Iron Mission State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Iron Mission State Park is located in the city of Cedar City, Utah, and is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history and natural beauty.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The park was established in 1973 to preserve the iron industry that was once prominent in the area.
One of the main reasons to visit Iron Mission State Park is to learn about the history of the iron industry in Utah. The park's museum features exhibits that showcase the iron making process, as well as the history of the local Paiute Indian tribe.
In addition to the museum, the park has several other points of interest to see, including a replica of an iron blast furnace, a reconstructed pioneer village, and a nature trail that offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Interesting facts about the park include the fact that it was once home to the Cedar City Iron Works, which operated from 1851 to 1923, and that the local Paiute tribe has inhabited the area for thousands of years.
The best time of year to visit Iron Mission State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and camping.
Overall, Iron Mission State Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in learning about the history of Utah's iron industry or exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cedar Canyon Campground
|
||
Cedar Canyon
|
||
Deer Haven Campground
|
Ann J Gardner Canyon Park
Parowan Front State Wildlife Area
Wilderness Ashdown Gorge