Are you ready to set up a tent and sleep under the stars at Goosenecks State Park? If so, then get ready to explore one of Utah’s most distinct destinations.
Picture a campground nestled above a canyon, offering breathtaking views of the San Juan River.
The San Juan River is far from an ordinary river. In fact, its complex carved meanders are proof of 300 million years of Earth’s incredible geological activity.
This article will explore why this park is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts. We will also cover everything you need to know about park fees so your trip can remain focused on having a good time.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Why Choose Goosenecks State Park for Camping?
- Amenities and Accessibility
- Preparing for your Trip
- Setting up Camp at Goosenecks
- Goosenecks State Park Photography
- Exploring Beyond the Campsite
- Sustainability and Leaving No Trace
- Closing Thoughts on Camping at Goosenecks
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Goosenecks State Park for Camping?
Located just a few miles northwest of Mexican Hat, Goosenecks State Park offers views that are difficult to match. Watching the San Juan River wind through canyons into a unique pattern of crooked bends is undoubtedly exciting.
This destination attracts visitors from all over the world, specifically to witness the dramatic meanders of the San Juan River. You will be blown away by the beauty, which is 300 million years in the making.
Don’t miss the chance to add Goosenecks State Park to your travel itinerary and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Trust me, it’s an experience that will bring your camping game to the next level!
Amenities and Accessibility
Enjoying the outdoors does not need to be expensive, and Goosenecks State Park proves that is true. The park is open daily for anyone wanting to soak in amazing views while enjoying inexpensive campsites.
If you love camping but want to save money, this park is an excellent destination due to its affordable fees. With this in mind, Let’s take a closer look at what makes this park a great spot to visit, focusing on the essential details you need to know.
Essential Details:
- Operating Days: The park is open to visitors year-round.
- Day Use Fee: $5 per vehicle up to 8 people. $2 per person for bus tour groups.
- Camping Fee: $10 per night.
- Hook-Ups: None.
- Dump Stations: None.
- Amenities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, and an observation shelter.
- Cell Service: I enjoyed fast AT&T 5G cell service during my stay.
Note: If a ranger is not available, be sure to pay your fees at the fee tube.
Preparing for your Trip
Preparing for your trip is important to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. This involves anticipating potential inclement weather conditions and bringing plenty of essential supplies along with you.
Check Weather Conditions
It’s always a good idea to check the current weather conditions before leaving for your trip. The climate in the area can be unpredictable, with possible sudden changes that could impact your stay. Whether it’s the sweltering heat of summer or the chilly breezes of fall, being aware of the weather forecast allows you to pack appropriately, ensuring comfort and safety throughout your visit.
Pack Sufficient Supplies
Given the park’s remote location, the nearest convenience store could be miles away, making it imperative to come fully prepared.
Here’s a breakdown of the essential supplies you’ll need:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water | Paramount for hydration. Pack at least one gallon per person per day. Consider bringing extra for strenuous activities or if hot weather is in the forecast. |
| Food | Bring enough for the trip plus extra just in case. Mix of perishable and non-perishables. Plan easy-to-prepare meals. |
| Gear | Include a tent, sleeping bags, a first-aid kit, lights, cooking equipment, a cooler or fridge, a portable heater, and a fan. Also, remember sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. |
Pro Tip: Bringing a Portable Power Station along with some Solar Panels will make your trip more enjoyable. You may want to also consider a portable air conditioner if you are visiting during the summer.
Setting up Camp at Goosenecks
Goosenecks State Park turns primitive camping into a breathtaking experience. For example, could you picture yourself setting up camp at a site with a rock fire pit next to the edge of a cliff? All of this while the San Juan River winds below you? It’s almost like being on the set of a western movie!
Remember, campsites are secured on a first-come, first-served basis. This means the park does not currently accept reservations. This is not a cause for concern, as you should not have a problem finding a spot to camp.
While most campers choose one of the designated sites near the entrance for the convenience of being close to vault toilets, I prefer to wander further back into the park. This allows me to collect my thoughts in solitude while enjoying the stunning views of the canyon.
Overall, the primitive camping experience, set against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes, is more than just a getaway—it’s about creating unforgettable moments under the open sky, where the simplicity of nature is all the entertainment you need.
Goosenecks State Park Photography
Goosenecks State Park is a unique spot where the night sky shines bright above the San Juan River, thanks to little light pollution. For this reason, it’s a great place for photography.
Photographers can snap amazing photos of the Utah sky day or night. The park’s unique sights, like the river loops and deep canyons made by over 300 million years of Earth’s movements, look incredible in the soft light of sunrise and sunset.
During the day, the river’s twists and turns, shaped by the water’s long-term flow, are visible. These natural scenes are perfect for taking pictures, especially when the early morning or late evening light makes the landscape glow.
If you are here to capture the beauty with your camera, Goosenecks gives you a front-row seat to some of nature’s best shows, from the quiet beauty of dawn to the colorful skies at dusk.
Exploring Beyond the Campsite
Just a quick drive from Goosenecks State Park, you’ll find many incredible places and trails to explore. Valley of the Gods has unique rock shapes, and you can see the famous tall rocks of Monument Valley, too.
Pro Tip: If you are heading over to Monument Valley while exploring beyond the campsite, be sure to stop for a quick selfie at the iconic Forrest Gump Hill.
If you like adventures on the water, the San Juan River is nearby for kayaking or rafting. It gives you a great view of the vast canyon walls shaped over millions of years. Another excellent spot is the Natural Bridges National Monument, where you can see some of the world’s most significant natural stone bridges.
All these adventures add up to making a trip to Goosenecks more than just primitive camping—it’s a chance to see some of the most beautiful and exciting parts of the Southwest, where every place you travel to tells another piece of the earth’s story.
Sustainability and Leaving No Trace
At a breathtaking spot like Goosenecks, Leave No Trace is super important. Think of campers as guardians of this remarkable place, making sure it stays beautiful for people who’ll come to see it after us. That means you take back home everything you bring with you. It’s all about reducing our footprint and ensuring we don’t mess with nature or the animals living there. By following these simple rules, each of us plays a big part in keeping Goosenecks as stunning as they are for everyone to enjoy.
Closing Thoughts on Camping at Goosenecks
Goosenecks State Park is more than just a campground; it’s a gateway open year-round to a world of ancient geological formations, star-filled skies, and serene desert landscapes.
In Goosenecks State Park, every visitor finds a piece of the canyon that speaks to the soul, making it a destination that should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.
If there is something you would like to know that this article should have covered, drop a question in the comment box below the FAQ’s ⬇️
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Goosenecks worth visiting?
Absolutely! Goosenecks State Park offers some of the most unique and breathtaking views. The panoramic views of the San Juan River winding through the deep canyon are unlike anything else. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or just looking for a peaceful place to soak in the great outdoors’s beauty, Goosenecks is worth visiting.
Do you know if the road to Goosenecks State Park is paved?
Yes, the road to Goosenecks State Park is paved, making it accessible by most vehicles. You don’t need a four-wheel drive to reach the main viewpoint, so it’s a convenient stop for anyone traveling through southeastern Utah.
Is Goosenecks State Park dog-friendly?
Yes, Goosenecks State Park is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash of at least six feet. It’s an excellent place for your furry friends to enjoy the outdoors with you, but always remember to bring water for them and clean up after their visit.
How big is Goosenecks State Park?
Goosenecks State Park covers an area of approximately 860 acres.
Can you have alcohol in state parks in Utah?
In most state parks, including Goosenecks, alcohol is permitted but with certain restrictions. It’s important to check the latest regulations before your visit and always consume responsibly, respecting the environment and other visitors.
