Entrenched Meander?? Mexican Hat, UT

Located along the San Juan River, the tiny settlement of Mexican Hat has less than 100 residents, but is blessed with the rugged beauty of southeastern Utah. Goosenecks State Park is a great free camping location perched along the cliffs 1000 feet above the river just 10 miles away.

The state park is unusual in that there is no entrance or camping fee. As you pull into the main parking area, you are greeted with the cleanest vault toilets we've ever seen, barbecue grills, trash cans, a few picnic tables, one with a shade canopy, and million dollar views. There is no water available.

The camping area is nothing more than dispersed sites atop the mesa, but look at the view you can have from your RV! There is room for any size RV, but the road onto the mesa camping area is a bit rocky so go slow.

Photo Courtesy Robbie & Alice Simons

The switchback and forth of the river below is called an "entrenched meander", and perhaps the best example in the world. It takes the river over 5 miles to go a linear mile here. It can get windy, and there are few guard railings to keep you , your children , or your pets from falling off the rim. You will be able to watch river rafters camp and float down the river, and while this is a hot place in the summer, the short drive off the main highway is well worth the trip.

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