Recreation

Camping Inside the NCA

Campground
A small 12 site campground is located inside the National Conservation Area. Information on the campground can be obtained from the Red Cliffs Campground website.
 
Dispersed Camping
Camping is limited to a maximum of 7 consecutive days in any one area and is not allowed at trailheads. Other restrictions vary depending on the Use Zone.

Lowland Zone: Dispersed camping is prohibited; Camping is allowed only in the Red Cliffs Campground.  See map for prohibited camping area.

Upland Zone: Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the Upland Zone with the exception of the Babylon/Sandstone Mountain area. Camping in Babylon/Sandstone area is allowed only in the Sand Cove Primitive Camping area and requires a permit.
Sand Cove Primitive Camping Area
Located approximately 20 miles from St. George, it can only be reached by high clearance, 4 wheel drive vehicles. There are no amenities of any kind, but a free permit is required. Camping at Sand Cove has the following restrictions: group size is limited to 30 people, camping is limited to a maximum of 7 consecutive days, and each group must provide their own portable toilet facilities. Other restrictions apply (see permit application for more details).

Permit Process

  1. Obtain a free permit application on-line or in person.
  2. Submit the completed application to the St. George Field Office a minimum of 3 days before your use date.
  3. Pick-up your permit on-line or in person.
Submitting an Application On-line
  1. Download an application to your computer.
  2. Fill out the fillable PDF application on your computer.
  3. Attach the completed form to an e-mail.
  4. Send the e-mail to utsgmail@blm.gov with “Sand Cove Camping Permit” in the subject line.

NOTE: We are experiencing problems with our email system. Please contact us by phone if your application has NOT been confirmed within 48 hrs of submittal.

Submitting an Application In Person

  1. Download an application or pick up one at the St. George Field Office.
  2. Fill out the form in ink.
  3. Drop it off at the St. George Field Office or mail it to: St. George Field Office, 345 E. Riverside Dr., St. George, UT 84790.
NOTE: No same day walk-in permits will be processed.