OutReserve

Sand Island Recreation Area

An aerial view of the San Juan River line with green cottonwood trees and the Sand Island boat launch area.

Featured amenities

Pet Friendly
Pet Friendly
River Access
River Access

About Sand Island Recreation Area

Sand Island Recreation Area is a good camping option for visitors launching San Juan River float trips, or wishing to camp close to the town of Bluff or the Cedar Mesa area of Bears Ears National Monument. The campground provides 21 campsites that each feature a tent/trailer space, a picnic table, a fire ring, and vault toilets. Drinking water is available seasonally (typically March through October). Each campsite can hold 8 people and 2 vehicles. Reservations are not available for camping at this location. Individual campsites are available on a first come, first served basis upon arrival at the self-register kiosk at the site. The Sand Island Group Sites are available for larger groups, and may be reserved here. 

Campground Amenities

  • Pet Friendly
    Pet Friendly
  • River Access
    River Access

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
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Jul
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Oct
Nov
Dec

Open year round

This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.

365 Days

Reviews (13)

What Guests Are Saying

The Sand Island Recreation Area is a great overnight stop with interesting sites and quiet surroundings, featuring accessible petroglyphs and large, shady campsites by the river. While payment issues and some highway noise were noted, the campground offers conveniences like clean bathrooms, a picnic table, and proximity to hiking trails. Overall, it serves as a solid base for outdoor activities, despite minor drawbacks like noisy neighbors and mosquitoes.

Review Summary

4.1
13 reviews
5
30.8%
4
4
53.8%
7
3
7.7%
1
2
7.7%
1
1
0.0%
0

Alex W

August 14, 2023

5

Sand Island was an excellent camp site! The sites were clean and in great shape. My girlfriend and I will definitely be staying here again.

Robert W

June 22, 2023

4

A-

Spencer H

June 18, 2023

5

Gateway to adventure

Location Sand Island Recreation Area

Address:
Blm Monticello Field Office
Monticello, UT, 84535
United States

Latitude & Longitude: 37.2626 / -109.61

Elevation: 1309 feet

Policies & Rules

Category About
General

A permit is required in advance for floating on the San Juan River.

General

Drinking water is seasonal and is typically available March through October.

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations