Desolation Gray Canyons Screen Cabins
Open for reservations via Recreation.gov. A river permit is required year-round to float Desolation Canyon. The site is primitive with no potable water; bring your own water and pack out all trash.
Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT A strong low pressure system off the Pacific Coast will begin to draw in tropical moisture associated with Topical Storm Rachel this weekend. This strong southerly fetch will draw anomalously high moisture content across the Desert Southwest and into eastern Utah and western Colorado. The chance for widespread precipitation increases Saturday evening into Sunday. Total precipitation forecasts range from 1 to 3 inches across high terrain, with highest amounts favoring the Uintas, Tavaputs and the Southwest San Juan mountains. Embedded thunderstorms are also possible Sunday afternoon, increasing the threat for flash flooding across vulnerable terrain. While confidence in location and rainfall rates remain low at this time, the potential for rapidly rising rivers, streams, normally dry arroyos and slot canyons are possible Sunday through Monday. Please follow the evolving forecast, especially if your plans including recreating or commuting across eastern Utah and western Colorado Sunday onward. Also, keep in mind weather potential above your location and upstream, particularly for those who reside below sensitive terrain like recent burn scars.
About
The Desolation Gray Canyons Screen Cabins are located at Sand Wash Ranger Station, the launch point for 84 miles of wilderness river through Desolation and Gray Canyons on the Green River. The Green River splits the 10,000-foot Tavaputs Plateau to form these rugged, remote canyons rich with historic and archaeological sites. Four screened cabins named Sumner, Howland Brothers, Bradley, and Beaman provide refuge from the area's notorious mosquito plagues and unpredictable weather. Each cabin measures 12 by 16 feet with screening on all four sides, a door, roof, small table, and bench. The cabins are intended as gathering and meal preparation spaces, not as tent substitutes. Groups are limited to one cabin per launching party. Sand Wash is extremely remote and primitive. Access requires driving graded gravel roads from US 40 near Myton, and cell phone coverage is limited. The site has vault toilets but no potable water, trash service, or other amenities. Campers must pack out all trash and bring their own water. A river permit is required year-round to float through Desolation Canyon.
Directions
From Vernal, Utah: Head 40 miles southwest to the town of Myton. Just west of Myton, turn south off US 40 on the first paved road and follow signs to Sand Wash Boat Ramp. From Duchesne, Utah: Head 17 miles east towards Myton, turn south off US 40 onto Sand Wash road and follow signs to Sand Wash Boat Ramp. Roads are graded gravel; good tires and spare tires are a must. Cell phone coverage is limited.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| a1adams@blm.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (435) 636-3600 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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