Photo: Chris English / CC BY-SA 3.0

Parks 2,263 ft Bortle 3 Solitude: 70/100 (secluded)

We are open! And we have 25 sites available for reservations through recreation.gov. Site Renovations The recreation area has received many improvements including upgrades to electrical and water systems, repaving roads and parking areas, renovation of restroom facilities, demolishing condemned administrative use site, an updated water delivery system, sanded and stained picnic tables, new informational and fee kiosks, and accessibility improvements. Fourteen-day stay limit To increase recreation opportunities at the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area, the BLM's Arizona Strip Field Office issued a news release January 6, 2022, announcing the finalization of a supplementary rule that reinstates a stay limit of 14 consecutive days at the site. The change, which went into effect February 5, 2022, is consistent with camping limits for other BLM public lands, will allow more members of the public to enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, scenic viewing and boating from the popular site. Volunteers needed The BLM is looking for volunteers with excellent public lands stewardship ethics to work as campground hosts If interested, please visit Volunteer.gov .

Near Littlefield, AZ in Arizona

What to Pack for Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

Given these conditions, here's what to pack for a safe and comfortable visit.

Based on the terrain, climate, and wildlife at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), here's what to bring.

Essential

Water (minimum 2L) — Dehydration impairs judgment and endurance long before you feel thirsty; 2L is the minimum for a moderate day hike.
Navigation (map/GPS/compass) — Phone batteries die, cell service disappears, and trail signs get vandalized; a paper map and compass always work.
Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen) — UV exposure intensifies at elevation and near reflective surfaces like water and snow; sunburn can happen in under 30 minutes.
First aid kit — Blisters, cuts, and sprains happen on even the easiest trails; basic supplies let you treat problems before they force a retreat.
Extra food — A wrong turn or unexpected storm can extend any outing by hours; extra calories prevent fatigue and poor decision-making.
Headlamp with extra batteries — Trails that seem short in daylight can take twice as long with route-finding or elevation; a headlamp keeps you moving safely after dark.
Fire starter — Hypothermia can set in even during summer at higher elevations; a reliable fire starter provides warmth and a signal for rescuers.
Emergency shelter (space blanket) — A space blanket weighs under two ounces and reflects up to 90% of body heat, buying time in an unplanned overnight.
Knife or multi-tool — From cutting cord to preparing food to improvising gear repairs, a knife is the most versatile tool you can carry.
Extra clothing layer — Mountain weather can shift from sunshine to sleet within an hour; an extra layer prevents dangerous heat loss.

Wildlife Gear

Bear canister — Storing food in a bear canister prevents bears from associating humans with food, which is the leading cause of dangerous bear behavior.
Bear spray — Studies show bear spray stops aggressive bear behavior in over 90% of encounters, outperforming firearms in field effectiveness.
Bear bell — Most bear encounters happen when hikers surprise a bear at close range; a bell provides continuous noise that alerts bears to your presence.
Hiking buddy (avoid solo) — Groups of three or more are almost never involved in serious bear incidents; larger groups make more noise and appear more intimidating.
Noise maker — Clapping, whistling, or using an air horn warns wildlife of your approach, preventing surprise encounters on blind corners.
Gaiters — Snake-proof gaiters provide a physical barrier against venomous bites below the knee, where most strikes occur.
First-aid snakebite kit — While evacuation to a hospital is the priority, a snakebite kit helps you stay calm and follow proper first-aid protocols.

Climate Gear

Extra water (1L/hr) — In high-heat conditions, your body can sweat 1-2 liters per hour; matching that rate prevents the dangerous spiral of dehydration.
Electrolytes — Sweating depletes sodium and potassium that plain water can't replace; electrolyte tablets prevent the muscle cramps and fatigue of hyponatremia.
Cooling towel — A wet towel on your neck cools blood flowing to your brain, providing immediate relief from heat stress.
Layering system (wide temp swings) — Desert and mountain environments can swing 40+ degrees between dawn and midday; layers let you adapt without overheating or freezing.

Seasonal Gear

Spring: Camera, Wildflower field guide
Fall: Camera, Binoculars (foliage viewing)

Activities & Best Time to Visit Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

The Grassland terrain here lends itself to a range of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) supports 15 outdoor activities, with backpacking being the most popular draw.

Photographers rate this area 55/100, with Good dark sky (Bortle 3) and 3 excellent meteor showers being a major draw.

Activities

backpacking — Carry your gear into the backcountry for multi-day hiking adventures.
camping — Spend the night outdoors in a tent or campsite under open skies.
fishing — Cast a line in lakes, rivers, or coastal waters in pursuit of local fish species.
hiking — Follow marked trails through forests, deserts, or alpine terrain for a deeper connection with nature.
ice_fishing — Drill through frozen lakes to fish beneath the ice during winter.
ice_skating — Glide across frozen ponds or maintained outdoor rinks during winter months.
kayaking — Paddle through calm lakes, winding rivers, or coastal inlets in a small, maneuverable craft.
photography — Capture landscapes, wildlife, and changing light across trails, coastlines, and mountain vistas.
picnicking — Spread a blanket, unpack a meal, and enjoy food outdoors surrounded by fresh air and open views.
rock_climbing — Ascend vertical rock faces using ropes, harnesses, and protective gear.
rv_camping — Travel with the comforts of home while staying in campgrounds or RV parks.
sightseeing — Take in scenic overlooks, landmarks, and natural features at a relaxed pace.
stargazing — Far from city lights, the night sky reveals constellations, planets, and meteor showers.
walking — A simple way to explore trails, shorelines, and park paths at your own pace while taking in the scenery.
wildlife_viewing — Observe animals in their natural habitats, from grazing deer to soaring raptors overhead.

Best months: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Terrain: Grassland — Grasslands are open landscapes dominated by grasses with few trees.

Wildlife Safety at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

While the wildlife here is part of the experience, some species require caution and preparation.

With a danger score of 40/10, Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) has a few wildlife hazards worth preparing for.

Danger rating: 40/100 (based on terrain difficulty, wildlife presence, weather exposure, and remoteness) moderate

Bears present
Mountain lions
Venomous snakes
Far from city (92mi)

UV risk: moderate (Mid latitude (37N))

Photo score: 55/100

Good dark sky (Bortle 3)
3 excellent meteor showers
Fall foliage
Spring wildflowers

Bears

This is Black Bear country. Encounters are uncommon but possible, especially during .

Black Bear

A stocky bear with rounded ears, a straight facial profile, and short curved claws built for climbing.

Store all food and scented items in bear-resistant containers and keep a clean campsite.

Store food properly - use bear boxes or hang food bags
Keep a clean camp - no food scraps
Make noise while hiking
Never approach cubs - mother is nearby
Back away slowly if you encounter a bear

Venomous Snakes

Venomous snakes here include Western Diamondback, Mojave, Sidewinder. They're most active during warm months.

Western Diamondback

A heavy-bodied rattlesnake with bold diamond-shaped blotches along the back and a black-and-white banded tail ending in a rattle.

Seek emergency medical care immediately and keep the bitten limb immobilized at heart level.

Mojave

A large rattlesnake with diamond-like dorsal blotches and a banded tail similar to the Western Diamondback.

Call emergency services immediately and limit movement to slow venom spread.

Sidewinder

A small pale rattlesnake with horn-like scales above each eye and a sidewinding mode of travel.

Seek immediate medical attention and immobilize the affected limb.

Watch where you step and place hands
Stay on trails
Wear boots and long pants in snake country
Do not reach under rocks or logs
If bitten: stay calm, immobilize limb, seek medical help immediately
Do NOT: cut wound, suck venom, apply tourniquet, ice, or alcohol

Nature & Wildlife at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

The Grassland terrain here supports a rich ecosystem worth noticing as you explore.

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) sits within a Grassland ecosystem home to 1 documented mammal species and 30 bird species.

Shrubs (4)

Creosote Bush — An evergreen desert shrub with small resinous leaves divided into paired leaflets.
Burrobush — A desert shrub with narrow gray-green leaves and small white to pink flowers.
Eastern Joshua tree — The trunk becomes thick and fibrous with age.

Other Plants (5)

Buckhorn Cholla
California Barrel Cactus
Plains Pricklypear
Silver Cholla
Common Fishhook Cactus

Mammals (1)

White-tailed Antelope Squirrel — A small desert squirrel with tan fur and white stripe along sides.

Birds (30)

Northern Shoveler — Male with green head and white chest
Cedar Waxwing — Silky brown body with black mask
Brewer's Blackbird — Glossy black male with pale eye
Canada Goose — Large brown waterfowl with black neck and white chinstrap
Dark-eyed Junco — Slate-gray form with white belly

Reptiles (15)

Common Side-blotched Lizard — A small slender lizard with mottled brown or gray coloration.
Mojave Desert Tortoise — A large terrestrial tortoise with high-domed brown shell and sturdy legs.
Desert Iguana — A pale gray or cream lizard with subtle net-like patterning.
Western Whiptail — A slender, fast-moving lizard with a very long tail and distinct pale stripes over a dark body.
Desert Horned Lizard — A flattened lizard with prominent horns on the back of the head.

Amphibians (3)

Pacific chorus frog
Woodhouse's Toad
Red-spotted Toad

Insects (2)

Large Creosote Gall Midge
White-lined Sphinx

Fungi (1)

Desert Shaggymane

Other Wildlife (1)

Virgin Springsnail

Nature Bingo at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

Can you spot them all? Check off each species as you find it on your visit.

Wildlife Challenge

Black-throated Sparrow (bird)
White-tailed Antelope Squirrel (mammal)
Common Side-blotched Lizard (reptile)
Pacific chorus frog (amphibian)
Eastern Joshua tree (plant)

Botany Challenge

Achnatherum Pinetorum
Aquilegia Coerulea Var. Pinetorum
Arabis Holboellii Var. Pinetorum
Asclepias Engelmanniana
Echinocereus Engelmannii
Almutaster

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave Climate & Sun

For detailed planning, here's the climate data for this area.

The climate at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) averages °F annually, with Mediterranean conditions.

Climate type: Mediterranean

Best months to visit: Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov. Consider avoiding: Jul, Aug.

Winter 47°

1.0"

Spring 66°

0.6"

Summer 93°

0.8"

Fall 70°

0.8"

Month	Avg Temp	Precip
Jan	47°F	1.0 in
Feb	51°F	1.2 in
Mar	59°F	0.9 in
Apr	66°F	0.6 in
May	75°F	0.5 in
Jun	86°F	0.1 in
Jul	93°F	0.8 in
Aug	91°F	1.0 in
Sep	83°F	0.8 in
Oct	70°F	0.8 in
Nov	58°F	0.7 in
Dec	46°F	1.1 in

Daylight & Sun Times

Daylight ranges from 9.6 hours in winter to 14.7 hours in summer — a difference of 5.1 hours.

Summer: 4:14 AM – 6:55 PM

Winter: 6:40 AM – 4:19 PM

Winter Solstice: Sunrise 6:40 AM, Sunset 4:19 PM Golden hour from 3:39 PM

Summer Solstice: Sunrise 4:14 AM, Sunset 6:55 PM Golden hour from 6:16 PM

Spring Equinox: Sunrise 5:47 AM, Sunset 5:41 PM Golden hour from 5:07 PM

Fall Equinox: Sunrise 5:16 AM, Sunset 5:44 PM Golden hour from 5:10 PM

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave Trip Planning & Access

Planning your trip to Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) — here's the practical information you'll need.

The nearest major city to Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) is Las Vegas, about 92 miles away.

Nearest city: Las Vegas (92 mi)

Estimated fuel cost: $23.04 (28 mpg, $3.5/gallon)

Carbon footprint: 74.5 kg CO2 (round trip by car)

Visitor Friendliness

This location rates likely_allowed for dogs, excellent for families, and highly_suitable for elderly visitors.

Dogs: likely_allowed — No restrictions found
Families: excellent
Elderly: highly_suitable
Strollers: excellent (100/100)
Beginners: Perfect for beginners (Moderate difficulty (+5), Good information available (+5))
Accessibility: Generally accessible to most visitors (90/100)

Places Near Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

There's more to explore in this part of Arizona.

There are 5 outdoor destinations within easy reach of Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p).

Stargazing & Night Sky at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

Once you're geared up and settled in, the night sky here offers its own rewards.

The skies above Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) register a Bortle class 3, making this a Rural sky location for stargazing.

Bortle 3 Rural sky

Constellations

From Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), you can trace Ursa Minor, Cassiopeia, Cepheus across the sky on clear nights.

Ursa Minor — Home to Polaris, the North Star, Ursa Minor forms a small dipper shape that circles the northern sky year-round.
Cassiopeia — Easily recognized by its bright W-shaped pattern, Cassiopeia stands out in northern skies.
Cepheus — Cepheus appears as a faint house-shaped pattern near Polaris in the northern sky.

Meteor Showers

Time your visit around December 13-14 for the Geminids, the strongest meteor shower visible from this latitude.

Geminids — peaks December 13-14 (excellent)
One of the most reliable and active showers of the year; best viewed after 10 PM when Gemini rises higher in the sky.
Quadrantids — peaks January 3-4 (excellent)
This brief but intense shower peaks before dawn; early morning hours offer the best chance to see multiple meteors.
Perseids — peaks August 11-13 (excellent)
A summer favorite with warm nighttime viewing; look northeast after 10 PM.
Eta Aquariids — peaks May 5-6 (good)
Best seen before dawn in the southeastern sky as Aquarius rises.
Delta Aquariids — peaks July 28-29 (fair)
Best viewed after midnight when Aquarius is higher in the southern sky.

Planets

Planets visible to the naked eye from this location:

Venus — The brightest planet, often called the Morning or Evening Star
Jupiter — The largest planet, bright and steady in the night sky
Saturn — Famous for its rings, visible as a golden steady light
Mars — The Red Planet, recognizable by its reddish-orange hue

Equipment Guide

Naked eye: Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Mercury (with care)
Binoculars: Jupiter moons, Uranus, Saturn rings (barely)
Small telescope: Saturn rings, Jupiter bands, Mars surface features, Neptune

Viewing Tips

Check planets rise/set times for your specific date
Planets appear along the ecliptic (zodiac path)
Planets don't twinkle like stars - steady light
Venus and Jupiter are unmistakable - brightest objects after Moon
Use a stargazing app to confirm planet positions
Best viewing: when planet is highest in sky (transit)

Best Viewing Months

Evening: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Morning: Jul, Aug, Sep

Seasonal Highlights at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

The sky isn't the only thing that changes with the seasons at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p).

The seasons shape the experience at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) — here's what each one brings.

Spring Wildflowers

Peak bloom: April - May

Check local park websites for bloom reports

Fall Foliage

Peak color: September 15 – October 10

Best trees for color: Aspen, Cottonwood, Scrub Oak

At 2263ft elevation, expect peak about 1 week earlier

Bird Migration

Spring peak: April - May

Fall peak: September - October

Best spots: Wetlands, coastlines, mountain ridges

Indigenous Land at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave

This area sits on land with a deep human history that predates modern recreation.

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) sits on the traditional lands of Nuwuvi (Southern Paiute), Pueblos.

Territories

Languages

Indigenous languages connected to this territory include Southern Paiute.

Southern Paiute

Data from Native Land Digital

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave Geology & Natural History

Beyond the trails and wildlife, Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) sits within a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological processes. Here's what researchers and surveys have documented about this area.

Bedrock Geology

Rock Type: Basalt flows
Lithology: basalt
Age: Pliocene

Fossils

Fossil Occurrences: 1
Unique Species: 1
Oldest: 283.3 million years ago

Mineral Deposits

Deposit Sites: 12
Richness: Moderate
Minerals Found: Gypsum-Anhydrite, Copper, Gold, Beryllium, Feldspar, Mica, Uranium

Endangered Species

Species at Risk: 2596
ESA Endangered: 44
ESA Threatened: 29
Conservation Score: 100/100

Temperature Records

Record High: 98°F (2021-07-11)
Record Low: -3°F (2011-02-02)

Wildfire History

This area has a relatively low wildfire risk, but always follow posted fire regulations.

Recorded Fires: 77
Largest Fire: Hobble Complex (34,172 acres)
Most Recent: 2024
Fire Risk: Extreme

Caves & Karst Features

Feature Types: Volcanic rocks with potential for pseudokarst features
Karst Score: 30

Watershed

Watershed: Quail Draw
Water Quality (Good): 0%
Impaired: 0%

Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p), Mohave Safety & Conditions

Before heading out, check these real-time safety resources for current conditions.

Check current conditions at Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area (p) before heading out using these official sources.

Flood zone: Not in a flood zone

Nearest weather station: ST. GEORGE 4.1 SSW, UT US (11 mi)