Sand Island Recreation Area
Open year-round, first-come, first-served with self-registration. Seasonal drinking water is typically available March through October. Currently in the water-available season.
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 Recreation Area sits along the San Juan River within Bears Ears National Monument, approximately 3 miles west of Bluff on US Highway 191. The campground offers 27 sites spread beneath cottonwood trees that line the riverbank, with red sandstone walls forming the northern boundary. Each site accommodates up to 8 people and 2 vehicles. The recreation area is best known as the primary launch point for multi-day San Juan River float trips, which require advance permits. The Sand Island Petroglyph Panel, featuring ancient rock art on the sandstone walls north of the campground, is a short walk away. The surrounding Cedar Mesa area of Bears Ears National Monument offers numerous hiking and scenic driving opportunities, with Valley of the Gods and Goosenecks State Park nearby. Camping is first-come, first-served at $15 per night with a 14-day stay limit. There are no reservations for individual sites; campers self-register at the kiosk upon arrival. Group sites for larger parties may be reserved through Recreation.gov.
Directions
Located off US Route 191 approximately 3 miles west of Bluff, Utah, and approximately 1 mile east of the junction of US Routes 163 and 191. Accessible by all passenger vehicles.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $15 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| blm_ut_mt_mail@blm.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (435) 587-1500 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov | |
| BLM Sand Island Recreation Area |
Availability
Photos
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