Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island State Park is located on Antelope Island in the middle of the Great Salt Lake. This expansive state park encompasses 28,800 acres. The park offers a wide variety of activities and amenities, but it is probably best known for its wildlife population, which includes one of the largest remaining bison herds in the United States.

Antelope Island history

Antelope Island was originally inhabited by Native Americans who were drawn to the Great Basin area for its wealth of fish and wildlife. The island was first explored by American explorers in 1845 and briefly served as a military base. In 1848, it was settled by LDS church member Fielding Garr. The ranch house that Garr built still stands on the property. For over a hundred years, various parties tried to convince the U.S. government to buy and protect the island, but Antelope Island did not become a state park until 1969.

Hiking

With so many natural resources to enjoy and explore on Antelope Island, you can easily hike a new trail every time you visit the park. If you are coming to see the bison and antelope, then make sure to bring a camera. Other visitors like to hike along the coast of the island and swim in the Great Salt Lake.

Camping

Antelope Island State Park is open year-round. There are group areas for day trips that include water troughs for trail horses and over a dozen overnight camp sites scattered throughout the park. Camping costs a mere $3 per person per night and includes all other activities at the park.