Water Adventures and Red Sand Dunes Near Zion
Swim, paddleboard, boat, and explore towering desert dunes at one of Southern Utah’s most exciting outdoor playgrounds.
Discover One of Southern Utah’s Most Popular State Parks
Sand Hollow State Park is one of the most unique recreation areas near Zion National Park. Located just outside the town of Hurricane, the park combines two completely different landscapes in one destination: a warm desert reservoir and massive red sand dunes.
Visitors come here to swim, paddleboard, fish, boat, ride ATVs across Sand Mountain, and photograph one of the most striking desert landscapes in Southern Utah.
Because the park sits only about 30 to 40 minutes from Zion National Park, it has become a popular stop for travelers looking to add water recreation and off-road adventure to their Zion itinerary.
Quick Facts Bar
Hurricane, Utah
About 35 minutes
Spring through Fall
Swimming, boating, paddleboarding, OHV riding, photography
Why Visitors Love Sand Hollow
Sand Hollow State Park stands out because it offers both water recreation and desert dune exploration in the same location.
Each level offers different scenery and viewpoints, making it easy to customize the hike based on experience level.
Best Things to Do at Sand Hollow
Sand Hollow Reservoir offers warm water and sandy shoreline areas perfect for swimming and relaxing. The reservoir is especially popular during summer months when temperatures rise across Southern Utah.
The contrast between bright blue water and surrounding red rock cliffs creates one of the most beautiful swimming locations in the region.
The calm waters of Sand Hollow Reservoir make it ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Visitors can explore quiet coves along the shoreline while enjoying views of surrounding sandstone cliffs.
Paddle sports offer a peaceful way to experience the park’s scenery away from busier boat areas.
Sand Hollow Reservoir is a favorite location for boating, wakeboarding, and tubing. Several boat launch ramps allow easy access to the water.
The large open reservoir provides excellent conditions for recreational boating with dramatic desert scenery in every direction.
Sand Mountain is one of Utah’s most famous off-road vehicle areas. Riders explore steep red sand dunes, rocky desert trails, and open terrain using ATVs, UTVs, or dirt bikes.
The towering red sand dunes create a unique riding environment that attracts off-road enthusiasts from across the country.
Sand Hollow is also one of the best photography locations in Southern Utah. The contrast between the reservoir’s blue water and the surrounding red desert landscape creates dramatic images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Photographers often capture panoramic views from Sand Mountain overlooking the reservoir.
Entrance Fees and Park Information
Sand Hollow State Park requires a Utah State Parks entrance fee.
Seasonal Tips for Visitors
Comfortable weather and ideal temperatures for boating and paddle sports.
The most popular season for swimming and water activities. Early morning and evening visits are recommended due to heat.
Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds make fall an excellent time to explore the park.
Cooler temperatures allow for quiet hiking, photography, and off-road exploration.
Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons for hiking Angels Landing.
Visitors often combine Emerald Pools with other nearby trails such as:
Sand Hollow State Park is located near Hurricane, Utah.
Because of its convenient location, many visitors combine Sand Hollow with other nearby destinations during their Southern Utah trip.
Sand Hollow State Park offers a completely different experience from the canyon hikes of Zion National Park. With warm desert water, towering sand dunes, and endless recreation opportunities, the park provides a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re swimming in the reservoir, riding across red sand dunes, or capturing sunset photos over the desert landscape, Sand Hollow delivers one of the most memorable outdoor experiences in Southern Utah.
