Nizhoni Campground

Blanding, UT

4.6(38 reviews)

About this campground

Nizhoni Campground sits in the Manti-LaSal National Forest in southeast Utah, at the foot of the Abajo Mountains.

THERE IS CURRENLTY NO PORTABLE WATER AT CAMPGROUND--BRING YOUR OWN.

The campground contains two group sites that each accommodate up to 50 guests. Several single-family sites are available as well. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided, as are vault toilets and drinking water seasonally. Firewood may be collected in and around the campground. Roads and parking spurs are gravel. There is a 14 day stay limit at this campground.

Towering Ponderosa pines forest the site, offering partial shade. Gambel oaks and sagebrush dot the landscape. The campground sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet, and summer temperatures range from 80-90 degrees during the day and 55-65 degrees at night. Mule deer, wild turkeys, Abert's squirrels and the occasional black bear may be seen in the area.

Popular activities include hiking, wildlife viewing and off-road vehicle riding. Several trailheads are nearby, including Shay Ridge, Aspen Flat and Red Ledges. The Abajo Loop State Scenic Backway passes by the campground. It leads from the desert floor and red rock canyons to steep mountains over 10,000 feet high, with overlooks and panoramic views. The byway is suitable for passenger vehicles from late spring through fall but is not recommended for large RVs.

What campers say

Nizhoni Campground is a quiet, well-spaced site set among mature ponderosa pines offering scenic views and easy access to nearby hikes and Bears Ears ruins. Visitors commonly note roomy sites suitable for trailers, shaded picnic areas, and frequent deer sightings. The campground is self-serve (pay at the entrance), generally inexpensive (reports around $10/night), and reachable via a maintained gravel road. Restrooms and water are usually clean and well-stocked by hosts, though some facilities are basic and water can be seasonal. It’s dog-friendly and good for families and groups; a few guests have reported occasional unfriendly interactions with hosts.

Our summary of 38 traveler reviews.