Goosenecks State Park Campground boasts an incredible overlook of the San Juan River.
If you’re headed to Bears Ears National Monument, spend a night at Goosenecks State Park Campground.
Goosenecks State Park is primitive, boasting a picnic area and incredible views as its only amenities. The park has no hiking trails, and while it may not be a destination in and of itself, it’s worth stopping if you’re heading to or coming from nearby Cedar Mesa, Utah.
The campground is just as sparse as the park. There are eight designated sites with picnic tables and fire pits, some with shade structures. Be sure to bring your own water and firewood. If you’re comfortable with dispersed camping, you’ll fee right at home.
There are no reservations, just first-come, first-served sites. Pay your fee, pick your spot, and enjoy the beautiful vistas.
The campground sits on the rim of the Goosenecks Overlook and offers incredible panoramic views of the sinuous San Juan River below. Head to the Kane Gulch Ranger Station the next morning for Cedar Mesa hiking permits.
Amenities
- Pit toilets
- Picnic tables
- Shade structures
- Fire pits
Directions to Goosenecks State Park
From Mexican Hat, Utah, continue east on Hwy 163 for 4 miles. Turn left onto UT 261, and head north for about 1 mile. Following signs to Goosenecks State Park, turn left onto UT 316 and follow the road to its end. The campground is on the left side of the road near the overlook.
General Location Mexican Hat, Utah
Elevation 4,550 ft (1,387 m)
Number of Sites 8
Season Year-round
Managed By Goosenecks State Park
Fees Fee required – Check the website below for current information
Pets Allowed
More Info State Park website
Adventure awaits
Sign up to get three hikes in your inbox every month for a year.
Special membership offer
Join the Grand Canyon Trust today to receive your adventure kit:
- $25 donation: a Grand Canyon map, The Advocate magazine subscription, bookmark, and sticker
- $75 donation: everything above plus four stunning note cards
- $100 donation: all the benefits of the $75 level, plus a Grand Canyon Trust hat
Related Hikes by Destination
Sites: 25
Season: Open year-round
Reservations: For groups sites only
Distance: 8 mi (12.9 km)
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Out and back
State: Utah
Nearest Town: Springdale, Utah
Distance: 2.2 mi (3.5 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Out and back