Rock cliffs with river below in the distance

San Rafael Swell Recreation Area

San Rafael Swell Recreation Area

As part of the John D. Dingell. Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, Congress designated the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area (approximately 217,000 acres). The San Rafael Swell Recreation Area features magnificent badlands of brightly colored and wildly eroded sandstone formations, deep canyons, and giant plates of stone tilted upright through massive geologic upheaval.

The "Swell" features endless amounts of recreational experiences including: off-highway vehicle riding, hiking, biking, horseback riding, canyoneering, and river running. Don't miss the Wedge Overlook, known as “The Little Grand Canyon” or a drive down the Buckhorn Wash. Please visit the popular areas links (on the right) for more information about specific areas and opportunities in the “Swell”. 

The following Wilderness areas were congressionally designated around the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area as part of the John D. Dingell. Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act: Big Wild Horse Mesa, Cold Wash, Devil’s Canyon, Eagle Canyon, Horse Valley, Little Ocean Draw, Little Wild Horse Canyon, Lower Last Chance, Mexican Mountain, Middle Wild Horse Mesa, Muddy Creek, Red’s Canyon, San Rafael Reef, and Sid’s Mountain.

Flickr Album

Green River District: San Rafael Swell