Located around a half-hour from Water Canyon Resort, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is one of Southern Utah’s hidden gems. Even if you already know that the region is home to a diverse array of landscapes, seeing the massive expanses of rolling sand dunes in the middle of the red rock desert for the first time is striking.
The park is located halfway between Hildale and Kanab, Utah, just above the border with Arizona. This state park covers more than 3,700 acres. If you’re planning a stay in our mini cabins in Utah, the state park makes for a great day trip during your visit. It’s a great spot to take a break from the crowds of Zion National Park or to enjoy some unique and exciting activities you won’t find elsewhere in the region.
Keep reading to learn more about Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, and what you need to know to plan a day trip.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park gets its name from the pink-hued dunes that cover much of the park. These sand dunes were formed between 10,000 and 15,000 years ago from erosion of the Navajo sandstone cliffs located there. The park was created in 1963, making it one of the oldest state parks in Utah.
There are a number of ways to experience the park’s popular sand dunes. One of the most popular options is an off-road adventure. Around 90 percent of the dunes are open to off-road vehicles, including ATVs and UTVs. You can bring your own, rent one, or join an off-road tour. Guided tours are a great option for those visiting the park for the first time or those without experience operating off-road vehicles. You can also go hiking, rock climbing, and rappelling in the park.
What to Know Before You Visit
If you’re planning a day trip to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park during your stay in our mini cabins in Utah, there are a few things you should know ahead of your visit.
When to Visit
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It’s open daily during daylight hours, except for those staying overnight in the park’s two campgrounds.
Like much of Southern Utah, the state park often sees sunny, triple-digit days during the summer. If you plan to visit during the summer, late spring, or early fall, make sure to dress for the heat, stay hydrated, and wear sun protection.
Pets are Welcome
If you’re staying in one of our pet-friendly cabins at Water Canyon Resort, you can bring your four-legged friend along on this day trip!
Pets are welcome in the state park. Many state and national parks heavily restrict where dogs can be. But Coral Pink Sand Dunes is very open to pets. With no designated trails, there are no specific areas where pets are not allowed. However, they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet long.
If you’re planning to hike on the dunes, be mindful of off-road vehicle traffic. The dunes can also get very hot during the summer months. This can make it dangerous for your pet’s paws, as well as for human hikers. If you’re hoping to hike the dunes, consider planning a trip during the early spring, late fall, or winter months.
Daily Use Entry Fee
Visitors to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park will need to pay a day-use entry fee. This fee is $10 for a single-passenger vehicle. You can pay this fee at the entrance to the park, or pre-purchase your day-use pass online ahead of your visit.
You can also purchase an Annual Pass for Utah’s state parks. This pass costs $125 for Utah residents, $65 for Utah residents ages 65 or older, or $175 for non-residents. This pass provides access to all of Utah’s state parks for one year.
Know the OHV Rules
If you plan to do some off-roading during your visit, it’s important to make sure that you know the rules before taking off on the dunes. If you’re joining a tour, your guide will go over the rules with you before you start. This includes things like always having an orange whiptail flag attached to your vehicle, wearing a helmet, and following the same DUI laws that you would in a regular passenger vehicle.
Planning Your Next Stay in Mini Cabins in Utah
If you’re planning a stay in our mini cabins in Utah, a day trip to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park can be a great addition to your visit. From off-roading to hiking to taking in a stunning sunset, you can easily fill a day in this beautiful park.
Ready to start planning your next visit to Water Canyon Resort? Now is a great time to do so! Not only are temperatures comfortable in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park this time of year, but you can also save big on your stay.
Right now, when you book a stay of two or more nights at Water Canyon, you’ll receive 25 percent off your booking. Blackout dates may apply, and nights must be consecutive. If you’re looking for nice places to stay in Utah, book today to take advantage of this deal!