State parks

Utah’s state parks rival the famous “Mighty 5” National Parks (ZionBryceCanyonlandsCapitol Reef, and Arches), but some of the best scenery and recreation in the country can be found in Greater Zion, specifically in the four state parks that span our landscape. 

From the crystal blue waters of Quail Creek Reservoir to the 16,000 acres of OHV riding at Sand Hollow, you’ll find an abundance of unique outdoor activities, such as hikinghorseback ridingmountain biking and fishing. The contrasting terrain offers unlimited adventures for those seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or to simply sunbath on the red sand banks of a reservoir.

Want to virtually experience some of these parks before you get here? We’ve curated some of our most awe-inspiring content for your enjoyment on our Travel Inspiration page. From hiking through Zion National Park to OTV’ing at Sand Hollow State Park, you’ll get a behind the scenes look at what your upcoming adventure in Greater Zion will look like.

Notorious for its unique geological features such as ancient lava flows, sand dunes, petrified dunes and deep, red sandstone cliffs, Snow Canyon is one of Utah's earliest state parks. Adventure throughout the more than 38-miles of this picturesque park by hiking to the top of Snow Canyon Cinder Cone, canyoneering through Arch Canyon or stargazing atop the Petrified Dunes.

Sand Hollow State Park

Sand Hollow offers a unique juxtaposition with its brilliant blue reservoir for boating, fishing and diving, along with acres of adventures on the dunes of Sand Mountain. The sprawling 20,000-acre state park, 16,000 of which can be found throughout Sand Mountain and features perfectly sculpted dunes, Sand Hollow rivals Utah's two largest state parks. The vibrant red sand is a perfect backdrop for Sand Hollow Reservoir, where visitors can cool off on a boat, jet ski, paddle board or kayak.

Quail Creek State Park

Clear, green water dominates Quail Creek State Park while red, white and orange cliffs surround the shore and are set against the powerful Pine Valley Mountains as a backdrop. Soak in the stunning views while boating, kayaking, fishing or hiking.

Gunlock state park

Gunlock State Park is a unique combination of many of the state parks found throughout Greater Zion, as it includes a 266-acre reservoir surrounded by rustic red rock and extinct, black lava, cinder cones. The park is known for its tranquil waters for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as the waterfalls that only appear every few years as spring runoff fills the reservoir and overflows over red rock ledges.

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