Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area Near St. George

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area encompasses 45,000 acres of protected desert wilderness just north of St. George along I-15. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this conservation area protects critical habitat for the threatened Mojave desert tortoise while providing outstanding recreational opportunities including hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing across a landscape of red sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and ancient lava flows.

Trails & Outdoor Recreation

The most popular trail is the Red Reef Trail, which follows a seasonal creek through a narrow sandstone slot canyon — offering a mini-Narrows experience without the crowds or gear requirements of Zion's famous hike. The trail is about 2 miles round trip and passes through beautiful water-carved sandstone walls. Other popular hikes include the Cottonwood Canyon Trail, Anasazi Trail (featuring ancient Puebloan rock art and ruins), and the Turtle Wall Trail through prime desert tortoise habitat. Rock climbers frequent the Chuckwalla Wall area for its variety of sport climbing routes.

Visitor Information

Red Cliffs NCA has two main access points: the Red Cliffs Recreation Area campground off I-15 Exit 22, and the Yellow Knolls trailhead off Old Highway 91. There is no entrance fee for the conservation area, though the developed campground charges a nightly fee. The area is open year-round, with spring and fall offering the best hiking conditions. In spring (March-May), visitors may spot endangered Mojave desert tortoises — maintain a distance of 10 feet and never touch or disturb them. Red Cliffs is one of the best free things to do near St. George and an excellent alternative to the busier national parks.