Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In Utah
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
Utah is known for its incredible national parks. The Mighty Five — Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Zion National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Canyonlands National Park — certainly do not disappoint. But while these Utah parks draw in quite a crowd, Utah’s state parks should not be overlooked. In fact, the best state parks in Utah are always worthy of a visit. And while you may ask, “How many state parks are in Utah?” The answer is …plenty! You’ll find up to 46 Utah state parks, providing dozens of places for a day trip, overnight adventure, or week-long getaway. The following are just 15 of the best state parks in Utah you need to visit ASAP. Each one is full of gems, beauty, and adventure — see for yourself.
Most Popular State Parks In Utah
Several of Utah’s state parks are busy. Location plays a large role as many of these parks are near popular national parks, but others are simply full of amenities, natural beauty, and outdoor opportunities galore. The following, in no particular order, are five of the most popular state parks in Utah.
1. Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island State Park, Utah, USA
There is a reason Antelope Island is one of the busiest state parks in Utah — there is so much to do here. While the list of things to do in Antelope Island State Park is long, some of our favorite activities include camping, hiking, and observing the free-ranging bison. Don’t miss the Fielding Garr Ranch either, the oldest continually inhabited Anglo home in Utah.
2. Sand Hollow State Park
Sand Hollow State Park, 3351 Sand Hollow Rd, Hurricane, UT 84737, USA
If you want a day of pure excitement and adventure, nothing beats Sand Hollow State Park. Located in southern Utah, just a short drive from St. George, this large reservoir is the perfect place to cool off. Boat, fish, swim, float — you can do it all here. And as you make your list of things to do in Sand Hollow State Park, don’t overlook the dunes. There are approximately 15,000 acres of dunes at this park, perfect for a heart-racing adventure.
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3. Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park, UT-313, Moab, UT 84532, USA
Dead Horse Point State Park is known for one thing – its breathtaking views. In fact, Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed overlooks in the world. Here, you can see natural wonders like the gooseneck of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park several miles away. While the list of things to do in Dead Horse State Park may not be as long as other parks in Utah, consider camping. The sunrises and sunsets are incredible here and this is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning the star shows are breathtaking.
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4. Jordanelle State Park
Jordanelle State Park, 515 UT-319, Heber City, UT 84032, USA
Jordanelle State Park is one of the larger state parks in Utah and is the perfect destination for the entire family. The park covers more than five miles and features three recreation areas, creating a long list of things to do in Jordanelle State Park. For the perfect day trip, play on the beach, swim, picnic, boat, or fish. There are also plenty of trails, a nature center, and camping opportunities. This may also be one of the best state parks in Utah in Winter as you can go on a sleigh ride and enjoy colorful holiday lights.
5. Gunlock State Park
Gunlock State Park, Gunlock Rd, Gunlock, UT 84733, USA
During the average year, Gunlock State Park may not be the busiest state park in Utah, but if its elusive waterfalls are flowing, you can expect large crowds here. Gunlock State Park is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in the state but they only make an appearance a few times each decade. The waterfalls are certainly breathtaking but they are only the beginning of things to do at Gunlock State Park. Spend time at the reservoir, picnic, or camp here — it’s perfect for a day immersed in southern Utah beauty.
Best State Parks In Utah To Camp
Turn a day trip into an overnight or weekend adventure by planning a camping trip at a Utah state park. Pack the best camping gear and spend a night under the stars. At several of these parks, you won’t want to go to bed early. These locations boast dark skies and bright stars. Did you know that Utah is home to the most designated dark sky parks in the world?
6. Snow Canyon State Park
Snow Canyon State Park, 1002 Snow Canyon Dr, Ivins, UT 84738, USA
Snow Canyon State Park is a 7,400-acre state park in southern Utah with desert, sandstone cliffs, and lava flows. There is a long list of things to do in Snow Canyon State Park so we recommend turning your day trip into a weekend adventure by camping. Here, you’ll find up to 32 campsites with 16 of those campsites offering partial hookups. But what do we love most about this state park campground? The unique settings at many of these campsites — you will easily feel tucked away from the worries of the world.
7. East Canyon State Park
East Canyon State Park, 5535 UT-66, Morgan, UT 84050, USA
East Canyon State Park does not get the attention it deserves. In just a short drive from Salt Lake City, you can be at this state park surrounded by mountains. Learn a little history, play at the reservoir, or just admire the beauty of the area — the list of things to do at East Canyon State Park is extensive. However, this state park campground attracts campers of all interests as there are covered wagons and yurts to reserve. This is also one of just two state park campgrounds in Utah that features a full hammock campsite. Plus, East Canyon State Park is an International Dark Sky Park, providing incredible stargazing opportunities just a short drive from the Wasatch Front.
Best State Parks In Utah To RV
If you don’t like to spend a night in a tent, no worries. Pack your RV and head to several of the best state parks in Utah. These destinations provide amenities to make your trip comfortable with water, electricity, and more. Relax and enjoy your time outdoors — there’s nothing better.
8. Kodachrome Basin State Park
Kodachrome Basin State Park, Cannonville, UT 84718, USA
Kodachrome Basin may not be one of the largest state parks in Utah, but it sure is one of the most unique. As you search for things to do at Kodachrome Basin State Park, go for a hike, scenic drive, test your skills at the 3D archery course, or camp — the opportunities are endless. This state park is actually home to three campgrounds, offering a total of 63 campsites. Between the various campgrounds, you will find 32 standard campsites, 15 sites that offer full hookups, and 13 with partial hookups.
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9. Bear Lake State Park
Bear Lake State Park, 940 N Bear Lake Blvd, Garden City, UT 84028, USA
Bear Lake State Park is a favorite state park for Utahns and as soon as you visit, you’ll quickly understand why. While you can boat, fish, and play on the beach during a visit, camping is one of our favorite things to do at Bear Lake State Park. There are multiple campgrounds spread throughout this state park, providing 176 campsites in total. You’ll find more than 100 full hookup campsites, perfect for bringing your RV and enjoying this park in comfort. For those who want to rough it a little more, tent-only and primitive sites are also available.
Best State Parks In Utah For Hiking
Many of Utah’s parks feature a long list of activities to keep you busy. However, one of our favorite activities is hiking. From short strolls to long treks, there are trails of all lengths and difficulty levels that take you to hidden gems, natural beauty, and experiences you likely won’t forget. While many of Utah’s parks boast hiking trails, the following parks are some of our favorites for lacing up your hiking boots and exploring.
10. Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley State Park, 18630Goblin, Valley Road, Green River, UT 84525, USA
If you have never planned a visit to Goblin Valley State Park, add it to your bucket list immediately. This remarkable park features the most unique landscape that resembles the moon. It is home to thousands of hoodoos and red rock formations that amaze and impress. In fact, it is home to one of the highest concentrations of hoodoos in the world and one of the best ways to view these hoodoos is on a hike. There are six hiking trails that take you around the three square miles of this park. Just make sure you bring a camera — the views you will see are unlike anything else.
11. Wasatch Mountain State Park
Wasatch Mountain State Park, 1281 Warm Springs Rd, Midway, UT 84049, USA
Wasatch Mountain State Park is one of the best parks in Utah for exploring regardless of the time of year. If looking for things to do during the winter at Wasatch Mountain State Park, you can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or even snowmobile. During the summer, play golf, camp, or hike on miles of mountain trails. There are dozens of trails to explore here but if you are looking for a trail that is quite easy and family-friendly, we strongly recommend the Cascade Springs Interpretive Trail.
Little-Known State Parks In Utah
Not all of Utah’s state parks are popular. In fact, many see very few visitors, making them perfect for a day of peace and quiet. However, just because these parks are lesser-known, it doesn’t mean they don’t have plenty to offer. The following are four little-known state parks in Utah that we love to recommend for a day trip in the Beehive State.
12. Frontier Homestead State Park
Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, 635 N Main St, Cedar City, UT 84721, USA
You can take a step back in time when you visit Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, located right on Main Street in Cedar City. This unique museum teaches you all about the pioneers and what life was like in the area decades ago. You’ll enjoy a large horse-drawn wagon collection, historic buildings, hands-on activities, and even seasonal events throughout the year.
13. Anasazi State Park Museum
Anasazi State Park Museum, 460 UT-12, Boulder, UT 84716, USA
Anasazi State Park Museum is located in the small town of Boulder and is a fascinating day trip destination. You’ll never be bored with things to do at Anasazi State Park Museum as you’ll find all types of exhibits that will take you back to the year 1050 when Ancestral Pueblo People (the Anasazi) lived here. You can walk through ruins, view artifacts, and even descend in a replica pit building. It’s a history lesson in southern Utah that you’ll love receiving.
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14. Scofield State Park
Scofield State Park, 5 W 1000 N, Helper, UT 84526, USA
Scofield State Park may be lesser known but it’s perfect for a day trip or a weekend adventure. This state park is located in the Manti-LaSal Mountains and is home to a 2,800-acre reservoir. Boat or fish when visiting this park in the summer and in the winter, check out the excellent ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling opportunities. There are plenty of things to do at Scofield State Park in Utah.
15. Escalante Petrified Forest
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, 710 Reservoir Rd, Escalante, UT 84726, USA
Escalante Petrified Forest is one of my personal favorite state parks in Utah. Located just north of Escalante and at Wide Hollow Reservoir, this state park is where you can find incredible deposits of mineralized wood. Stop into the visitor center to learn more about the area and then take a walk on one of the trails in the park. We recommend the Petrified Forest Trail, which is an easy one-mile loop where you can view thousands of pieces of petrified wood and lava.
What other state parks would you add to this list? What do you consider to be the best state parks in Utah? Are there any parks you love to visit over and over again? Let us know in the comments. Keep in mind that while the above list only features 15 of our incredible parks, there are plenty more in the state to visit. Check out our collection of articles featuring parks with countless gems that are always worth visiting.
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