Utah State Parks Blog

Utah State Parks Director Retires After 31 Years

Posted on: December 13th, 2023

SALT LAKE CITY — After an illustrious 31-year career with the Utah Division of State Parks, Division Director Jeff Rasmussen has announced his well-deserved retirement. “The time has come for me to start my next great adventure,” Rasmussen said. “My time with Utah State Parks has been something that I’ll cherish forever, and I’m thankful […]

Holiday Happenings at Utah State Parks

Posted on: November 20th, 2023

Dec. 27, 2023 Feel a familiar wintery chill in the air? Get ready for some festive fun at your favorite Utah State Parks! Whether you’re up for a cozy winter hike or a magical drive through a twinkling wonderland, we’ve got the perfect holiday experiences for you and your family. Check back regularly, as we’ll […]

Frights and Delights: Halloween Happenings at Utah State Parks

Posted on: October 20th, 2023

​​As the leaves change to their autumn hues and the air takes on a crisp, magical quality, there’s no better time to embark on a bewitching adventure in the heart of Utah’s wild landscapes. Join Utah State Parks for an unforgettable blend of outdoor escapes and eerie escapades. Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or […]

State Parks Will Remain Open During 2023 Federal Shutdown

Posted on: September 29th, 2023

UPDATE: The U.S. government has signed a short-term funding bill to avert a government shutdown through. All of Utah’s national parks, monuments and areas will continue to operate as usual during this time. Visit the Utah Office of Tourism for additional updates. Sept. 23, 2023 SALT LAKE CITY — With a federal government shutdown likely, […]

Goosenecks State Park Temporarily Closed To Camping For September Road Work

Posted on: September 18th, 2023

September 18, 2023  BLANDING, Utah — Goosenecks State Park will be closed for camping for multiple days this week for work to be completed on the road into the park. The park will be closed for camping and visitors from 7 p.m – 7 a.m. for three nights. Camping will be closed beginning September 19 […]

Colorado Man Dead After OHV Accident at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Posted on: September 3rd, 2023

September 3, 2023 KANAB, Utah — A Colorado man has died after an off-highway vehicle accident at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park.  On Saturday, 23-year-old Abel Ocampo from Denver, Colorado, was camping at the state park with friends and family. Just after 4 p.m., Ocampo was driving a rented side-by-side vehicle in dunes when […]

Autumn Adventures Await: Planning Your Utah State Park Getaways for September

Posted on: August 28th, 2023

Leaves are beginning to don their fall colors and there’s a hint of crispness in the air! It’s the perfect time to embrace the beauty of autumn, and what better way than by attending an event at one of Utah’s state parks? Immerse yourself in a world of breathtaking landscapes that only enhance the magic […]

Child Dies After Propeller Incident at Echo State Park

Posted on: August 13th, 2023

August 13, 2023 Edit: Last name correction to “Greer.” COALVILLE, Utah — A Utah child has died after an incident at Echo State Park.  Just before 4:45 p.m. on Sunday, Utah State Parks responded to the Reservoir after receiving reports of a boat accident.  Walter Greer, a three-year-old from Salt Lake City, was riding a […]

From Overgrown to Outstanding: Wallsburg Trail Clean-Up at Deer Creek State Park

Posted on: August 10th, 2023

DEER CREEK STATE PARK — Exploring Utah’s natural wonders becomes truly rewarding when clear and well-maintained trails guide the way, seamlessly connecting the call of adventure with the tranquility of nature. The Wallsburg Trail at Deer Creek State Park serves as a prime example, having recently received a much-needed makeover. On the morning of July […]

Goosenecks State Park Temporarily Closes To Camping For Road Work

Posted on: August 7th, 2023

BLANDING, Utah — Goosenecks State Park will be closed for camping for two days this week for work to be completed on the road into the park. The park will be closed for camping and visitors from 7 p.m – 7 a.m. on both Wednesday, August 9 and Thursday, August 10. The park will be […]