Abstract
We study the generalized fifth order KdV equation using group methods and conservation laws. All of the geometric vector fields of the special fifth order KdV equation are presented. By using the nonclassical Lie group method, it is show that this equation does not admit nonclassical type symmetries. Then, on the basis of the optimal system, the symmetry reductions and exact solutions to this equation are constructed. For some special cases, we obtain additional nontrivial conservation laws and scaling symmetries.