A Guide to Spring at Utah’s State Parks

April 22, 2024

A world of outdoor excitement and natural beauty awaits as we bid a frosty farewell to winter. Join Utah State Parks in celebrating the arrival of spring, where the sun shines brighter, the great outdoors beckon with open arms, and a fluffy bunny friend might just make an annual visit to hide some eggs.

From scenic hikes to tranquil moments surrounded by nature’s wonders, let’s make this spring a season to remember at Utah’s state parks. See below for a guide to the best activities, events, and hidden gems that await you. And be sure to check back as we’ll update throughout the season.

Find your adventure here:

SPRING FUN
DARK SKY
HIDDEN GEMS
OUTDOOR ESCAPES
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
SPRINGTIME SAFETY

SPRING FUN

Amphibian Adventure
Dead Horse Point State Park
April 28 – 8:30 PM

Come celebrate Save the Frogs Day here at Dead Horse Point State Park. A ranger will take you on a amphibian adventure out to our ephemeral pools, where the toads croak and lay their eggs. Meet in front of the Visitor Center at 8:30 PM for a hopping good time. You will want good shoes and a flashlight.

Junior Ranger Program
Camp Floyd State Park
May 4 – 2:00 PM

Come and Join Camp Floyd State Park at 2:00 PM for our monthly Junior Ranger program focusing on the Johnston’s Army with activities for the kids. Though this program is geared towards people under 12 all ages are welcome. Admission fees are $3 per person and $10 per family. Reservations are required. For more information and to reserve your spot please email campfloyd@utah.gov.

National Kids to Parks Day
Great Salt Lake State Park
May 18th – 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Celebrate National Kids to Parks Day at Great Salt Lake State Park! This year marks the 14th anniversary of this annual celebration.

Bring the whole crew for a day of outdoor fun and games. We host family-friendly activities throughout the park. While the event is free, we ask all attendees to pay the park entry fee.

For more information and other Kids to Parks Day events, visit https://parktrust.org/kids-to-parks-day/.

Please note: this event is hosted at Great Salt Lake State Park in Magna, UT (Exit 104 off of I80), not Antelope Island State Park.

Camp Floyd Days
Camp Floyd State Park
May 27 – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Join us for a day filled with historical exploration and family-friendly fun! Camp Floyd State Park is gearing up for an unforgettable Memorial Day with “Camp Floyd Days,” which takes you back in time to experience life as it would have been for the soldiers of Johnston’s Army.

Delve into the rich history of Camp Floyd (1858-1861) by examining artifacts in our museum and taking a guided tour of the historic Stagecoach Inn, which operated from 1858 to 1947. Witness re-enactors drill and fire period muskets, visit the graves of soldiers who served our country, and let your children learn military drills with toy muskets while donning period uniforms. Explore the camps of civilian and military re-enactors, where you can play period games and soak in the authentic atmosphere.

Don’t forget to bring some cash for the event’s vendor area and explore the offerings at Beefsteak’s Bistro for tasty food available for purchase. Museum entrance fees are $5 per person or $15 per family (immediate family only).

For more details, contact us at (801) 768-8932 or via email at campfloyd@utah.gov.

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DARK SKY

Full Moon Hike
Dead Horse Point State Park
April 24 – 8:30 PM

Join a ranger as we hike by the light of the full moon and learn about the animals that go bump in the night. The hike will be 1 mile and will be on a rock and dirt trail. Meet in front of the Visitor Center at 8:30 PM.

Star Party
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 8 – 9:30 PM

Stargazing, constellations, stories, and telescope viewing? Yes, please! Join us for a night amongst the stars. We will meet in the Visitor Center parking lot at 9:30 PM.

Star Party
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 10 – 9:30 PM

The stars are aligning . . . okay not really. We will be showing how some stars align to make up our constellations. After a constellation tour and stories we will pull out the telescopes and look at some deep space objects. Meet in the Visitor Center parking lot at 9:30 PM.

Star Party with Ogden Astronomical Society
Antelope Island State Park
May 11 – 6:00 PM

Join OAS at the White Rock Bay / Back Country Trailhead starting at 6:00pm for (safe) solar viewing through telescopes. After dark scopes will be switched for night sky viewing. This is an open, come-and-go-as-you-wish event. For more information about our hosts, visit https://www.ogden-astronomy.org/
There is no fee for this event. If you have questions please contact tackley@utah.gov
Park Impacts: Increased evening traffic in White Rock Bay

Sunset Talk: Desert Colors
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 14 – 7:45 PM

As the sun fills the sky with reds, oranges, and pinks, listen to a ranger as they tell about the other colors you can see in the desert. Meet out at the Dead Horse Point Overlook at 7:45 PM. We will walk a little ways down the west rim trail to our spot.

Scorpion Hunt
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 16 – 9:15 PM

Armed with our trusty UV lights we will hike along the mountain bike trail looking for the glow of scorpions. Meet out at the mountain bike parking lot at 9:15 PM for a fun night of hunting. UV lights are provided but if you have one please bring it and make sure you have closed toe shoes.

Stars & Scorpions
Fremont Indian State Park & Museum
May 25 – 9:00 PM

Step into the captivating realm of the night sky at our Stars & Scorpions event! Equipped with provided black lights, we’ll delve into the mysterious world of scorpions while marveling at the starry skies above.

Dress warmly, bring your flashlight, and get ready for an evening filled with excitement and discovery. Day-use fees of $10 per vehicle apply. Meet at the museum parking lot.

For more information, call (435) 678-2238.

Full Moon Hike
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 22 – 9:00 PM

As the moon is reaching its “full” potential, come walk by its light with one of our rangers. Meet in front of the Visitor Center for a 1 mile hike. The hike will be on a dirt and rock trail so please wear appropriate shoes. We will meet at 9:00 PM.

Full Moon Hike
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 23 – 9:00 pM

Sunset Talk: Geology Rocks!
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 29 – 7:45 PM

Sunset can be a spectacular time to come and view what the park has to offer. Watch the sunset and while you do a ranger will talk to you about what makes this one of the most photographed places in the world. Meet by the bathrooms out at the Dead Horse Point Overlook at 7:45 PM. We will be walking a little ways down the west rim trail. You are welcome to bring a chair if you would like.

Scorpion Hunt
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 31 – 9:15 PM

UV lights are ablaze as we search for the sometimes elusive scorpion. Scorpions are a nocturnal animal that have a unique quality. They glow blue green under UV light! Join us out at the mountain bike parking lot at 9:15 PM for a fun night of hunting. UV lights are provided but if you have one please bring it and make sure you have closed toe shoes.

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HIDDEN GEMS

Lava Lands
Snow Canyon State Park
April 27 – 9:00-10:30 AM

Dive deeper into the geology of Snow Canyon, quite literally! Join park staff as we climb into one of the lava tubes you will find here in the park. Registration begins 4/25. Call 435-628-2255

Tortoise Meet & Greet
Snow Canyon State Park
April 27 – 11:30-2:30 PM

Snow Canyon is thrilled to host the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources for a close-up experience with the Mojave desert tortoise. Biologists will be on-site to answer questions at this educational, family-friendly event. Meet at the Chuckwalla Trailhead. While the event is free, participants are encouraged to register in advance on Eventbrite.

Is Fielding Garr Ranch Haunted?
Antelope Island State Park
May 3

Join us at Fielding Garr Ranch for a spine-tingling exploration into the world of the unexplained! Delve into methods used to detect mysterious phenomena and hear chilling stories of reported experiences.

After a presentation on safety guidelines, you can wander through the historic buildings, searching for evidence of visitors from beyond the grave. The event is free with your park entrance fee, but space is limited, so registration is required.

Contact antelopeislandranch@utah.gov with questions or to reserve your spot.

Lantern Tours
Camp Floyd State Park
May 10 – 9:00 PM

Have you ever wondered what Camp Floyd looks like under the night sky? Join us at 9:00 PM for a unique lantern-lit experience as our park staff guides you through the Commissary, the Schoolhouse, and the Stagecoach Inn after hours.

To make the most of this intimate program, bring a flashlight. This event is limited to just 40 people, so reservations are required for this exclusive event.

Admission fees for this unique after-hours experience are $10 per person. Don’t miss the chance to explore Camp Floyd in a new light! For reservations or additional information, contact us at (801) 768-8932 or via email at campfloyd@utah.gov.

Whose Home on the Range?
Antelope Island State Park
May 18 – 1:00 PM, Visitor Center Media Room

Join the Park Naturalist to learn about the diverse wildlife that calls Antelope Island “Home”. We will discuss why they are here, how they survive this harsh environment, and what our roles are as visitors in their homes. There is no fee for this program – regular park entrance fees apply. For more information, contact tackley@utah.gov

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OUTDOOR ESCAPES

Manning Canyon Guided Hike
Camp Floyd State Park
April 27 – 9:00 AM

Embark on a guided adventure with Camp Floyd State Park! Join us at 9:00 AM for a captivating hike beginning at the historic town of Manning. The hike covers approximately 7 miles along the Salt Lake Mercur rail and wagon road. Explore Manning Canyon’s prosperous railroad and mining history as our knowledgeable staff guides you through the scenic route.

This moderate hike, lasting around 4 hours, offers a chance to connect with history amidst breathtaking landscapes. Remember to bring ample water, snacks, and lunch for a mid-hike break.

Admission fees for this event are $10 per person. Reservations are required. Please note that a high-clearance vehicle is necessary for Manning Area access.

For more details or to secure your spot, contact us at (801) 768-8932 or via email at campfloyd@utah.gov.

Make your reservations HERE.

Nature Walk
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 4 – 4:00 PM

Join a ranger on a short nature walk talking about how our plants survive the harsh desert landscape. We will be meeting outside the Visitor Center at 4:00 PM for a short quarter of a mile walk on a paved path.

A Mindful Meander
Dead Horse Point State Park
May 19 – 7:15 PM

Here at Dead Horse Point State Park, we are internationally known for our mysterious dark sky however our sunsets are quite remarkable as well! Join us for a quiet saunter to embrace and honor the sacred land of our park! For centuries people have celebrated our lands by coming together in wild places to experience the shifting seasons, elements of nature and unique places on Earth. We invite you to explore the power of silence, reflection and unity while immersing yourself in Mother Nature.

Gathering at the Dead Horse Point Overlook at 7:15 PM we will embark on a mindful meander along the West Rim trail to Meander Overlook. Please bring anything you’d like to use as a seat, a blanket, proper footwear, and headlamp. The hike will be about 2 miles round-trip.

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Experience spring in Utah your way with our top three self-guided adventures. We’ve handpicked three activities that promise excitement and adventure—at your own pace:

Disc Golf
Goblin Valley State Park

Our redesigned disc golf course is now open, offering adventures and challenges for everyone! The first eleven holes extend over relatively flat terrain, with sweeping vistas of the Henry Mountains and Valley of the Goblins. A link with the Curtis Bench hiking trail lets you return to your vehicle leisurely.

For those wishing to play the whole course, holes 12-20 extend through winding and dramatic canyons with some sandy dune fields mixed in. Steep climbs and descents are required, and the total distance is approximately two miles. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water.

Best of all, the course is entirely free to play, with disc rentals available for just $1 each. So grab your gear and embark on an unforgettable springtime excursion!

Springtime Sand Adventures!
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Sand boards (stand-up) and sand sleds (sit-down) are available for rent at the park on a first-come, first-serve basis. They are great fun on the dunes—although climbing the hill again afterward can be a bit of a chore!

The rental fee is $25 per board, and they can be rented at the Visitor Center. Rentals need to be returned 30 minutes before the Visitor Center closes. Visitor center hours change with the length of daylight hours. Contact the Visitor Center by phone for current operating hours at 435-648-2800.

Golf
Wasatch Mountain State Park

Visit the stunning courses at Wasatch Mountain State Park and enjoy a picture-perfect day of golf at either the Soldier Hollow or Wasatch Mountain courses. The courses are expected to open in early spring, weather permitting, so keep an eye out for tee times!

Soldier Hollow Golf Course is a championship, 36-hole complex built on the mountainside above Midway. Part of the gorgeous Wasatch Mountain State Park, Soldier Hollow was a major venue during the 2002 Winter Olympics. Two 18-hole courses, the Gold and Silver courses, offer challenging play and amazing views of the Heber Valley.

Book your tee times up to 10 days in advance at https://stateparks.utah.gov/golf/soldier-hollow/teetime/

Wasatch Mountain State Park is home to the Mountain and Lake courses, which are consistently ranked among the most popular, affordable, and scenic in Utah. Nationally, Golf Digest rated Wasatch Mountain as one of Utah’s Best Places to Play! At an elevation of 6,000 feet, golfers enjoy cooler temperatures during the summer months and spectacular fall colors in the autumn. If you love nature and enjoy playing golf in a natural setting with fairways bordered by trees rather than houses, Wasatch is a perfect setting.

Book your tee times up to 10 days in advance at https://stateparks.utah.gov/golf/wasatch/teetime/

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SPRINGTIME SAFETY

As you bid farewell to the winter blues and head out to enjoy spring, remember to prioritize safety! Here are some spring tips to help you have a great time while staying safe:

Check your gear carefully before heading out. If it’s been in storage, give it a thorough once-over. Ensure your life jackets and helmets are in good shape.
Be sure to inform a trusted person about your destination and estimated return time. It’s always a good idea to have someone aware of your location in case of an emergency.
Avoid going solo. Bring a friend or family member along when exploring. Having a companion provides an extra layer of safety.
Before hitting the road, check the weather forecast and current park conditions. Be aware of any boat ramp closures, fire restrictions, or other relevant updates that may impact your visit.
Bring an emergency kit that includes the essentials for handling minor injuries. Familiarize yourself with its contents beforehand and consider adding any additional essential items you think may be helpful, such as sunscreen and bug repellant.
Bring your cell phone and consider carrying a radio or other communication devices that can help you reach out for assistance in case of an emergency. Staying connected is vital in critical situations.
Keep a close eye on the weather conditions. Storms can roll in unexpectedly, and conditions may change rapidly. Watch for signs of approaching storms, such as darkening skies or sudden shifts in wind patterns. If you see signs of an approaching storm, it’s best to err on the side of caution and return to shore if you are on the water. Prioritize your safety and seek shelter until conditions improve.
Always wear the appropriate safety gear for your adventure. Helmets and life jackets save lives. Utah Law requires that all boats have at least one wearable U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. Passengers 12 years old and younger must wear an appropriately sized Coast Guard-approved life jacket whenever a boat is in operation.

Always wear a helmet when riding off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 years of age on public land. We strongly recommend that everyone, regardless of age, wear a helmet for their safety. A helmet can be a lifesaver, protecting your head from potential injuries. Helmets, when worn correctly, won’t hinder your vision or hearing and even help reduce windblasts. Be sure to familiarize yourself with Utah’s OHV Laws and Rules before you hit the trail.
Be aware of flash flood danger. Flash floods can occur suddenly and without warning, particularly in areas with steep terrain, narrow canyons, or dry stream beds. Some state parks, such as Snow Canyon State Park, Goblin Valley State Park, Utahraptor State Park, and Gunlock State Park, have experienced flash flooding along with their surrounding areas in recent years.
Avoid hiking in narrow canyons during rainy periods, and always pay attention to any warnings or advisories issued. Stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and take immediate action if necessary. If you find yourself in a dangerous situation, seek higher ground as quickly as possible. Don’t wait for the water to reach you, as flash floods can occur rapidly. Avoid hiking or camping in areas prone to flash floods, and never attempt to cross a flooded or swiftly moving area. Be mindful that waterways may be deeper than usual, and debris may be present due to extreme runoff. For more information and additional flash flood safety tips, click here.

As you can see, the adventures are endless this spring at Utah’s state parks. So, lace up your boots, gather your crew, and head out to make some memories. Whether you’re captivated by the dark skies, wandering through scenic trails, or simply enjoying the serenity of nature, there’s something for everyone to explore. Happy trails, Utah!

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