Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area

About

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area sits in a dramatic desert gorge carved by the Virgin River, showcasing geological formations similar to the Grand Canyon on a smaller scale. The campground occupies a transitional zone between the Colorado Plateau and Mojave Desert, supporting some of the northernmost Joshua Tree populations. The Virgin River corridor is home to several endangered fish species and provides critical habitat for the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. The developed campground features 108 sites with paved roads, pull-through parking, drinking water, and flush toilets. Each site includes a picnic table and grill or fire pit, with 12 sites offering shade shelters. Eight ADA-accessible sites are distributed between the Upper and Lower loops. The campground has no electrical hookups or dump station, making it suitable for self-contained RVs or tent camping. Recreational opportunities include the Sullivan Canyon Trail leading into the Paiute Wilderness, a scenic paved trail to a Joshua Tree grove viewpoint, and river access trails. The Virgin River Gorge is popular with rock climbers and canyoneers. Across the interstate, Cedar Pocket Road leads to additional hiking through a limestone slot canyon.

Directions

Located along Interstate 15 approximately 20 miles southwest of St. George, Utah and 20 miles northeast of Mesquite, Nevada. Take the Cedar Pocket Exit at Mile Post 18.