Goblin Valley State Park wilderness guide
State Park · UT

Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park in Utah is renowned for its unique sandstone formations known as hoodoos, providing a surreal landscape perfect for exploration and photography.

State Park3,6544+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

3,654

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park in Utah is renowned for its unique sandstone formations known as hoodoos, providing a surreal landscape perfect for exploration and photography.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Goblin Valley State Park is located in southeastern Utah, enveloped by a vast landscape of dramatic sandstone formations locally known as hoodoos. These mysterious geological features, shaped by wind and water erosion over millions of years, resemble a congregation of mystical goblins, offering an otherworldly experience. The park's terrain is predominantly desert, punctuated by the reddish hues of Entrada sandstone, creating dramatic sightlines against clear skies. Historically, the area was once inhabited by the Fremont culture, with intriguing remnants of their presence still evident in scattered petroglyphs. Goblin Valley is a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts who can explore its trails, enjoy stargazing under one of the darkest skies in the country, or pitch tents in designated campsites. Despite its arid environment, the park supports diverse wildlife, including kit foxes, jackrabbits, and various bird species. Its appeal lies in both its geological wonders and the serene, vast open spaces that offer ample opportunities for adventure and reflection.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Goblin Valley State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Valley of Goblins with thousands of hoodoos✦ Dark Sky Park designation for prime stargazing✦ Nearby Little Wild Horse Canyon for slot canyon hiking✦ Goblin's Lair, a cave-like formation accessible by a short hike
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Goblin Valley State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Goblin Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Goblin Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Goblin Valley State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Goblin Valley State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Goblin Valley State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fee required; no permits needed for day use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Goblin Valley State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Goblin Valley Campground

Located near the Valley of Goblins, offering basic amenities with stunning views of the sandstone formations.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Goblin Valley State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Hanksville, Utah
⌖ 13.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hanksville, Utah

Hanksville is a quiet desert town serving as the gateway to stunning Utah landscapes like Capitol Reef and the San Rafael Swell. Perfect for hiking, off-roading, and stargazing, it offers remote adventure in unique red rock country.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Emery, Utah
⌖ 37.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Emery, Utah

Emery, Utah, is an authentic desert adventure town offering hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, and rock climbing amid the vast San Rafael Swell. With slot canyons, scenic backcountry trails, and solitude, it’s perfect for outdoor explorers looking for quiet wilderness.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Green River, Utah
⌖ 41.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Green River, Utah

Green River, Utah is a gateway to thrilling desert adventures. With hiking, canoeing, and camping opportunities, it’s an ideal spot for exploring the breathtaking canyons and landscapes of the region.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Castle Dale, Utah
⌖ 47.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Castle Dale, Utah

Castle Dale offers outdoor fans access to the San Rafael Swell’s stunning desert canyons and mountain forests. With hiking, biking, fishing, and camping options, it’s an ideal quiet basecamp for exploring eastern Utah’s open spaces.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Huntington, Utah
⌖ 54.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Huntington, Utah

Huntington, Utah is a quiet spot for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, climbing, paddling, and backpacking adventures in the dramatic San Rafael Swell and Huntington Canyon. Ideal in spring and fall, it offers peaceful desert landscapes and rugged terrain far from crowds.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Goblin Valley State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

An Hour Among Llamas: Walking the Western Water Pocket Fold
ADVEXPEDITION
Torrey, Utah
HikingADV Bookable

An Hour Among Llamas: Walking the Western Water Pocket Fold

A guided, one-hour hike from Wilderness Ridge Adventures that pairs sturdy llama companions with exclusive access to a gypsum-strewn stretch of Capitol Reef’s Western Water Pocket Fold—this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.

HikingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip