Dixie National Forest is a land of thrilling contrasts situated in the heart of Southern Utah's most breathtaking places. Choose your own adventure — hike past fiery red-rock hoodoos, enjoy the cool breezes in evergreen forests, and explore stands of aspen that turn neon yellow every fall. If you have more time, head to the towering limestone canyons and check out the ancient bristlecone pines in the Ashdown Gorge Wilderness or paddle across Panguitch Lake. Snow blankets the upper elevations in the winter, bringing a chance to ski or snowmobile. Coming for a longer vacation? Visit the three national parks and two national monuments that sit on the edges of the forest for year-round adventure and some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.
Camping in Dixie National Forest
With so many spectacular landscapes to experience in Dixie National Forest, RV camping is one of the best ways to visit. That way, you can sleep comfortably and wake up just steps from your next adventure. For an easy, hassle-free trip, consider an RV rental. With RVshare, you can choose a model from an owner near the forest to cut down on driving time and maximize fun.
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Navajo Lake Campground
Take in the views of brilliant blue water and green pine trees at Navajo Lake Campground, which sits on the shores of its namesake lake. This spot is a popular retreat in the summer, thanks to the cooler high-elevation weather and the breezes that blow off the water. Here, you'll find 12 single and four double campsites that are open to RVs; each one has a fire ring and a picnic table, and you can find trash service, flush toilets, and drinking water close by. Rent or bring a boat to explore the lake or hop on one of the hiking trails to explore the national forest. Sites are first-come, first-served with rates of $19 per night.
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Cedar Canyon Campground
Tucked between Cedar City and all of the fun of Dixie National Forest, Cedar Canyon Campground is a convenient home base. Campsites sit in a beautiful green forest, creating plenty of shade and a respite from the Utah heat. Drinking water is available from Memorial Day until Labor Day, and there are vault toilets and garbage cans in the park. Sites cost $19 per night.
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Red Canyon RV Park
Get the full red-rock experience at Red Canyon RV Park. With full hookups, pull-through sites, fire pits, and grills, this is a lovely spot for big rigs and families. Flush toilets and a bathhouse with hot showers sit nearby for convenience and comfort. Sites start at $39 per night.
Activities in Dixie National Forest
The Dixie National Forest trail network is the best place to see the plants, animals, and landscapes of southern Utah. The bristlecone pine is of particular interest to nature lovers; check it out on the Twisted Forest or Bristlecone Pine Trails. For some of the best nature views, explore the area around Honeycomb Rocks, Pine Valley Reservoir, and Death Hollow. Wildlife abounds in the forest — watch for cougar and bobcat tracks as you hike and keep your binoculars handy to spot the elusive golden eagles and blue grouse. If you're interested in geocaching, you'll find interesting sites near Bowers cave, Signal Peak, and Brian Head.
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Stargazing
Dixie National Forest sits in a lightly populated part of Utah; after dark, the views of the night sky are remarkable.
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Fishing
During the day, pack your tackle box and set out to explore the 90 lakes and 500 miles of streams that are open to fishing. When the temperatures are low enough, you can even go ice fishing on Panguitch Lake.
How to get to Dixie National Forest
Address: 1789 N Wedgewood Lane, Cedar City, UT 84721
Fee: Entry fee $0
Whether you're looking for alpine lakes, sun-drenched red rocks, or cool pine forests, Dixie National Forest has you covered. A camping trip to this southern Utah gem brings adventure and relaxation in equal measure. To amp up the fun, bring an RV for the perfect camping trip any time of year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dixie National Forest
What is the best time to visit Dixie National Forest?
The best time to visit Dixie National Forest is in the fall. The temperatures are usually still pleasant, but not too hot. Summer crowds have also disappeared, so you'll have more space to yourself as well.
What is the closest town to Dixie National Forest?
Panguitch, Utah is one of the closest towns to Dixie National Forest. Panguitch has plenty of restaurants, hotels, campgrounds, and stores where campers can stock up on anything they need for their trip.
What type of wildlife lives in Dixie National Forest?
Wildlife living in Dixie National Forest includes mountain lions, bobcats, rabbits, antelope, prairie dogs, and golden eagles. There are also bears in the forest. The forest is home to a variety of birds, other small animals, and reptiles as well.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Dixie National Forest?
Yes, you need a permit to hunt in Dixie National Forest. If you are 12 or older, you also need a fishing license to fish in the forest.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Dixie National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Dixie National Forest. Campers may stay in a designated campground for up to 14 days. Dispersed campers may stay for up to 16 days in a dispersed campsite. After 16 days, they must move at least 10 miles to a new campsite.
