Jurassic National Monument’s Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry is home to one of
the most impressive collections of dinosaur fossils worldwide.

For more information, please visit https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-
conservation-lands/utah/jurassic-national-monument.

<p>Jurassic National Monument’s Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry is home to one of the most impressive collections of dinosaur fossils worldwide. </p><p>For more information, please visit <a href="/node/8171" title="jurassic monument" rel="nofollow">https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/utah/jurassic-national-monument</a>.</p>

Bird's eye view of the park

Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry

The Old Spanish Trail is an historical trade route that connected the northern
New Mexico settlements of (or near) Santa Fe, New Mexico with those of Los
Angeles, California and southern California. Approximately 700 mi (1,100 km)
long, the trail ran through areas of high mountains, arid deserts, and deep
canyons. It is considered one of the most arduous of all trade routes ever
established in the United States. Explored, in part, by Spanish explorers as
early as the late 16th century, the trail saw extensive use by pack trains
from about 1830 until the mid-1850s. The name of the trail comes from the
publication of John C. Fr mont's Report of his 1844 journey for the U.S.
Topographical Corps., guided by Kit Carson, from California to New Mexico. The
name acknowledges the fact that parts of the trail had been known to the
Spanish since the 16th century. The trail is important to New Mexico history
because it established an arduous but usable trade route with California.

## Old Spanish National Historic Trail Mobile Map

Learn more about the Old Spanish National Historic Trail Mobile Map that
offers informative and interpretive information about points of interest along
the trail. Using the mobile map while exploring the trail provides a more
interactive experience to learn about the history of the trail.

  * Web Browser
  * Apple Store
  * Google Play Store

<p>The Old Spanish Trail is an historical trade route that connected the northern New Mexico settlements of (or near) Santa Fe, New Mexico with those of Los Angeles, California and southern California. Approximately 700 mi (1,100 km) long, the trail ran through areas of high mountains, arid deserts, and deep canyons. It is considered one of the most arduous of all trade routes ever established in the United States. Explored, in part, by Spanish explorers as early as the late 16th century, the trail saw extensive use by pack trains from about 1830 until the mid-1850s. The name of the trail comes from the publication of John C. Fr mont's Report of his 1844 journey for the U.S. Topographical Corps., guided by Kit Carson, from California to New Mexico. The name acknowledges the fact that parts of the trail had been known to the Spanish since the 16th century. The trail is important to New Mexico history because it established an arduous but usable trade route with California.</p>

<h2>Old Spanish National Historic Trail Mobile Map</h2>

<p>Learn more about the <a href="/node/409062" rel="nofollow">Old Spanish National Historic Trail Mobile Map</a> that offers informative and interpretive information about points of interest along the trail. Using the mobile map while exploring the trail provides a more interactive experience to learn about the history of the trail. </p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="https://blm-egis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=d5ae8dc2dfe54b49b2fbad2de8f35239" title="" rel="nofollow">Web Browser</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://links.esri.com/arcgis-field-maps-app-store" title="" rel="nofollow">Apple Store</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://links.esri.com/arcgis-field-maps-google-play-store" title="" rel="nofollow">Google Play Store</a></li>
</ul>

Old Spanish Trail National Historic Trail

The Cinnamon colored buttes peppered by the evergreen colors of Juniper and
pinyon trees above Huntington State Park make for a beautiful setting. This
reservoir and park are located just outside the town of Huntington, Utah, and
sit between the mountains of the Wasatch Plateau and the desert of the San
Rafael Swell. Conveniently located only a couple of hours drive from Green
River and Salt Lake City the park makes a great base for watersports, fishing,
quiet camping, and exploring the surrounding area on foot, bike or OHV,
including the San Rafael Swell and Manti La-Sal National Forest.

After your morning session on the lake, pack a lunch and drive east into the
San Rafael Swell for an afternoon of exploring the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur
Quarry. Or check out the view from the Wedge Overlook then drive into Buckhorn
Wash to see the petroglyphs and suspension bridge. Note: travel in the San
Rafael Swell is on improved dirt BLM roads, which may become impassable when
wet. Make a reservation on the Utah State Parks reservation site

The Cinnamon colored buttes peppered by the evergreen colors of Juniper and pinyon trees above Huntington State Park make for a beautiful setting. This reservoir and park are located just outside the town of Huntington, Utah, and sit between the mountains of the Wasatch Plateau and the desert of the San Rafael Swell. Conveniently located only a couple of hours drive from Green River and Salt Lake City the park makes a great base for watersports, fishing, quiet camping, and exploring the surrounding area on foot, bike or OHV, including the San Rafael Swell and Manti La-Sal National Forest.
<p>
<p>
After your morning session on the lake, pack a lunch and drive east into the San Rafael Swell for an afternoon of exploring the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry. Or check out the view from the Wedge Overlook then drive into Buckhorn Wash to see the petroglyphs and suspension bridge. Note: travel in the San Rafael Swell is on improved dirt BLM roads, which may become impassable when wet. <a href="http://utahstateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/huntington-state-park/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=UT&parkId=344391" rel="nofollow">Make a reservation on the Utah State Parks reservation site</a>

Day-use fee: $7; $3 for Utah seniors over 62. Campsites start at $20/night.

Huntington State Park

Nestled in the heart of Utah, the San Rafael Swell is a breathtaking landscape
that showcases the remarkable interplay of geology, history, and recreation.
This unique region is characterized by its stunning rock formations, deep
canyons, and expansive vistas, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts
and history buffs alike.

# Unique Geology

The San Rafael Swell is renowned for its striking geological features, formed
over millions of years through the forces of erosion and sedimentation.
Towering cliffs, vibrant rock layers, and intricate slot canyons tell the
story of the Earth’s history, with formations like the San Rafael Reef
standing as a testament to the power of nature. The area’s colorful sandstone
and limestone formations create a visual feast, drawing photographers, hikers,
and geologists to explore its rugged beauty.

# A Land of Dinosaurs

Long before humans set foot in this remarkable landscape, dinosaurs roamed the
San Rafael Swell. Fossil evidence reveals that this area was once a lush
environment teeming with prehistoric life. Paleontologists continue to
excavate fossils at Jurassic National Monument (formerly Cleveland Lloyd
Dinosaur Quarry) in the northern part of the Swell.

# Cultural Sites

Long before western expansion, the San Rafael Swell has been home to various
native cultures. Indigenous peoples thrived in this region, leaving behind
pictographs, pottery, and other artifacts. Many of these rock writings are
still available to visit in the Swell, and many artifacts collected from the
area can be viewed at the USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum located in Price, or
the San Rafael Museum in Castle Dale. Visitors who come across artifacts and
other cultural sites should Visit with Respect by leaving items where they
are, staying out of structures, and avoiding touching rock writing panels.

# Historic Grazing and Mining

Early settlers arrived in the Swell around the mid-1800s, establishing
homesteads and running cattle and other livestock. Mining operations sprouted
up, extracting valuable minerals. Grazing and mining are still practiced in
the Swell, providing a livelihood for local residents. Abandoned structures
from these practices stand today on BLM lands in the Swell and are a treat for
history buffs to respectfully explore. Please do not alter structures or
sites, historic or current. Any historic artifacts should be left where they
are found, as collecting them is against the law.

# Recreation

Today, the San Rafael Swell serves a diverse array of recreational users,
offering countless opportunities for adventure. From hiking and mountain
biking to off-highway vehicle (OHV) exploration, the area is a playground for
outdoor enthusiasts. Scenic destinations such as The Wedge and the stunning
views from the San Rafael Reef provide breathtaking backdrops for photography,
camping, and wildlife viewing. Many dispersed campsites offer opportunities
for getting away from it all. This popular area is frequented by thousands of
visitors every year. Please practice Leave No Trace principles while enjoying
the area.

# Traveling in the Swell

BLM Utah completed its travel planning in Dec. 2024, introducing an updated
network of routes available for motorized use. To view updated maps, specific
route decisions, and other planning documents, visit:
https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/1500146/570.

<p>Nestled in the heart of Utah, the San Rafael Swell is a breathtaking landscape that showcases the remarkable interplay of geology, history, and recreation. This unique region is characterized by its stunning rock formations, deep canyons, and expansive vistas, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.</p>

<h1>Unique Geology</h1>

<p>The San Rafael Swell is renowned for its striking geological features, formed over millions of years through the forces of erosion and sedimentation. Towering cliffs, vibrant rock layers, and intricate slot canyons tell the story of the Earth’s history, with formations like the San Rafael Reef standing as a testament to the power of nature. The area’s colorful sandstone and limestone formations create a visual feast, drawing photographers, hikers, and geologists to explore its rugged beauty.</p>

<h1>A Land of Dinosaurs</h1>

<p>Long before humans set foot in this remarkable landscape, dinosaurs roamed the San Rafael Swell. Fossil evidence reveals that this area was once a lush environment teeming with prehistoric life. Paleontologists continue to excavate fossils at Jurassic National Monument (formerly Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry) in the northern part of the Swell.</p>

<h1>Cultural Sites</h1>

<p>Long before western expansion, the San Rafael Swell has been home to various native cultures. Indigenous peoples thrived in this region, leaving behind pictographs, pottery, and other artifacts. Many of these rock writings are still available to visit in the Swell, and many artifacts collected from the area can be viewed at the USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum located in Price, or the San Rafael Museum in Castle Dale. Visitors who come across artifacts and other cultural sites should Visit with Respect by leaving items where they are, staying out of structures, and avoiding touching rock writing panels.</p>

<h1>Historic Grazing and Mining</h1>

<p>Early settlers arrived in the Swell around the mid-1800s, establishing homesteads and running cattle and other livestock. Mining operations sprouted up, extracting valuable minerals. Grazing and mining are still practiced in the Swell, providing a livelihood for local residents. Abandoned structures from these practices stand today on BLM lands in the Swell and are a treat for history buffs to respectfully explore. Please do not alter structures or sites, historic or current. Any historic artifacts should be left where they are found, as collecting them is against the law.</p>

<h1>Recreation</h1>

<p>Today, the San Rafael Swell serves a diverse array of recreational users, offering countless opportunities for adventure. From hiking and mountain biking to off-highway vehicle (OHV) exploration, the area is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Scenic destinations such as The Wedge and the stunning views from the San Rafael Reef provide breathtaking backdrops for photography, camping, and wildlife viewing. Many dispersed campsites offer opportunities for getting away from it all. This popular area is frequented by thousands of visitors every year. Please practice Leave No Trace principles while enjoying the area.</p>

<h1>Traveling in the Swell</h1>

<p>BLM Utah completed its travel planning in Dec. 2024, introducing an updated network of routes available for motorized use. To view updated maps, specific route decisions, and other planning documents, visit: <a href="https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/1500146/570" rel="nofollow">https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/1500146/570</a>.</p>

<p> </p>

## Overview

Buckhorn Draw has multiple vault toilets and information stations along the
main road. Individual campsites have picnic tables and fires rings.

## Recreation

Buckhorn Draw Road is the main artery for the northern half of the San Rafael
Swell Recreation Area. There are thousands of miles of roads and off-highway
vehicle trails; from Buckhorn Draw visitors can readily access Cane Wash Road,
which leads to some of the Swell's most technical OHV trails, as well as
dispersed camping along Mexican Mountain Road. Much of the area outside of the
draw is designated wilderness. Motorized vehicles, bicycles, and power tools
are prohibited in these areas.

**Hiking** : Calf Canyon and Furniture Draw are popular day hikes from
Buckhorn Draw. Those seeking longer, challenging backcountry adventures will
find opportunities for backpacking, with trailheads located at the Johansen
Corral (west from Swinging Bridge along the San Rafael River) and at the east
end of Mexican Mountain Road.

**Off-roading** : Non-county trails are infrequently maintained. Please choose
trails appropriate to your vehicle and skill level and bring an emergency kit
to self-rescue.

**Rock climbing** : There are many climbing routes along Buckhorn Draw. Please
utilize day use areas and general parking lots when climbing or observing. Do
not stop or park in blind turns, and do not park in fee campsite if you are
not camping there.

## Facilities

Vault toilets are located at:

  * Campsites 1-7
  * Campsites 18-21
  * The Buckhorn Pictograph Panel (halfway between sites 23-24 and 25-27)
  * Swinging Bridge Campground

Different sites are appropriate for different vehicles:

  * RVs: all group sites; 1, 3, 8-11, 14, 17, 27, 30-32
  * Small trailers: all of the above plus 18, 19, 22-25, 28
  * Sites 20-21 are down a rough, narrow road with deep sand. High clearance and AWD/4WD required.

## Natural Features

Buckhorn Draw is the San Rafael River's longest tributary canyon. Along the
nine-mile drive from the top of the canyon to its confluence with the river at
the Swinging Bridge, visitors will pass below towering sandstone cliffs. The
canyon is mixed sagebrush and riparian, and there are many opportunities to
see mule deer within the draw and bighorn sheep in the side canyons.
Designated wilderness frames either side of Buckhorn Draw: Sids Mountain
Wilderness to the west and Mexican Mountain Wilderness to the east. Wilderness
protects outstanding habitat and ecosystems and provides many opportunities
for non-motorized recreation.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Buckhorn Draw has multiple vault toilets and information stations along the main road. Individual campsites have picnic tables and fires rings. </p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Buckhorn Draw Road is the main artery for the northern half of the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area. There are thousands of miles of roads and off-highway vehicle trails; from Buckhorn Draw visitors can readily access Cane Wash Road, which leads to some of the Swell's most technical OHV trails, as well as dispersed camping along Mexican Mountain Road. Much of the area outside of the draw is designated wilderness. Motorized vehicles, bicycles, and power tools are prohibited in these areas.</p>
<p><strong>Hiking</strong>: Calf Canyon and Furniture Draw are popular day hikes from Buckhorn Draw. Those seeking longer, challenging backcountry adventures will find opportunities for backpacking, with trailheads located at the Johansen Corral (west from Swinging Bridge along the San Rafael River) and at the east end of Mexican Mountain Road.</p>
<p><strong>Off-roading</strong>: Non-county trails are infrequently maintained. Please choose trails appropriate to your vehicle and skill level and bring an emergency kit to self-rescue.</p>
<p><strong>Rock climbing</strong>: There are many climbing routes along Buckhorn Draw. Please utilize day use areas and general parking lots when climbing or observing. Do not stop or park in blind turns, and do not park in fee campsite if you are not camping there.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Vault toilets are located at:</p>
<ul>
<li>Campsites 1-7</li>
<li>Campsites 18-21</li>
<li>The Buckhorn Pictograph Panel (halfway between sites 23-24 and 25-27)</li>
<li>Swinging Bridge Campground</li>
</ul>
<p>Different sites are appropriate for different vehicles:</p>
<ul>
<li>RVs: all group sites; 1, 3, 8-11, 14, 17, 27, 30-32</li>
<li>Small trailers: all of the above plus 18, 19, 22-25, 28</li>
<li>Sites 20-21 are down a rough, narrow road with deep sand. High clearance and AWD/4WD required.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>Buckhorn Draw is the San Rafael River's longest tributary canyon. Along the nine-mile drive from the top of the canyon to its confluence with the river at the Swinging Bridge, visitors will pass below towering sandstone cliffs. The canyon is mixed sagebrush and riparian, and there are many opportunities to see mule deer within the draw and bighorn sheep in the side canyons. Designated wilderness frames either side of Buckhorn Draw: Sids Mountain Wilderness to the west and Mexican Mountain Wilderness to the east. Wilderness protects outstanding habitat and ecosystems and provides many opportunities for non-motorized recreation.</p>

The 26 individual sites fit two to three vehicles and are $15/night. There are
7 large group sites that are $50/night and fit eight to ten standard sized
vehicles or multiple RVs and trailers. High clearance is advised for sites 20
and 21. Not all individual sites are accessible to oversized vehicles; please
contact the BLM for more information. Self-pay stations are located near
campsites 18, 30, and 1. This campground is open, and generally accessible,
year-round.

A dirt road cuts through a wide canyon of orange cliffs with a bathroom in the distance.

A dirt road with a sign for Campsite 26 leads towards the base of an orange sandstone cliff

Two campsites are tucked into an alcove surrounded by tan cliffs and slope of rockfall

Tan sandstone cliffs rise up behind a gravel road with a campsite on one side and bare cottonwood trees on the other.

A wide canyon with orange and tan cliffs  and bare cottonwoods following a dry creekbed at the bottom

Buckhorn Draw

Bird's eye view of the campground

## Overview

South Temple Wash is a fee campground in the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area.

## Recreation

South Temple Wash campground is located along the Temple Mountain Road on the
east side of the Reef. A short distance back to the east of the campground is
the turn to go to Goblin Valley State Park. Turning west before the entrance
of the state park will lead to Little Wild Horse Canyon, a popular hike for
many in a slot canyon. From the campground and driving west on the Temple
Mountain Road will lead to the Temple Mountain Pictograph Panel, a short drive
further is Temple Mountain Townsite. Here visitors can hike to reclaimed
uranium mines. Opposite Temple Mountain Townsite is The Behind-the-Reef Road
and it is accessible to most vehicles for six miles, accessing several
trailheads for hikes into the San Rafael Reef Wilderness. Two of these (Chute
Canyon and Wild Horse Canyon) are accessible for horseback riders. The road
continues for another 14 miles requiring high clearance and four-wheel-drive
as it follows the rugged base of the reef against a backdrop of 500-foot
cliffs and jagged canyons. After about seven miles, the road narrows to a
maximum vehicle width of 50 feet. More wilderness slot canyons hikes can be
accessed from this road. Motorized vehicle use is not permitted in wilderness.

## Facilities

South Temple Wash has two vault toilets and an information kiosk. All
campsites have fire rings, flat gravel surfaces, and picnic tables.

## Natural Features

The campground is at the Eastern mouth of a short, steep canyon (Temple Wash)
which cuts through the San Rafael Reef. One of the most distinctive geologic
features of central Utah, the Reef is a 75-mile-long rocky spine that reaches
up to 1,000 feet high and forms the eastern edge of the San Rafael Swell. The
Temple Mountain area provides acces to many scenic slot canyons, hills, and
spires cut from red and white rock.

## Nearby Attractions

Goblin Valley State Park (fee area), 2 miles east: The state park entrance is
two miles up the Temple Wash Road going back towards Highway 24. The state
park is famous for its unique landscape of sandstone hoodoos (goblins) and
buttes. The park has hiking and mountain biking trails as well as a fee
campground and yurt rentals.

Little Wild Horse Canyon: The Little Wild Horse slot canyon is the most
popular hike in the San Rafael Reef. Visitors can appreciate sculpted
sandstone walls and narrows through the three-mile canyon. Paired with Bell
Canyon via the Behind-the-Reef Road, this makes for an eight-mile moderate day
hike with varied scenery. The canyon bottoms are gravel and there are some
obstacles requiring straightforward scrambling.

Temple Mountain Mining District: The townsite is in the heart of the historic
Temple Mountain Mining District. Visitors can visit sites and learn about the
history of Cold War-era uranium mining by foot or vehicle.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (435) 636-3600.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>South Temple Wash is a fee campground in the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>South Temple Wash campground is located along the Temple Mountain Road on the east side of the Reef. A short distance back to the east of the campground is the turn to go to Goblin Valley State Park. Turning west before the entrance of the state park will lead to Little Wild Horse Canyon, a popular hike for many in a slot canyon. From the campground and driving west on the Temple Mountain Road will lead to the Temple Mountain Pictograph Panel, a short drive further is Temple Mountain Townsite. Here visitors can hike to reclaimed uranium mines. Opposite Temple Mountain Townsite is The Behind-the-Reef Road and it is accessible to most vehicles for six miles, accessing several trailheads for hikes into the San Rafael Reef Wilderness. Two of these (Chute Canyon and Wild Horse Canyon) are accessible for horseback riders. The road continues for another 14 miles requiring high clearance and four-wheel-drive as it follows the rugged base of the reef against a backdrop of 500-foot cliffs and jagged canyons. After about seven miles, the road narrows to a maximum vehicle width of 50 feet. More wilderness slot canyons hikes can be accessed from this road. Motorized vehicle use is not permitted in wilderness. </p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>South Temple Wash has two vault toilets and an information kiosk. All campsites have fire rings, flat gravel surfaces, and picnic tables.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>The campground is at the Eastern mouth of a short, steep canyon (Temple Wash) which cuts through the San Rafael Reef. One of the most distinctive geologic features of central Utah, the Reef is a 75-mile-long rocky spine that reaches up to 1,000 feet high and forms the eastern edge of the San Rafael Swell. The Temple Mountain area provides acces to many scenic slot canyons, hills, and spires cut from red and white rock.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Goblin Valley State Park (fee area), 2 miles east: The state park entrance is two miles up the Temple Wash Road going back towards Highway 24. The state park is famous for its unique landscape of sandstone hoodoos (goblins) and buttes. The park has hiking and mountain biking trails as well as a fee campground and yurt rentals.</p>
<p>Little Wild Horse Canyon: The Little Wild Horse slot canyon is the most popular hike in the San Rafael Reef. Visitors can appreciate sculpted sandstone walls and narrows through the three-mile canyon. Paired with Bell Canyon via the Behind-the-Reef Road, this makes for an eight-mile moderate day hike with varied scenery. The canyon bottoms are gravel and there are some obstacles requiring straightforward scrambling.</p>
<p>Temple Mountain Mining District: The townsite is in the heart of the historic Temple Mountain Mining District. Visitors can visit sites and learn about the history of Cold War-era uranium mining by foot or vehicle.</p>

<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (435) 636-3600.

Sites 1 & 12 are group sites at $50/night. Sites 2-11 are individual sites at
$15/night.

A primitive campsite on gravel ground with a fire ring and picnic table.

Wide angle photo of campground with sign in foreground that says "South Temple Wash"

A wide-angle photo of an open campground with picnic tables and a bathroom

South Temple Wash

## Overview

Temple Mountain Townsite is a fee campground in the San Rafael Swell
Recreation Area.

## Recreation

Temple Mountain Townsite is at the intersection of Temple Mountain Road and
the Behind-the-Reef Road. From the campground, visitors can hike to reclaimed
uranium mines, drive a short distance down the wash to the Temple Mountain
Pictograph Panel, or drive the longer North Temple Wash loop. The Behind-the-
Reef Road is accessible to most vehicles for six miles, accessing several
trailheads for hikes into the San Rafael Reef Wilderness. Two of these (Chute
Canyon and Wild Horse Canyon) are accessible for horseback riders. The road
continues for another 14 miles requiring high clearance and four-wheel-drive
as it follows the rugged base of the reef against a backdrop of 500-foot
cliffs and jagged canyons. After about seven miles, the road narrows to a
maximum vehicle width of 50 feet. More wilderness slot canyons hikes can be
accessed from this road. Motorized vehicle use is not permitted in wilderness.

## Natural Features

The campground is at the mouth of a short, steep canyon (Temple Wash) which
cuts through the San Rafael Reef. One of the most distinctive geologic
features of central Utah, the Reef is a 75-mile-long rocky spine that reaches
up to 1,000 feet high and forms the eastern edge of the San Rafael Swell. The
Temple Mountain area provides acces to many scenic slot canyons, hills, and
spires cut from red and white rock.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (435) 636-3600.

## Nearby Attractions

Goblin Valley State Park (fee area), 2 miles east: The state park entrance is
two miles up the Temple Wash Road going back towards Highway 24. The state
park is famous for its unique landscape of sandstone hoodoos (goblins) and
buttes. The park has hiking and mountain biking trails as well as a fee
campground and yurt rentals.

Little Wild Horse Canyon: The Little Wild Horse slot canyon is the most
popular hike in the San Rafael Reef. Visitors can appreciate sculpted
sandstone walls and narrows through the three-mile canyon. Paired with Bell
Canyon via the Behind-the-Reef Road, this makes for an eight-mile moderate day
hike with varied scenery. The canyon bottoms are gravel and there are some
obstacles requiring straightforward scrambling.

Temple Mountain Mining District: The townsite is in the heart of the historic
Temple Mountain Mining District. Visitors can visit sites and learn about the
history of Cold War-era uranium mining by foot or vehicle.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Temple Mountain Townsite is a fee campground in the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Temple Mountain Townsite is at the intersection of Temple Mountain Road and the Behind-the-Reef Road. From the campground, visitors can hike to reclaimed uranium mines, drive a short distance down the wash to the Temple Mountain Pictograph Panel, or drive the longer North Temple Wash loop. The Behind-the-Reef Road is accessible to most vehicles for six miles, accessing several trailheads for hikes into the San Rafael Reef Wilderness. Two of these (Chute Canyon and Wild Horse Canyon) are accessible for horseback riders. The road continues for another 14 miles requiring high clearance and four-wheel-drive as it follows the rugged base of the reef against a backdrop of 500-foot cliffs and jagged canyons. After about seven miles, the road narrows to a maximum vehicle width of 50 feet. More wilderness slot canyons hikes can be accessed from this road. Motorized vehicle use is not permitted in wilderness.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>The campground is at the mouth of a short, steep canyon (Temple Wash) which cuts through the San Rafael Reef. One of the most distinctive geologic features of central Utah, the Reef is a 75-mile-long rocky spine that reaches up to 1,000 feet high and forms the eastern edge of the San Rafael Swell. The Temple Mountain area provides acces to many scenic slot canyons, hills, and spires cut from red and white rock.</p>

<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (435) 636-3600.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Goblin Valley State Park (fee area), 2 miles east: The state park entrance is two miles up the Temple Wash Road going back towards Highway 24. The state park is famous for its unique landscape of sandstone hoodoos (goblins) and buttes. The park has hiking and mountain biking trails as well as a fee campground and yurt rentals.</p>
<p>Little Wild Horse Canyon: The Little Wild Horse slot canyon is the most popular hike in the San Rafael Reef. Visitors can appreciate sculpted sandstone walls and narrows through the three-mile canyon. Paired with Bell Canyon via the Behind-the-Reef Road, this makes for an eight-mile moderate day hike with varied scenery. The canyon bottoms are gravel and there are some obstacles requiring straightforward scrambling.</p>
<p>Temple Mountain Mining District: The townsite is in the heart of the historic Temple Mountain Mining District. Visitors can visit sites and learn about the history of Cold War-era uranium mining by foot or vehicle.</p>

Individual sites $15/night and group sites $50/night, paid at self-pay kiosks.

Temple Mountain Campground as seen from trail up to mines, facing Temple Mountain Road.

View of campground from trail overlooking the campground.

A picture of a vacant campsite with a parking space and picnic table visible

Campsite at the townsite, with Temple Mountain in the background.

An RV and truck camper are parked in a campground below a large sandstone butte.

Stone cabin ruins in the townsite area. Please respect all historic sites and do not touch or remove artifacts and building materials.

Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry

Directions

Reviews

Nearby Parks

Old Spanish Trail National Historic Trail

Huntington State Park

San Rafael Swell Recreation Area