Sand Hollow State Park

Swimmer’s Itch is a common, temporary skin irritation that can occasionally occur after swimming or wading in natural bodies of water. It may cause small, itchy red bumps similar to mosquito or other insect bites. While uncomfortable, Swimmer’s Itch is not contagious and is generally not a serious health concern.

The irritation is caused by tiny, naturally occurring aquatic organisms that are part of a life cycle involving waterfowl and snails. Humans are not part of their normal life cycle. Occasionally, these microscopic organisms may come into contact with a swimmer’s skin, but they cannot survive in humans and are quickly eliminated by the body. The itching and bumps are simply the skin’s reaction to that contact.

Swimmer’s Itch occur in lakes and other natural waters throughout the world and is more common during warmer months. It is most often associated with shallow water near the shoreline, where the organisms are more likely to be present. Children may encounter it more often because they typically spend more time playing in shallow water.

Drying off with a towel soon after leaving the water and avoiding prolonged time in warm, shallow shoreline areas may help reduce the chance of irritation.

Sand Hollow State Park is dog-friendly! You may bring your furry friends on all adventures in the park, and into the campground. While doing so, we ask that you respect the following guidelines:

Pets must be leashed at all times, even while in the campground

In addition to protecting wildlife and sensitive biological soil crust, this also keeps your pet safe. Sadly, many dogs have been lost over the years while chasing objects or small rodents throughout the sandy areas of the park.

Pets are not allowed in the Cottage 2.

We apologize for any inconvenience, but we are unable to accommodate pets in this park facility. The unexpected danger that pet hair can pose to those suffering from severe allergies. Due to extreme heat danger (see below), we also cannot allow guests to leave their pets in vehicles while they are staying in the Cottage.  If you do have pets and are looking to stay in our park, Cottage 1 is pet friendly.

Pets cannot be left in vehicles

Please keep in mind that on even a moderately warm, sunny day, the temperature inside your vehicle can quickly exceed 140º F (60º C). Neither cracking the windows nor leaving water will allow your pet to survive under these conditions.

Clean up after your pet

For your convenience, dog waste bag dispensers are located throughout the park. Help us keep the park clean!  They can be found in our campgrounds, at the visitor center and park day use areas.

If you have any questions about these policies, feel free to ask a park ranger for guidance. We hope you and your animal companions have fun out there!