Goosenecks State Park Campground

Goosenecks is a pull-up-and-park campground on the canyon rim. The San Juan River doubles back on itself in tight, entrenched bends a thousand feet below your tailgate. There’s no shade, no water, and no hookups. Expect vault toilets, a few covered picnic tables, and fire rings or stoves at the pull-offs along the rim. It’s first-come and the sites are open desert, so wind is part of the deal. Bring all your own water. Sunsets and star fields here are the main attraction, and the rim edge is unfenced in places, so keep kids and dogs close.

Access is the easy part. It’s a short paved spur off Highway 261, a few miles from the Mexican Hat area, and any vehicle can make it, rigs and trailers included. It’s a solid staging camp for Valley of the Gods, Muley Point, and the Moki Dugway. Summer is hot and exposed, so spring and fall are the best seasons. Verify fees and current rules with Utah State Parks before you roll in.

Rim camping above the San Juan's gooseneck bends