Photo: Sand Hollow State Park
Photo: Marlena Karwowski
Photo: Juan Cruz (Temble)
Sand Hollow State Park
★4.6(6,673 reviews)$Water Park
🕑 4-6 hours (half to full day)👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger kids love the sandy beach areas and shallow water zones for safe swimming, while tweens and teens enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and exploring the sand dunes. The terrain can be challenging for toddlers, but determined little ones with good stamina will still have fun.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
Sand Hollow State Park is an outdoor adventure playground where families can swim in a stunning red-rock reservoir, play on sandy beaches, and explore massive sand dunes. With warm, clear water perfect for splashing and floating, plus miles of soft sand for building castles and running wild, this park offers a refreshing desert oasis experience that combines beach fun with Southern Utah's dramatic scenery.
Highlights
- ✓Sandy beach swimming in the crystal-clear reservoir with stunning red rock views
- ✓Massive sand dunes perfect for running, rolling, and sandcastle building
- ✓Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat rentals for water adventures
- ✓Designated swimming areas with sandy bottoms ideal for younger children
- ✓Scenic hiking trails around the reservoir with family-friendly options
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early (by 8-9 AM) on summer weekends to snag shaded parking and beach spots before crowds arrive,the park gets very busy during peak season
- 2.Bring water shoes or sandals as the sand gets scorching hot by midday, and the reservoir bottom can have rocky areas
- 3.Pack a canopy or beach umbrella since natural shade is limited along the beach,you'll need sun protection for all-day visits
- 4.The West Beach area is typically calmer and more family-friendly than the busier East Beach which attracts more boaters and water sports enthusiasts
- 5.Download your entry pass ahead of time or purchase at the entrance kiosk,bring cash as card readers occasionally have issues in this remote location
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (especially Tuesday-Thursday) from May through September for the best weather and smallest crowds. The water is warmest July-August, making it ideal for younger swimmers. Arrive by 8 AM in summer to beat the heat and secure prime beach spots.
What to Know
Day-use entrance fees apply ($20-25 per vehicle). The park has restrooms, outdoor showers, and a small store, but no restaurants on-site, so pack food, plenty of water, and sun protection. Limited cell service throughout the park.
Seasonal Notes
Best visited May through October when water temperatures are comfortable for swimming. Peak season is June-August with warmest water. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but cooler water temperatures. Winter visits are possible but water activities are limited due to cold temperatures.
Nearby Eats
Head to Main Street Cafe in nearby Hurricane (10 minutes away) for burgers, sandwiches, and kid-friendly comfort food, or stop at River Rock Roasting Company for casual fare and locally roasted coffee after your park adventure.
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