National Parks near Salt Lake City

Check out the epic National Parks near Salt Lake City, Utah, including Arches NP, Bryce Canyon NP, Dinosaur National Monument, and so many more!

National Parks near Salt Lake City

Utah's National Parks and National Monuments are some of the most recognized National Parks in the country!

A great way to get around if you are looking to go camping is by renting an Escape Campervan. They have an office in Salt Lake City, and they are perfect for those wanting something more than a tent but not quite the size of a full RV.

Campervans have built-in beds, a kitchen area with refrigerators, and more. You can have them fully set up with kitchen supplies, bedding, and other fun extras. They are painted with epic designs you can't miss!

If you are taking a Utah National Park road trip, you will have the chance to visit some of the best places to see iconic views, red rocks, epic short hikes, and some truly incredible national parks.

Be aware that numerous sites have entrance fees and can easily add up to over $80, which is the price for the annual pass, also known as the America the Beautiful/National Park Pass.

This pass covers entrance fees for an entire year to all US National Parks and over 2,000 Federal Recreation Fee Sites.

The park pass covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites and for up to 4 adults for per-person sites.

Buy on REI.com and REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.

Free Entrance Days  -Mark your calendars with the five free entrance days the National Park Service offers annually.

 

Timpanogos Cave National Monument 

Distance from -  34.8 miles

Top Attractions -  the three main caverns, caving tours, underground tours, and hiking

Lodging -  There are no National Park Lodges within the park

Camping-   There is no camping in the park.

What makes the monument famous are its three caves, filled with incredible rock formations like stalactites and stalagmites. The monument has hiking trails that lead adventurers through the gorgeous Wasatch Mountains. The Timpanogos Summit Trail and the Timpanogos Falls Trail are two of the more popular paths. This National Monument is essential for the protection of nature, and tourists are welcome throughout the year. Anyone who loves the outdoors and appreciates natural beauty will have a great time here. 

Golden Spike National Monument 

Distance from - 89.6 miles

Top Attractions - watch the trains, reenactment of the Driving of the Last Spike Site ceremony, and auto tours

Lodging -  There are no National Park Lodges within the park. The closest lodging can be found in Tremonton, Bringham City, and then in Ogden and Logan.

Camping-  The park does not have a campground.

Park Address -6200 N 22300 W, Corinne, UT 84307, USA

 Golden Spike National Monument, located in northern Utah, commemorates the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States. The park offers visitors a glimpse into the history of westward expansion and the technological advancements of the late 1800s. The top attractions include the Golden Spike Visitor Center, where guests can explore exhibits detailing the construction of the railroad and watch a reenactment of the historic moment when the golden spike was driven into the last tie, signaling the completion of the project. The Big Fill Loop Trail offers a scenic hike through the surrounding hills and over the Big Fill, a massive earthen structure that enabled the railroad to cross a deep ravine. Guests can also view authentic steam engines and other railroad structures, including the restored Jupiter and No. 119 locomotives. Golden Spike National Monument provides a unique educational experience for visitors interested in history, engineering, and the development of the American West.

Fossil Butte National Monument

Distance from - 141 miles

Top Attractions - scenic drives, fossil specimens, Fossil lake area, hiking trails and guided tours

Lodging - There are no National Park lodges within the park

Camping-  There is no camping inside the Fossil Butte National Monument. However, dispersed camping (camping outside of a developed campground facility) is available on surrounding BLM and Forest Service lands. 

Park Address - 864 Chicken Creek Rd, Kemmerer, WY 83101, USA

 Fossil Butte National Monument is located in southwestern Wyoming and is known for its well-preserved fossils. The top attractions in the park include the Fossil Butte Visitor Center, which houses a collection of fossil specimens, and the Fossil Lake Area, where visitors can see fossil specimens in their natural environment. The area is known for its well-preserved fossils of fish, insects, and plants that date back to the Eocene epoch, about 50 million years ago. The park offers hiking trails and guided tours, where visitors can learn about the history of the park and the geological processes that led to the formation of the fossils. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, picnicking, and camping in the park.

Dinosaur National Monument

Distance from - 189 miles

Top Attractions - Quarry Exhibit Hall, river rafting, kayaking, fishing, Dinosaur Fossils, petroglyphs and pictographs, and hiking trails

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.

Camping—Dinosaur NM has six front-country campgrounds. You should plan your stay based on where you are in the park.

 Park Address - 11625 E 1500 S Jensen, UT 84035

The Dinosaur National Monument is a popular attraction known for its fossil discoveries, stunning river canyons, intriguing ancient petroglyphs, and exciting opportunities for adventure. With numerous options to choose from, you can test your hiking skills as you take on challenging climbs with awe-inspiring views, feel the thrill of rafting through twisting canyons, or simply relax and watch stunning sunsets.

Dinosaur National Monument is one of the top attractions for dinosaur enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The monument, located on the border of Colorado and Utah, covers an area of more than 200,000 acres. The park is known for its stunning landscapes and rich fossil deposits, which attract scientists and tourists from around the world.

Some of the top attractions at Dinosaur National Monument include the Quarry Exhibit Hall, where visitors can see more than 1,500 dinosaur bones still embedded in the rock. The monument also features hiking trails that offer unparalleled views of the surrounding canyons and mountains. Visitors can also explore the rivers that run through the park by kayaking, rafting, or fishing.

Capitol Reef National Park

Distance from - 218 miles

Top Attractions -Waterpocket Fold,  fruit picking,  a unique geologic feature with multi-colored rock formations, cliffs, and canyons, the scenic drive, Cathedral Valley, Capitol Gorge Trail, and Hickman Bridge Trail

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.

Camping—Fruita Campground is the only frontcountry campground in Capitol Reef National Park. There are two additional primitive campgrounds, Cedar Mesa and Cathedral Valley, each offering different amenities and services to cater to visitors' needs.

Park Address - 52 West Headquarters Drive Torrey, UT 84775

Capitol Reef National Park is located in Utah, USA, and spans over 100 miles of stunning rock formations, canyons, and arches. The park was established in 1971 and is named after a series of white sandstone domes that resemble the US Capitol building.

The park offers a range of activities, including hiking, sightseeing, horseback riding, and camping. Some popular spots to visit include the Waterpocket Fold, a geological feature that resembles a giant wrinkle in the earth's crust, and the Hickman Bridge, an impressive natural bridge that can be accessed via a moderate hike. The park is also known for its diverse wildlife, including deer, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep.

Visitors can learn about the area's human history by exploring the park's many cultural sites, including petroglyphs and historic Mormon pioneer structures. With its stunning landscapes and unique history, Capitol Reef National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Utah.

Arches National Park

Distance from - 230 miles 

Top Attractions -  exploring the largest concentration of natural stone arches in the world, wildlife and bird watching, hiking, stargazing, and guided tours of Fiery Furnace

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park. 

Camping-  The Devils Garden campground is the only camping area within the park

Park Address - PO Box 907 Moab, UT 84532.  Arches NP is located five miles north of Moab, Utah.

Arches National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park is known for its stunning natural arches, unique rock formations, and impressive geological features. Visitors can enjoy various exciting activities such as hiking, camping, backpacking, and rock climbing. Among the top attractions of Arches National Park is the Delicate Arch, which is an iconic symbol of Utah and is a popular spot for sunset photography. Another famous attraction is the Landscape Arch, which is the longest natural arch in North America. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views from the top of the Park Avenue Trailhead or explore the surreal landscape of the Fiery Furnace. The park offers several informative guided tours which provide an in-depth understanding of the natural environment and its history. Overall, Arches National Park is a must-visit destination and offers a memorable and adventurous experience to all its visitors.

Great Basin National Park

Distance from - 234.1 miles 

Top Attractions -  Take a tour of Leahman Caves, camping, hiking, see Bristlecone Pine Trees, camping, see Nevada's only glacier, take the Star Train in Ely, NV., and explore the night sky with an astronomy ranger/evening program.

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park. 

Camping—Great Basin National Park has six front-country campgrounds each at various elevations. It is a great opportunity to acclimated to higher altitude before hiking some of the parks iconic trails that reach well above 10,000 feet in elevation!

Park Address - 100 Great Basin National Park Baker, NV.89311

Great Basin National Park is a breathtaking high-elevation park with epic scenery, lots of wildlife, and some of the best stargazing in the lower 48 states.

Taking a Lehman Cave Tour is a must for any trip to Great Basin as seeing the shield formations they are known for. The Wheler Peak Scenic Drive gives you breathtaking views of the Great Basin below. I love hiking in Great Basin! This is your chance to see the oldest living trees on earth, the Bristlecone Pine. Rock Glacier is Nevada's only glacier, and you can hike there after hiking through the grove of Bristlecones. If you want to see Nevada from it's highest peak, take the Wheeler Peak hike! If you decide to go,  make sure to start out early, as afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Canyonlands National Park

Distance from - 242 miles

Top Attractions -  Watching the sunrise at Mesa Arch, stunning desert landscapes,  stargazing, hiking, fishing, and camping

Lodging -  There are no National Park Lodges within the park 

Camping-  Canyonlands boasts two remarkable campgrounds situated at The Needles and Island in the Sky. At Island in the Sky, visitors can occupy individual sites on a first-come, first-served basis, while at The Needles, guests can reserve both individual and group sites. Both campgrounds are equipped with necessary amenities and offer stunning views of the park. 

Park Address -Islands in the Sky Visitor Center - Grand View Point Rd, Moab, UT 84532

Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, offers visitors stunning, rugged landscapes and a unique glimpse into the natural history of the American Southwest. The park is divided into four distinct districts, each with its own set of highlights. The most popular district, Island in the Sky, boasts panoramic views from its lofty perch and easy hiking trails. The Needles district is a hiker's paradise, with numerous trails winding through colorful rock formations and towering spires. The Maze district is more remote and challenging, accessible only by rugged 4-wheel drive vehicles or long hikes. Finally, the rivers of the park offer opportunities for rafting and kayaking through dramatic canyons. Visitors can also experience the park on a guided tour, by bike, or even by hot air balloon. No matter how you choose to explore Canyonlands, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Distance from - 253 miles

Top Attractions - scenic drives and overlooks, hiking trails, 

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within Cedar Breaks, NM

Camping-  The Point Supreme Campground offers a cool and comfortable place to camp during the hotter summer months. With meadows of wildflowers surrounding the site, nature lovers will find themselves amidst a picturesque landscape. The campground is open from mid-June to mid-September and offers accommodation for 25 campsites, including tents and RVs. However, one should note that the opening and closing dates of the campground may vary and depend on favorable weather conditions.

Park Address - 4730 South Highway 148, Brian Head, UT 84719

Cedar Breaks National Monument is a stunning geological formation located in southern Utah, USA. Situated at an elevation of over 10,000 feet, Cedar Breaks offers visitors breathtaking views of a natural amphitheater that spans three miles and is over 2,000 feet deep. The colorful rocks of the amphitheater were formed over millions of years due to erosion and the uplifting of the earth’s surface. Visitors to Cedar Breaks can enjoy hiking, stargazing, and various educational programs. There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the surrounding forests and meadows. Cedar Breaks is especially popular during the summer months when wildflowers bloom, and the temperatures are mild. Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also available. Cedar Breaks National Monument is a natural wonder and a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Distance from - 263 miles 

Top Attractions -  hiking trails, caves, and lava tubes, camping, picnicking, wildlife watching, stunning rock formations and star gazing, 

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park

Camping-  If you want to prolong your visit to Craters, try camping at the Lava Flow Campground. However, only those who are equipped with proper gear can camp in the Craters of the Moon Wilderness and the NPS Preserve and BLM Monument.

Park Address - 1266 Craters Loop Road Arco, ID 83213

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is an awe-inspiring natural wonder situated in the southern region of Idaho, covering over 750,000 acres. This protected area is characterized by vast lava fields, extinct volcanoes, and different habitats. The park was named after its striking lunar resemblance, featuring a lifeless black surface covered in craters and fissures. Visitors can take advantage of the many hiking trails, underground lava tubes, and other geological wonders highlighting the area’s volcanic activity. The park is also home to an array of flora and fauna, such as sagebrush, elk, rabbits, and birds. Craters of the Moon is a captivating place for nature lovers, hikers, and geology enthusiasts alike, offering exceptional insight into the Earth's ever-changing past.

 

Bryce Canyon National Park

Distance from - 268 miles

Top Attractions - wildlife viewing, scenic drives, hiking trails, world-famous hoodoos,  the Fairyland Canyon, the Sunset Point, and the Bryce Point, 

Lodging -  There is one National Park Lodge within the park.

The Bryce Canyon Lodge has 114 rooms, and there are a half dozen other hotels within a few miles of the park entrance.

Camping-  The park houses two campgrounds equipped with flush toilets and drinking water, but no hook-ups. Showers and laundry services are accessible in the summer. Outside the park entrance are several private campgrounds offering full hook-ups and other luxuries.

Park Address - Highway 63 Bryce Canyon National Park Bryce, UT 84764

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination in Utah for anyone looking to explore the beauty and grandeur of nature. The park is known for its distinctive geological formations, including the world-famous hoodoos. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and stargazing.

The top attraction in Bryce Canyon National Park is undoubtedly the Amphitheater, where visitors can witness the stunning formations of the hoodoos up close. Other must-visit spots include the Fairyland Canyon, the Sunset Point, and the Bryce Point. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives on the park's main road, which offers breathtaking views of the canyon and its surroundings.

The park also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, making it an exciting destination for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Whether exploring the trails, marveling at the natural beauty, or simply taking in the scenery, Bryce Canyon National Park never fails to impress.

Grand Teton National Park

Distance from - 298 miles 

Top Attractions -camping, boating,  fishing, hiking, kayaking, The Teton Range,Jenny Lake,Hidden Falls, Wildlife,Jackson Lake, Jackson Hole

Lodging - Grand Teton NP is home to multiple lodging options including Signal Mountain Lodge, Jenny Lake Lodge, Jackson Lake Lodge, Headwaters at Flagg Ranch,  Triangle X Dude Ranch, and Colter Bay Village Cabins.

Camping-  There are six main campgrounds in Grand Teton National Park: Colter Bay, Flagg Ranch, Gros Ventre, Jenny Lake, Lizard Creek, and Signal Mountain.

Park Address - 103 Headquarters Loop Moose, WY 83012

Grand Teton National Park is a vast land of over 310,000 acres located in northwestern Wyoming, USA. It's known for its impressive Teton mountain range towering above the valley by over 7,000 feet, making it a popular tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can relish breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and picturesque lakes. Grand Teton National Park is also home to a range of wildlife, including bears, moose, bald eagles, and elk. Tourists can indulge in activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. Tourist options include educational programs and ranger-led activities, enabling visitors to learn more about the park's geology, history, and wildlife. Ultimately, Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for avid outdoor enthusiasts who love to marvel at the natural world around them.

Zion National Park

Distance from - 308 miles

Top Attractions -  towering sandstone cliffs,  Virgin River, the Emerald Pools, a series of waterfalls and pools that offer great hiking trails, the Weeping Rock, a natural amphitheater that drips water, and the famous Narrows, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Kolob Terrace Road, and its diverse wildlife.

Lodging - Zion Lodge is located in the heart of the Zion Canyon. Guests can drive to the parking area near the lodge and use the parks shuttle to explore the rest of the canyon.

The cabins in Zion are located near the Zion Lodge. The cabins are comfortable and have everything you need to have an amazing park vacation. 

Camping-  Within Zion National Park itself, there are three campgrounds. Lava Point Campground, South Campground, and Watchman Point Campground.

Park Address - 1 Zion Park Blvd. State Route 9 Springdale, UT 84767

Zion National Park is an incredible natural wonder in Utah that draws in millions of visitors every year. With steep sandstone cliffs towering over the Virgin River, the park's amenities include the Emerald Pools, where visitors can hike across waterfalls and pools, and the Weeping Rock, a natural amphitheater that drips water. The world-renowned Narrows allows visitors to hike through Zion Canyon's narrowest section, while the Angels Landing Trail is a popular hike offering awe-inspiring views of the park from the top of a towering cliff. The park's scenic drives, including the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Kolob Terrace Road, offer breathtaking views, while an abundance of wildlife, such as mule deer, mountain lions, and endangered California Condors, enhance visitors' experiences. Whether you're camping, hiking, or just exploring, Zion National Park will leave you in awe.

Yellowstone National Park

Distance from - 321 miles

Top Attractions - Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, a diverse array of wildlife, hiking trails. Scenic drives, fishing, camping, Norris Geyser Basin, Yellowstone Lake, and the Yellowstone Grand Canyon.

Lodging -  Nine National Park Lodges located within the park offering over 2,000 rooms. Only two lodges are open during the winter - Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. From late spring through fall all of the lodges are open. 

Camping-  There are over 2,000 campsites within Yellowstone spread among 12 campgrounds. The only campground that is open year-round is Mammoth Campground. The majority of campgrounds within the park open in May and close in late fall. 

Park Address -2 Officers Row Yellowstone National Park Headquarters Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

Yellowstone National Park is an iconic natural wonder in the United States, with unique geothermal features such as hot springs, geysers, and mud pots. It was established in 1872, making it the first national park in the world. In addition to its geological features, the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Millions of visitors come each year to explore the vast forest, mountain ranges, rivers, and lakes, as well as to engage in activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The park also has a rich cultural heritage, with evidence of human presence dating back thousands of years.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Distance from - 321.7 miles

Top Attractions - well-preserved fossils, fossil quarry, 

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.

Camping-  Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is a unique destination for camping enthusiasts. The monument provides two campgrounds, Upper and Lower Fossil Glen, which offer an array of amenities for campers. Lower Fossil Glen is open year-round and provides access to picnic areas, restrooms, and showers, while Upper Fossil Glen is only open during peak season and offers fewer amenities.

Park Address - 221 N State St Hagerman, ID 83332

Located in southwest Idaho, the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is a natural wonder. The 4,000-acre park is home to an array of fascinating wildlife, such as bald eagles, coyotes, and mule deer. One of the main attractions of the park is the guided tours of the fossil quarry, where visitors can witness fossil excavations and learn about the area's ancient history. Additionally, the visitor center features interactive exhibits and educational resources highlighting the unique features of the Hagerman Fossil Beds. The park also offers several hiking trails, including Devil's Washbowl, Box Canyon, and the Snake River Trail, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the breathtaking surroundings. For those interested in the natural history of Idaho or paleontology, Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is a must-visit destination.

Mesa Verde National Park

Distance from - 358 miles

Top Attractions - Cliff Palace, Balcony House, Spruce Tree House, Far View Sites, Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, hiking, wildlife watching

Lodging - The Fair View Lodge is located in Mesa Verde, NP. Book on Expedia

The lodge is located 15 miles from the park entrance and provides an amazing opportunity to wake up in the park. 

Camping-  Morefield Campground in Colorado is perfect for campers who want to experience the beauty of Mesa Verde National Park. With its close proximity to the main park road and ruins, campers can have easy access to all the park's attractions. The campground offers 267 campsites, including 15 full hookup RV sites which require reservations. 

Park Address - Mile .7 Headquarters Loop Road Mesa Verde National Park, CO 81330

Mesa Verde National Park is located in southwestern Colorado and is famous for its remarkable archaeological sites, including cliff dwellings and ancient villages of the Ancestral Puebloan people. The park covers over 52,000 acres and has over 5,000 known archaeological sites. Visitors can take guided tours hike trails, and learn about the cultural history of the park at the Visitor and Research Center. The most famous site in the park is the Cliff Palace, a large and elaborate cliff dwelling with over 150 rooms. It is believed to have been constructed between 1190-1260 CE. Mesa Verde National Park is also home to various wildlife, such as black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions.

Grand Staircase- Escalante National Monument - 4 hours 15 minutes away

Utah State Parks near Salt Lake City

• Antelope Island State Park
• Jordon River Off-Highway Park
• Great Salt Lake
• Dead Horse Point State Park - Near Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, this park offers jaw-dropping scenery, an amazing hiking and trail system, and a nice visitor center!
• Goblin Valley State Park - Sandstone goblines and slot canyons create an unforgettable Utah park experience near Capitol Reef National Park
• Green River State Park - Nice quiet park about three hours from Salt Lake City with access to the Green River.

 

Check out all of the National Parks in Utah along with neighboring Colorado National Parks, Idaho National Parks, Wyoming National Parks, Nevada National Parks, Arizona National Parks, and New Mexico National Parks.