Navajo Lake Campground – Dixie National Forest, Utah

Navajo Lake Campground is a scenic, high-elevation campground located along the shores of Navajo Lake on the Markagunt Plateau in the Dixie National Forest. Known for its cool summer temperatures, expansive meadows, and reflective lake views, this campground offers a peaceful mountain setting that feels worlds away from southern Utah’s desert landscapes. Its combination of open space, water access, and surrounding forest makes it a favorite for families, anglers, and campers seeking a relaxed high-country experience.

Location & Setting

The campground sits at roughly 9,000 feet in elevation along Scenic Byway 14, east of Duck Creek Village. Navajo Lake itself is a natural sinkhole lake surrounded by open meadows, spruce and fir forest, and volcanic terrain. The high elevation brings crisp air, cool nights, and dark skies ideal for stargazing, while the broad landscape gives the area a more open, alpine feel than many forested campgrounds.

Campground Overview

Navajo Lake Campground is moderately sized, with campsites spread across gently sloping terrain near the lake and surrounding meadows. Sites accommodate tents, vans, trailers, and some RVs, though larger rigs may need to be selective due to site layout and access. The campground’s open spacing and meadow setting provide a sense of roominess, with many sites offering partial lake views or easy access to the shoreline.

Amenities

Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Potable water is typically available during the main camping season. There are no electrical hookups, showers, or dump stations within the campground, so campers should plan to be self-sufficient. Fire restrictions may be in effect during dry periods, and visitors should always follow current Dixie National Forest regulations regarding campfires and food storage.

Activities & Nearby Recreation

Navajo Lake is popular for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with rainbow trout being a common catch. The surrounding meadows and forest roads are ideal for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing, while nearby trails provide access to lava fields, alpine terrain, and scenic overlooks across the Markagunt Plateau. In late summer and early fall, the area is especially popular for wildflowers, fall colors, and photography.

Summary

Navajo Lake Campground offers a spacious, high-elevation camping experience in the heart of the Dixie National Forest. With its open meadows, scenic lake setting, and cool mountain climate, it’s an excellent choice for campers seeking quiet nights, expansive views, and easy access to outdoor recreation. For visitors exploring southern Utah’s high country, Navajo Lake Campground provides a refreshing and memorable mountain retreat.