Pink, red, and white wildflowers surround hoodoos under a dark sky showcasing the Milky Way.

Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park   |  Marcin Zając
  • Weather: Mostly Clear, 63F
Located along the San Rafael Reef, south of Interstate-70, Goblin Valley State Park is unlike any other place in the world. It captures and bewilders the imagination, challenging you with its geologic whimsy. The landscape, covered with sandstone “goblins” and other fascinating formations, is often compared to Mars. Study the geology and camp among the nooks and gnomes. Experience this amazing place by hiking, camping, mountain biking and exploring the surrounding canyons.

Travel Responsibly

Things To Do

A certified International Dark Sky Park, Goblin Valley State Park is a great place to camp for the night.

A certified International Dark Sky Park, Goblin Valley State Park is a great place to camp for the night.

Photo: Austen Diamond

Camping

Advance camping reservations are recommended. Individual campsites are available for reservation on a four-month rolling basis. Group sites are available for reservation on an 11-month rolling basis. You can book a maximum of 13 days beyond the last date of the reservation window. Check for fire restrictions and other important park information before you go. Check with the park for the current campsite fees. Campfires are allowed in specified areas. It is illegal to dump or drain water from campers or trailers onto the ground. A sanitary disposal station is provided for registered campers. Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Yurts

There are two yurts available for year-round, overnight stays at Goblin Valley State Park. The yurts are accessible by car and are furnished with bunk beds. Each yurt can accommodate up to five guests. No blankets, pillows, cookware, plates, etc. are provided so guests must provide their own.

Goblin Valley Weather

Goblin Valley State Park is open to the public year-round. Temperatures vary by season and can reach a high of more than 100º F during the summer and lows of 16º F in winter. Remote, rugged desert conditions persist. Park officials recommend each person drink one gallon of water per day. Flash floods, lightning and other hazardous weather events are possible. Check the local forecasts prior to visiting.

Utah Weather

Nearby Towns & Hotels

The nearest towns with services are Hanksville, 33 miles to the south and Green River, 49 miles to the northeast. Both Green River and Hanksville have hotels, gas stations, restaurants, post offices and grocery stores. Many people also choose to head toward Capitol Reef National Park, which is next to the basecamp town of Torrey.

Where to Stay

The park presents a fun and unique experience for those who wish to explore on foot.

Photo: Clark Goldsberry

Goblin Valley State Park is a showcase of geologic history.

Photo: Clark Goldsberry

Top Goblin Valley Hikes

Things To Know

  • Goblin Valley State Park sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Day-use entry fee required, purchase in-person or online. The Annual Utah State Park Pass is accepted for park entry.
  • Dogs are allowed at Goblin Valley State Park but must be kept on leash and owners must clean up after their pets. 
  • This is a remote, rugged area. Exercise caution and travel prepared with supplies. 
  • All plants, animals and natural features and structures are protected. It is illegal to mutilate, deface, alter, destroy or remove them. Leave the hoodoos as they are so that others can enjoy them too. Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the natural world.
  • Lightning danger is severe in exposed valley and park locations. Seek shelter in a building or vehicle during thunderstorms. 
  • Drone use is by permit only. Fireworks and firearms are prohibited unless authorized by a Special Use Permit.
  • Hoodoo Hotdogs is a food truck vendor available at various times during the year.

Tips To Recreate Responsibly Leave No Trace

01

5 Days

Southern Dinos and Goblins

From fossils and petroglyphs to slot canyons and goblins, you’ll have four days of “oohs” and “ahhs” for the whole adventuring family.

Dinosaurs, Hiking, History and Heritage, Kid-Friendly, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

Highlights

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02

6 Days

Sandstone Spires & Swimming Holes

Walk the paths of dinosaurs and descend through 200 million years of geologic history in this six-day road trip from Vernal to Kodachrome Basin. It’s a kid-friendly desert drive in search of dino tracks, slot canyons and swimming,

Dinosaurs, Hiking, History and Heritage, Kid-Friendly, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

Highlights

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