My Favorite Place in Utah Isn’t a National Park

Utah is home to the "Big 5" National Parks: Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches, and Capitol Reef. These parks are spectacular to explore, with plenty of nearby camping options. The natural beauty, amazing rock formations, and breathtaking views make them worth visiting. Utah is the 13th largest state in the US but ranks 30th in population. With about 85,000 square miles (220,000 square km) of area to explore, I'd say every square mile is worth exploring.

I've spent time at each of the 5 National Parks, camping, hiking, photographing, sitting on a rock meditating, and enjoying the scenery. 

But my absolute favorite place in Utah isn't one of the "Big 5"; it's Goosenecks State Park in the southern part of the state.

Located near the southern border of the state and close to Mexican Hat, Goosenecks State Park is worth checking out. I've been there three times and plan to visit again.

Here are my top three reasons I love Goosenecks State Park:

1. Never Crowded - With an average of fewer than 60,000 visitors a year (compared to 5 million at Zion and 1.5 million at Arches), the park is never crowded.

2. Beautiful Views - The San Juan River is about 1,000 feet below the overlook, offering miles of visibility in every direction. It's also an International Dark Sky Park.

3. Great Camping - You can camp anywhere along the rim of the canyon for just $10 per night.

Goosenecks State Park is about 2.5 hours south of Arches National Park and 3 hours northwest of the Grand Canyon. The paved road into the park makes for a beautiful drive.

The park gets its name from the deeply entrenched meanders of the San Juan River, 1,000 feet below the rim. You can easily see two of the goosenecks from the visitor area, showcasing the river's and wind's power in carving out this formation.

On each visit, I've seen no more than 10 rigs, making it easy to find your perfect spot. There are eight designated camping spots with fire rings and picnic tables, but you can park anywhere along the rim. Just be careful if you sleepwalk or wander at night – it's a long way down to the canyon bottom.

My first visit was over Easter weekend in 2023. I woke up before sunrise, made coffee, and watched a spectacular sunrise. I hiked, read, and enjoyed a brilliant sunset that evening. The panoramic views are incredible.

While there aren't designated hiking trails in the park, the Honaker Trailhead is 10 minutes away, offering a 5-mile out-and-back trail to the river with a 1,500-foot elevation change. Alternatively, you can hike along the rim (2 miles out and back) or explore the surrounding desert.

The views are incredible from anywhere in the park. On a clear day, you can see Monument Valley's rock formations 30 miles away.

The park has a pit toilet, shelters with picnic tables, and free Starlink for connectivity. Cell coverage is limited.

Goosenecks State Park isn't as spectacular as the "Big 5," but if you're looking for a place to camp, hike, relax, and enjoy beautiful views, check it out. I doubt you'll be disappointed.