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 here too, especially if you want a fresh, vibrant feel to your photos.
Midday sessions are more doable here than at some of our other locations because the garden has strategically planted shade trees. But golden hour will always give you the most flattering light and make the desert plants look their absolute best.
One thing to keep in mind when scheduling: the garden hosts seasonal showcases during the holiday season. Events like the Scarecrow Walk in October and holiday lights in December can draw larger crowds than usual.
Through the Seasons
Spring and fall are the peak seasons at the Desert Garden. The wildflowers bloom, the cacti put out vibrant flowers, and everything comes alive with color. It's a busy time, so you'll likely 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, especially in the mornings or evenings. Fall brings cooler temperatures and softer light, which is lovely for portraits. Winter is quiet and peaceful, with fewer crowds and a more minimalist, serene vibe. The evergreen plants and structure of the garden mean it looks good year-round, even when the flowers aren't in bloom.
Getting There & Parking
The garden is located at 375 E. Red Hills Parkway in St. George, right along Red Hills Parkway. There's plenty of free parking on site, and the garden is easy to access from anywhere in town. Once you're parked, the paths are paved and well-maintained, making it simple to explore. Dogs are allowed on leash, which is great if you want to include pets in your session.
Who This Location Suits Best
The Desert Garden is perfect for anyone who wants a unique, curated desert aesthetic without hiking or climbing. 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 who need easy navigation. The paved paths and compact layout mean you can get a lot of variety without wearing everyone out. If you're drawn to desert landscapes but want something more polished and intentional than raw wilderness, this is your spot.
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.