Goblin Valley State Park sits at 4,944 feet in the San Rafael Swell, surrounded by thousands of mushroom-shaped sandstone formations that look more Martian than earthly. The 24-site campground offers tent and RV sites plus yurts with heating and AC, all for $30 per night. Sites are close together with minimal privacy, but visitors consistently praise the clean facilities, helpful staff, and proximity to the valley's famous hoodoos.
Goblin Valley State Park offers a variety of camping options, including tent camping, RV camping without hookups, group sites, and yurts.
Historical Significance
The goblins formed from sediments deposited on the floor of an ancient sea 170 million years ago. As the sea retreated and climate shifted, wind and water eroded the soft Entrada sandstone into the fantastical shapes visible today.Weather and SeasonsFall brings daytime temperatures between 60 and 85°F with cool nights dropping to 30–45°F. Trail conditions stay dry and stable, making it the best window for scrambling among the goblins or biking in the surrounding Swell. Summer heat can make short hikes punishing. Winter nights freeze, though snow occasionally dusts the red rocks. Weekdays are quieter than weekends year-round.
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 SceneryThe campground is set among two-tone sandstone cliffs and Entrada Sandstone that erodes into mystical hoodoo formations resembling goblins, creating a strange, colorful, otherworldly landscape often compared to Mars. Exposed cliffs reveal parallel layers of rock bared by erosion due to uneven sandstone hardness[1][2][3][5].
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.
Scenic ViewsSeveral user reviews praise the stunning views of the Goblin Valley formations and surrounding cliffs. "Spectacular scenery," "amazing place to stargaze," and "wake up to wonderful views" are frequent mentions.
Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground offers two yurts for rent, which include amenities such as heating, air conditioning, basic electrical outlets, a BBQ grill, and a fire pit. These yurts are praised for their unique location and comfort, though some visitors have noted the presence of mice.
Programs & ActivitiesThe park offers interpretive and nature programs, though specific details about the topics and schedules are not provided in the available information.