New to the area? You might be asking yourself, “What is there to do at Sand Hollow?” Sand Hollow State Park is like the desert’s playground, where sunshine, red rocks, and sparkling water come together in a way that makes you want to kick off your shoes and dive right in.
Just outside of Hurricane, Utah, and not far from Zion National Park, this oasis is the perfect place to cool off, crank up the adventure, or simply sit back and watch the world drift by on a warm breeze. If you’re wondering what there is to do at Sand Hollow, the short answer is plenty. The long answer? Buckle up, because we’re going on a tour of everything this sunny wonderland has to offer.
Splash Around in the Reservoir
First up is the reservoir itself, which is the beating heart of Sand Hollow. With warm, clear water surrounded by crimson cliffs and golden sand, it practically begs you to jump in. Bring your boat, kayak, paddleboard, or even just your inflatable floaties and head out onto the lake. You can swim from shore, cruise across the water with the sun on your face, or explore the nooks and coves that make Sand Hollow such a local favorite.
The water is surprisingly warm for much of the year, which means you can happily splash around from spring through fall. Families love the sandy beach areas where kids can build sandcastles, dig moats, or bury each other in the soft red sand until it looks like you’re part of the landscape.
Try Wakeboarding and Waterskiing
If you’re feeling more adrenaline than lounge chair, Sand Hollow is a dream come true. The lake is large enough for fast fun like wakeboarding, waterskiing, or tubing behind a boat. Rentals are available right at the marina, so you don’t even have to own your own gear to zip around with a giant grin on your face.
The calm mornings often mean glassy water, which makes for perfect wakeboarding conditions. Even beginners can find their groove here, and before you know it, you’ll be carving across the water like a pro.
Cast a Line and Go Fishing
Fishing might not be the first thing that pops into your mind when you think desert oasis, but the reservoir is home to bass, bluegill, and crappie that make anglers smile from ear to ear. Whether you’re casting from shore or drifting quietly in a boat, the still water and beautiful surroundings make it easy to enjoy the day even if the fish aren’t biting. Bring a picnic, a comfy chair, and watch the sun glint off the water while you wait for that big tug on the line.
Go Off-Roading on the Sand Dunes
Beyond the lake, Sand Hollow State Park has a second playground, and it’s made entirely out of sand. The sprawling dunes just beyond the reservoir are a paradise for off-road enthusiasts. You can bring your ATV, side-by-side, or dirt bike and ride for hours over rolling red dunes that seem to stretch forever.
If you’ve never tried it before, local outfitters rent equipment and even offer guided tours. That way, you can focus on the thrill of climbing towering dunes and racing across sandy plains without worrying about getting stuck or lost. The views from the highest dunes are absolutely spectacular, with the lake, cliffs, and distant mountains all laid out like a painting beneath you.
Cliff Jumping and Rock Scrambling
Part of what makes Sand Hollow special is the mix of rock outcroppings and sandy beaches along the reservoir’s edge. In some areas, the sandstone cliffs drop straight into the water, making them perfect for cliff jumping. You’ll often see brave souls climbing up the rocks and launching themselves into the deep blue below.
If you prefer to keep your feet dry, the same rocks are great for scrambling and exploring. Kids especially love hopping from boulder to boulder and discovering hidden little spots to picnic, splash, or watch the boats go by.
Camp Under the Stars
Why leave at the end of the day when you can stay overnight and watch the sun set behind the cliffs? Sand Hollow has plenty of campsites, including options for tents, RVs, and even primitive camping out on the sand for those who want a truly rugged experience.
At night, the stars come out in spectacular fashion. There’s nothing quite like sitting by a campfire, marshmallow on a stick, with the glow of the embers mirrored by the shimmer of the Milky Way overhead. In the distance, you might even hear the faint roar of a late-night dune rider or the splash of a fish jumping in the quiet lake.
Paddle to Hidden Coves
For something more peaceful, rent a paddleboard or kayak and spend the day exploring the hidden coves and quiet corners of the lake. Early mornings are especially magical, with the water calm and glassy and the sun painting the cliffs in soft pinks and oranges.
It’s also a great chance to see local wildlife. You might spot herons fishing in the shallows, turtles sunning themselves on rocks, or even the occasional deer wandering down for a drink.
Enjoy a Picnic or Beach Day
Sometimes, the best adventure is no adventure at all. Pack a cooler, bring a big umbrella, and claim your spot on the sandy beach. Let the kids dig in the sand while you kick back with a good book or chat with friends. The marina area has shaded picnic tables, restrooms, and a small shop where you can pick up snacks, sunscreen, and cold drinks.
The warm red sand, bright blue water, and endless sunshine combine to create a picture-perfect beach day without the salt or crowds of the coast.
Tips for Visiting Sand Hollow State Park
If you’re planning a visit, here are a few quick tips. Summer weekends can be busy, so arrive early if you want to snag a good beach spot or campsite. Don’t forget plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if you’re venturing out on the dunes. And be prepared for your car, shoes, and pretty much everything else to get a healthy dose of red sand. Consider it a free souvenir of your day in the desert.
The Perfect Desert Playground
Sand Hollow State Park really does have something for everyone, whether you want to fly across the lake behind a boat, cruise the dunes on an ATV, or simply soak up the sunshine with your toes in the sand. The combination of warm water, towering red cliffs, and soft dunes makes this one of Utah’s most unique and beloved outdoor destinations.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover why Sand Hollow is one of those places you’ll want to return to again and again. The desert might be hot, but the memories you make here will be even warmer.