Goosenecks State Park - Mexican Hat, UT
Goosenecks State Park: Dog-Friendly Adventure Amidst Spectacular Views
Located near Mexican Hat, Utah, Goosenecks State Park is a unique stopping point for nature lovers and their pets. While not a traditional dog park, this scenic overlook provides pet-friendly trails and day-use areas, making it a great spot for dog owners seeking amazing views and outdoor adventures. With easy access from UT-316, Goosenecks State Park is known for its breathtaking views of the San Juan River’s winding bends and its dark skies, perfect for stargazing and astrophotography with your four-legged friends.
The park features rough, rocky terrain, so bring comfortable walking shoes and pads for your dog, especially if you plan to stay overnight at one of the rim-side dry camping sites. There are no fenced areas or dedicated dog amenities, but dogs are welcome on leash as you explore the overlook and camping sections. With onsite parking, day-use areas, and rustic restroom facilities, Goosenecks State Park caters to adventurers who want a natural, unspoiled setting to enjoy with their pets. It’s a must-see dog-friendly destination for those traveling between Canyonlands and Monument Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a fee to enter the park? Yes, there is a $5 fee per vehicle for day use and $10 per night for camping.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, but facilities are basic and can be rustic, especially at night.
- Is there parking available at the park? Yes, there is onsite parking near the overlook and camping areas.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? The main feature is the overlook, but there are viewing areas and informal trails along the rim.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, Goosenecks State Park is open throughout the year.
Reviews
Really pretty place to stop. Easy to access if you’re traveling between the Canyonlands and Monument Valley. We didn’t plan for much time here, but would love to go back, especially at night! Looks like an amazing place to do some stargazing and astrophotography. Good camping right along the rim and nice views of the San Juan River.
Stunning! Paved road until campground, it then becomes gravel but good condition. Campground has more than 8 spaces to park rv, in fact it can take as many as you can find space to park as it goes around the rim of the cliff.
Well not sure if it qualifies to be a state park but the view was great. Road to get here was pretty smooth and is newly built. They do charge NULL/ vehicle and the view is like 200 m from tge booth. It is a small place but worth visiting to get it off the list.
This location is more of a large scenic overlook than a traditional park. Despite its small size, it provides day-use areas and overnight dry camping spot. Visitors will find it easy to access, clean, and offering spectacular views.
Absolutely stunning location. Beautiful sunset and sunrise. Honor system to pay, cash in envelope or scan QR code to pay the NULL/night fee. There were a few sites still available for us to camp when we arrived an hour before sunset, in early Sept. Ground is rough rock so definitely bring your sleeper pads if you tent camp on the ground like we did. Facilities were stinky and full of angry flies. Absolutely positively do not use a white flashlight at night if you need to use the restroom here 🪰+ 👄 = 😭 Otherwise, this is my top 3 campsite, ever! 10/10 recommend.