Gunlock State Park

For dining options near Gunlock State Park, visitors can explore several excellent restaurants in the surrounding area. Xetava is a scenic American eatery in Ivins, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with mountain views from its canopied patio. It is known for its fast service and great selection of beer and cocktails. Another option is Rusted Cactus by Xetava, which provides a cozy atmosphere and is popular for its cocktails. For a more upscale experience, Arrabiata Steakhouse Restaurant in Ivins offers fine dining with a focus on Italian cuisine and an excellent wine list. Stage Coach Grille in La Verkin is another choice, offering rustic-chic dining with elevated American classics. Lastly, Slice of Veyo provides a casual dining experience with pizza and other comfort foods.

These restaurants offer a range of cuisines and atmospheres, ensuring there's something for every taste and preference.

For accommodations near Gunlock State Park, several hotels and resorts are available in the nearby areas. The Red Mountain Resort in Ivins offers an all-inclusive experience with modern rooms and suites, covering meals and activities like guided hikes. Another option is the Best Western Plus Settlers Point in Washington, featuring an indoor pool, hot tub, and a breakfast buffet. For a more budget-friendly stay, the Quality Inn Saint George South Bluff offers a low-key experience with an outdoor pool. The Hampton Inn St. George provides classic lodging near National Park trails, complete with pools and a free area shuttle.

These hotels cater to different needs, from luxury and relaxation to budget-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors.

Gunlock State Park offers a variety of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The park includes modern restrooms with hot showers and flush toilets, making it convenient for campers and day visitors alike. Picnic areas are available throughout the park, providing scenic spots to enjoy meals amidst the natural beauty. A concrete boat launch ramp and loading docks facilitate water activities like boating and fishing. Additionally, a dump station is available for campers. The park's developed campsites include power and water hookups, along with covered tables and fire pits, making camping a comfortable experience.

For those interested in water sports, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available on site. The park's facilities are well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant stay for visitors.

Gunlock State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and motorized boating on the reservoir. Fishing is also popular, with the reservoir known for its largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. For those who prefer land activities, hiking trails are available both within the park and adjacent to local BLM land. Mountain biking and OHV trails are nearby, providing opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape. Bird watching is another favorite activity, with species like bald eagles and great horned owls spotted in the area.

During the spring, when water levels are high, the park's seasonal waterfall becomes a breathtaking sight, attracting many visitors.

Gunlock State Park offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its facilities. The park includes two handicap-accessible campsites, and the restrooms are modern and accessible. Wheelchair-accessible paths and picnic areas are available, though the extent of these may vary. For specific accessibility needs, it is advisable to contact the park directly to confirm the availability of certain facilities or services.

Parking at Gunlock State Park is generally accessible, with designated areas for campers and day visitors. The park's entrance gates are typically open until 10:00 PM, so visitors should plan to arrive before then. There are no specific parking fees mentioned, but it is advisable to check with park officials for any updates. The parking areas are usually well-maintained and provide easy access to the park's facilities and recreational areas.

For campers, each site allows one vehicle, with additional vehicles requiring a separate fee, subject to space availability.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Gunlock State Park is its seasonal waterfall. The falls occur when the reservoir is at capacity and spills over the dam, creating a spectacular sight. However, this phenomenon is not guaranteed and depends on water levels, making it a rare and special experience for visitors. The park's name originates from William 'Gunlock Will' Hamblin, a Mormon pioneer known for his hunting skills and ability to repair gunlocks, which are the firing mechanisms for muzzleloaders.

The park's remote location also makes it an ideal spot for stargazing, with minimal light pollution allowing for clear views of the night sky.

Gunlock State Park is surrounded by several attractions that complement its natural beauty. Nearby is Snow Canyon State Park, known for its stunning red rock formations and hiking trails. The Pine Valley Recreation Area offers additional opportunities for outdoor activities like camping and hiking. The St. George Dino Discovery Site is a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts, featuring a collection of dinosaur tracks and fossils. Extinct volcanoes and lava flows in the area provide a glimpse into the region's geological history.

For those looking for local treats, Veyo Pies is a popular stop for delicious homemade pies.