Green River offers exciting experiences the whole family can enjoy, against Utah’s stunning desert landscapes. Children can splash safely in the calm river waters or explore wide-open spaces. Nearby trails, scenic viewpoints, and natural landmarks keep little adventurers engaged. Families visiting the area often discover a unique blend of education and outdoor fun. Whether staying for a day or a weekend, there’s always something fresh and engaging for kids to explore.
Outdoor Fun for Kids in Green River
Green River makes outdoor fun easy for families with curious, active kids. Wide open spaces and stunning natural scenery offer endless possibilities for adventure. Whether exploring trails, splashing near the river, or enjoying fresh air under the sun, kids can safely connect with nature. The area’s calm pace and small-town charm create a perfect outdoor play and exploration setting.
Explore the River with Paddleboarding or Kayaking
Green River’s calm waters offer a safe, scenic way for families to enjoy time on the river. Paddleboarding and kayaking suit beginners and allow kids to experience nature from a fun, new perspective. The gentle current and wide riverbanks create a relaxed environment for learning and exploring.
Planning Details:
- Best Season: Late spring through early fall for warm weather and ideal water temperatures
- Rental Costs: Expect $40–60 for half-day kayak rentals and $50–70 for paddleboards
- Recommended Ages: Most outfitters welcome children 6+ for kayaking and 8+ for paddleboarding
Local Tip: Swasey’s Beach offers shallow, calm water and sandy areas perfect for younger kids to play and explore
The Green River offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a top choice for family fun outdoors.
Easy Hikes with Scenic Payoffs
Families visiting Green River can explore short trails that offer big views with minimal effort. These hikes introduce kids to desert landscapes while maintaining a light and engaging pace. The scenery rewards even young hikers without needing steep climbs or long distances.
Planning Details:
- Best Season: Visit in spring or fall for cooler weather and clear skies
- Trail Difficulty: Most family trails stay under two miles with gentle elevation changes
- Kid-Friendly Options:
- Toddlers: Try the Town Park Trail Loop for a short stroll and built-in playground stops
- Elementary Age: Explore Black Dragon Canyon to see petroglyphs and fun rock shapes
- Teens: Sample the beginning of Little Wild Horse Canyon for a taste of slot canyon
Local Tip: Start early in summer to beat the heat, and pack more water than you expect to use.
Must-Visit Parks and Recreation Areas
Green River offers several parks and recreation spots that create space for both play and relaxation. Families can enjoy wide open spaces, shaded picnic areas, and well-maintained playgrounds for all ages. These spots provide a welcome break from road trips or a fun way to spend a sunny afternoon. Whether planning a quick stop or a full day outdoors, Green River’s local parks offer easy access to kid-friendly fun.
Crystal Geyser Picnic and Play
Crystal Geyser offers a colorful and fascinating spot for families looking to enjoy nature and learn something new. The geyser’s mineral-rich water creates bright orange terraces that flow into the Green River, making it a fun and scenic place to explore. The cold-water eruptions capture kids’ attention, while the surrounding space allows for a relaxed picnic or quiet playtime.
Planning Details:
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Always open, no restrictions
- Facilities: None (no restrooms, water, or developed amenities)
- Best for: All ages, especially grade-school children interested in geology
Insider tip: Come at sunset for the best photos. For safety, stay at least 20 feet from the geyser pipe during eruptions.
Green River State Park for Fishing and Frisbee Golf
Green River State Park offers families a peaceful space to enjoy nature and recreation in one easy-to-access location. Children can explore open areas, play under shady trees, and watch for birds along the river. The park’s relaxed atmosphere makes it easy for families to unwind together after a day of travel or outdoor fun.
Planning Details:
- Cost: $10 day-use fee per vehicle
- Hours: 6 AM to 10 PM daily
- Facilities: Clean restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits, camping available
- Best for: All ages; perfect for mixed-age groups
- Seasonal availability: The 9-hole golf course is typically open March–November, weather permitting
Insider tip: Stop by the shaded playground near the campground entrance and let kids explore the natural forts along the river.
Educational Adventures That Feel Like Play
Green River blends fun with learning in ways that keep kids curious and active. From geology to ancient art, the area offers hands-on discoveries that don’t feel like lessons. Families can explore unique landscapes, uncover history, and spark creativity through playful, educational experiences that engage children of all ages.
Note: There are excellent museums throughout Utah that we encourage you to check out as well.
John Wesley Powell River History Museum
This museum brings regional history to life through interactive exhibits, captivating young minds while teaching about the Colorado Plateau’s river history.
Planning Details:
- Cost: Adults (18+) $8, Seniors (62+) $6, Children (7-17) $3, Children under seven free, Family package $25
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM-5 PM (closed Sunday-Monday), last admission at 4 PM
- Location: 1765 East Main Street, Green River
- Best for: School-aged children (6+) will enjoy the exhibits the most
Insider tip: The “Junior Explorer” station keeps younger kids entertained while parents explore. Also, remember to check out the museum store for educational toys and crafts.
Stargazing and Geology at the San Rafael Swell
With minimal light pollution, the San Rafael Swell offers stunning stargazing and exciting daytime geological exploration, blending science and wonder.
Planning Details:
- Best timing: New moon phases provide the best stargazing
- Seasonal variations: Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures for day and night activities
- Recommended spots: Goblin Valley State Park is a designated International Dark Sky Park
- Ranger programs: Monthly astronomy programs are available during peak season (check with the visitor center)
- Best for: Children 5+ will enjoy fundamental astronomy, while teens will be particularly impressed
Insider tip: Use red-light flashlights to preserve night vision and download a stargazing app for limited cell service areas.
Local Eateries with Kid-Approved Menus
Green River’s local dining scene offers family-friendly restaurants catering to picky eaters and adventurous appetites.
Tamarisk Restaurant
- Kid menu highlights: Bacon pancakes, chicken tenders
- Hours: 7 AM-9 PM daily
- Best for: All ages, with spacious seating
Insider tip: Ask for a window table facing the river for entertainment while waiting. The staff has coloring supplies for kids.
Ray’s Tavern
- Kid menu highlights: Cheeseburgers, grilled cheese
- Hours: 11 AM-10 PM daily
- Best for: Older kids who enjoy a lively atmosphere
Insider tip: The back corner features a coloring station to keep kids busy.
Chow Hound
- Kid menu highlights: Mini burgers, mac-and-cheese
- Hours: 11 AM-8 PM, Monday-Saturday
- Best for: Quick meals for families on the go
Insider tip: Milkshakes are large, so order extra cups to share.
Day Trips Worth the Drive from Green River
Green River offers access to several exciting destinations. Perfect for families, these trips combine adventure and scenic beauty.
Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley State Park is just 50 minutes from Green River. This unique landscape of mushroom-shaped hoodoos offers endless fun. It’s a natural playground that fascinates children and adults alike.
Planning Details:
- Cost: $20 per vehicle (up to 8 people)
- Distance from Green River: 47 miles (50-minute drive)
- Hours: 6 AM-10 PM year-round
- Best for: All ages, especially elementary-aged children
- Seasonal recommendation: Spring and fall offer ideal temperatures
- Driving logistics: Paved roads suitable for all vehicles
Insider tip: Bring a small spray bottle of water to temporarily “paint” the rocks. The Valley of Goblins area is open for free exploration.
Little Wild Horse Canyon Slot Hike
Little Wild Horse Canyon offers a beginner-friendly slot canyon adventure with narrow passages and winding corridors. The experience feels like a natural maze, perfect for families with older children.
Planning Details:
- Cost: Free
- Distance from Green River: 58 miles (1-hour drive)
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Best for: Ages 6+; you may need to carry younger children in some sections
- Seasonal recommendation: Avoid summer due to flash flood risks and heat
- Trail length options:
- 5 miles for younger children (out-and-back)
- 4-mile round trip for older children/teens
- 8-mile loop for adventurous families (full day)
Insider tip: The first quarter-mile is flat and accessible for toddlers. Bring shoes that can get wet.
Rest and Recharge at First Choice Inn at the Swell
After a day of family adventures, unwind at First Choice Inn at the Swell. Our comfortable rooms offer the perfect home base for your Green River explorations. Conveniently located near top attractions, we make it easy for families to enjoy everything the area offers.
Our family-friendly amenities include a year-round heated indoor pool, a complimentary breakfast with kid-friendly options, and spacious rooms that accommodate portable cribs. We also offer mini-refrigerators to store snacks and picnic supplies, plus free WiFi to help you plan the next day’s adventure.
The hotel is within walking distance to the John Wesley Powell River History Museum, and just a quick drive to Green River State Park and Crystal Geyser. We also welcome pets, making it easier for your entire Family to enjoy a memorable stay. Book your getaway today and experience the best of Green River!