National Parks & State Parks near St. George, UT
Within 45 minutes of St. George, Utah, residents and visitors have access to a variety of spectacular national and state parks that highlight the region’s diverse desert landscapes. Just north of the city at Snow Canyon State Park, visitors can wander through trails framed by red and white sandstone cliffs, explore lava tubes, and watch for desert wildlife.
To the east, Sand Hollow State Park beckons with its sapphire reservoir for boating and fishing, as well as sandy dunes suited for off-highway vehicle adventures. Nearby Quail Creek State Park and Gunlock State Park offer additional options for swimming, fishing, and picnicking along tranquil desert lakes.
While slightly farther afield, Zion National Park, situated roughly 45 minutes from St. George, presents a world-renowned spectacle of soaring sandstone cliffs, lush river valleys, and iconic hikes, making it a must-see destination for visitors seeking a signature Southern Utah experience.
National Parks near St. George, UT
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is a natural sanctuary famed for its towering sandstone cliffs, lush river valleys, and diverse wildlife. Carved over millennia by the Virgin River, the park’s deep canyons are filled with cottonwood groves, hanging gardens, and emerald pools that offer a peaceful contrast to the rugged red and cream-colored rock walls.
Visitors can explore scenic drives and shuttle routes, but Zion truly shines when experienced on foot, whether it’s wandering along the river at the canyon floor, ascending switchbacks on the iconic Angels Landing trail, or wading through the Narrows, a slot canyon adventure like no other.
Home to mule deer, bighorn sheep, and numerous bird species, Zion National Park provides a captivating snapshot of the American Southwest’s rich ecological and geological tapestry.
State Parks near St. George, UT
Snow Canyon State Park
Snow Canyon State Park is a serene desert oasis framed by striking red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs. The park’s lava flows, ancient cinder cones, and petrified sand dunes bear witness to a rich geological past, while a network of trails allows visitors to wander through slot canyons, hidden grottoes, and wildflower-lined washes.
Wildlife, including desert tortoises, coyotes, and an array of bird species, thrive among the sagebrush and juniper.
Sand Hollow State Park
Sand Hollow State Park blends vivid scenery with abundant outdoor activities. At its heart lies a sparkling blue reservoir encircled by orange-red sand, offering a striking color contrast that entices swimmers, kayakers, and boaters.
Anglers enjoy casting their lines for bass and bluegill, while stand-up paddle boarders glide across the calm waters. Beyond the shoreline, the surrounding dunes and sandstone formations beckon off-highway vehicle enthusiasts with miles of trails and open riding areas.
Quail Creek State Park
Quail Creek State Park centers around a tranquil reservoir renowned for its warm, clear waters and scenic desert surroundings. Visitors can cast a line in hopes of catching rainbow trout, largemouth bass, or crappie, while boaters and kayakers take advantage of the lake’s calm surface and ample shoreline.
The park’s sandy beaches and shaded picnic areas invite families to linger, enjoying panoramic views of red rock cliffs and distant mountain peaks.
Gunlock State Park
Gunlock State Park is a serene desert retreat centered around a small but inviting reservoir. Its calm, blue-green waters are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing for bass and catfish, while the surrounding sandstone cliffs and juniper-dotted hills provide an idyllic backdrop.
During periods of heavy rain or spring runoff, the park’s spillway can create picturesque waterfalls cascading over red rock ledges, drawing photographers and sightseers. Picnickers and swimmers enjoy the quiet shoreline, and the park’s relative seclusion from busier recreation areas fosters a peaceful atmosphere.
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
The Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is a breathtaking 45,000-acre expanse of protected land located in St. George, Utah, within the stunning Mojave Desert. Known for its dramatic red sandstone cliffs, rugged canyons, and unique desert wildlife, the conservation area is a haven for outdoor recreation and nature lovers.
Visitors can explore a variety of trails, such as the Red Reef Trail, which features petroglyphs, water crossings, and panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs. The area is also home to iconic formations like the Babylon Arch and the historic remnants of Anasazi culture.