Sand Island Recreation Area

Star4.31
37 reviews
BLM Monticello Field Office, 365 N Main St, Monticello, UT, 84535, United States

Quick Facts

4,350 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

23 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens BLM Monticello Field Office site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026
Sand Island Recreation Area
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping costs $15 per night for a standard site. Payments must be made upon arrival at the self-register kiosk using cash, check, or the Scan & Pay...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
435-587-1500blm_ut_mt_mail@blm.gov
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What Campers Say

4.31

Satisfactory

Based on 37 reviews

19 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacylocationsites

Some mention

noise

"User reviews generally highlight the scenic location, privacy between sites, and convenient access to the San Juan River as key advantages. Some concerns include noise near Loop B and issues with ants."

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Campground Map

BLM Monticello Field Office, 365 N Main St, Monticello, UT, 84535, United States

Sand Island Recreation Area

BLM Monticello Field Office, 365 N Main St, Monticello, UT, 84535, United States

Driving directionsThe recreation area is located off U.S. Route 191 approximately three miles west of Bluff, UT and approximately one mile east of the junction of U.S. Routes 163 and 191. It is accessible by all passenger vehicles.
The campground is accessible by all passenger vehicles, and no high-clearance or 4-wheel drive vehicles are required. Roads are paved.
Nearby places
Bluff, UT (3 miles), Monticello (39 miles), Blanding (25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Bluff, UT, approximately 3 miles away, including groceries, camping equipment, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Sand Island Recreation Area

Experience the rhythmic dance of desert seasons at Sand Island, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings crystalline blue skies and warm days perfect for early morning adventures and starlit evening gatherings. Spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons for camping, offering gentle temperatures that invite exploration from dawn to dusk. Fresh drinking water flows through the campground during peak visitation months from March through October, ensuring your comfort as you immerse yourself in this ancient landscape.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Hot temperatures and insect/ant issues noted; river access helps cooling but summer is less comfortable.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall is popular with mild temps, scenic colors and active wildlife per seasonal notes and reviews.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5
Top 7% in UT

Spring is a peak season with mild temps, active wildlife and many positive reviews for this period.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Open year-round but drinking water seasonal; colder nights and fewer amenities in winter reduce appeal.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: March through October (drinking water is available during this period).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round for camping. Drinking water availability is seasonal and typically provided March through October.

About Sand Island Recreation Area

Nestled within the stunning Bears Ears National Monument, Sand Island Recreation Area beckons adventurers with 23 thoughtfully positioned campsites along the legendary San Juan River. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and convenient vault toilets, creating the perfect basecamp for your desert explorations. As the premier launching point for unforgettable San Juan River float trips, this riverside haven also serves as your gateway to ancient wonders, including the remarkable petroglyph panels and the mystical landscapes of Cedar Mesa. Seasonal drinking water ensures comfort during your stay in this high desert paradise.
Sand Island Recreation Area accommodates tent and RV camping, with separate loops designated for different camping setups. Group camping is also supported.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
14 nights allowed

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Sand Island offers diverse activities, including hiking, river rafting, and exploring petroglyphs. The campground serves as a launch point for the San Juan River, known for its rich archeology and wildlife.
HikingHiking opportunities are available nearby, including scenic trails in the Cedar Mesa area and access to petroglyph sites.
BoatingThe campground features a boat ramp for launching trips on the San Juan River. A river permit is required for use.
Wildlife viewingThe San Juan River area provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, though specific species are not detailed.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsAnt infestations are reported by campers. Other dangers include wildlife and potential flash flooding along the river during storms.

Weather at Sand Island Recreation Area

Reviews

4.3
37 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Sand Island Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the scenic location, privacy between sites, and convenient access to the San Juan River as key advantages. Some concerns include noise near Loop B and issues with ants.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the campsite's scenic location, proximity to the San Juan River, and petroglyphs. Many reviewers noted the ample privacy between sites aided by trees and foliage. "The petroglyph...
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Based on 37 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from the nearby highway bridge affected the experience in Loop B for some campers. One review stated, "It's one giant ant hill. Had to set up tents on top of the tables and couldn't sit without...
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Based on 37 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring insect repellent for ants. If you prefer a quieter camping experience, consider staying in Loop A further from the highway.
Based on 37 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall appear to be the most popular times for camping based on reviews, with mild temperatures and active wildlife. Summer visits noted issues with insects, like ants.
Based on 37 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Sites are astonishingly private given the distance to other sites and make them ideal for all types of campers." "Sand Island was an excellent camp site! The sites were clean and in great shape."...
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Based on 37 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Loop A is noted for being suited to tents and vans, while Loop B is better for larger RVs and trailers. Loop B, however, suffers from noise due to proximity to the highway.
Based on 37 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features or reviews specific to disabilities are not mentioned.
Based on 37 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, though there are no specific comments on pet-friendly amenities or challenges.
Based on 37 reviews

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Last updated February 17, 2026
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