Many of the millions of visitors that pass through Springdale each year visit the town with plans of exploring Zion National Park. Quick and easy access to this incredible national park is certainly a reason to book Springdale Utah hotels. But it’s far from the region’s only natural attraction.
Just a short distance away from Zion’s entrance gate are a number of incredible, yet often overlooked state parks. These parks offer some similar features as Zion, as well as some unique attractions. During the busy summer months, they can also be a great spot to beat the crowds — though with their own popularity growing each year, you can still expect to share trails, picnic areas, and other popular spots with plenty of other visitors during the height of the summer or around popular holidays! Staying in lodging near Zion National Park makes it easy to enjoy these state parks as well during your visit.
Whether you want to try something new during your visit, like sand boarding or boating, or you simply want to take a break from Zion, keep reading to learn about a few must-see state parks located a short drive from Springdale.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Of the 43 state parks that Utah has to offer, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is certainly one of the most unique. The park is best known for the stunning sand dunes from which it gets its name. Many first-time visitors to Southern Utah, and even some repeat guests, don’t realize that the region is home to sand dunes, let alone ones of this size. But in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, you can get up close and personal with the shifting dunes, and watch at sunset as they take on their famous pink tone.
This state park is located in Kanab, Utah, which is about an hour’s drive from Springdale. Hiking and sandboarding are popular activities in the park. It also features an off-road area where you can bring your own ATV or UTV, or join a tour from one of several guide companies in the area.
Sand Hollow State Park
Located just 45 minutes from Springdale is another unique state park. Sand Hollow State Park features two separate sections; a beautiful reservoir featuring bright blue, warm waters, and a large off-road area popular for ATVs, UTVs, and mountain bikers.
In the reservoir section, guests can boat, swim, fish, and even scuba dive. This is a great spot to cool off on a hot day. Bring your own off-road vehicle, or book a tour or rental vehicle with one of the many local companies, and explore the more than 62,000 acres of off-road trails and sand dunes.
Kodachrome Basin State Park
All of Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks are well-known for their incredible rock formations. Zion is home to stunning red rock peaks — including the peak of Angels Landing, the park’s most famous hiking trail. Nearby Bryce Canyon National Park is home to the world’s largest collection of hoodoos, towering stacks of rocks that seem to defy gravity.
But national parks aren’t the only places to spot some unique rock formations. Located just over 2 hours from Springdale is Kodachrome Basin State Park. Home to 67 colorful monolithic stone spires, this park offers landscapes that are no less stunning than its nearest national park, Bryce Canyon. The park actually got its name from a popular color film and was discovered following a National Geographic Society expedition in 1948.
Hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking are the most popular activities in this park. Before returning to your Springdale Utah hotels, be sure to make a side trip to Grosvenor Arch, an intricate double arch located about 10 miles southeast of the park.
Choosing the Best Springdale Utah Hotels
Whether you plan to spend your entire trip in Zion National Park or want to explore more of what Southern Utah has to offer, including these incredible state parks, there’s plenty to see and do in Springdale, Utah. And choosing the best Springdale Utah hotels can make a big difference in the success of your trip.
Choosing lodging near Zion National Park allows you to get to the park early in the day to beat the crowds. At Flanigan’s Inn, you can even take advantage of our on-site shuttle stop to get to and from the park without having to find parking. Staying in Springdale also makes it easy to day trip to these and other state parks during your visit.
Ready to start planning your own Southern Utah adventure? Book your stay at one of the best Springdale Utah hotels today!