Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park protects one of the most visually strange landscapes in the American West. Located in central Utah’s San Rafael Desert, the park centers on a broad, open valley filled with thousands of eroded sandstone formations called hoodoos, locally known as goblins. These rounded, mushroom-shaped figures stand in dense clusters across the valley floor, the result of millions of years of wind and water wearing away Entrada sandstone at different rates. The effect is immediate and genuinely disorienting. Visitors often describe the valley as feeling like another planet, and that quality has made it a filming location for science fiction productions. Beyond the main valley, the park extends into narrow slot canyons, open desert terrain, and some of the darkest night skies in Utah.

The Goblin Valley and Its Formations

The valley floor is the heart of the park, and unlike most geological features behind ropes or barriers, the goblins here can be walked among freely. There are no maintained trails through the main valley. Visitors simply descend from the overlook area and wander among the formations at will. This open exploration is rare in protected lands and is one of the park’s defining qualities. The goblins range from knee height to over head height, packed tightly enough in some areas that navigation becomes a winding puzzle. Early morning and late afternoon light turns the sandstone shades of orange and red that shift noticeably as the sun moves. Plan at least two hours to explore the valley floor thoroughly.

Slot Canyons and Backcountry Hiking

Several canyon hikes and routes depart from or near the main valley area and offer a different kind of terrain. Goblin’s Lair, Carmel Canyon, Toadstool Canyon, and Red Canyon each cut through the surrounding sandstone benches, with some narrowing into shaded passages with carved walls. Goblin’s Lair leads to a large cave-like chamber that requires a short scramble and is one of the more dramatic features in the park. Red Canyon links the three trailless valleys with federal wilderness areas beyond and can be extended into longer backcountry routes for experienced desert hikers. All canyon travel should be approached with awareness of flash flood risk. Thunderstorms forming miles away can send water through slot canyons with little warning. Check weather forecasts before entering any enclosed canyon.

Stargazing and Night Sky

Goblin Valley holds designation as a Dark Sky Park, and the night sky here is exceptional by any measure. The park sits well away from major population centers, and light pollution is minimal. On clear nights, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye, and the density of stars overhead can be startling to visitors accustomed to urban or suburban skies. The valley formations take on a different character under moonlight or headlamp, making evening walks worthwhile. The park hosts ranger-led dark sky events at times, including moonlit hikes and telescope programs, and the observation point provides an open view and a practical gathering point for stargazing.

Camping

The park’s developed campground has 24 sites, along with two yurts, a group site, and centrally located restroom and shower facilities. Individual campsites include a picnic table, fire ring, and shade shelter, but there are no electrical hookups. The campground sits outside the Valley of Goblins itself but is surrounded by rock formations. The group camping area accommodates larger parties. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially from March through October when the park sees its highest visitation. Sites can be booked through the Utah State Parks reservation system. Designated primitive and partially developed camping areas are available elsewhere in the park, and camping is allowed only in designated sites.

Pet Policy

Pets are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. They are permitted in the campground, on hiking trails, and in the valley floor among the formations. Service animals are the only animals admitted inside park buildings. Keeping pets leashed and under control protects wildlife, other visitors, and fragile park resources. Pets must not be left unattended, and owners are responsible for waste cleanup. Given the heat common in summer months, extra care should be taken to ensure animals have adequate water and shade.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Rattlesnakes, including midget faded rattlesnakes, are found within and near the park, particularly in desert and rocky areas. They are most active from spring through fall. Watch where you step and place your hands, and never reach into crevices or under rock ledges without looking first. If you encounter a rattlesnake, give it space and wait for it to move on.

Scorpions shelter under rocks, debris, and in gear left on the ground overnight. Before putting on shoes or clothing left outside, shake them out thoroughly. This applies especially when camping. Scorpion stings are painful and can cause more serious reactions in some people. A UV flashlight is useful for spotting scorpions at night if you are concerned.

Black widow spiders can occur in southern Utah and may shelter in shaded crevices, under debris, or around structures. They are not aggressive but will bite if disturbed. Avoid placing bare hands in dark gaps between rocks.

Coyotes are present in the park and are most active at dawn and dusk. They are rarely a direct threat to adults but can approach campsites in search of food. Keep all food stored securely, do not leave coolers or garbage out overnight, and never feed wildlife intentionally or by accident.

Practical Information

Goblin Valley State Park is located in Emery County, Utah. The nearest town with services is Hanksville, roughly 30 miles to the south. Green River is about 50 miles to the northeast. The park is reached by taking Highway 24 south from Interstate 70, then following Temple Mountain Road and the signed park access road. The drive from Green River takes roughly 50 minutes. Entry fees are $20 per private vehicle, $10 per motorcycle, bicycle, or pedestrian, and $5 per person for commercial vehicles. The Utah State Parks annual pass is accepted. The park is open year-round, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and make midday activity inadvisable. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions for exploration.