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Red Cliffs National Conservation Area wilderness guide
National Conservation Area · UT

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area offers striking red rock landscapes and a host of outdoor activities near St. George, Utah.

National Conservation Area44,7254+ Trails

Designation

National Conservation Area

Total Wilderness Area

44,725

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area offers striking red rock landscapes and a host of outdoor activities near St. George, Utah.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, situated in southwestern Utah, spans over 45,000 acres of stunning red rock terrain. The area is part of the Mojave Desert and is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, deep canyons, and unique geological formations. Visitors are drawn to its trails that wind through vibrant sandstone landscapes, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to explore petroglyph sites that speak to the ancient history of the region. The conservation area is a haven for wildlife, including the threatened Mojave Desert tortoise, as well as a variety of bird species. Popular among hikers and mountain bikers, the region boasts extensive trails and loops, including the renowned Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. Its proximity to urban amenities makes it an accessible destination for outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience the intersection of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Key recreational opportunities include hiking, camping, climbing, and wildlife viewing, making it a year-round draw for nature lovers.

Field Guide · National Conservation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Hiking and Scenic Beauty at Snow Canyon State Park, Ivins, Utah★ 8.3⌖ 4 miHiking
Snow Canyon State Park

Hiking and Scenic Beauty at Snow Canyon State Park, Ivins, Utah

Snow Canyon State Park near Ivins, Utah, offers moderate hiking with unique petrified dunes and lava flows. Family-friendly trails provide scenic desert landscapes and wildlife viewing. Best visited in spring and fall to enjoy milder temperatures and excellent photo opportunities.

Unique Geological Wonders of Yant Flat in Utah★ 7.8⌖ 6 miHiking
Yant Flat

Unique Geological Wonders of Yant Flat in Utah

Explore Yant Flat near Kanab, Utah, featuring easy hiking and stunning swirling sandstone formations. Ideal for photography, nature walks, and stargazing. Enjoy quiet trails with vibrant colors best seen in spring and fall.

Waterfall Adventures at Gunlock Falls★ 8.2⌖ 12 miWaterfall Viewing
Gunlock Falls

Waterfall Adventures at Gunlock Falls

Explore Gunlock Falls near St. George, Utah. Best visited in spring after seasonal rains create waterfalls. Enjoy hiking and swimming in natural pools. Drive-in access and located within Gunlock State Park.

Waterfall ViewingView Details→
Discover Sand Hollow State Park: An Oasis of Adventure★ 8.2⌖ 12 miWater Sports
Sand Hollow State Park

Discover Sand Hollow State Park: An Oasis of Adventure

Explore Sand Hollow State Park, an adventure haven near Hurricane, UT. Known for its water sports and off-roading opportunities, the park offers diverse activities against stunning red sandstone formations. Ideal for adventure seekers, it's busy in summer but offers year-round access.

Water SportsView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Snow Canyon Overlook✦ Habitat of the Mojave Desert Tortoise✦ Silver Reef Ghost Town✦ Babylon Arch
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee is required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Washington
⌖ 5.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Washington, Utah

A gateway desert town blending vibrant community life with easy access to some of Utah’s most breathtaking red rock landscapes, ideal for year-round outdoor adventures.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Ivins
⌖ 6.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ivins, Utah

A rugged desert gateway town offering a refreshing blend of red rock landscapes and outdoor activities under vast, open skies.

Spring and FallExplore Town
St. George
⌖ 6.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. George, Utah

A vibrant desert town offering diverse outdoor adventures amidst stunning red rock landscapes and nearby national parks.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Gunlock
⌖ 11.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gunlock, Utah

A quiet desert gateway offering rugged hiking, scenic mountain biking, and relaxing hot springs in a remote Southwest Utah setting.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Leeds
⌖ 12.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Leeds, Utah

A rugged gateway town with desert grit and scenic tranquility, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, biking, and desert adventure near Zion National Park.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Pine Valley
⌖ 13.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pine Valley, Utah

A rugged desert gateway town offering quiet solitude, ancient landscapes, and diverse outdoor adventures amid red rock formations and higher-elevation pine forests.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.