The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Three Parks Recreation Area is a large recreational area in Utah. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a division of the federal government that oversees the area and ensures that it's in good condition for visitors. It is close to both Arches National Park and Zion National Park, which can help you plan a fun road trip through Utah.
A large trail system runs through the area for hikers and those who like mountain biking. Horseback riding and model plane flying are other popular activities within the area. Cedar City is the closest large city and is home to more than 25,000 people.
Rocky Peak Trail runs for more than one mile and welcomes both people and dogs on leashes. It is open all year but more popular from March through December, which is when it begins snowing. Snow and ice make the trail harder to traverse. This trail is suitable for adults and kids as well as hikers and walkers.
Length: 1.3 miles
Intensity: Easy
Also running through the center of the recreation area is the Three Peaks Trail. It has an elevation gain of more than 2,000 feet, which may make it challenging for some. Once you reach the peak, you'll have amazing views of the area below. Many use this trail to get close to some of the wild animals.
Length: 1.4 miles
Intensity: Easy
One of the top trails for mountain bikes is the Three Peaks Loop. It is around three miles from the trailhead to this loop, which takes you in a big circle that ends back at the trailhead. The steep elevation changes make it too challenging for beginners. Moderate to advanced riders do better on it.
Length: 7.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate to Advanced
Another option for mountain bikers is the Big Hole Loop. Located on the northern side of the recreation area, the loop has a vertical climb of 500 feet and not many obstacles or challenges. You can access it via the trailhead, which has a parking area.
Length: 7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Named for the hit television show of the same name, Twilight Zone is the newest mountain bike trail in Three Peaks Recreation Area. It takes you from the trailhead to the White Trails and connects to the Three Peaks Loop. It is one of the easiest mountain bike trails in the area for beginners.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Though Three Peaks Recreation Area doesn't have onsite fishing, it's close to several fishing spots in southern Utah, such as Asay Creek, where you might find rainbow and brook trout. Woods Ranch Kid's Pond is close by and has several types of fish in a stock pond for children. Navajo Lake covers 2.5 square miles and allows you to bring a boat or charter one from a local company.
The desert environment of Utah makes Three Peaks Recreation Area a great place for rock climbing. You can view many of the biggest rocks from Cedar City and see where others go once you arrive. Chris Castle Mountain is one of the top climbing spots and has different landmarks you will see, such as Split Pea and Jawbreaker.
Wild turkeys and mule deer are just a few of the animals that roam through this park. While golden eagles soar through the sky, cottontail rabbits and prairie dogs also frolic. You might even see bobcats or cougars.
It's easy to find picnicking spots in Three Peaks Recreation Area, even if you visit during the off-season. A pavilion has picnic tables and fire pits that visitors can use along with bathrooms and clean drinking water.
The disc golf course at the Utah recreation area is suitable for both beginners and more advanced players. It has six holes spread across more than 600 feet and includes some blind spots.
Though you can find free primitive camping onsite, you may want RV camping sites that include more amenities. Cedar City is home to several RV parks such as the Cedar City KOA. It has multiple pull-through sites that can accommodate vehicles of up to 100 feet and gives you access to Wi-Fi and cable TV. Not far away is the Cedar City RV Park, which has full hookups and gives guests access to the amenities at the Best Western next door. You'll also find Cedar Breaks RV Park. Open year-round, the campground offers free TV and Wi-Fi along with clean bathrooms and an onsite store.
Three Peaks Recreation Area has primitive camping available in its Rocky Peak Campground, but you need to get there early. The campground does not accept reservations and has a first-come, first-served policy. There are also 10 sites available for groups that have picnic tables and fire rings along with a separate parking area.
While there are many wild animals in Three Peaks Recreation Area, you should never attempt to feed or touch them. If you camp in the area, keep your food locked away in your RV. It's helpful to stop by one of the grocery stores in Cedar City to stock up on supplies and food as you won't find any stores inside the recreation area. Find even more BLM camping tips that you can use during your trip on our blog.
The BLM has limited resources, which is why it asks guests to leave no trace of their visits. Make sure that you bring bags for your trash and either place the bags in marked bins or take them with you. You should leave the recreation area as clean as you found it.
To reach the Three Peaks Recreation Area, follow State Route 56 west from Cedar City until you reach Lund Highway and turn right. You should see a sign that tells you the entrance is only 3.2 miles away. Stay on the road and follow the signs to the visitors center.
Address: Cedar City, UT 84721
Ready to visit Three Peaks Recreation Area? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
