7 EPIC Things to Do in Sand Hollow State Park (OHV Tours, Jet Skiing & more!)
With over 15,000+ acres of OHV and single-track trails plus a stunning reservoir for water-based activities, Sand Hollow State Park is one of the prettiest places in Utah for recreation!
Sand Hollow had been on our list for a while, and in 2023, we finally made it happen! We got to explore this massive off-roading playground with our friends Blake and Rachel, who have ridden here a ton and were our unofficial tour guides during our trip (shoutout to them!). With their help, we rode through the red sand dunes, attempted some rocky trails, and even made it up to “Top of the World” for some insane views. It’s safe to say, we explored as much of the park as we could on our dirt bikes.
In this post, we’re sharing everything you need to know about the best things to do in Sand Hollow State Park, Utah. We’ll cover all the must-do activities at both the sand dunes and reservoir, where to camp, fees and permits, the best time to visit, and tips to make the most of your trip!
Covering 20,000 acres just outside of St. George, Sand Hollow State Park is packed with red sand dunes, rocky trails, and a stunning reservoir that’s perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.
Completed in April 2003 by the Washington County Water Conservancy District, Sand Hollow Reservoir was built as additional water storage for the Quail Creek system. Shortly after it was officially established as a state park and since then, it has become one of the most visited state parks in Utah.
The park’s 1,322-acre reservoir is a go-to for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating. From May through September, the water stays nice and warm, making it one of the best places in the area to take a dip. If fishing is more your thing, the lake is stocked with bass, bluegill, and crappie, so you’ve got a good chance of catching something.
With 15,000 acres of open BLM land packed with red sand dunes and rugged trails, Sand Hollow State Park is an off-roader’s paradise for riding dirt bikes, ATVs, or side-by-sides.
Where is Sand Hollow State Park?
Sand Hollow State Park is about 15 miles east of St. George and just seven miles from the I-15 Hurricane exit. To get there, take I-15 to Exit 16 (Highway 9) and head east for about four miles. Then, turn right onto Sand Hollow Road, drive south for another three miles, and you’ll see the park entrance on your left!
Directions to Sand Hollow State Park
Cost to Enter Sand Hollow State Park
Day-use passes are required for both Sand Mountain OHV riding and access to the reservoir at Sand Hollow State Park, and they can be purchased online in advance. The cost to enter the state park is $15 per vehicle for Utah residents or $30 per vehicle for non-residents. The Annual Utah State Park Pass is also accepted for park entry.
If you’re bringing dirt bikes or OHVs to Hurricane, you don’t need any special tags as long as your vehicle is registered in your home state. But if it’s not, you’ll need a non-resident OHV permit before hitting the trails.
Best Things to Do in Sand Hollow State Park
1. Go Off-Roading on Sand Mountain
This off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation area has a whopping 16,000 acres of canyons, ravines, sand dunes, and buttes, making it an absolute dream for riding. One of our favorite trails led us up to Top of the World, where we got insane views of the surrounding mountains and desert. Not gonna lie, I got pretty frustrated after getting stuck in the sand a few times, but the views at the top made it all worth it.
If you’re planning a ride, here’s an OnX map of the Sand Hollow trails, which is super helpful for navigating, and you can even download it to use offline!
Also, keep in mind, the sand dunes can get ridiculously hot in the summer, so it’s best to ride early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid roasting out there!
Best Sand Hollow OHV Tours
To help you choose the right one, here’s a breakdown of some of the best OHV tours at Sand Hollow, what they include, and what you can expect!
Cliffs of Insanity Tour
This 3 hour tour will take you through some epic spots like Horseshoe Bend, The Box Canyon, The Top of the World, Pride Rock, Mini Angels, Nelsons Arch, and The Lunch Bowl.
Sand Hollow Dune Tour
This Sand Hollow Dune Tour is 3 hours long where you’ll meet up with an expert guide and get behind the wheel of your own all-terrain vehicle, or rent a vehicle for up to four people to share the thrill.
Light the Night UTV Tour
This tour is not your average sightseeing adventure. With the help of LED lights, you’ll explore the stunning terrain of Southern Utah in a unique and exciting way.
Experienced guides have been trained to lead you through both easy and technical terrain under the moon and stars. You’ll be amazed by the views of the Sand Dunes as you reach the Top of the World within Sand Hollow State Park.
2. Paddleboarding and Kayaking
Sand Hollow State Park is a great place for paddleboarders of all skill levels. The calm and warm waters make it an ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned paddleboarders to explore.
For those who do not own a paddleboard, the park’s private concessionaire, Sand Hollow Rentals, offers a variety of watercraft rentals, including stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). Located at the south end of the park, they provide equipment suitable for all ages and skill levels.
3. Jet Ski the Reservoir
If you’re looking for a fast and fun way to explore Sand Hollow, renting a jet ski is the way to go! Zip across the 1,322-acre reservoir, carve through the waves, or just cruise around and take in the stunning red rock scenery. You have the option of renting either a Yamaha or Sea-Doo jet ski rentals to explore the reservoir. Life vests are included, but fuel is extra.
3. Rent a Sports Boat Charter
Spend around three hours cruising Sand Hollow Reservoir on an 18-passenger surf boat, soaking up the sun and enjoying the water. You’ll get to pick any three water toys, like wakeboards, skis, tubes, or even a water trampoline, and an instructor will be there to help you get the hang of them. The tour also includes all the necessary safety gear, so you can focus on having fun while staying safe on the water!
5. Fly Boarding
Want to soar above the water like a superhero? Flyboarding at Sand Hollow lets you do just that! It’s one of the most thrilling water activities at the reservoir, giving you the chance to hover, dive, and launch yourself into the air using high-powered water jets.
During your private flyboarding lesson, you’ll strap on a pair of water-powered jet boots that allow you to soar high above the water and dive back in with ease. As you gain confidence, you can try more advanced moves, like spins, flips, and dives.
6. Scuba Dive
Did you know there’s an old bus, a skeleton, and even a sunken plane lurking beneath the waters of Sand Hollow? The only way to see them is to dive in and explore! Scuba diving here lets you experience the park in a totally different way, and it’s hands down one of the most unique things to do at the reservoir.
If you’re looking to rent gear, take a class, or get certified, Dixie Divers are set up at the reservoir from May through October. They offer everything you need for scuba and snorkeling adventures.
7. Swing A Club At Sand Hollow Resort’s Award-Winning Golf Course
Sand Hollow Golf Resort is a great option for those looking for a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend their time near Sand Hollow State Park. The resort features an award-winning golf course designed by renowned golf course architect John Fought.
In addition to the golf course, the resort offers amenities such as a pro shop, practice facilities, and a clubhouse with dining options. Golfers of all levels are welcome to enjoy the course, and the resort also offers golf lessons and clinics for those looking to improve their skills.
Know Before You Go
Sand Mountain OHV Rules & Safety
- Off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding is allowed on the south and east sides of the reservoir.
- Helmets are required for riders under 18 (and highly recommended for everyone).
- Whip flags are mandatory on all OHVs and any registered vehicle driving off-road.
- All machines must be registered and up to date.
- Kids under 8 cannot operate an OHV on public land.
- Riders 8 and older need a driver’s license or an OHV education certificate.
- Anyone under 16 must have adult supervision at all times.
Boating Rules & Safety
- Keep it wakeless within 150 feet of boats, shore, and swimmers.
- Follow all buoys—if it says No Boat or No Wake, it means it!
- Personal watercraft (PWC) can only operate between sunrise and sunset.
- Kids 12 and under must wear a lifejacket at all times.
- There must be one lifejacket per passenger on board.
- Lifejackets are required for all PWC riders—no exceptions!
Swimmers Itch
If you’re planning to participate in any water-based activities at Sand Hollow Reservoir, be aware that Swimmer’s Itch can be a thing here, especially in the warmer months. It’s caused by a microscopic parasite found in shallow water when the lake temperature is over 65°F. While it’s totally harmless, it can leave you with an itchy rash that’s no fun to deal with.
To reduce your chances of getting it, try toweling off as soon as you get out of the water, avoid wading in shallow areas for too long, and rinse off if possible. If you do end up with a rash, over-the-counter anti-itch creams and antihistamines can help.
Camping At Sand Hollow State Park
Sand Hollow State Park offers many campsites dispersed throughout three main campgrounds including Westside Campground, Sandpit Campground, and Lakeview Campground.
Each campground offers a mix of back-in and pull-through spots with partial and full hookup options. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try out the primitive campsites.
Westside Campground
If you’re a water lover, then Westside Campground is the place to be. Located on the west side of the lake, this campground provides easy access to the boat ramp and lakeshore.
This campground offers a variety of campsites, including standard full hookup back-in and pull-through sites with paved pads suitable for the largest RVs and trailers. Each site also features a shaded picnic table area, fire ring, and BBQ grill for your convenience.
Sandpit Campground
Looking to camp at Sand Hollow State Park and shred some sand with your OHV? Look no further than the appropriately named Sand Pit Campground!
The campground offers 30 campsites, mostly standard without hookups, but don’t worry, there are 6 campsites with partial hookups (water and electric) for those who want a little bit of luxury. Sand Pit also has 5 group campsites available for larger gatherings.
Lakeview Campground
Lakeview Campground is Sand Hollow State Park’s newest addition, boasting 127 campsites, including eight full hookup sites and 22 partial hookup sites. The campsites are so spacious, they can accommodate truck and trailer combos up to 75 feet long!
Primitive Campground
The primitive area at Sand Hollow State Park offers 60 campsites, 30 of which you can reserve online. But if you’re feeling lucky, you can take a chance on the other 30 sites, which are first-come-first-serve.
Sand Hollow State Park Campground Fees
- Primitive: $25.00 per night
- Standard: $35.00 per night
- Standard-Partial Hookup: $45.00 per night
- Standard-Full Hookup: $50.00 per night
- Group Standard: $125.00 per night
To book any of these campsites you can head over to Reserve America. Please note that prices are subject to change based on the season and availability.
Hotels Near Sand Hollow State Park
The Inn on the Cliff – This luxury resort offers beautifully designed accommodations in a tranquil setting with access to a pool with a view.
Red Mountain Resort – A beautiful spa resort located close to Snow Canyon State Park, offering an array of wellness programs and outdoor activities.
Use the map below to check out the best places to stay near Sand Hollow State Park!
What to Bring to Sand Hollow Reservoir
Swimwear: Whether you plan on swimming, jet skiing, or wakeboarding, you’ll need the right attire. Pack a swimsuit, rashguard, or board shorts depending on your preference.
Sunscreen: The sun can be intense at Sand Hollow, especially during the summer months. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin.
Quick Dry Towels: You’ll want to dry off after your water activities, so pack a few towels to use.
Water Shoes: The beach and shoreline can be rocky, so water shoes are recommended for protection and comfort.
What to Bring for OHV Riding
Snacks and water: OHV riding can be a dusty and tiring activity, so it’s important to stay hydrated and keep your energy up with some snacks. Bring plenty of water and non-perishable snacks that won’t get crushed or melt in the heat.
GoPro or other action camera (optional): Capture your adrenaline-fueled moments on the OHV with a GoPro or other action camera. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries and memory cards.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes: It’s important to wear the appropriate footwear when riding an OHV. Closed-toe shoes with a sturdy sole, such as hiking boots or sneakers, are recommended.
