Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
🏜️ Trusted Guide to Utah’s Only Major Coral Dune Field – Updated 2025
Pink Sand Between Vermilion Cliffs
Near Kanab in Kane County, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park protects 3,730 acres of the only major sand dune field on the Colorado Plateau. The dunes — reaching up to 50 feet high — get their distinctive coral pink color from iron oxide in eroded Navajo sandstone, creating a surreal landscape that shifts up to 50 feet per year. Framed by piñon-juniper forest and red cliffs, these dunes are also the sole habitat on Earth for the rare Coral Pink Tiger Beetle. Whether you’re here for ATV riding across 2,000+ acres of open dunes, sandboarding down steep faces, or photographing the sunset-lit sand, this is one of Utah’s most unique parks.
ATV & Off-Highway Fun
Approximately 90% of the dunes are open to OHV use, making this a premier destination for ATV and UTV riders:
- Sand Highway: Wide open riding across the main dune field
- South Boundary Trail: Extended route with more challenging terrain
- Rentals: Multiple local outfitters offer ATV/UTV rentals and guided tours from Kanab
- Sandboarding: Boards available for rent — ride the dunes like snow
Beyond the Dunes
- Nature Trail: Interpretive path explaining dune formation and ecology
- Photography: Sunset turns the coral sand into glowing shades of gold and crimson
- Stargazing: Remote location delivers exceptional dark sky conditions
- Camping: Two campgrounds with hot showers, flush toilets, some electric/water hookups
Practical Tips
- From Kanab (10 miles): Take US-89 North, then Hancock Road southwest to the park
- Entry fee: $15 per vehicle day use
- Reserve campsites early — especially for spring and fall when temperatures are ideal
- Hikers should stay visible to OHV riders — wear bright colors on the dunes
- Summer midday heat is extreme (100°F+) — morning and evening are best for all activities
- Combine with Zion National Park (50 miles west) and the Vermilion Cliffs for a multi-day adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Utah state parks?
Day-use fees range from $10 to $20 per vehicle depending on the park. An annual pass costs $75 and covers all 44 Utah state parks. Camping fees are separate and range from $20-$40 per night.
Do I need a reservation for Dead Horse Point?
Yes, Dead Horse Point State Park now requires day-use reservations on weekends and holidays during peak season. Reservations can be made through stateparks.utah.gov. The park frequently reaches capacity.
What are the best state parks near Moab?
Dead Horse Point (dramatic canyon overlook) and Goblin Valley (alien rock formations) are the top state parks near Moab. Both are within 1-1.5 hours of town and offer stunning red rock scenery.
Is there cell service at Utah state parks?
Cell service is nonexistent or very limited at most remote southern Utah parks including Goblin Valley, Kodachrome Basin, and Coral Pink Sand Dunes. Download offline maps and inform someone of your plans before visiting.
Explore More Utah State Parks
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Utah. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Utah guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Coral Pink Sand Dunes SP — 3,730 acres of coral-pink Navajo Sandstone dunes — created by wind funneling through a gap between the Moquith and Moccasin Mountains. The dunes support the Coral Pink Sand Dunes tiger beetle — found nowhere else on Earth. Mule deer, kit foxes, and kangaroo rats inhabit the area.
Nearby Attractions
Kanab — 10 miles south — “Little Hollywood” (200+ Western films shot here). Zion NP — 20 miles west. Grand Canyon North Rim — 80 miles south.
