Sand Hollow State Park | St George

Information

Landmark: Sand Hollow State Park
City: St George
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Sand Hollow State Park, St George, USA Utah, North America

Sand Hollow State Park is a recreational area located in Washington County, Utah, USA. It features a large reservoir and extensive sandstone formations.

Visual Characteristics

The park's primary feature is Sand Hollow Reservoir, a body of water with a distinct turquoise hue. Surrounding the reservoir are large expanses of orange-red sandstone, characterized by rolling dunes and exposed rock faces. Vegetation is sparse, consisting mainly of desert shrubs and hardy grasses adapted to arid conditions.

Location & Access Logistics

Sand Hollow State Park is situated approximately 15 miles east of St. George, Utah. Access is via State Route 7 (Southern Parkway) and then turning onto Sand Hollow Road. The drive from St. George city center is approximately 25 minutes. Ample parking is available at designated lots throughout the park, including near the reservoir and OHV staging areas. No public transport services operate directly to the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The reservoir was created by the construction of the Sand Hollow Dam, completed in 2004. The dam impounds water from the Virgin River watershed. The surrounding landscape is composed of Navajo Sandstone, a geological formation dating back to the Jurassic period, known for its cross-bedding and fossilized dinosaur tracks in nearby areas.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include swimming, boating, and fishing in Sand Hollow Reservoir. The park is also a designated off-highway vehicle (OHV) area, with extensive trails for ATVs and dirt bikes. Rock crawling and exploring the sandstone formations are popular. Scuba diving is possible in the reservoir.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at multiple locations within the park. Shaded picnic areas are provided. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available, though it can be intermittent in more remote sections. Limited food and drink options may be available from seasonal vendors near the main reservoir access points.

Best Time to Visit

For water activities, the months of May through September offer the warmest temperatures. Mid-morning to late afternoon provides optimal sunlight for photography of the sandstone. For OHV use, spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer more moderate temperatures. High tide is not a relevant factor for this park.

Facts & Legends

Sand Hollow Reservoir is known for its exceptionally clear water, which is a result of careful water management and the natural filtration properties of the sandstone. A unique tip for visitors is to explore the "The Maze" area within the OHV trails, a complex network of canyons and rock formations.