History
The park is named after Utahraptor, a large carnivorous dinosaur that lived during the Cretaceous period. Fossils from this species were first discovered in nearby Moab and Carbon County in 1993. Since then, paleontologists have found dozens of different species at Utahraptor State Park, including Allosaurus and Stegosaurus. The park is also home to more than two dozen dinosaur tracks, which can be seen throughout the park.
One of the newest state parks in Utah, established in 2021, Utahraptor State Park features a variety of amenities designed to make visitors' stay comfortable and memorable. The park has several picnic areas, a playground for children, and several restrooms.
Wildlife
Utahraptor State Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species, mammals, and reptiles. The park has a wide variety of bird species living in it, such as bald eagles, hawks, and ospreys. Commonly seen mammals include deer, elk, bobcats, and coyotes. Reptiles such as lizards and snakes can also be found in the park.
Geology
In addition to its dinosaur fossils, Utahraptor State Park also has a fascinating geology. The park is located near Moab, Utah, on the edge of the Colorado Plateau and features several canyons and rock formations that were formed millions of years ago. Visitors can explore these geological wonders as they hike or camp in the park. The park is also home to numerous mineral deposits and fossils, providing a unique look at the Earth’s history.