Gunlock State Park
A rare natural wonder where spectacular waterfalls cascade when the reservoir overflows, set against stunning red rock landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are most likely to flow
Gunlock State Park
Best Time
Waterfalls are most likely to flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rare natural wonder where spectacular waterfalls cascade when the reservoir overflows, set against stunning red rock landscapes.
"This quiet little reservoir is a blast! ATVing and water sports galour and did I mention great fishing?"
Check Waterfall Status First! :water_wave:
Gunlock Falls are rare! Always check the park's website or Facebook for current flow status before visiting.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Get there early to snag a spot and avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gunlock Falls
Gunlock State Park
A rare, breathtaking waterfall that appears when the reservoir overflows. A must-see natural wonder!
Gunlock Reservoir
Gunlock State Park
A serene lake surrounded by red rock cliffs, perfect for kayaking, swimming, and fishing.
The Bowl / The Vortex Hike
Near Gunlock State Park
A unique hike with no clear path, marked by cairns, leading to an interesting natural formation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Chase the Rare Waterfalls
+2Plan for Crowds & Access
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Waterfall Status First! :water_wave:
Gunlock Falls are rare! Always check the park's website or Facebook for current flow status before visiting.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Get there early to snag a spot and avoid disappointment.
Bring Plenty of Water :droplet:
Southern Utah gets hot, especially late spring and summer. Stay hydrated during your visit.
Easy Hike to the Falls :hiking_boot:
The walk to Gunlock Falls is short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Waterfall Status First! :water_wave:
Gunlock Falls are rare! Always check the park's website or Facebook for current flow status before visiting.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Get there early to snag a spot and avoid disappointment.
Bring Plenty of Water :droplet:
Southern Utah gets hot, especially late spring and summer. Stay hydrated during your visit.
Easy Hike to the Falls :hiking_boot:
The walk to Gunlock Falls is short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors.
Kayak & Paddle Fun :kayak:
The reservoir is great for kayaking and paddleboarding, offering a unique perspective of the red rocks.
Fishing is a Hit :fishing_pole_and_வத:
Gunlock Reservoir is known for its excellent fishing opportunities in a scenic setting. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gunlock State Park is lauded as a beautiful gem, particularly when its rare waterfalls are flowing. Visitors praise the stunning red rock scenery, excellent fishing, and enjoyable water sports. The park's friendly staff and ongoing improvements are also frequently highlighted, making it a worthwhile destination for a peaceful escape.
"This was a "hidden gem" we were told about by a local. It's a very pretty area, but the highlight of the park is supposed to be a set of waterfalls. The water level in the lake is so low there's not any flow in the creek, and no waterfalls. We enjoyed the short walk to the lake but I wouldn't go back unless I knew the water level was up."
Patrick Sullivan
"What a brilliant day at Gunlock Reservoir! We were there fishing - perfect weather, calm water, and scenery that absolutely steals the show. Towering red rock cliffs, wide open skies, and peaceful surroundings made it feel like we’d stepped into a postcard.
The real standout, though, was the park attendant. She was incredibly friendly, easy to talk to, and eager to share helpful tips about the area. You could tell she loves what she does and takes pride in making sure visitors feel welcome and informed.
The facilities are growing, and it’s exciting to see the improvements taking shape. Gunlock is already amazing, and it’s only getting better. Totally worth the drive, and we're already planning a return trip back this season. If you love fishing, nature, or just a beautiful place to unwind, this spot needs to be on your list."
Wanda Lynne
"Great place to kayak. Not crowded yet at least. Paddled around rocks and trees down a finger of the reservoir. Lots of improvements happening."
Kathy Cook
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gunlock State Park is located in southern Utah, about a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas and a short drive from St. George. The falls are accessible via a marked parking area off the main road, followed by a short hike.
Public transport options to Gunlock State Park are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
Roads leading to Gunlock State Park are generally well-maintained and paved. However, always check local road conditions before your trip, especially during inclement weather.
Gunlock State Park is a short drive from St. George, Utah, making it a popular day trip destination for those staying in the area.
Parking for the falls is typically marked off the side of the main road. From there, it's a short, sandy trail to the waterfall area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Gunlock State Park. For Utah residents, it's $10, and for non-residents, it's $15. This fee typically covers the entire day.
Advance booking is generally not required for Gunlock State Park. However, due to limited parking and high demand when the falls are flowing, arriving early is highly recommended.
Gunlock State Park is open year-round. However, the accessibility and viewing of the waterfalls are dependent on natural conditions and reservoir overflow.
Payment options may vary, but many state parks allow payment on-site, sometimes via scanning a QR code or at a ranger station. It's advisable to have multiple payment methods available.
The entrance fee to Gunlock State Park covers access to the entire park, including the area where the waterfalls are located when they are flowing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Gunlock Falls are a rare sight, usually flowing from March to May, depending on snowmelt and reservoir levels. They can go years without flowing.
Activities include viewing the waterfalls (when flowing), swimming, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Hiking around the reservoir is also popular. +2
When the waterfalls are flowing, the park can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Visiting on a weekday or arriving early can help avoid the biggest crowds.
Facilities are growing at Gunlock State Park, with improvements underway. Visitors can expect basic amenities, and the park is known for its friendly staff.
The hike to Gunlock Falls is generally short (around 0.2 miles) and easy, with a sandy trail. It's accessible for most visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Gunlock State Park. Visitors typically bring their own food and drinks or dine in nearby St. George.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Gunlock State Park. It's recommended to bring your own supplies as there are no food vendors on-site.
The closest dining options are in the town of Gunlock or the larger city of St. George, which offers a wide variety of restaurants.
Regulations regarding alcohol can vary by state park. It's best to check the official Gunlock State Park rules or contact them directly for current policies.
For groceries, you'll need to head to St. George or a larger town nearby, as there are no major grocery stores in immediate proximity to the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photographing the reservoir and surrounding red rocks. Early mornings are also best for capturing the waterfalls with fewer people.
You can capture stunning images of the waterfalls (when flowing), the expansive reservoir, unique rock formations, and the vast desert landscape. Drone footage is also impressive.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check the official Gunlock State Park guidelines or contact them directly to confirm if drone photography is permitted.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and reservoir. A tripod can be useful for long exposures, especially in low light.
Exploring the area around the falls allows for various angles. Paddling on the reservoir also provides unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection, as the Utah sun can be intense. The park's growing facilities and friendly atmosphere make it a welcoming spot for a family day trip. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone.
🎣 Anglers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
For those who prefer being on the water, the reservoir is excellent for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. The calm waters and scenic views make it an ideal location for a day of aquatic adventure.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
+1Beyond the falls, the Gunlock Reservoir itself provides breathtaking scenery. Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for capturing the vast desert landscapes and the serene lake. Exploring the area around the reservoir and even venturing onto the water with a kayak can reveal hidden photographic gems.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Elusive Gunlock Falls
+3Because of their infrequent nature, it's crucial to check the park's official status before planning your visit. Social media and park websites are the best resources for real-time updates. When the falls are active, they draw significant attention, so be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
Despite the uncertainty of their flow, the anticipation and the sheer beauty of the falls when they do appear make them a highly sought-after natural spectacle in Southern Utah.
Beyond the Falls: Reservoir Activities
Fishing is another popular pastime here, with anglers reporting good catches and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The park is also a great spot for swimming during warmer months. Even if the falls aren't flowing, the reservoir provides a beautiful backdrop for a day of outdoor fun.
Many visitors appreciate the ongoing improvements to the park's facilities, suggesting that Gunlock is becoming an even more attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Navigating Crowds and Access
+2For those seeking a quieter experience, visiting on a weekday is a much better option. This allows for more relaxed exploration of the park's natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of peak weekend crowds.
When the falls are flowing, the short, sandy trail to the waterfall area can become quite populated. Being patient and mindful of other visitors will enhance everyone's experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit