Utah’s Best State Parks to Add to Your Next Road Trip

Utah’s got some seriously amazing state parks—so good, in fact, that you might end up loving them even more than its famous five national parks. I know I did. If you’re planning a road trip through Utah and want to hit the best spots, don’t sleep on the state parks! They’re just as stunning, often less crowded, and totally worth adding to your itinerary. This guide will help you find some of the most beautiful and adventure-packed state parks in Utah so you can make the most of your trip.

Why Visit Utah’s State Parks?

• Fewer crowds compared to the national parks.
• Unique landscapes that rival (or even surpass) the big five.
• Affordable entry fees and easier accessibility.
• Great spots for hiking, photography, and outdoor adventures.

Tips for Visiting Utah’s State Parks

Best Seasons to Visit

Utah’s state parks are open year-round, but spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best weather for hiking and exploring. Summers can be brutally hot, so visit early or late in the day. Winters bring snow and cold, especially at higher elevations, but also fewer crowds.

Park Pass Info

Utah state parks charge individual entrance fees, typically ranging from $5 to $20 per vehicle. If you plan on visiting multiple parks, consider getting the Utah State Parks Annual Pass ($100 for residents, $150 for non-residents), which grants unlimited entry to all state parks for a year. Unlike the national park pass, which doesn’t cover state parks, this one can save you money if you’re road-tripping through multiple parks.

Check out more information on Utah’s Park Website HERE.

The Best State Parks in Utah You Can’t Miss

Snow Canyon State Park

This is easily one of the coolest state parks I’ve ever visited. It’s got everything—sand dunes, a slot canyon, and epic rock formations perfect for climbing. We camped at the campground, and while the sites were small with compact tent pads, the cozy setup actually added to the charm. Plus, the sunsets and sunrises? Absolutely unreal. The whole area was super diverse and a favorite to explore!

Hikes not to Miss:

📍Petrified Dunes Trail (1.2 miles) – one of the most memorable hikes in Utah, especially at Sunset.

📍 Jenny’s Canyon (.3 mile) – a short but beautiful slot canyon that is effortless.

📍Visit the Sand Dunes – A playground of sand for kids (and adults) to play in.

Kodachrome State Park

Kodachrome Basin State Park is like a hidden gem that somehow still flies under the radar. The towering sandstone spires and crazy rock formations make it feel like a playground. And the photo ops… so many! The colors here are unreal, especially at sunrise and sunset when everything glows in shades of red, orange, and gold. If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Bryce Canyon with just as much wow factor, this is the spot!

Hikes not to Miss:

📍Angel’s Palace Trail (2.5 miles) – A fun hike with great views of the park and the desert.

📍 Panorama Trail (6.4mile) – Stunning Vistas – this was my personal favorite!

📍Shakespeare Arch Trail (1.5 miles) – A moderate hike that leads to a cool rock arch.

Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park feels like another planet, with endless hoodoos to climb and explore. I camped for two nights, giving me time to wander freely through its three valleys, each packed with adventure and unreal photo ops. The real magic, though, was sunrise—easily one of the best I’ve ever seen. Just drive to the Valley of the Goblins parking lot, and you’ll see why it’s worth the early wake-up!

Hikes not to Miss:

📍Valley of the Goblins (an easy 1 mile) – the first valley with load of hoodoos!

📍 Goblins Lair (2.3 mile) – Stunning Vistas – don’t miss this one, you climb down into a cave!

📍The Goblin Valley Trail (5.2 miles) – This hike takes you to all of the Valleys.

Gunlocke State Park

Gunlock State Park is pure magic when the waterfalls are flowing—you can actually swim in them! The red rock backdrop, cascading falls, and cool pools make it the perfect spot to escape the desert heat. I spent the day wading through the water, scrambling over rocks, and soaking in the views. If you time it right after a good snowmelt or heavy rain, it’s an unforgettable experience!

What not to miss: Swimming in the falls, climbing around the falls and some even jump off the rocks into the pools.

Coral Sands State Park

Coral Pink Sand Dunes is a total desert wonderland with stunning, shifting sand dunes perfect for sand sledding or just exploring. The wind here can be pretty intense, which means the dunes are constantly changing, making each visit feel unique. My footsteps constantly disappearing. It’s a blast to run around and play, but be ready for the wind—it can blow sand everywhere! Still, it’s a beautiful spot to take in the views and enjoy the desert landscape.

What not to miss: – Free roam all over the dunes

Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point State Park has one of the most dramatic views you’ll ever see, its hard to describe how beautiful it is. But the name has a dark backstory. Legend has it that cowboys once herded wild mustangs onto the point, trapping them in a narrow area surrounded by cliffs. They left the horses there to corral them later, but when they returned, the horses had tragically died of dehydration, unable to escape the heat. Today, it’s a stunning place to hike, take photos, and soak in those epic canyon views.

What not to miss: Sunrise or Sunset!

Camping vs. Day Trips – Where to Stay

Many of Utah’s state parks offer camping options, from tent sites to RV hookups, and even yurts or cabins in some locations. If you want to experience the parks under the stars, reservations are highly recommended, especially in peak season. Goblin Valley and Dead Horse Point, for example, have excellent campgrounds but fill up fast.

If camping isn’t your thing, consider staying in nearby towns like Moab (for Dead Horse Point), St. George (for Snow Canyon), or Kanab (for Coral Pink Sand Dunes). These spots have plenty of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals, making them great bases for day trips.

What to Pack

Utah’s landscapes can be harsh, so packing right is key. Essentials include:

• Plenty of water – Most parks have limited water sources, and dehydration happens fast in the desert.
• Sunscreen & hat – The sun is intense, especially in exposed desert parks.
• Layers – Temperatures can swing drastically between day and night, so bring a lightweight jacket even in warm months.
• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes – Many trails are rocky, sandy, or uneven.
• Snacks & food – Some parks have limited services, so bring enough fuel for your adventures.
• Camera or binoculars – Whether you’re capturing landscapes or spotting wildlife, these come in handy.

Final Thoughts

Utah’s state parks are a must-visit. You wont be disappointed if you add any of these gems to your itinerary.

Have you been to any of Utah’s state parks? Let me know your favorite in the comments!