7 Hidden Gems Along the Utah Mighty 5 Route
The Utah Mighty 5 national parks are very popular and book up fast. Skip the hassle of foot and vehicle traffic by staying at these locations nearby. Below are seven state park hidden gems, all offering amazing scenery and adventure within a short drive of The Mighty 5.
1. Dead Horse Point State Park, Near Canyonlands National Park
This stunning state park in eastern Utah is adjacent to Canyonlands. The park towers 2,000 feet directly above the Colorado River, providing breathtaking views of the rugged countryside, incluidng the iconic sculptured pinnacles and buttes of Canyonlands. The park has hiking, mountain bike trails, and plenty of opportunities for photography, wildlife viewing, nature study, and geology. An ideal base for adventures into Canyonland and Arches, Dead Horse State Park has plenty of camping with 64 sites, including nine yurts.
Drive times: located at the entrance to Canyonlands, half hour to Arches, 2.5 hours to Capitol Reef, 4.5 hours to Bryce, and 5.5 hours to Zion
2. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Near Zion National Park
This park is a stunner, with sweeping vistas of rippling coral-colored sand contrasted against the wide, blue skies of southern Utah. These sand dunes are the only large ones on the Colorado Plateau, making them a beautiful and rare geological feature. Besides enjoying the scenery, this park is a popular spot for ATVing. It’s also a jumping off point to Zion (only a half hour away) or Bryce (only 1.5 hours drive). Campers have their choice of twenty-two campsites set amidst juniper and pinon trees.
Drive Times: half hour to Zion, 1.5 hours to Bryce, 3 hours to Capitol Reef, and 5 hours to Arches
Recommended: 15 Natural Attractions You Have to See to Believe
3. Goblin Valley State Park, Near Capitol Reef National Park
This park’s strange and beguiling name lends itself to the park’s rolling peach-toned sandstone rock formations, bizarrely stacked and shaped like goblins. There is plenty to explore on and off trail within the park’s labyrinths of sandstone formations. Although remote, the park is located about an hour between Arches and Capitol Reef, making it a great jumping off point. There are 24 campsites, a group site, and 2 yurts with centrally located restroom and shower facilities.
Drive times: 1.5 hours to Arches, 2 hours to Canyonlands, 1 hour Capitol Reef, 3.5 hours to Bryce, and 4.5 hours to Zion
4. Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, Near Bryce Canyon
Escalante Petrified Forest State Park is known for its colorful deposits of mineralized wood and memorable hikes through a petrified forest. A visitor’s center showcases archaeological finds from the area, including petrified dinosaur bones, ammonite, and shell fossils. Campers can also swim or fish at the park’s reservoir, and go ATVing in an adjacent area. The park is an ideal base for trips to nearby Capitol Reef and Bryce.
Drive times:, 4 hours to Arches, 4 hours to Canyonlands, 1.5 hour Capitol Reef, 1 hours to Bryce, and 3 hours to Zion
Recommended: Great State Parks for ATV & Off-Road Vehicle Trails
5. Otter Creek State Park, Near Bryce Canyon National Park
Located on the banks of the Otter Creek Reservoir, Otter Creek State Park is a beloved destination for boaters, birders, and ATVers. The park is a quiet and out-of-the-way respite in the high country of south central Utah. Besides being a perfect spot to rejuvenate outdoors, it is also only an hour’s drive to Capitol Reef and Bryce. There are 52 standard campsites, a group site, and a cabin for rent.
Drive times: 3 hours to Arches, 3.5 hours to Canyonlands, 1 hour Capitol Reef, 1 hour to Bryce, and 2.5 hours to Zion
6. Quail Creek State Park, Near Zion National Park
Set amidst spectacular red rock desert landscape, Quail Creek State Park is a hidden spot worthy of a stop over. The park’s large reservoir is a favorite among anglers, with outstanding trout and bass fishing. The wide sandy banks along the reservoir are perfect for relaxing and picnicking. The park is very close to Zion, only a half hour’s drive, and is about a two hour drive to Bryce. There are 22 standard campsites and one group site.
Drive times:, 5 hours to Arches, 5 hours to Canyonlands, 4 hour Capitol Reef, 2 hours to Bryce, and half hour to Zion
7. Steinaker State Park, north of Arches National Park & Canyonlands
Located 7 miles from Vernal just of the Utah Highway 191, Steinaker State Park offers a cool getaway from the crowds. The reservoir provides sandy beaches, swimming, boating, and fishing. The area is also popular for OHV riding, and exploring the many attractions with fossilized relics once found in the ancient seas. There are 31 campsites for RV and tent campers.
Drive times: 3.75 hours to Arches, 4 hours to Canyonlands, 4.5 to Capitol Reef, 5.75 hours to Bryce, and 6.5 hours to Zion
Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state's latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.