Camping at Goblin Valley State Park
Overview of Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley State Park is a unique state park located in central Utah, known for its thousands of hoodoos and rock formations, often referred to as "goblins." These formations, composed of eroded sandstone, give the park a surreal, otherworldly landscape that is popular among hikers, campers, and photographers.
Location and Access
The park is situated between the towns of Green River and Hanksville, in the San Rafael Desert. It is accessible by car:
- From the north: via State Route 24 and then Temple Mountain Road to Goblin Valley Road
- From the south: via State Route 24 and the same roads as above
Camping Information
Campsites: Goblin Valley State Park offers a campground with 25 sites and two yurts. The sites include amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and shade structures. Some are suitable for RVs, and all are within walking distance of the restrooms.
Facilities: Campground facilities include restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers. A dump station is also available for RV users.
Reservations: Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season (spring and fall), as the campground tends to fill up quickly. Reservations can be made up to four months in advance.
Fees: There are fees for both day use and overnight camping. The fee for overnight camping typically includes entrance to the park.
Group Sites: In addition to individual campsites, Goblin Valley State Park offers two yurts and a group campground for larger parties.
Rules and Regulations:
- Check-In and Check-Out Times: Check-in and check-out times are usually enforced, with check-out typically being midday.
- Quiet Hours: To ensure a peaceful experience for all campers, quiet hours are usually set from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
- Pets: Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times and are not permitted in some areas of the park, including buildings and some trails.
- Fires: Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings, and firewood must be purchased locally to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Wildlife & Plants: Do not disturb the wildlife and plants. The park's delicate desert ecosystem is protected and taking anything out of the park is prohibited.
Activities and Attractions
Hiking: There are a few marked trails in Goblin Valley, but much of the park can also be explored off-trail, allowing visitors to wander among the goblins.
Photography: The unique landscape offers extraordinary photo opportunities, especially during golden hour when the red rock formations glow.
Stargazing: Goblin Valley State Park is a certified International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent location for stargazing.
Geocaching: The park offers several geocaches for visitors to hunt for.
Disc Golf: A 9-hole disc golf course is located in the park.
Safety and Preparation
- Weather Considerations: The park is located in the desert, so weather can be extreme. Summers are hot with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are cold, and the park occasionally experiences snow. Carry plenty of water and dress appropriately.
- Wildlife: Be aware of the potential for encounters with wildlife such as snakes and scorpions.
- Flash Floods: When hiking or camping, always be aware of the weather as flash floods can occur.
Contact Information and Resources
Before heading to Goblin Valley State Park, check for the latest information on weather conditions, road access, and any park alerts that might affect your visit. The official Utah State Parks website and contacting the park directly are your best resources for the most current information.
