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Utah’s red rock country is a landscape photographer’s paradise, but few places are as whimsical — or as weird — as Goblin Valley State Park. Hidden away in a remote corner of the San Rafael Desert, this park is filled with thousands of rounded, mushroom-like rock formations called hoodoos, or “goblins.” The result is a bizarre, Martian landscape that invites exploration, creativity, and some of the most fun you’ll have behind a camera.
Whether you’re interested in wide vistas, abstract close-ups, or night skies, Goblin Valley offers something special.
What Are Hoodoos, and Why Are They So Photogenic?
Hoodoos are tall, thin spires of rock formed over thousands of years through erosion. In Goblin Valley, these formations are often squat, bulbous, and unusually shaped due to the erosion of Estrada sandstone, which is softer and more rounded than the hoodoos you’ll find in places like Bryce Canyon.
Their strange shapes — some resembling mushrooms, goblins, or cartoon characters — are what make them so photogenic. They cast dynamic shadows, especially at sunrise and sunset, and their sheer number means you can spend hours exploring without seeing the same composition twice.
When to Visit: Timing is Everything
For photographers, timing matters just as much as location, and Goblin Valley is no exception.
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are the ideal seasons to visit. In spring, you may catch wildflowers and dramatic skies; in fall, the light becomes golden and the air is crisp — perfect for long walks with a camera. Summer temperatures frequently climb above 100°F, so if you visit then, limit your photography to early morning and evening. Winter can be cold and quiet, and an occasional dusting of snow on the goblins makes for stunning contrast.
Sunrise and sunset are the golden hours for photography. The goblins glow with warm light and the long shadows give depth to the surreal terrain. Midday sun tends to flatten the landscape, making details harder to capture — plus it’s brutally hot in the summer.
Where to Shoot: Key Spots in the Park
The main attraction is the Valley of Goblins, a wide, open area filled with hundreds of hoodoos. There are no official trails here — just endless possibilities. You’re encouraged to wander freely, but respectfully — without climbing on the fragile formations. Bring a wide angle lens to exaggerate perspective, or a telephoto to isolate unusual shapes against the desert backdrop.
The Three Sisters formation is one of the park’s iconic landmarks and is easily accessed from the parking lot. It’s best photographed with side lighting, either early or late in the day, when the formations cast strong, sculptural shadows.
Goblin Valley is also on of Utah’s best spots for night photography. As a certified International Dark Sky Park, it offers incredibly clear views of the Milky Way and constellations. The hoodoos take on a haunting quality under the stars — especially if you use subtle light painting to highlight foreground shapes.
Tips from the Field
Bring a tripod — you’ll want it for low-light, night, or long exposure shots. A tripod also helps with bracketing and panoramic stitching, especially when working in the wide-open terrain.
Use a polarizing filter to deepen skies and bring out the warm tones of the sandstone. ND filters can help extend shutter speeds for long exposures, particularly useful on windy days with fast moving clouds.
Protect your gear from sand and dust. The valley can be windy, and fine red sand finds its way into everything. Considering bringing a rain cover or use a microfiber cloth to cover your camera when not in use. Avoid changing lenses in the open valley if the wind is up.
Sun protection is critical. There’s very little shade in Goblin Valley. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves, and carry high-SPF sunscreen Bring plenty of water — even in cooler seasons, the dry desert air can dehydrate you quickly.
Tripods, camera bags, and light stands are all allowed and easy to use throughout the park. There are no crowds to contend with most of the year, making it a peaceful place to work with your gear. Weekends in spring and fall can be slightly busier, but the park rarely feels overrun.
Practical Details: Planning Your Trip
Goblin Valley is located about 30 miles southwest of Green River, Utah. It’s roughly 1.5 hours from Capitol Reef National Park and 2.5 hours from Moab. Cell service is nonexistent in the park, so download maps in advance and plan accordingly.
The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle (as of this writing). The park is open year-round from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and there’s a clean, quiet campground with both tent and RV sites — some with electrical hookups. If you prefer not to camp, look for lodging in Green River or Hanksville.
There are restrooms and water at the visitor center, but no food or gas nearby. Bring everything you need for the day, especially in the hotter months.
Bonus Side Trips: Keep the Adventure Going
If you’re already in the area, consider photographing nearby Little Wild Horse Canyon, a family-friendly slot canyon just 8 miles away. Or head west to Capitol Reef National Park for more dramatic desert scenery. Photographers with high-clearance vehicles can explore Factory Butte and the Mars Desert Research Station for rugged, off-grid landscapes that feel truly alien.
A Place to Let Your Creativity Roam
Goblin Valley is a unique blend of geological oddity and photographic inspiration. The freedom to roam, the surreal shapes, and the way light dances across the formations make this park an exceptional destination for landscape photographers. It’s quiet, otherworldly, and wildly photogenic — from sunrise to stars.
In Goblin Valley, there’s no wrong way to shoot — only new perspectives waiting to be discovered.
