Red Canyon Campground

Red Canyon Campground sits along Scenic Byway 12 inside Dixie National Forest, surrounded by the same pink-and-red Claron limestone formations that make Bryce Canyon famous — and it's about 12 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park's entrance. If Bryce's campgrounds are full or overpriced, this is the most practical overflow option, and it costs less than staying inside the park.

Sites and Amenities

The campground has 37 sites set among ponderosa pines that provide shade most of the day. Sites are first-come, first-served — no reservations. There are no electrical or water hookups, but a dump station is available on-site. Amenities include flush and vault toilets, potable water, trash service, and coin-operated showers (located in Loop A, sites 1–18) at $2.50 for 8 minutes.

Hiking From Camp

The Buckhorn Trailhead is located inside the campground, giving you immediate trail access. Connect it to the Golden Wall Trail for a scenic 5-mile round-trip hike through Red Canyon's coral-colored hoodoos. The Red Canyon Visitor Center and its additional trailheads are a short drive away on Highway 12.

Planning Notes

The campground is open seasonally — confirm current dates with the Dixie National Forest Powell Ranger District before you go. Sites accommodate a range of tent and RV setups, though larger rigs should check site-specific length limits. This campground fills on summer weekends; arriving Thursday or early Friday improves your odds of a spot.