Goosenecks State Park Introduce
Goosenecks State Park, located near the town of Mexican Hat in southern Utah, offers a stunning panoramic view of one of the most remarkable examples of an entrenched river meander in the world. From the park's overlook, visitors can gaze down upon the San Juan River as it winds its way through a deep, horseshoe-shaped canyon, a geological formation known as a "gooseneck." This unique landscape is a testament to the power of erosion and the passage of time, offering a glimpse into the ancient history of the Colorado Plateau.
A Scenic Overlook with a View
The park's main attraction is its scenic overlook, which provides visitors with a breathtaking view of the gooseneck-shaped canyon. The overlook is easily accessible from the park's parking area, making it a convenient stop for travelers passing through the area. From the overlook, visitors can appreciate the sheer scale of the canyon and the intricate patterns carved by the river over millions of years. The park's website provides information about the geological processes that formed the goosenecks, as well as details about the park's history and facilities.
- Panoramic Views: The park's overlook offers unobstructed views of the San Juan River's entrenched meander, providing visitors with a unique perspective on this geological wonder.
- Photography Opportunities: The dramatic landscape of Goosenecks State Park makes it a popular destination for photographers seeking to capture the beauty of the Colorado Plateau.
- Stargazing: With its remote location and minimal light pollution, Goosenecks State Park is an excellent place for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy clear views of the night sky, making it a memorable experience for astronomy enthusiasts.
Primitive Camping and Facilities
Goosenecks State Park offers a primitive camping experience for visitors who wish to spend a night or more under the stars. The park's campground features eight designated campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit. Vault toilets are available for campers' convenience, but there is no potable water on-site, so visitors should bring their own. The park's website provides information about camping fees and regulations, as well as details about other facilities available at the park.
A Stop on the Trail of the Ancients
Goosenecks State Park is located near the Trail of the Ancients, a scenic byway that winds through some of the most remarkable archaeological sites and natural wonders in the Four Corners region. Visitors to the park can combine their visit with explorations of nearby attractions, such as Monument Valley, Natural Bridges National Monument, and Valley of the Gods. The park's website provides information about nearby attractions and activities, helping visitors plan their itineraries.
Plan Your Visit to Goosenecks State Park
Goosenecks State Park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the park's scenic overlook and camping facilities throughout the year. The park is located off of US-163, near the town of Mexican Hat, Utah. Before your visit, be sure to check the park's website for information about entrance fees, camping availability, and current conditions.
For more information about Goosenecks State Park, please visit the Utah State Parks website or contact the park directly at (435) 678-2238.
Experience the Wonder of Goosenecks State Park
Escape to the dramatic landscape of Goosenecks State Park and discover the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a connection with nature, this park offers an unforgettable experience for all.
Location
Customer Reviews
This is a nice state park. I went here and was satisfied with my experience. This state park has a parking area and campground overlooking a beautiful view of a river canyon with two bends in it. This awe-striking view is similar to that of Horseshoe Bend, but with significantly fewer crowds, more bends, and grey rock instead of orange rock. There aren’t any hiking trails into the canyon because its walls are too steep. The entry fee for this state park is $5, and if the entrance station into the park is closed, there’s a cash only self pay station which is a mail box in which you deposit money. However, there’s no verification system to confirm whether or not you have paid. I gave this state park five stars because it has beautiful views.
This park is a hidden gem. It is so beautiful. On top of that, the woman that was working the gate when we were there took care of the park and facilities better than I’ve ever seen. She even had a homemade poop scraper for the vault toilets. She was so kind and went above and beyond many times in the 12-15 hrs we camped there. She deserves a serious raise!
Goosenecks State Park On the edge of a deep canyon above the sinuous river meander known as a gooseneck, this small park affords impressive views of one of the most striking examples of an entrenched river meander on the North American continent. The San Juan River twists and turns through the meander, flowing a distance of over six miles while advancing one and a half miles west on its way to Lake Powell. Gaze at the results of 300 million years of geological activity, where the San Juan River winds and carves its way through the desert 1,000 feet below. Park fees: $5.00 day-use fee per car with up to 8 people $2.00 per person fee for bus tour groups $10.00 per night per campsite. If no ranger is on duty, pay at the fee tube using the self-serve envelopes. Camping is in 8 designated sites along the rim, where fire-ring and picnic tables are located. First come, first served site only. No reservations are accepted. Conditions are primitive, el-natural. There are no services except vault toilets. Camping, stargazing and the night skye are amazing.
Delightful short side trip from/to Monument Valley. $5 per car entrance fee as of August 2024. It truly is Horseshoe Bend on steroids. You can complete your visit in 30 minutes if all you want are pictures and appreciate the view. There are designated picnic areas, so you can have lunch or snacks while soaking in the view. There are primitive campsites, which are first come, first served. I saw 3 vault toilets, no running water. But apparently, this state park is an International Dark Sky Park, so when I get my RV or trailer, will definitely camp here. This was my second visit and we met a local couple who told us about Moki Dugway so we ended up driving there too. We skipped Valley of the gods this time as we were short on time, but is definitely worth a visit as well.
Such an easy drive, no work involved, get out of the car, and take pictures. The perfect time of day, though, is a big thing
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