Top 10 Places to Take Pictures in Southern Utah: #9 – Red Hills Desert Garden

If you want a location that feels like a lush oasis yet embraces the rugged beauty of Southern Utah, the Red Hills Desert Garden is truly special. Between the vibrant garden beds, desert plant life, and the striking red sandstone hills nearby, this spot gives you so much versatility for children’s portraits — plus amazing views over the city for that extra magic. This park is nestled right by pioneer park.

Why Red Hills Desert Garden is a Dream Portrait Location

1. Gardens + Desert Contrasts
   The mix of water-efficient desert plants, cacti, wildflowers, and red sandstone in the background creates a beautiful layering of textures and colors. Whether it's delicate blooms or sculptural succulents, you'll have choices of soft and bold looks.

2. Views of the City + Scenic Overlooks
   Because the garden sits above parts of St. George, you often get panoramic views of the city skyline and red rock formations. That adds an elevated feeling to portraits — places where kids seem small in a wide, beautiful world.

3. Paths, Shade & Feature Spots
   There are paved looping paths, little bridges, a stream, shade structures, benches, stepping stones, and even fossil tracks. These create many unique frames and allow for movement, candid moments, and quiet portraits.

4. All‑Seasons Appeal
   Spring brings wildflowers, summer provides lush foliage and flowers, autumn gives rich tones contrasting the red hills, and even winter — when light is softer and crowds are fewer — adds its own mood. Free admission and open early to late means flexibility.

5. Kid‑Friendly & Interactive Details
   Kids explore stepping stones in the stream, shady paths, the replica slot canyon, fossil tracks—these features spark curiosity, motion, and natural expression. Portraits here often feel alive.