Utahraptor State Park

Utah State Parks

Utah's favorite dinosaur now has a state park. Neighboring Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Utahraptor State Park is recognized for more than it's red rock formations — it has pre-historic remains lying underneath its surface. While this new state park is excited to welcome visitors, infrastructure needs and staffing are still being set-up. Please consider visiting a nearby destination until this park is fully operational. Check back on this page for more information about when is the best time to visit the park to ensure adequate visitor resources and information are in place.

History

Utahraptor State Park includes popular recreation spots such as the Dalton Wells and Willow Springs areas. The Dalton Wells site has one of the largest dinosaur bone beds in North America. Over 5,500 bones representing more than 10 dinosaur species have been recovered during the site’s 45-year history of excavation and discovery. Species found include the Utahraptor, the armored Gastonia and the long-necked sauropod Moabosaurus. Paleontologists believe more than 100,000 bones may await discovery.

The unique geologic story of Arches National Park is integral to the dinosaur fossils found in the Dalton Wells area. Due to the subsidence that formed Arches 146 million years ago, Utahraptor State Park has unique exposures to the older Cretaceous layers in North America. Raptors found within this area are the oldest on the planet.

The park also offers recreational activities, such as ATV, hiking and mountain biking trails in addition to paleontological resources — making this a state park that captures the breadth of Utah allure.

Sovereign Trail System in Utahraptor State Park

The lands around Moab contain many dinosaur bones, with a large number of them
being found within the Dalton Wells/Willow Springs area.

The Dalton Wells site has one of the largest dinosaur bone beds in North America.

Where to stay

Hotels and Lodging

Nearby Moab has plenty of hotels to keep you within comfortable reach of Utahraptor State Park. Check out Red Cliffs Lodge for rustic comfort on the banks of the Colorado River, or the Sorrel River Ranch and Spa for a luxurious ranch experience.

Moab Hotels & Lodging

Camping

The park is currently under construction, but primitive camping is allowed. Spots are first come, first served only, and the fee is $15 per night. Individuals can pay fees via the iron ranger locations found upon entering the park or online by scanning the QR code featured on park signage.

Closer to Moab, camping ranges from remote sites nestled in redrock alcoves to luxurious glamping resorts.

Explore Camping in Moab

Utahraptor State Park

History

Where to stay

Hotels and Lodging

Camping

Nearby Basecamp Towns

Green River

Moab

Monticello

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.