If you are looking for a family destination that is out of this world, or at least feels like another planet, consider Goblin Valley State Park in Utah. The movie Galaxy Quest was filmed here and your family will have a blast exploring the rock “goblins” who live here.
When to Go
Goblin Valley State Park is located in a remote area of south-central Utah and offers little vegetation or shade. Temperatures can exceed 100 degrees in the summer and snow is possible in the winter. Therefore, spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, though the park is open year-round. During these seasons the campground, parking lot and picnic area can get crowded during school breaks. Spring Break varies among districts in Utah, but most schools break on one weekend in October to accommodate the teacher union (UEA) convention. In 2011, Fall Break is scheduled for October 20-21. Even during these crowded times, it is easy enough to beat the crowds by making reservations at the campground or arriving early in the day. Once you are parked, the valley is large enough to accommodate the largest crowd.
Getting There
Goblin Valley is 32 miles from the closest rural town, and 24 miles from the nearest interstate highway, so it is not an unplanned stop for most visitors. It is located about 216 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. There are some regional airports in the vicinity, but you will need a car to get here. It is great for a weekend camp out or a day trip attached to a visit to one of Utah’s other spectacular destinations, such as Arches, Canyonlands or Capitol Reef National Parks. Be sure to bring a picnic and plenty of drinking water.
What to Do
The main attractions at Goblin Valley are the hundreds of knobby rock formations that surround the parking lot and picnic area. They are irresistible for kids (and grown-ups) who love to climb and explore. They ignite the imagination and will keep your family busy for hours. While my kids were imagining themselves as wild animals prowling the wilderness, a nearby family with older children was playing Capture the Flag. When I was a child camping at Goblin Valley with family and friends, I made cherished memories playing flashlight tag and hide-and-seek.
There are no formal trails, but hikers can make their own trail by wandering the formations and finding unique sights and seclusion that those who stay close to the picnic area will miss. For off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, there are many miles of dirt roads to explore in the area. There is a small visitor’s center at the entrance to the park where you can learn how these formations came to be and purchase souvenirs. Kids can participate in the park’s Junior Ranger Program and learn while they play. Goblin Valley is an unforgettable family adventure.