Summary
The park is known for its unusual rock formations, which resemble goblins or other fantastical creatures. These formations were created by erosion over millions of years, and the resulting landscape is both beautiful and otherworldly.
There are many good reasons to visit Goblin Valley State Park. For one thing, it is a great place for hiking and exploring. The park has several trails that lead visitors through the rock formations, providing opportunities to see the goblins up close and to take in the stunning vistas of the surrounding desert landscape.
Another reason to visit Goblin Valley State Park is for its rich history. The area has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, and visitors can see evidence of ancient cultures in the petroglyphs and other artifacts that have been left behind.
Some specific points of interest to see in Goblin Valley State Park include the Valley of the Goblins, which is the main attraction of the park; the Entrada Sandstone formations, which are some of the most impressive rock formations in the area; and the Goblin's Lair, which is a natural cave that can be explored by adventurous visitors.
Interesting facts about Goblin Valley State Park include the fact that it was first discovered by cowboys in the 1800s, who named it after the goblins they believed lived there. The park was officially established in 1964 and is now a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts of all kinds.
The best time of year to visit Goblin Valley State Park is in the spring or fall, when the temperatures are mild and the crowds are smaller. However, the park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy its unique beauty in any season.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Goblin Valley State Park
Wild Horse Butte Camping Area
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South Temple Wash - dispersed
South Temple Wash Campground
Temple Mountain Townsite Camping Area