Utah/Utah State Parks
< Utah
Utah has many state parks across the entire state, with several different purposes. Below is an attempt to categorize them by the primary purpose of nature reserve, recreation area, or heritage site. Note that most, if not all, nature reserves include at least some area for hiking, camping, and/or OHV, and as such should also likely be double-tagged for reservation and recreation. Recreation is split out into its own category for those parks which are purely for recreation, and not nature reserves.
Nature Reserve
| Name | OSM Relation | State Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antelope Island State Park | 3984835 |
"Hike, mountain bike or horseback ride the park’s backcountry trails for spectacular views of lake and island scenery; spend a star-filled night in one of several primitive campsites; stroll along sandy beaches and take a dip in the lake’s salty waters or step back in time with a visit to the historic Fielding Garr Ranch. Antelope Island is home to free-ranging bison, mule deer, bighorn sheep, pronghorn (antelope), and many other desert animals. Millions of birds congregate along the shores surrounding the island, offering unparalleled opportunities for birding. Year-round Interpretive opportunities round out the Antelope Island experience." | |
| Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park | 3985126 |
"Venture onto a shifting sea of red sand. Changed by winds, these mountains and hills of sand can move as much as 50 feet per year. With areas for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts and those with non-motorized pursuits, the dunes offer adventures for all." | |
| Dead Horse Point State Park | 3985140 |
"An immense desert landscape of canyons, high desert woodland, and miles of trails invite visitors to explore Dead Horse Point State Park. The park has wonderful campgrounds with modern amenities, beautiful views, and connections to nature that will create long-lasting memories. Sunrises and sunsets are especially memorable, with canyon walls bathed in golden light, creating a stunning scene reminiscent of vivid watercolor paintings. Dark Skies filled with thousands of stars encourage travelers to look up and enjoy a view unparalleled while they visit the park. So plan your trip and be prepared to be awed by the stories you’ll make and remember for the rest of your life!" | |
| Deer Creek State Park | 5862065 |
"Windsurf, boat, zip line, swim, and fish on the cool waters of Deer Creek Reservoir. Float, kayak, or fish the lower Provo River. After a day on the water, camp under the night sky at one of several campgrounds, all with spectacular views of nearby Mount Timpanogos." | Very recreation oriented, but its boundaries do cover the entire reservoir and some extra untamed land beyond |
| East Canyon State Park | 3984838 |
"Nestled amidst the serene mountains of northeastern Utah, East Canyon State Park stands as a cherished haven for enthusiasts of boating, fishing, and camping, all while exuding a rich historical charm. Beyond its recreational allure, this reservoir holds within its depths a tapestry of stories from the past. Embark on a journey through time by exploring the adjacent Mormon Pioneer Trail – a path once traversed by determined Mormons who embarked on an arduous voyage spanning over 1,300 miles, venturing from the plains of Illinois to the promising landscapes of Utah’s embrace." | Boundaries cover most, but not all, of the reservoir, and a disconnected area covering the land around the Mormon Pioneer Trail |
| Echo State Park | Missing | "Nestled in the scenic mountains of northeastern Utah, Echo State Park offers a rich history of outdoor recreation, featuring camping, boating, fishing, and year-round adventure. Conveniently located near Coalville, Utah, the park provides easy access to Echo Reservoir, a favorite destination for water sports and relaxation." | In UGRC parcel datasets, all the land around this park is labeled as federally owned. Likely, someone will have to contact DNR to get permission to use their maps. |
| Escalante Petrified Forest State Park | 5857283 |
"Camp along the shores of Wide Hollow Reservoir, swim or rent a kayak or paddleboard to play and explore on its clear waters. Hike along park nature trails through a petrified forest, but remember to take only photographs. Some say the petrified wood is haunted and removing a piece brings the taker nothing but bad luck" | |
| Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation | 5860605 |
"The sprawling waters of Starvation Reservoir offer great fishing and boating. Find a secluded campsite at one of four primitive and two developed campgrounds. Bring your off-highway vehicle and ride on nearby trails, try our 3D archery course, walk our slacklines, play disc golf, or go geocaching." | |
| Goblin Valley State Park | 4760264 |
"Journey to this strange and colorful valley, which is unlike any other in Utah! The landscape, covered with sandstone goblins and formations, is often compared to Mars. Explore the geology and camp among the nooks and gnomes. Park activities include hiking, camping, mountain biking, disc golf, ranger programs and access to OHV routes." | |
| Gunlock State Park | 5857195 |
"Boat, fish, and swim on the tranquil waters at Gunlock Reservoir, or enjoy an afternoon picnic on the beach. Warm waters during summer and a mild winter climate make the park a year-round destination. Gunlock State Park is hidden in South Western Utah as an escape from the busy world. It’s red rocks, magical waterfalls (in season), and sparkling waters make this a unique destination" | |
| Huntington State Park | 5862391 |
"Cinnamon-colored buttes provide a backdrop for this quiet desert oasis. Popular with locals, this warm-water reservoir is ideal for waterskiing, fishing, and crawdad catching. Huntington is a great weekend destination or a perfect picnic spot." | |
| Hyrum State Park | 21058565 |
"Hyrum State Park is best known for its fishery, being a terrific year-round fishing destination for bass, trout, perch, bluegill, and in 2024 the DWR introduced wipers. In the summer the Park has an excellent beach and provides opportunities for boating and other water sports. The Park has one boat ramp and a fish cleaning station located at the main entrance." | |
| Jordanelle State Park | 3984841 |
"Welcome to Jordanelle State Park. Located above the beautiful Heber Valley in Wasatch County and along the shores of the Jordanelle Reservoir are three distinct recreation areas, Hailstone, Rock Cliff, and Ross Creek, which offer a variety of recreational opportunities. Whether you plan on spending a day, weekend, or more, Jordanelle offers some of the best picnicking, camping, boating, fishing, or hiking that you will find in the great state of Utah." | |
| Kodachrome Basin State Park | 5752068 |
"67 monolithic stone spires, called sedimentary pipes, accentuate multi-hued sandstone layers that reveal 180 million years of geologic time. The color and beauty found here prompted a National Geographic Society expedition to name the area Kodachrome, after the popular color film, in 1948" | |
| Lost Creek State Park | 299699298 |
"In 2021, the Utah State Legislature passed HB 257, officially designating Lost Creek State Park, located about 10 miles northeast of Croydon in Morgan County. Lost Creek Reservoir has long been a popular destination for paddling, fishing, swimming, and camping in a peaceful, wakeless setting." | |
| Red Fleet State Park | 5860655 |
"Hike to 200-million-year-old dinosaur tracks, boat and fish on Red Fleet Reservoir, and camp or picnic in a campground overlooking a sandstone and desert landscape. In the heart of Dinosaurland, Red Fleet is a destination in itself and a great location for discovery of the area." | |
| Rockport State Park | 5860672 |
"Find first-rate, year-round recreation at this northern Utah destination. During summer, fish, boat, and water ski on Rockport Reservoir. Tent or RV camp in one of five developed and primitive campgrounds. During winter, ice fish and access nearby snowmobile trails." | |
| Sand Hollow State Park | 5857206 |
"With its warm, blue waters and red sandstone landscape, one of Utah’s newer state parks is also one of its most popular. Boat, fish, and dive at Sand Hollow Reservoir, explore and ride the dunes of Sand Mountain on an off-highway vehicle, then RV or tent camp in a campground or on the beach." | |
| Scofield State Park | 5860617 |
"Camp, boat, and fish at this summer and winter recreation destination situated high in the Manti-La Sal Mountains. Two separate areas offer amenities for day and overnight use." | |
| Snow Canyon State Park | 335141 |
"Explore the trails and dunes of beautiful Snow Canyon on foot, bike, and horseback. Camp in the peaceful campground surrounded by ancient lava flows and red Navajo sandstone. Discover the secrets of the desert landscape through seasonal ranger programs." | |
| Steinaker State Park | 5860663 |
"Summer activities include camping, boating, swimming, OHV riding, hiking, and fishing. Full hook-up, electric or dry campsites are available through reservation May 15th – September 30th." | |
| Utahraptor State Park | 17540316 |
"Located roughly 15 miles northwest of Moab, Utahraptor State Park has one of the largest dinosaur bone beds in North America. Over 5,500 bones representing more than ten dinosaur species have been recovered during the site’s 45-year history of excavation and discovery. Species found include the Utahraptor, the armored Gastonia, and the long-necked sauropod Moabosaurus. Paleontologists believe more than 100,000 bones may await discovery at the site. Utahraptor also offers recreational activities, such as off-roading, hiking, and mountain biking—making this a state park that captures the breadth of Utah’s allure." | |
| Wasatch Mountain State Park | 3984842 |
"Enjoy Wasatch Mountain State Park year-round. Camp in the Pine Creek Campground, reserve a tee time at one of the four popular 18-hole golf courses or hike, bike, ATV or horseback ride on miles of mountain trails. In winter months, ski, snowshoe or snowmobile through the alpine terrain." |
Recreation
| Name | OSM Relation | State Description | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bear Lake State Park | 3984829 |
"Brilliantly blue waters combined with sandy beaches are what call park visitors to play, fish, boat, and camp here at Bear Lake State Park. Minerals (calcium carbonate) suspended in the lake’s waters are what help create its spectacular aqua-blue color. Located in the beautiful Bear Lake Valley in Rich County, there are three distinct recreation areas—Marina, Rendezvous Beach, and the Eastside—which offer a variety of recreational opportunities. Whether you plan on visiting for a day, weekend, or more, Bear Lake offers some of the best picnicking, camping, boating, fishing, or hiking that you will find in the great state of Utah." | Recreation because its boundaries only cover the campsites and boat ramps |
| Flight Park State Recreation Area | 14166847 |
"Utah State Parks and Recreation and the Utah Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (UHGPGA) are partnering to preserve this unique recreation area that is an excellent site for teaching and gathering experience for flyers of all levels. It is known worldwide as one of the best training sites for both paragliding and hang gliding." | |
| Goosenecks State Park | 5334849 |
"On the edge of a deep canyon above the sinuous river meander known as a gooseneck, this small park affords impressive views of one of the most striking examples of an entrenched river meander on the North American continent. The San Juan River twists and turns through the meander, flowing a distance of over six miles while advancing one and a half miles west on its way to Lake Powell. Gaze at the results of 300 million years of geological activity, where the San Juan River winds and carves its way through the desert 1,000 feet below." | Absolutely tiny area that just covers some campsites |
| Great Salt Lake State Park | 642778717 |
"This State Park provides boat slips, public viewpoints of Great Salt Lake, sail and motorboat access, and a search and rescue operations center. The lake, which is two to seven times saltier than the ocean, is also a popular destination for bird watching as it is a major stop for millions of migratory birds." | Despite the name, boundaries only cover a marina and some campsites. Does not cover any of the lake |
| Green River State Park | 4760269 |
"Rest under a canopy of cottonwood trees or accept the challenge of a nine-hole golf course on the banks of the Green River. The park is a starting point for boaters adventuring through Labyrinth and Stillwater canyons. The annual Green River Melon Days Festival occurs on the third weekend of September." | Despite the name, boundaries don't cover the river. Only some campsites and a golf course |
| Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail | 8725559 |
"The Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail State Park is one of Utah’s most unique state parks. It is nearly 30 miles long. The trail traverses areas rich in cultural history from the Wasatch Mountains near Park City, across wetland meadows in Silver Creek Canyon, through the towns of Wanship and Coalville, and along the Weber River to Echo Reservoir. Whether biking, hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, or walking, the park visitor enjoys the sights and sounds along the historic rail trail." | |
| Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicle State Park | 299715275 |
"4 separate tracks and a 50 track, with tabletops and banked turns, are open from approximately early April to approximately mid-October." | |
| Millsite State Park | 356684824 |
"Camp in the quiet campground, enjoy boating or fish on the blue waters of Millsite Reservoir. Golf on a nearby golf course or bring off-highway vehicles and mountain bikes to enjoy miles of trails in nearby Ferron Canyon." | |
| Otter Creek State Park | 299714499 |
"This quiet getaway is a great destination for ATV riders, boaters, and birders. Access three ATV trails, including the Paiute Trail System, directly from the park. Lure a record catch from Otter Creek Reservoir, a prime fishery. Go birding during spring and fall as many bird species through the park on their journey along the Pacific Migratory Bird Flyway." | |
| Palisade State Park | 21058579 |
"Play 18 holes of golf, paddle, or stroll on Palisade Reservoir, then set up the perfect campsite. This park offers something for everyone, from its desert canyon golf course, RV and tent camping, to access for off-highway vehicle riding in nearby Six-Mile Canyon." | |
| Piute State Park | 299714618 |
"Resting on cliffs of the Sevier Plateau, Piute Reservoir attracts anglers who enjoy trophy fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout as well as smallmouth bass. This primitive park is a quiet getaway and a well-kept secret. It is nestled in the heart of ATV country and the Paiute Trail System can be accessed from the park." | |
| Quail Creek State Park | 44946831 |
"Boasting some of the warmest waters in the state and a mild winter climate, Quail Creek lures boaters and anglers year-round. Camp. Hike. Explore." | |
| Utah Lake State Park | 15035580 |
"Known as Utah’s largest freshwater lake at roughly 148 sq. miles, Utah Lake provides a variety of recreation activities. Utah Lake State Park offers fishing access for channel catfish, walleye, white bass, black bass, and several species of panfish. With an average water temperature of 75 degrees, Utah Lake provides an excellent outlet for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding. The RV campground consists of 31 sites, complete with water and power hookups." | |
| Willard Bay State Park | 5856227 |
"Boat, swim, water ski, and fish on the warm waters of Willard Bay. Camp under tall cottonwood trees that frame the night sky. During the winter months, Willard Bay is a wildlife-watching area for nesting eagles. Two areas, North and South Marinas, offer all the amenities for a weekend at the Bay." | |
| Yuba State Park | 1451526792 |
"Yuba State Park is a popular destination for many recreational activities. Boating, swimming, and paddleboarding in the warm waters and camping on the sandy beaches make for a perfect, relaxing getaway. Fishing for walleye, wipers, northern pike, tiger muskie, perch, catfish and carp is popular year round. Miles of Hiking and Off Highway All Terrain Vehicle trails abound with easy access from campsites. With a variety of recreational activities offered, visitors are guaranteed to have unforgettable experiences." | 3 discontinuous camping areas on the shore of Yuba Lake |
Heritage
| Name | OSM Relation | State Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anasazi State Park Museum | 5861998 |
"Explore an Ancestral Puebloan (Anasazi) village that was likely occupied from A.D. 1050 to 1200, and one of the largest communities west of the Colorado River. Outside the museum, tour a life-sized, six-room replica of an ancient dwelling and view a portion of the original site. Inside, view artifacts excavated from this site and learn the lifeways of these people." | |
| Camp Floyd State Park Museum | 7211505 |
"The United States Army, Mormon Pioneers, Stagecoach Travelers, and the Pony Express met at Camp Floyd and the town of Fairfield. The Army arrived in 1858 and constructed Camp Floyd to suppress a supposed Mormon rebellion. The Army remained here for three years before being recalled for the Civil War. Today, Camp Floyd State Park features three structures and a cemetery. Visit the museum and Stagecoach Inn and learn about this nationally important historic site." | |
| Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum | 5862137 |
"View the largest collection of Ancestral Puebloan (Anasazi) pottery on display in the Four Corners Region and explore an authentic Puebloan village behind the museum. In addition to permanent collections, Edge of the Cedars offers special exhibits, festivals, and events throughout the year." | |
| Frontier Homestead State Park Museum | 478964086 |
"Discover the pioneer and early industrial history of Cedar City, Iron County, and southwest Utah through an extensive horse-drawn wagon collection, historic buildings, Native Heritage exhibit, sawmill, and replica blast furnace. Enjoy many hands-on activities and interpretive programs throughout the year, including Sheep-to-Shawl, Iron Mission Days, and festive seasonal events throughout the year." | |
| Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum | 3985086 |
"Explore Utah’s early history in its oldest existing governmental building. The Statehouse is actually the south wing of a much larger building that never was completed, and now houses exhibits that tell the story of Utah’s Territorial period." | |
| This Is The Place Heritage Park | 33972103 |
"This Is The Place Heritage Park is comprised of 450-acres and preserves the story of those who settled the western territory. For nearly a century, great efforts have been made to honor the memory of the intrepid settlers and those who came before them. There are over 60 original or replica structures in the Village today and together with costumed interpreters, the epic story of the west is told." | |
| Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum | 397508970 |
"Discover the prehistoric world, dig for fossils, and explore the dinosaur garden. Within an 80-mile radius of Vernal, evidence of the entire Earth’s history is visible. Utah Field House reveals this geologic story with hands-on exhibits and activities." |
Unsorted
- Fremont Indian State Park and Museum - Toes the line of heritage and recreation by having a museum and some hiking, but covering a relatively small area of land. Not sure where to put this one.