Blessed with a range of remarkable landscapes, Utah offers visitors to its state parks an abundance of recreational activities and natural wonders. In this blog post, we will explore the 10 Best State Parks in Utah, delving into their unique features and activities they offer.

From snow-covered mountains to expansive deserts with colorful canyons and impressive rock formations, Utah’s diverse terrain provides endless opportunities for adventure. As you read on, you’ll discover why these particular parks have earned their spots among the best in the entire state.

We will guide you through each park’s location and highlight popular activities such as hiking trails, mountain biking routes or scenic lookout points. Moreover, we’ll provide info on the camping facilities within these parks so that you can fully take in nature during your trip.

Whether it is your first time exploring Utah’s natural wonders or you’re a seasoned adventurer seeking new experiences within these magnificent landscapes – our comprehensive guide on the 10 Best State Parks in Utah is sure to inspire your next outdoor escapade.

Table of Contents:

1. Arches National Park

Arches National Park is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. This breathtaking park boasts monumental natural sandstone arches that create an awe-inspiring landscape waiting to be explored. With various activities such as hiking trails, camping options, and scenic drives available within the park’s boundaries, you’ll never run out of things to do during your visit.

Location

Arches National Park’s entrance is approximately five miles north of Moab on US Highway 191.  The park is nearly 80,000 acres and has access points 230 miles from Salt Lake City and 110 miles from Grand Junction.

Activities

  • Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails throughout the park catering to all skill levels – from short walks around iconic landmarks like Delicate Arch or Landscape Arch to more challenging hikes such as Devils Garden Primitive Loop Trail.
  • Camping: The Devil’s Garden Campground provides a unique opportunity for visitors looking for overnight accommodations within the park grounds. Make sure you reserve your spot well in advance due to its popularity.
  • Ranger-led Programs: Join one of the many ranger-led programs offered at Arches National Park, including guided walks, evening campfire talks and stargazing events.
  • Picnicking: Pack a lunch and enjoy it amidst the stunning surroundings at designated picnic areas throughout the park.
  • Biking & Horseback Riding: While these activities are not allowed on hiking trails, you can still explore the park’s scenic roads and nearby areas like Klondike Bluffs or Willow Springs Road.

Camping

The Devil’s Garden Campground is the only campground within Arches National Park. It offers 51 sites that accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers up to 30 feet long. The campground provides potable water, picnic tables, grills, and flush toilets. Note that no showers or electrical hookups are available at Devils Garden Campground.

If you’re looking for more camping options outside of the park boundaries but still close by, consider staying at one of Moab’s private campgrounds or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campsites along Highway 128 or Kane Creek Boulevard.

Key Takeaway: This advanced level professional with an IQ of 150 would summarize the above by saying that Arches National Park in Utah offers outdoor enthusiasts a plethora of activities, such as hiking trails, camping options and ranger-led programs. The park also boasts over 2,000 natural sandstone arches for visitors to explore and admire. Devil’s Garden Campground is available within the park boundaries if you’re looking for overnight accommodations.

2. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a must-see destination in the southwest Utah desert. The beauty of Zion is seen in red rock canyons, mesas, and mountains. Breathtaking views will leave you in awe. There are a variety of activities to enjoy for outdoor adventure seekers.

Location

Zion National Park is situated near Springdale in southwestern Utah. The park covers 229 square miles (590 km2) and features diverse landscapes ranging from high plateaus to deep canyons carved by the Virgin River over millions of years. You can easily access the park via State Route 9 which connects it to Interstate 15.
To find out more about how to get there and other travel information visit Zion National Park Directions & Transportation page.

Activities

  • Hiking: Zion boasts over 90 miles (145 km) of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels – from easy strolls like Riverside Walk to challenging treks such as Angels Landing or The Narrows.
  • Camping: There are three campgrounds within the park where visitors can set up their tents or RVs amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Biking: Cyclists can enjoy riding on designated bike routes including Pa’rus Trail which runs along the Virgin River offering scenic views.
  • Horseback Riding: Experience Zion’s landscape on horseback through guided trail rides offered by Canyon Trail Rides.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife such as mule deer, bighorn sheep, and over 200 species of birds.

Camping

Zion National Park offers three campgrounds for visitors to choose from: South Campground, Watchman Campground, and Lava Point Campground. Both South and Watchman are located near the park’s south entrance in Springdale while Lava Point is situated at a higher elevation about an hour drive from Zion Canyon.
To learn more about camping options and make reservations visit Zion National Park Camping page.

Take the plunge and experience nature’s splendour at Zion National Park – no matter what kind of thrill you’re looking for. Don’t miss out on this incredible Utah destination.

Zion National Park is a must-see destination for any outdoor enthusiast, offering breathtaking views and incredible activities. For those seeking even more adventure, Bryce Canyon National Park awaits with its unique landscape and stunning rock formations.

Key Takeaway: Zion National Park is an ideal destination for explorers and adventurers alike, offering gorgeous red rock canyons, mesas, and peaks. With over 90 miles of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels plus camping options, biking routes and horseback riding tours – it’s the perfect place to take in nature’s splendour.

3. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike. The park features an otherworldly landscape of colorful hoodoos (rock formations) that are sure to leave you awestruck. With various activities such as hiking, camping, stargazing, and horseback riding available within the park’s boundaries, there’s something for everyone at Bryce Canyon.

Location

Bryce Canyon National Park can be found approximately 270 miles south of Salt Lake City and just under 150 miles northeast of Zion National Park. To get there by car from Salt Lake City or Las Vegas airports, follow Interstate 15 until reaching Highway 20 eastbound which connects with Scenic Byway 12 leading directly into the park.

Activities

  • Hiking: There are over 50 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes suitable for experienced hikers.
  • Camping: Two campgrounds are available within the park – North Campground and Sunset Campground – offering both tent sites and RV spots with basic amenities like restrooms and picnic tables.
  • Stargazing: As a designated International Dark Sky Park since 2015,Bryce Canyon offers some of the best night sky viewing opportunities in the United States,. You can join one of their popular ranger-led astronomy programs during summer or enjoy the starry skies alone.
  • Horseback Riding: Experience the park’s unique landscape from a different perspective by taking a guided horseback ride through the canyon. Several outfitters operate within the park, offering various tour options and durations.

Camping

Bryce Canyon National Park offers two campgrounds for visitors to choose from: North Campground and Sunset Campground. Both campgrounds provide restrooms, drinking water, picnic tables, fire grates, and dump stations for RVs. Sunset Campground offers both pre-booked sites and first-come, first-served options. It would be best to get there early or book ahead during peak times (May-September) since both campsites usually fill up fast.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a stunningly beautiful and unique landscape that provides plenty of opportunities for exploration. Now, let’s turn our attention to Capitol Reef National Park and discover the activities it has in store.

Key Takeaway: Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular spot for vacationers and adventurers, boasting awe-inspiring sights of vivid hoodoos and activities like trekking, camping, star gazing, and horseback riding. With two campgrounds to choose from – North Campground and Sunset Campground – it’s no wonder Bryce Canyon has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Utah.

4. Capitol Reef National Park

Located in south-central Utah, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem that boasts diverse landscapes, such as canyons, cliffs, domes, monoliths, and rivers. This park provides a wealth of possibilities for thrill-seekers and those who appreciate the natural world.

Location

The park’s entrance is 11 miles east of Torrey on Highway 24. It spans over 241,904 acres and encompasses the Waterpocket Fold – a geologic monocline extending almost 100 miles long. You can find more information about how to get there by visiting the National Park Service website.

Activities

  • Hiking: Capitol Reef offers numerous hiking trails catering to all skill levels. Popular treks consist of Hickman Bridge (1.8 mi roundtrip), Cassidy Arch (3.4 mi roundtrip), and Navajo Knobs (9.4 mi roundtrip).
  • Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas where you can enjoy lunch with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Ranger Programs: Participate in ranger-led programs such as guided walks or evening presentations to learn more about this unique national park.
  • Fruit Picking: In-season fruit picking at one-of-a-kind historic orchards throughout the Fruita area inside Capitol Reef.

Camping

Capitol Reef National Park offers a developed campground called Fruita Campground, open year-round and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground has 71 sites with amenities such as potable water, restrooms, picnic tables, and fire grates. Backcountry camping permits are also available for those seeking more solitude or adventure.

Whether you’re an avid hiker looking to explore the park’s unique geological features or want to relax in nature while enjoying picturesque views of Capitol Reef’s red rock formations – this national park truly has something for everyone.

Capitol Reef National Park is a stunning and unique landscape of red rock canyons, domes, and bridges that will leave you in awe. With its remarkable beauty and endless activities to explore, Canyonlands National Park awaits your next adventure.

Key Takeaway: Capitol Reef National Park in Utah is an excellent spot to explore, with various activities such as walking trails, picnic areas, and guided tours. With its breathtaking views of canyons, cliffs, and monoliths, along with the Fruita Campground for camping enthusiasts to enjoy – this hidden gem should be on everyone’s travel list.

5. Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is a vast and rugged landscape offering an unparalleled outdoor experience. With its dramatic canyons, towering mesas, and winding rivers carved by the Colorado River and Green River over millions of years, this park truly showcases the beauty of nature’s handiwork.

Location

The park is situated near Moab in southeastern Utah. It covers over 337,000 acres of land and is divided into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and Horseshoe Canyon. Each region offers its one-of-a-kind characteristics and experiences for explorers to investigate. Click here for directions to Canyonlands National Park.

Activities

  • Hiking: With over 150 hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes, Canyonlands offers hikes suitable for all skill levels. Some popular courses include Mesa Arch Trail (Island in the Sky), Chesler Park Loop (The Needles), and Horseshoe Canyon’s Great Gallery hike.
  • Biking: Mountain biking enthusiasts will love exploring the White Rim Road at Island in the Sky or tackling technical single-track trails like Elephant Hill at The Needles District. Learn more about biking opportunities at Canyonlands here.
  • River Rafting: Experience thrilling whitewater rafting on the Colorado River or Green River, which flow through Canyonlands National Park. Find more information about river trips here.
  • Stargazing: With its remote location and minimal light pollution, Canyonlands is an ideal destination for stargazing. The International Dark-Sky Association has designated the park as a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park. Learn more about stargazing at Canyonlands here.

Camping

Sojourning in Canyonlands National Park provides the perfect opportunity to be fully engulfed in this awe-inspiring scenery. There are two developed campgrounds within the park: Willow Flat Campground (Island in the Sky) and Squaw Flat Campground (The Needles). Both campgrounds are on a first-come, first-served basis and provide essential facilities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. For those seeking a more primitive camping experience, backcountry permits are available for backpacking or 4WD vehicle camping. Click here for more information on camping options at Canyonlands National Park.

Canyonlands National Park is a stunningly beautiful place to explore and offers plenty of outdoor activities for adventurers. Next up, Dead Horse Point State Park provides another excellent opportunity for exploration in Utah’s rugged terrain.

Key Takeaway: Canyonlands National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful place to explore in southeastern Utah, offering visitors 150 miles of hiking trails and the opportunity for whitewater rafting on either the Colorado or Green Rivers. With two developed campgrounds and backcountry permits available for those seeking a more primitive experience, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape it all.

6. Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers in southeastern Utah near Moab on the Colorado River Plateau. This park offers breathtaking views of the canyon country from its high cliffs overlooking the river below, making it an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers.

Location

The park is about 32 miles (51 km) from Moab, which serves as a gateway to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. The drive to Dead Horse Point State Park takes you through some of Utah’s most magnificent scenery, including expansive deserts, red rock formations, snow-covered mountains, and more.

Activities

  • Hiking: There are several hiking trails available within the park that cater to various skill levels. One popular trail is the Rim Trail, which provides excellent lookout points while offering an easy hike suitable for all ages.
  • Mountain Biking: Those who prefer biking over hiking or want a change of pace during their visit can enjoy mountain biking trails like Intrepid Trail System that offer varying degrees of difficulty with amazing views throughout your ride.
  • Picnicking: This state park also has designated picnic areas where visitors can relax and take in stunning vistas while enjoying their meal outdoors, surrounded by impressive rock formations found only in this region.

Camping

For an extended stay, Dead Horse Point State Park provides two campgrounds with primitive campsites and yurts for reservation. At the campgrounds, visitors can enjoy primitive camping with picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets – or upgrade to a yurt for a more luxurious experience. For those seeking a more luxurious camping experience, yurts are also available for reservation at the park.

Dead Horse Point State Park is the perfect spot for an unforgettable outdoor escapade – whether you’re a passionate hiker or want to admire Utah’s fantastic scenery.

Dead Horse Point State Park is an incredible destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers, offering breathtaking canyonland views. Goblin Valley State Park presents an extraordinary landscape that enthralls anyone seeking a remarkable experience.

Key Takeaway: Dead Horse Point State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream in southeastern Utah near Moab. It has something for everyone, with its high cliffs overlooking the Colorado River Plateau and plenty of hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, and camping opportunities. For the experienced outdoor enthusiast, Dead Horse Point State Park will surely provide an unforgettable experience.

7. Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park, a hidden gem in south-central Utah near Hanksville, offers visitors an unforgettable outdoor experience with its unique and captivating rock formations known as goblins. These goblins are scattered throughout the park’s landscape, making it perfect for exploring or photography from any angle. Discover what makes Goblin Valley State Park so unique and explore the popular activities it offers visitors.

Location

Goblin Valley State Park is situated on the San Rafael Swell, approximately 216 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. The park can be easily accessed via Highway 24 and Temple Mountain Road. Its remote location adds charm and ensures a truly immersive nature experience away from city life.

Activities

  • Hiking: With several hiking trails winding through the valley’s fascinating goblin-filled landscape, there’s no shortage of opportunities for adventure. Popular courses include Carmel Canyon Loop Trail (1.5 miles) and Curtis Bench Trail (4 miles).
  • Canyoneering: For those seeking more adrenaline-pumping experiences, canyoneering adventures await nearby Little Wild Horse Canyon or Ding & Dang Canyons.
  • Picnicking: Enjoy lunch amidst breathtaking scenery at one of the designated picnic areas within the park.
  • Night Sky Viewing: The remote location also means minimal light pollution – perfect for stargazing. Check out their annual Dark Sky events for a truly unforgettable experience.

Camping

Extend your stay at Goblin Valley State Park by camping in one of the park’s 25 campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring, and shade structure to make your outdoor adventure comfortable and enjoyable. Two yurts are also available for rent within the park for those seeking more modern accommodations. To reserve a campsite or yurt, visit Reserve America.

Whether you’re an avid hiker looking to explore unique landscapes or simply searching for a serene escape from city life, Goblin Valley State Park offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this enchanting destination during your next Utah adventure.

Goblin Valley State Park is a stunningly beautiful place to explore and enjoy the great outdoors, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Antelope Island State Park, located in Utah, allows visitors to witness and partake in some truly remarkable experiences.

Key Takeaway: This hidden gem in south-central Utah, Goblin Valley State Park, is a must-visit for nature lovers. At Goblin Valley State Park, you can enjoy many activities like hiking, canyoneering, picnicking, and night sky viewing; there are also 25 campsites for camping enthusiasts to make the experience even more memorable.

8. Antelope Island State Park

Located on the largest island in the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island State Park offers a unique outdoor experience for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park boasts miles of shoreline to explore and abundant wildlife, such as bison roaming freely across its landscape.

Location

Antelope Island is situated in northern Utah and easily accessible via a causeway from Syracuse City. From Syracuse City, you can take in the breathtaking sights of both the Great Salt Lake and nearby mountains upon arriving at Antelope Island.

Activities

  • Biking: With over 20 miles of trails available for biking, visitors can enjoy scenic rides through various terrains, including grasslands and hillsides.
  • Horseback Riding: Experience the beauty of Antelope Island on horseback. Guided trail rides are available for all skill levels through R&G Horse and Wagon.
  • Hiking: The park features several hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels while offering breathtaking views of the lake and wildlife sightings.
  • Birdwatching: A haven for bird enthusiasts, Antelope Island hosts over 250 species throughout the year, making it an ideal location for birdwatching activities.

Camping

If you’re looking to extend your stay at this great state park, camping options are available at two different campgrounds: Bridger Bay and White Rock Bay. Both sites offer modern facilities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. For more information on camping at Antelope Island State Park or to make a reservation, visit the Utah State Parks website.

At Antelope Island State Park, visitors can take in the picturesque views of Utah’s Great Salt Lake and partake in various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. Moving on from this stunning location, we have Bear Lake State Park, which offers visitors plenty of recreational opportunities.

9. Bear Lake State Park

Bear Lake State Park is a hidden gem in northern Utah and southeastern Idaho, straddling the border between the two states. Located at the edge of Utah and Idaho, Bear Lake State Park is renowned for its turquoise waters and stunning sandy beaches that offer a range of activities to suit adventurers and travelers.

Location

The state park can be accessed from Utah’s (Garden City) and Idaho’s (St. Charles). The stunning lake spans over 109 square miles, providing ample space for visitors to explore its natural beauty.

Activities

  • Hiking: With numerous trails around the lake, hikers can enjoy scenic views while exploring diverse terrains such as forests, meadows, and wetlands.
  • Water Sports: The crystal-clear waters of Bear Lake are perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even sailing on a breezy day.
  • Fishing: Anglers will find plenty of opportunities to reel in fish species like cutthroat trout or Bonneville cisco during their designated seasons.
  • Birdwatching: Bird lovers can spot several migratory birds, including pelicans or sandhill cranes, along with local species like western grebes, at different times of the year at Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge nearby (source).
  • Winter Activities: During winter, visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, or ice fishing on the frozen lake.

Camping

At Bear Lake State Park, visitors can enjoy a range of camping options, from primitive sites to cabins and yurts. Campgrounds are available on the Utah and Idaho sides of the park, with restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and boat ramps. For a more luxurious experience, travelers can also rent cabins or yurts at specific locations within the park (Utah reservations, Idaho reservations).

No matter your preferred outdoor activity, Bear Lake State Park is an ideal destination for adventure seekers who appreciate stunning landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities in Utah’s great outdoors.

Bear Lake State Park presents many recreational activities and camping possibilities, making it the ideal destination for any nature lover. Next up is the Great Salt Lake State Marina and Beach offers visitors even more options to explore Utah’s superb outdoors.

Key Takeaway: This stunningly beautiful state park, located in Utah and Idaho, offers many outdoor activities for adventurers to explore. From fishing to hiking or camping on the sandy beaches by turquoise waters, Bear Lake State Park is an idyllic spot that won’t disappoint.

10. Great Salt Lake State Marina and Beach

The Great Salt Lake State Marina and Beach is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and wildlife encounters. Just 16 miles from downtown Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake State Marina and Beach offers easy access to the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere while offering stunning views of Antelope Island to the north and Stansbury Island to the west.

Location

This park offers spectacular views of Antelope Island to the north and Stansbury Island to the west, located just 16 miles from downtown Salt Lake City near Magna, Utah, with a marina at 13312 West 1075 South. The marina itself can be found at 13312 West 1075 South in Magna.

Activities

  • Hiking: With several trails available within proximity to the marina area – including Black Rock Trailhead – visitors can enjoy scenic hikes along sandy beaches or rocky shores while taking in breathtaking vistas of surrounding mountains.
  • Birdwatching: As part of one of North America’s most important bird habitats, over 250 species have been recorded here. Be sure to bring your binoculars for an unforgettable experience observing migratory birds such as American avocets or black-necked stilts during peak seasons (spring/fall).
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Paddle through serene waters surrounded by picturesque landscapes with opportunities for wildlife sightings like bison grazing on Antelope Island.
  • Sailing: Take advantage of consistent winds that make sailing conditions ideal year-round; rent sailboats from the marina or bring your own.
  • Swimming: Although not recommended due to high salinity levels, some visitors float in the lake’s buoyant waters for a unique experience.

Camping

While no campgrounds are directly within Great Salt Lake State Park, nearby options include Antelope Island State Park and Stansbury Island. Both locations offer beautiful camping spots with access to various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. For more information on camping reservations at Antelope Island State Park, visit their camping page.

No matter what type of adventure you’re seeking – whether exploring scenic trails or simply relaxing by the water’s edge – Great Salt Lake State Marina and Beach offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.

Key Takeaway: This article highlights the Great Salt Lake State Marina and Beach, an excellent destination for outdoor lovers to explore. It offers numerous activities such as hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, canoeing, and sailing; in addition, there are nearby camping spots available at Antelope Island State Park or Stansbury Island. The marina gives a unique perspective of encompassing mountains, making for a remarkable experience that will have you longing for more.

Frequently Asked Questions 10 Best National and State Parks in Utah

What is the most popular state park in Utah?

Zion National Park is Utah’s most popular state park, attracting millions of visitors yearly. Known for its stunning red cliffs, deep canyons, and diverse plant and animal life, Zion offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Visit Zion National Park’s official website for more information.

Which is the most beautiful park in Utah?

The title of the “most beautiful” park in Utah could be subjective; however, many consider Bryce Canyon National Park to be exceptionally picturesque due to its unique geological formations called hoodoos. These colorful limestone spires create a breathtaking landscape that attracts photographers worldwide. Learn more about Bryce Canyon National Park here.

What are the Mighty 5 Utah State Parks?

The Mighty Five refers to five iconic national parks in Utah: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Zion. Each garden boasts distinct landscapes ranging from towering arches to dramatic canyons and vibrant sandstone cliffs. Explore these remarkable destinations on Utah’s Mighty Five webpage.

What is the best park in Utah?

Determining the “best” park depends on personal preferences; however, Zion National Park stands out due to its popularity among tourists & locals alike and the diverse recreational opportunities it provides, like hiking The Narrows, Angel’s Landing, and the Subway. For a comprehensive comparison of Utah’s parks, visit Visit Utah’s Parks & Outdoors page.

Conclusion

To conclude, Utah is a great place to explore and experience nature. With 10 of the best state parks in Utah, you can find something for everyone – from Arches National Park to Great Salt Lake State Marina and Beach. Whether camping or hiking, these parks offer an unforgettable outdoor adventure that will leave lasting memories. So come out and enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes in America at one of these ten fantastic state parks.

Explore the best of Utah’s outdoors! Discover ten fantastic state parks in Utah and find your next adventure.