Spruces Campground – Dixie National Forest, Utah

Spruces Campground is a picturesque high-mountain lakeside campground located on the south shore of Navajo Lake in Dixie National Forest, Utah. Set at an elevation of about 9,200 feet, the site offers cool summer temperatures, forested surroundings, and immediate access to lake recreation, shore camping, and mountain trails—a perfect combination of scenery and outdoor opportunity.

Location & Access

The campground is located off Scenic Byway UT-14 east of Cedar City, then south on the Navajo Lake Road for about 7 miles. Nestled on the south shore of Navajo Lake, visitors arrive via a well-maintained forest road that winds through aspen and pine forest. The relatively remote setting means less light pollution, abundant wildlife, and a genuine mountain-lake camping feel just a few hours from the Utah desert.

Campground Overview

Spruces features approximately 24 single-sites, 1 double-site, and 3 walk-in tent-only sites arranged along the lake shoreline and nearby forest benches. Sites include picnic tables and fire rings, and many offer views across the water or into the wooded hillside. The high-elevation setting means summer nights stay cool, while spring and fall provide beautiful wildflower and fall-color displays. This makes Spruces a strong choice for tent, van, and compact trailer campers seeking a scenic, relaxed mountain-lake experience.

Amenities

Amenities at Spruces include flush toilets, potable drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings for each site. There are no electrical hookups or showers, and the campground operates seasonally—from late May through early September. OHV/ATV use is strictly for access to one’s site only; riding joy-rides is prohibited. Quiet hours typically begin at 10 p.m., and the high-altitude forest setting offers crisp nights and minimal ambient light.

Activities & Nearby Trails

Spruces Campground places you right next to one of the region’s most scenic trail systems. The popular Virgin Rim Trail begins about a half-mile from the campground and spans 33 miles of single-track ridge hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Nearby waterways and the lake itself support canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and shoreline relaxation. A short drive away lies Cedar Breaks National Monument and the high-alpine plateaus of the Markagunt Plateau, providing spectacular viewpoints, wildflowers and stargazing under one of Utah’s darkest skies.

Summary

Spruces Campground is an outstanding destination for campers looking to combine high-elevation forest tranquility with lake-side recreation and excellent trail access. With its scenic location on Navajo Lake, access to the Virgin Rim Trail, and peaceful campground setting, it’s ideal for campers, hikers and mountain bikers seeking a memorable Utah mountain getaway. Whether you’re fishing at dusk, cruising the lake by paddleboard, or gearing up for a night of stargazing, Spruces offers a serene and scenic experience in Dixie National Forest.