Summary
It covers over 1.3 million acres of land, including stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and religious sites.
Some good reasons to visit include experiencing the natural beauty of the area, learning about the history and culture of the indigenous tribes that have lived there for thousands of years, and enjoying activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing.
Specific points of interest to see include the Cedar Mesa, the San Juan River, and the Bears Ears Buttes. Visitors can also explore ancient ruins and rock art sites, such as the House on Fire ruin and the Moon House.
Interesting facts about the area include that it contains some of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in the United States and has a rich history of human habitation dating back to prehistoric times. The area is also considered sacred by many indigenous tribes, who have advocated for its protection for decades.
The best time of year to visit Bears Ears National Monument is in the spring or fall, as summers can be hot and winters can be cold and snowy. Visitors should also be aware of the limited facilities in the area and plan accordingly.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Sand Island Campground
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Sand Island
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Comb Wash Camp 3
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Lower Butler Wash Camp
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Comb Wash Camp 2
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Comb Wash camp 1
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