St. George is Utah's warm-weather paradise, located in the southwestern corner of the state where red rock desert landscapes meet mild year-round temperatures. Known as "Utah's Dixie," this rapidly growing city offers over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an ideal destination for family reunions seeking outdoor activities in comfortable weather. The area's stunning red rock formations, state parks, and proximity to Zion National Park create endless recreation opportunities.
For family reunions, St. George provides excellent infrastructure including numerous hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and entertainment options. The city's golf courses are among the best in the region, while hiking trails, biking paths, and water recreation at nearby Sand Hollow Reservoir appeal to active families. The combination of natural beauty, warm climate, and modern amenities makes St. George a versatile reunion destination suitable for all seasons.
Snow Canyon State Park showcases stunning red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs, ancient lava flows, and unique geological features in a compact 7,400-acre park. For family reunions, the park offers excellent hiking trails ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging canyon explorations. The paved scenic drive provides access to multiple trailheads and viewpoints, making it easy for families with varying mobility levels to enjoy the scenery. Popular trails include the easy Jenny's Canyon slot canyon and the moderate Lava Flow Trail through ancient volcanic rock. The park's campground includes group sites perfect for reunion camping, and the day-use areas feature picnic facilities with spectacular views. Rock climbing, horseback riding, and photography are popular activities, and the park's proximity to St. George makes it convenient for multiple visits.
Sand Hollow State Park features a beautiful reservoir surrounded by red rock formations and sand dunes, offering exceptional water recreation and off-road vehicle opportunities. For family reunions, the reservoir provides excellent swimming, boating, fishing, and paddleboarding in crystal-clear water with a stunning desert backdrop. The park's sandy beaches are perfect for families with young children, and boat rentals are available for those without their own watercraft. The adjacent Sand Mountain offers world-class ATV and off-road vehicle trails for adventurous family members. The park includes multiple campgrounds with both developed and primitive sites, some suitable for large group gatherings. Year-round warm weather makes this an ideal destination for water activities even in spring and fall when other Utah lakes are too cold.
The St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm preserves one of the world's best collections of early Jurassic dinosaur tracks and other fossils. For family reunions, this museum offers an engaging educational experience suitable for all ages, with over 2,000 dinosaur tracks visible in their original positions. Interactive exhibits explain the area's prehistoric past, and life-size dinosaur models help visitors visualize the creatures that left the tracks. The museum's indoor climate-controlled environment makes it a perfect activity during hot summer days. Guided tours provide detailed information about the discoveries, and the gift shop offers dinosaur-themed souvenirs. The site's compact size allows for a complete visit in 1-2 hours, making it easy to combine with other activities. Special programs and events are offered throughout the year.
Red Cliffs Desert Reserve protects 62,000 acres of stunning red rock desert landscape with numerous hiking trails, slot canyons, and unique geological formations. For family reunions, the reserve offers trails suitable for all ability levels, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry routes. Popular destinations include Red Reef Trail with its water features and swimming holes, and the Pioneer Park area with its distinctive red rock formations perfect for photography. The reserve's trail system connects to multiple access points around St. George, making it convenient to explore different areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities include desert tortoises, lizards, and various bird species. The area's lower elevation means it's accessible year-round, though summer temperatures can be extreme. Many trails offer shade in narrow canyons, providing relief from the desert sun.