Goblin Valley State Park
00 reviewBOX 637, GREEN RIVER, Utah, 84525-0637, United States
Goblin Valley State Park
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for a campsite is $30 per night, which includes amenities such as running water, showers, and access to the park. This fee also presumably covers hot water and clean facilities.
About this campground
Step into an otherworldly landscape at Goblin Valley State Park, where thousands of whimsical sandstone sculptures await your discovery. These mushroom-shaped rock formations, affectionately called 'goblins,' create a natural playground that feels like stepping onto another planet. This remote desert sanctuary serves as your gateway to the magnificent San Rafael Swell, offering adventurers a front-row seat to one of Utah's most photographed geological wonders. While the exposed desert setting provides little refuge from the sun, visitors consistently praise the immaculate facilities, welcoming park staff, and the jaw-dropping vistas that stretch endlessly across the painted desert.
Goblin Valley State Park offers a variety of camping options, including tent camping, RV camping without hookups, group sites, and yurts.
Historical SignificanceThe story of Goblin Valley begins 170 million years ago, when this arid landscape lay beneath the waters of an ancient inland sea. Layer by layer, sediments accumulated on the seafloor, creating the raw materials for nature's most imaginative sculpture garden. Over millions of years, as seas retreated and climates shifted, wind and water worked their artistic magic, carving the soft Entrada sandstone into the fantastical forms that captivate visitors today.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit wisely to make the most of this desert wonderland. Spring and fall bring perfect camping weather, with comfortable days ideal for scrambling among the goblins and cool nights perfect for stargazing. Summer transforms the valley into a blazing furnace, with temperatures that can make even short hikes challenging. Winter visitors discover a different kind of magic, though they should come prepared for freezing nights and the occasional dusting of snow that transforms the red rocks into a stunning contrast of colors.
ElevationPerched in Utah's high desert country, the campground offers the characteristic thin, dry air and dramatic temperature swings typical of elevated desert environments. This lofty position provides expansive views across the surrounding badlands and contributes to the area's remarkably clear night skies.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be mesmerized by a landscape that defies imagination. The campground sits amid a sea of rust-colored rock formations, where thousands of goblin-shaped hoodoos create an enchanting maze of natural sculptures. Towering canyon walls frame the valley, their layered bands telling the story of ancient seas and shifting sands. In this extreme desert environment, hardy desert plants dot the landscape sparingly, leaving the fantastic rock formations to take center stage. With virtually no tree cover, the unobstructed views stretch for miles, offering photographers and nature lovers an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow.
Geological RegionNestled within the heart of the San Rafael Swell in southeastern Utah, Goblin Valley showcases one of Earth's most extraordinary erosional landscapes. This geological wonderland features thousands of mushroom-shaped rock formations sculpted from Entrada sandstone, each one unique in its whimsical design. The goblins themselves are the stars of this natural amphitheater, created through millions of years of patient erosion working on sedimentary layers deposited by a prehistoric sea 170 million years ago. The surrounding San Rafael Swell adds to the drama, with its uplifted layers of colorful rock creating a backdrop of cliffs, canyons, and mesas that epitomize the American Southwest's raw beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes ADA-compliant restrooms and other facilities. Specific accessibility setups at individual campsites are not mentioned in other sources.
Sites SizeEach site is equipped with a tent pad, fire ring, and a covered picnic table. The yurts offer additional space for family gatherings.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited at the campground, with campsites described as being fairly close together. Some reviews mention being able to see and hear nearby campers clearly.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOuter west loop sites border the canyon wall and offer better views. User reviews recommend reserving yurts for an enhanced experience.
Best CampsitesSite #3 is praised for its views, and walk-in site #12 is noted for its proximity to the cliffs.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Users describe reserving and arriving early to secure spots, but official check-in times are not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
Users are advised to book early for peak season because sites fill up quickly.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site has a covered picnic table, tent pad, and fire ring.
Groups
There is a group camping site with a covered pavilion that includes several picnic tables. Details regarding the maximum number of guests or vehicles are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops, including an outer west loop against the canyon wall. Sites include covered picnic tables, tent pads, fire rings, and water spigots nearby.
Open and Closed SeasonSpring and fall are recommended seasons to visit. The campground is open year-round; however, the visitor center closes earlier during winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can likely be made via the official state park website (www.stateparks.utah.gov) or phone numbers provided (4355643633 for the direct line and 4352754584 for the ranger station).
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability is implied during the off-season, as noted by users who visited on weekdays.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities at Goblin Valley State Park, including hiking, biking, disc golf, and stargazing. The unique sandstone formations offer opportunities for exploration and photography.
Hiking
The park features 5 miles of designated hiking trails and allows visitors to wander off-trail to explore the labyrinth of goblins. Nearby slot canyons and rock art add to the hiking options. Reviews highlight the 'short day hikes near the campground' and 'an 8-mile hike through a lost canyon.'Biking
Mountain bike trails are accessible directly from the campground. Reviews describe these trails as offering a 'getaway' experience and praise the surrounding landscapes for biking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with visitors noting the park's natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. Reviews do not specify particular species but highlight the scenic and remote nature of the landscape.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park offers interpretive and nature programs, though specific details about the topics and schedules are not provided in the available information.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, though some reviews describe Goblin Valley as a beautiful spot for winter visits, including stargazing and exploring the formations.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable as the park is located in a desert environment with no water bodies.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available, but fire bans may be in effect depending on conditions. Visitors should check online for current fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are reportedly at 10:00 PM based on user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsUsers mention wildlife hazards like ravens and mice that can get into food. Other hazards include extreme heat in summer, cold in winter, and sandy areas that could affect camping.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely accessible either through direct contact with the Ranger Station (4352754584) or other nearby facilities, though specific details on hospitals or police stations are not given. The visitor center closes at 5:00 pm during the winter.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring and fall are identified as the best times to visit, though specific date ranges are not available.
Trash and recyclingA large garbage dumpster is provided at the edge of the campground. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, but the dumpster is noted for its convenient location away from the campsites to avoid odor.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features are directly mentioned near the campground.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include proximity to neighboring sites (lack of privacy), noise from children, and ants near tent pads.
HostUsers praise the friendly and capable staff who keep the campground well-maintained.
Campground Map
BOX 637, GREEN RIVER, Utah, 84525-0637, United States
Driving directionsLocated 48 miles southwest of Green River, Utah, via State Road 24.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, specifically State Road 24. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned in the sources.Nearby places
Green River (48 miles southwest).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be purchased at the park office, which sells items like ice and firewood. Additional supplies require a trip to Green River, the nearest town (48 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Goblin Valley State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities. Visitors frequently mention the unique experiences offered by the landscape and activities like hiking and stargazing.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, unique landscape for exploration, excellent stargazing opportunities, availability of yurts with heating and AC, and proximity to hiking trails and the Goblin...
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Common Concerns
Limited privacy between campsites, presence of ants at some campsites, occasional issues with restroom or shower facilities, and challenges with windstorms and desert heat.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring propane grills during fire bans, store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife, and reserve yurts or campsites early to secure a spot. Visitors recommend bringing extra water during summer...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are the most favorable seasons for visiting due to moderate weather. Summer can get extremely hot, while winter offers solitude and stargazing opportunities.
Camper Quotes
1. 'This campground is phenomenal!!! We stayed one night in Yurt #1, and the second night in a regular campsite spot because we were so pleased with our first night.' 2. 'The stars fill the sky. You...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #3 is noted for its great view but also has a significant ant problem. Walk-in Site #12 is appreciated for its location and design. Sites on the outer west loop border a canyon wall, providing...
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Accessibility Features
Restrooms are ADA-compliant, and the campground is generally accessible. Specific reviews from users with disabilities are not detailed.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on-site, and the park is generally pet-friendly. Specific reviews about pet experiences are not detailed.
Last updated August 10, 2025