Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

Carved deep into Arizona’s Virgin River Gorge, the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area defies expectations with its breathtaking views of towering cliffs, colorful canyons, and the meandering Virgin River, all conveniently located just off Interstate 15. This serene sanctuary offers a rare combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and easy highway access, making it an ideal destination for both overnight stays and daytime explorations.

The campground features 108 developed sites scattered across upper and lower loops, many providing stunning vistas of the rugged gorge and river below. Amenities include paved parking spurs, picnic tables, fire rings, shade shelters, drinking water, and accessible flush toilets, though there are no electrical hookups or waste dump facilities. Hiking trails lead visitors to the Virgin River and nearby wilderness areas, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and peaceful immersion in the desert landscape. Nearby, the Cedar Pocket Wash Trail provides a short hike through picturesque Joshua tree forests, and the gorge itself is a draw for rock climbers and canyoneers. While highway proximity introduces occasional traffic noise, the location remains tranquil, particularly in the evenings.

Situated 20 miles southwest of St. George, Utah, and 20 miles northeast of Mesquite, Nevada, this Bureau of Land Management gem is ideally located for exploring nearby natural attractions like the Paiute and Beaver Dam Mountains Wilderness Areas. Its affordability and dramatic scenery make it a popular choice for road trips, weekend getaways, or as a scenic stopover while traversing the Southwest.