Summary
One of the main reasons to visit the preserve is its natural beauty, with stunning views of the Maury River winding through the mountains. The area is also a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and fishing.
Specific points of interest to see in Goshen Pass include the Devil's Kitchen, a series of rock formations that have been eroded into fascinating shapes by the river, as well as the Staircase Rapids, which offer some of the best views in the preserve. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bear, bobcats, and bald eagles.
Interesting facts about Goshen Pass include its designation as a State Natural Area Preserve, which means that it is protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy. The area is also important from a historical perspective, with evidence of Native American settlements dating back thousands of years.
The best time of year to visit Goshen Pass is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most beautiful. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and rock climbing, as well as picnicking and camping in the area.
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 |
|---|---|---|
Site 10 - Paschalides
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Site 9 - Barbash
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Site 11 - Eaton
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Site 6 - Haynes
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Site 1 - West Lake
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Site 12 - Camp Knadle
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