible Restroom

Typical Site overlooking the Paiute Wilderness

Map of the Upper Loop (Campground) - the map shows the site locations, restrooms, trailheads, and amenities. The Upper Loop has 14-day reservation limit.

Map of Upper Loop (Campground)

Map of the Lower Loop (Day Use Area)  - the map shows the site locations, restrooms, trailheads, and amenities. The Lower Loop has 1-night stay limit to allow for continued day use.

Map of Lower Loop (Day Use Area)

Newly (2021) remodeled restrooms

Some of the Lower Loop sites near the Virgin River.

Sites along the River

Restroom at Night

Group Site 93 with ADA accessible walkways, picnic tables, and firepit

Group Site

North Restroom

Site with ADA walkways, picnic table, and fire pit

ADA Site 94

Site 94 overlooking the Paiute Wilderness

Recreation.gov kiosk at night - * Note this site has migrated to recreation.gov - reservations and scan and pay *

Recreation.gov Kiosk

Inside of the flush toilet restrooms

Sheltered Site with the Paiute Mountains

Virgin River flowing next to the Lower Loop in the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Virgin River flowing next to the Lower Loop

Picnic Table with Joshua Tree

Riverside view with Lower Loop

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (P)

During the Formative Period (ca. 700 B.C. to A.D. 1200) the indigenous people
(labeled by archaeologists as Ancestral Puebloans or Virgin Anasazi) became
corn and bean farmers who irrigated their crops by diverting water from
streams like the Santa Clara River. They constructed permanent village sites
and produced fine quality ceramics. Populations living along the Santa Clara
River appear to have increased between A.D. 700-1100 (Pueblo I-II), leaving
abundant and tangible evidence of their presence on Land Hill and river
corridor.

After A.D. 1200, archaeological sites attributable to the Ancestral Puebloans
become increasingly rare, suggesting that changing climatic conditions or
other factors forced a change in lifestyle for these early farmers. During the
Late Prehistoric and Protohistoric Periods (after approximately
A.D.1200-1800), the only indigenous people who permanently occupied the region
were the Southern Paiute. At springs and along the stream channels, they, too,
practiced small-scale farming. Hunting and gathering of native plants were
also important in the economic adaptations of the early Southern Paiute.

The Shivwits Band of Southern Paiute continue to make the banks of the Santa
Clara their homeland. Permanent agricultural settlements were established by
Mormon pioneers along the Santa Clara River during the mid-19th Century. These
settlements often displaced the Southern Paiute who had traditionally
cultivated the same lands along the river. The early Mormon settlers of
southern Utah used the nearby canyons and hills in the area. Several
geographic features still bear the names given to them by those early
residents: “Big Rock,” “The Gate Rocks,” and Cove Wash.

The public is invited to visit the Santa Clara/Land Hill Area of Critical
Environmental Concern (ACEC) commonly known as the Land Hill Heritage Site.
Located in the west central portion of Washington County, the Land Hill
Heritage Site is directly southwest of the communities of Ivins and Santa
Clara and east of the Shivwits Indian Reservation.

The Land Hill Heritage Site is part of the **Santa Clara River Reserve**. The
reserve protects open space, archaeological and natural resources, and
recreational opportunities important to local communities. Contained within
the reserve is the Santa Clara/Land Hill **Area of Critical Environment
Concern** , which contains numerous prehistoric sites and vital riparian
habitat.

During the Formative Period (ca. 700 B.C. to A.D. 1200) the indigenous people (labeled by archaeologists as Ancestral Puebloans or Virgin Anasazi) became corn and bean farmers who irrigated their crops by diverting water from streams like the Santa Clara River. They constructed permanent village sites and produced fine quality ceramics. Populations living along the Santa Clara River appear to have increased between A.D. 700-1100 (Pueblo I-II), leaving abundant and tangible evidence of their presence on Land Hill and river corridor.

After A.D. 1200, archaeological sites attributable to the Ancestral Puebloans become increasingly rare, suggesting that changing climatic conditions or other factors forced a change in lifestyle for these early farmers. During the Late Prehistoric and Protohistoric Periods (after approximately A.D.1200-1800), the only indigenous people who permanently occupied the region were the Southern Paiute. At springs and along the stream channels, they, too, practiced small-scale farming. Hunting and gathering of native plants were also important in the economic adaptations of the early Southern Paiute.

The Shivwits Band of Southern Paiute continue to make the banks of the Santa Clara their homeland. Permanent agricultural settlements were established by Mormon pioneers along the Santa Clara River during the mid-19th Century. These settlements often displaced the Southern Paiute who had traditionally cultivated the same lands along the river. The early Mormon settlers of southern Utah used the nearby canyons and hills in the area. Several geographic features still bear the names given to them by those early residents: “Big Rock,” “The Gate Rocks,” and Cove Wash.

The public is invited to visit the Santa Clara/Land Hill Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) commonly known as the Land Hill Heritage Site. Located in the west central portion of Washington County, the Land Hill Heritage Site is directly southwest of the communities of Ivins and Santa Clara and east of the Shivwits Indian Reservation.

The Land Hill Heritage Site is part of the <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/santa-clara-river-reserve" rel="nofollow">Santa Clara River Reserve</a>. The reserve protects open space, archaeological and natural resources, and recreational opportunities important to local communities. Contained within the reserve is the Santa Clara/Land Hill <a href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/planning-and-nepa/planning-101/special-planning-designations/acec" rel="nofollow">Area of Critical Environment Concern</a>, which contains numerous prehistoric sites and vital riparian habitat.