Red Hills Desert Garden
Where desert beauty meets thoughtful design
We think of the Red Hills Desert Garden as a hidden gem. It’s a botanical garden that showcases over 5,000 native and water-efficient plants, and it’s an amazing location for portrait photography. Think vibrant blooms, sculptural cacti and agave, winding paths, a gentle stream with native fish, red rock backdrops, and even 200-million-year-old dinosaur tracks tucked along the way.
During your session we can peruse the colorful wildflowers, visit the towering yuccas, and stroll along the meandering paths and water features. The garden was thoughtfully designed, and every corner feels like it was meant to be photographed.
The paths are mostly paved and fully accessible, so strollers, wheelchairs, and anyone who prefers easy walking will have no trouble navigating. It's calm and peaceful, perfect for smaller groups or anyone who wants a more intimate, refined desert aesthetic.
Good to Know
When to Go
Golden hour at the Desert Garden is beautiful. The low light brings out the colors and textures of the plants, and the stream catches the light beautifully. Aim for 7-8pm in spring and summer, or 4-6pm in fall and winter. Morning light works wonderfully too, especially if you want a fresh, vibrant feel to your photos.
Through the Seasons
Spring and fall are peak seasons when wildflowers bloom and cacti put out vibrant flowers. You'll share the space with other visitors, but the garden is large enough that you can usually find a quiet corner with little effort.
Summer is warm but manageable in mornings or evenings. Winter is quiet and peaceful with a minimalist vibe. The evergreen plants and garden structure mean it looks good year-round.
Getting There & Parking
The garden is located at 375 E. Red Hills Parkway, and there are several free onsite parking options available. Paved, well-maintained paths make it fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Dogs are allowed on leash.
Who This Location Suits Best
The Desert Garden is perfect for anyone wanting a curated desert aesthetic without a hike. It's great for couples and small families who appreciate botanical beauty and want something a little more refined. Engagement sessions feel romantic here, and senior portraits turn out striking against the dramatic desert plants.
This location is also ideal for anyone with mobility concerns or young children. The paved paths and compact layout give you lots of variety without wearing everyone out. If you want desert landscapes that feel polished and intentional rather than raw wilderness, this is your spot.
Important Considerations
The garden hosts seasonal events that draw much larger crowds than usual. The Scarecrow Walk happens during the last two weeks of October, and holiday lights run throughout the entire month leading up to Christmas. During these times, the garden gets VERY busy as it gets close to sunset, and it can be difficult to find space for your group to be alone. If you're booking during one of these events, we'd recommend scheduling your session earlier in the day rather than aiming for golden hour.
Is This Your Spot?
If the Red Hills Desert Garden feels like the right fit for your session, we'd love to photograph you here. Our photographers know which areas have the best textures, how to work with the stream and water features, and when the seasonal blooms are at their peak.
Not sure if this is the location for you? No worries. We shoot at several spots around St. George, each with its own character. Some are dramatic and rugged like Pioneer Park, others are soft and open like Kirkland Fields. The best location is simply the one that matches your vision.