Sand Island Group Sites
Open year-round. Water is seasonal and typically unavailable November through February. San Juan River floating requires a permit. Strong winds are common; secure all gear. Annual/Senior/Access passes do not cover group site fees.
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
Sand Island Group Sites is part of the larger Sand Island Recreation Area within Bears Ears National Monument, positioned on the north bank of the San Juan River. The two group campsites cater to organized gatherings seeking proximity to Bluff and the river. Group Site A sits near the boat ramp and accommodates 10-20 people with picnic tables, a fire grate, shade structure, and water nearby. Group Site B, located in Loop B, handles larger groups of 15-40 people and includes a vault toilet in addition to the standard amenities. The campground serves as the primary launch point for the spectacular 102-mile San Juan River corridor between Montezuma Creek and Clay Hills Crossing, offering boaters access to dramatic canyons rich in scenery, geology, archaeology, and wildlife. River floating requires a permit. The ledges above the campground display numerous petroglyphs and pictographs, making it a destination for rock art viewing and photography. Nearby attractions include Goosenecks State Park, Bears Ears National Monument's Shash Jaa Unit, and Cedar Mesa. Summer thunderstorms can trigger flash flooding, and strong winds are common, so securing gear is essential.
Directions
Sand Island Group Sites is located on the north bank of the San Juan River about 3 miles west of Bluff, Utah, on the south side of Highway 191.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $65 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| monticello_fo@blm.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (435) 587-1500 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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