A Guide to Summer at Utah’s State Parks
Splash into summer with Utah State Parks, where outdoor excitement and natural beauty await! Embrace longer days, warmer nights, and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
From scenic hikes to tranquil moments surrounded by nature’s wonders, let’s make this summer a season to remember. Don’t miss our special Dark Sky events, where you can experience the magic of the parks under some of the clearest night skies in the country.
We’ve curated a guide to the best activities, events and hidden gems that await you this summer. Be sure to check back often as we’ll update throughout the season.
Find your summer adventure here:
SUMMER FUN
DARK SKY
HIDDEN GEMS
OUTDOOR ESCAPES
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
SUMMERTIME SAFETY
SUMMER FUN
Jordanelle Triathlon
Jordanelle State Park
June 22 – 5:30 AM
Experience one of Triathlete Magazine’s Top 100 events in the Nation at the Jordanelle Triathlon! This classic race is one of Utah’s premier venues, featuring some of the clearest open water, scenic bike courses, and a unique run course. Enjoy the river bottom boardwalks in Rock Cliff Recreation Area and the picturesque country backdrop of Francis and Woodland.
This event has a storied history, having hosted numerous USA Triathlon regional championships, ensuring a competitive and memorable course. Whether you’re a returning participant or new to the race, this is the year to experience the Jordanelle Triathlon.
For more information and registration, visit TriUtah – Jordanelle Triathlon.
Park City SUP Festival
Jordanelle State Park
June 24 – Registration: 8:00 – 9:00 AM
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
The Park City SUP Festival is a celebration of life on and around the water! Join us for a day filled with SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) races, live music, and delicious food from Done To Your Taste Catering.
Race registration is from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, with races beginning at 10:00 AM. Enjoy live music by the Smiling Souls Reggae Band starting at Noon. Come out to the beach at Jordanelle State Park and dance in the sunshine with us!
Race Classes:
- Boys and girls ages 10 and under: 1-mile race
- Boys and girls ages 11-16: 1-mile race
- Men and women ages 16 and up: 2-mile race
- Men and women ages 16 and up: 4-mile race
Keep your toes wet and your hair dry! For more information and event details, visit Park City SUP Festival.
The Stars & Stripes Firework Show
Sand Hollow State Park
July 4 – 6:00 PM
Join Hurricane City and Red Rock Media this 4th of July for the spectacular Stars & Stripes Celebration at Sand Hollow Reservoir!
Gates open at 6:00 PM, offering an evening of patriotism with your family and friends, free of admission. Come hungry and enjoy a variety of treats, drinks, and food options from Southern Utah’s local food truck vendors.
Take advantage of the Hurricane City Shuttles for a free ride to your desired area in the park.
As the sun sets, enjoy the incredible Stars & Stripes Fireworks Show and Boat Light Parade, with synchronized music provided by Red Rock Media.
Important Reminders:
- Please clean up your own trash to help keep Sand Hollow Reservoir clean.
- No alcohol, smoking, vaping, or personal fireworks are permitted.
For more information, visit The Stars & Stripes Firework Show.
Liberty Day
This Is The Place Heritage Park
July 4 – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Happy Birthday, America! Join us at This Is The Place for an old-fashioned celebration of the birth of our great Nation.
Independence Day at the Park begins with a flag ceremony and a salute to our Nation conducted by the Sons of the American Revolution. This tradition kicks off a fun-filled Fourth of July!
Guests will enjoy all the regular daily activities, plus a host of additional events such as the Candy Cannon, a watermelon eating contest, and more!
Admission:
Adults: $18.95
Seniors (65+): $16.95
Children (3-11): $14.95
Children (2 and under): Free
10th Annual Sand Castle Building Competition
Yuba State Park
July 13 – Registration: 12:00 PM
Put your artistic sandcastle-building skills to the test at Yuba State Park’s 10th Annual Sand Castle Building Competition! Join us at North Beach, with registration starting at 12:00 PM. The competition begins at 1:00 PM.
Prizes will be awarded to the TOP 5 castles in the following categories:
- Adult Individual
- Adult Team
- Kids’ Individual
- Kids’ Team
Fees:
- $5 per Individual Team
- $10 per Multi-Person Teams
- Park entrance fees apply
Note: This event will have no impact on regular park operations.
Pioneer Day
This Is The Place Heritage Park
July 24 – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Utah’s celebration of Pioneer Day won’t be complete without a visit to This Is The Place Heritage Park! In addition to our everyday line-up of fun, we add even more activities on this special day to celebrate the founding of Utah!
Your entire family will have a blast! Our Candy Cannon heralds the day with a bang, raining old-fashioned taffy down Main Street. There will be games galore, so come prepared to play and make some new family memories!
The celebration includes everyday activities such as panning for gold, riding ponies and trains, enjoying art and craft projects, and much more.
Don’t miss out on yummy treats like Brigham’s Donuts in the Social Hall. And save some room to see if you can triumph in the Watermelon Eating Contest! You can purchase a great lunch at the Huntsman Grill, and cool off at the Irrigation Station or with a giant Flavor Burst ice cream cone.
Everyone is welcome!
Admission:
Adults: $18.95
Seniors (65+): $16.95
Children (3-11): $14.95
Children (2 and under): Free
Purchase Pioneer Day Admission
Spider Fest
Antelope Island State Park
July 27
Spiders are abundant around Great Salt Lake in the summer! Celebrate these fascinating creatures at our fun annual event. Enjoy walking field trips, food vendors, information booths, and various fun activities.
Fee: There is no fee for this event, but regular park entry fees apply.
Family-Friendly: This event is family-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Questions: Contact tackley@utah.gov for any inquiries.
Park Impacts: Expect additional traffic around the Antelope Island Marina.
Military Appreciation Day
All Utah State Parks
August 10
In honor of Military Appreciation Day, all state parks in Utah will offer free day-use entrance for active military, veterans, and their families in the same vehicle. Join us as we celebrate and honor those who have served and continue to serve our country.
Some parks may hold special events or commemorate the military in other ways. We will share more information about additional activities as more park event details become available.
For updates and more details, visit our Military Appreciation Day page.
Military Appreciation Day
Camp Floyd State Park Museum
August 10 – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Join us for Utah State Parks Military Appreciation Day as we honor those who have served and continue to serve our country. Veterans, active military, and their families in the same vehicle receive free admission to Camp Floyd State Park.
Explore military displays honoring those who have served. Children can learn military drills with a toy musket and wear a period uniform. Visit the camps of military re-enactors and participate in period games and activities. View artifacts from Camp Floyd’s occupation (1858-1861) in our museum. Tour the historic Stagecoach Inn, in operation from 1858 to 1947. Browse the vendor area and enjoy food from Beefsteak’s Bistro.
Admission: $5 per person or $15 per family (immediate family only). Veterans, active military, and their families in the same vehicle are free.
More Info: For more information, call (801) 768-8932 or email campfloyd@utah.gov.
DARK SKY
Stars & Scorpions
Fremont Indian State Park and Museum
June 21 & July 5 – 9:30 PM
Join us for an exciting evening of “Stars & Scorpions” at Fremont Indian State Park. Meet at the Museum Parking Lot at 9:30 PM. Black lights will be provided for you to explore and find scorpions.
Please arrive early, as this event fills up quickly! Be prepared for a short program on scorpions, Dark Sky parks, and constellations. Afterward, we will caravan out of the park to search for scorpions. No reservations are needed.
- Day Use Fees: $10 per vehicle
- Contact: 435-527-4631
- Address: 3820 W. Clear Creek Canyon Rd., Sevier, UT 84766
Strawberry Full Moon Hike
Goblin Valley State Park
June 21 – 9:00 PM
Join a ranger for a short hike in the Valley of the Goblins and enjoy stunning views of the full moon while learning about the park. Meet at the Observation Point for an unforgettable evening under the Strawberry Full Moon.
Moonlight Walk Series
Great Salt Lake State Park
June 21, July 21 & August 19 – Sunset
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
Join a park ranger for an evening stroll across Silver Sands Beach and watch the moon rise over the Great Salt Lake. Each walk covers a unique topic in a 5-part series (series continues through October).
Topic Overview:
- June 21: Discover the fascinating history and geological processes that led to the creation of the Great Salt Lake.
- July 21: Learn about the exploration of the Great Salt Lake, including the stories of the explorers and scientists who studied this unique ecosystem.
- August 19: Delve into the extraction processes and the economic importance of the minerals harvested from the Great Salt Lake.
These events start after sunset. Meet at the Observation Deck past the Visitor’s Center. The walk covers approximately 1/2 mile on flat, uneven sandy terrain (strollers may have difficulty). Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Bring flashlights (to be used sparingly), bug spray, waterproof shoes, and dress for the weather. This event may be canceled due to inclement weather or other conditions.
The fee is $3 per person plus $5 park entry per vehicle. Pre-registration is required, with a maximum capacity of 100 people per tour. Registration opens one month before each event. Please check in at the entrance station upon arrival.
For more information, contact the Great Salt Lake State Park visitor center at 801-828-0787.
Please note: these events are held at the Great Salt Lake State Park & Marina in Magna (Exit 104, off I-80), not on Antelope Island.
Scorpion Walk
Rockport State Park
Every Saturday Evening – 9:00 PM (starting June 22)
WEATHER PERMITTING
Join us for a Scorpion Walk every Saturday evening, starting June 22. Armed with UV lights, we will hike along the Lake View trail searching for the glow of scorpions. Meet at the Down Under Day Use area parking lot at 8:30 PM for a fun night of hunting. UV lights are provided, but please bring your own if you have one, and ensure you wear closed-toe shoes.
There is no fee for this event, but a day-use fee or Utah State Park annual pass is required to enter the park. If you have questions, please contact prestonwood@utah.gov.
Please Bring:
- UV/Black lights (if you have them)
- Flashlights
- Good hiking shoes – closed-toe shoes only
- Jacket
- Water
Note: This event is weather dependent. Please check our Facebook page on the day of the event for any cancellations.
Scorpion Hunt
Dead Horse Point State Park
June 28 & July 10 – 9:30 PM, July 27 – 9:00 PM
Join us for an exciting Scorpion Hunt along the mountain bike trail. Armed with UV lights, we will search for the glow of scorpions in the night. Meet at the mountain bike parking lot at 9:30 PM on June 28 and July 10, or 9:00 PM on July 27 for a fun and adventurous evening. UV lights are provided, but please bring your own if you have one, and ensure you wear closed-toe shoes.
Star Party with the University of Utah Department of Physics & Astronomy
Rockport State Park
June 28, July 26, and August 31 – 9:00 PM
Join us at the Highland Day Use area starting at 9:00 PM for a night of stargazing with the University of Utah Department of Physics and Astronomy. Enjoy Night Sky viewing through telescopes in this open, come-and-go-as-you-wish event.
There is no fee for this event, but a day-use fee or Utah State Park annual pass is required to enter the park. For more information about our hosts, visit the University of Utah Department of Physics and Astronomy.
If you have questions, please contact prestonwood@utah.gov.
Star Parties
Dead Horse Point State Park
July 5 & 6 – 9:30 PM
Join us for a night of star gazing, constellation touring, and telescope viewing. We will be meeting in the Visitor Center Parking lot at 9:30pm.
Full Moon Hike
Dead Horse Point State Park
July 19 & 20 – 9:00 PM
Hike along the trail by the light of the full moon as a ranger talks about the nocturnal animals that call Dead Horse Point home. Meet in front of the Visitor Center at 9:00 PM.
Scorpion Safari
Antelope Island State Park
July 26 – 8:30 PM
Join us at the Visitor Center for a brief introduction and discussion about our northern scorpions. From there, we will caravan to Bridger Bay Beach to search for these elusive arachnids. Several UV/Black Lights are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For a guaranteed light, please bring your own.
Fee: There is no fee for this activity, but regular park entry fees apply.
Questions: Contact tackley@utah.gov for any inquiries.
Park Impacts: None.
Star Party
Camp Floyd State Park Museum
July 27 – 9:00 PM
Join us at Camp Floyd State Park in partnership with the Utah Valley Astronomy Club for a mesmerizing night of stargazing. The event will be held at the Camp Floyd Cemetery, 378 South Allen’s Ranch Road, Fairfield, Utah. Telescopes will be available for public use to explore the wonders of the night sky.
Fee: Admission is free.
More Info: For more information, call (801) 768-8932 or email campfloyd@utah.gov.
HIDDEN GEMS
Historic Huber Grove Tours
Wasatch Mountain State Park
June 10 – August 13 (See Dates Below) – 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Explore the rich history of Huber Grove with our guided tours. Learn about the significance of this historical site, its origins and the lifestyle of its early settlers. Huber Grove is a key part of the park, showcasing well-preserved historical buildings and apple orchards that date back to the 19th century.
Tour Dates:
Saturday, June 24
Saturday, July 1
Sunday, July 2
Saturday, July 8
Sunday, July 16
Saturday, July 22
Sunday, July 23
Saturday, July 29
Sunday, August 6
Sunday, August 13
Utah Watercolor Society Special Exhibit
Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
July & August
Enjoy the Southern Utah Watercolor Society exhibit in our Special Exhibit Gallery during July and August. Regular entrance fees apply.
Frontier Homestead’s Anniversary Celebration
Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
July 1
Celebrate our anniversary with us by completing a self-guided scavenger hunt highlighting exhibits throughout the park. Regular entrance fees apply.
Lecture on William “Gunlock” Hamblin
Gunlock State Park
July 2nd – 8:00 PM
Join us for an intriguing lecture at Gunlock State Park, featuring the life and legacy of William “Gunlock” Hamblin, a noted Mormon pioneer settler, scout, gunsmith, missionary and prospector. Believed to have been poisoned to death, Hamblin’s story will be presented by retired educator, author and journalist Loren Webb.
This event requires no additional fees. The lecture will begin at 8:00 PM at the large pavilion. Parking will be available in the day-use area.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about a fascinating historical figure and enjoy an evening in the beautiful surroundings of Gunlock State Park.
County Cooperative Weed Spray Day
Jordanelle State Park
July 6 – 7:00 AM
Join Wasatch County, park personnel, and volunteers in spraying noxious weeds along the Perimeter Trail and around Rock Cliff and Ross Creek. Spraying will begin at 7:00 AM and continue throughout the day, weather and wind permitting.
If you are interested in volunteering for this event, please contact the park. Dedicated Hunters can also earn volunteer hours; contact your DWR Dedicated Hunter coordinator for more information.
Is Fielding Garr Ranch Haunted?
Antelope Island State Park
July 12 & August 9
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
Meet at Fielding Garr Ranch to delve into the mysteries of the supernatural. Learn about the methods used to detect unexplained phenomena, and hear intriguing stories and reported experiences. After the presentation and safety guidelines, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the buildings and search for evidence of visitors from beyond the grave.
- Fee: This event is free with your park entrance fee.
- Registration: Space is limited. Registration is required. Reserve your spot by contacting antelopeislandranch@utah.gov
- Questions: For any inquiries, reach out to antelopeislandranch@utah.gov
- Park Impacts: None.
Super Duper Day
This Is The Place Heritage Park
July 22 – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Join us for SUPer DUPer Day, an annual special event celebrating the Sons of Utah Pioneers (SUP) and Daughters of Utah Pioneers (DUP). Members of these organizations receive discounted admission into the Park.
Discount Code Available! Contact the SUP or DUP for more information:
- SUP: supnatloffice@gmail.com or 801-484-4441
- DUP: info@isdup.org or 801-532-6479
“Bat’s Incredible!” Bat Talk
Dead Horse Point State Park
July 25 – 9:00 PM
Many different species of bats call the canyons of the Moab area home. Come and learn more about these amazing creatures at our “Bat Talk” at the Visitor Center at 9:00 PM.
Apple Harvest
Wasatch Mountain State Park
Harvest Begins August 20 (More Harvest Dates Below) – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Join us for the annual Apple Harvest at Wasatch Mountain State Park. This event celebrates the rich heritage of Huber Grove, known for its historic apple orchards. Come and enjoy the beauty of the orchard, participate in apple picking and learn about the history and significance of this historic site.
Harvest Dates:
Sunday, August 20
Saturday, August 26
Sunday, August 27
Saturday, September 2
Saturday, September 9
Sunday, September 10
OUTDOOR ESCAPES
Sunset Talk: Geology Rocks!
Dead Horse Point State Park
June 29 (8:00 PM), July 12 (7:45 PM), July 31 (7:30 PM)
Experience the beauty of sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park while learning about the fascinating geology that makes this one of the most photographed places in the world. Join a ranger for an informative talk as you watch the sunset over the stunning landscape. Meet by the bathrooms at the Dead Horse Point Overlook at 8:00 PM on June 29, 7:45 PM on July 12, or 7:30 PM on July 31. We will walk a short distance down the west rim trail. Feel free to bring a chair for your comfort.
Owl Prowl
Antelope Island State Park
June 29 – 9:00 AM
Meet at the Visitor Center Parking Lot for a caravan tour of known owl habitats. Join us for an exciting opportunity to observe these magnificent birds in their natural environment. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available, but you are encouraged to bring your own.
Fee: This program has no fee, but regular park entry fees apply.
Questions: Contact tackley@utah.gov for any inquiries.
Park Impacts: None.
UMFA in the Wild: Paint a Nightscape
Antelope Island State Park
July 6 – 1:00 PM
Join the Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA) at Buffalo Point Deck for an artistic adventure in Utah’s amazing wilderness. Study the landscape and learn how to transform it into a nightscape. Discover how artists and scientists view the night, then create your own nightscapes using drawing materials and paint.
Fee: There is no fee for this event, but regular park entry fees apply.
Questions: Contact tackley@utah.gov or u0110103@umail.utah.edu for any inquiries.
Park Impacts: None.
UMFA in the Wild: Watercolor Landscapes
Antelope Island State Park
August 31 – 1:00 PM
Join the Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA) at Buffalo Point Deck for a creative adventure in Utah’s amazing wilderness. Try your hand at painting the landscape ‘en plein air’ with watercolors. Get inspired by artists featured in the UMFA’s new exhibition, Blue Grass Green Skies, and learn special techniques to create your own landscape masterpiece.
Fee: There is no fee for this event, but regular park entry fees apply.
Questions: Contact tackley@utah.gov or u0110103@umail.utah.edu for any inquiries.
Park Impacts: None.
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Summer in Utah calls for adventure on your terms. If you prefer to chart your own course, we’ve curated three top self-guided experiences just for you. These off-the-beaten-path options promise excitement and fun at your own pace:
Dark Sky Delights
Dead Horse Point State Park
Step into a realm of wonder and awe as you gaze at the glittering expanse of stars above Dead Horse Point State Park. Recognized as an International Dark Sky Park in 2016, this breathtaking location offers an immersive stargazing experience in the Moab area.
Whether you prefer the expert guidance of our knowledgeable rangers or the freedom to explore on your own, Dead Horse Point State Park offers something for every stargazer.
With a variety of Dark Sky events throughout the year, Dead Horse Point State Park is the perfect destination for celestial enthusiasts of all levels. Don’t miss your chance to experience the skies that have inspired wonder for generations!
Dead Horse Point State Park Upcoming Events
Rediscover the Pioneer Era
Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Iron County at Frontier Homestead State Park Museum in Cedar City, where the pioneering spirit of early settlers comes to life. Explore the captivating evolution of the region from Brigham Young’s 1850s mission of mining and processing iron to the present day. Wander through the museum’s extensive collection of horse-drawn vehicles dating from 1850 to 1920, and marvel at pioneer artifacts offering a glimpse into 19th-century daily life. Don’t miss the iron industry exhibit, which features the town bell—the only remaining artifact from the original foundry.
Engage in hands-on activities such as living in a pioneer cabin, printing on a 19th-century press and rug weaving on a 100-year-old loom. Step outside to discover the museum’s collection of horse-drawn farm equipment and wagons, including binders, mowers, plows and more.
The museum hosts special events throughout the summer, including their Anniversary Celebration in July and the Southern Utah Watercolor Society exhibit in July and August. Plus, don’t miss weekly Story Time every Tuesday—free for all visitors.
Plan your visit today and experience the past at Frontier Homestead State Park Museum!
Explore Water Adventures
Experience the thrill of the open water with East Canyon State Park’s premier boat rentals! Whether you’re seeking a relaxing cruise or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, we have the perfect watercraft for you.
Boat Rentals:
- Crownline Boats: Sale price starting from $550.00 for an incredible day on the water
- Pontoons: From $300.00 for a leisurely cruise on the serene waters
Exciting Rentals:
- Sea-Doos: Priced from $180.00 for high-speed excitement on the waves
- Kayaks: Starting from $30.00 for a personal water journey
- Paddleboards: The sale price starts at $30.00 for serene paddling experiences
- Canoes: From $30.00 for a classic water exploration adventure
Crownline Exclusive:
- Rider-Towable Tube: Available for $35.00, exclusively for Crownline boat rentals, for an exhilarating ride on the water
Don’t miss out on the aquatic fun at East Canyon State Park! Rent your preferred watercraft or equipment today for an unforgettable day on the water!
SUMMERTIME SAFETY
As summer heats up, safety remains vital for your outdoor adventures! Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Check your gear before heading out. Ensure it’s in good condition for the season’s activities.
- Inform a trusted person of your destination and estimated return time.
- Avoid going solo. Bring a friend when exploring for an extra layer of security.
- Stay informed about weather forecasts and park conditions, including boat ramp closures and fire restrictions.
- Pack a kit with essentials for handling minor injuries. Bring important items like sunscreen and bug repellent. Communication devices such as cell phones or radios are vital to reach out for assistance in case of an emergency.
- Carry plenty of water and take frequent breaks in shaded areas to avoid heat-related illnesses. If you experience any symptoms of heat stroke, drink plenty of water, get out of the sun, and get adequate rest. Learn more about staying safe in the heat.
- Keep an eye on changing weather conditions and seek shelter if storms approach unexpectedly. Stay vigilant for flash flood dangers, particularly in areas with steep terrain or narrow canyons, and heed any warnings or advisories issued.
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, including life jackets for boating and helmets for off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding. Be aware of Utah’s laws regarding life jacket and helmet requirements.
- Know the boating rules and regulations before hitting Utah’s lakes and reservoirs. Observe speed limits, watch for other watercraft, check water levels and hazards, and never boat under the influence. Always designate a sober driver. For more tips, visit the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation.
- Always check fire restrictions in advance and practice campfire safety. Never leave fires unattended, contain them in approved pits or cleared areas, avoid windy days and keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby. For more tips, visit utahfiresense.org. Remember, fireworks are prohibited at Utah State Parks.
Prioritize your safety and have a fantastic summer exploring Utah’s stunning landscapes! Check out our Top 10 Summer Safety Tips for more helpful info.
Summer always sizzles with excitement at Utah’s state parks! So, slip into your adventure shoes, round up your crew, and let the magic unfold. Whether you’re chasing shooting stars in the ink-black skies, blazing new trails through breathtaking landscapes, or simply basking in nature’s tranquility, the possibilities are limitless. Here’s to endless laughter, boundless exploration and memories that shimmer like the summer sun.
Let the adventures begin, Utah!
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