Sand Island Recreation Area

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.