Hiking Southern Utah: Sand Hollow State Park
The sprawling 20,000-acre Sand Hollow State Park, which rests mostly on Bureau of Land Management land, rivals Utah’s two largest state parks, Wasatch Mountain and Antelope Island. It’s one of the most visited destinations in the Utah State Park system, with recreation opportunities for nearly every user — from boaters to bikers and from off-highway vehicle (OHV) riders to equestrians.
Sand Mountain provides 15,000 acres of perfectly sculpted dunes. The red sand is an incredible backdrop for Sand Hollow Reservoir. At nearly twice the size of nearby Quail Creek Reservoir, Sand Hollow State Park offers boating and other water recreation in a spectacular setting.
With warm, blue waters and a gorgeous landscape, it’s no wonder that Sand Hollow State Park is one of the state’s most popular parks. Located just 15 miles east of St. George and spanning across 20,000 acres, the new blood to Utah State Parks draws visitors in with a wide range of recreation opportunities.
One popular event seeing increased growth and interest has been the annual Winter 4×4 Jamboree hosted by the DesertRATS (Desert Roads and Trails Society). A premier off-road event, the jamboree encourages all who enjoy the OHV lifestyle to join in taking advantage of the unique and stellar Utah landscape.
The Sand Hollow Reservoir is also a popular sport for those who enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and sailboat racing. At nearly twice the size of the Quail Creek Reservoir, anglers let their lines out into the water in search of bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish.
Fishermen aren’t the only ones enjoying the water at Sand Hollow. Motorboats, jet skiers, water sports enthusiasts, and sailboat racers alike all partake in warm waters.
Those who want to become more involved with the park also have the opportunity to volunteer in a variety of ways. Individuals, couples, and families with children of all ages are needed for worthwhile and fun projects. Whether it’s spending a few minutes, hours, days, or months, a volunteer assignment can be tailored to meet a variety of interests.
Sand Hollow State Park is located approximately 15 miles east of St. George and seven miles east of Interstate 15’s Hurricane exit. Visitors should take exit 16 (Utah State Route 9), travel east for about four miles and turn right on Sand Hollow Road, travel south for about three miles, and turn left at the park entrance.
