The Visitor Center at Antelope Island State Park is currently closed for construction and renovation. Temporary information and gifts are available at Park Headquarters. Normally, it is open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Friday through Sunday and holidays.
Entrance fee is $15 per vehicle up to 8 people, $10 for seniors, $5 for motorcycles, and $3 for bicycles and pedestrians. Annual pass is $65, including the causeway fee.
From Salt Lake City: I-15 N → Exit 332 (Antelope Dr/SR-108) → Drive 7 miles west to park entrance → Follow signs to visitor center, campgrounds, or trailheads.
Parking lots are plentiful, found in day-use areas, campgrounds, near the boat launch, and at the ranch. Bridger Bay Campground has RV-friendly sites with no hookups. Overnight parking allowed with campsite reservation; one vehicle per site, extra vehicles incur additional fees. No specific size restrictions mentioned for RVs or motorcycles. Parking fees included in campsite fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Located in the Great Salt Lake and boasting epic sunsets, bison herds, birdwatching, and rugged geology, Antelope Island State Park is a Utah treasure perfect for explorers of all kinds. Visitors can hike, bike, or ride horseback through diverse landscapes, enjoy scenic drives, and discover history at Fielding Garr Ranch. From spotting bighorn sheep to stargazing over salt flats, this park combines wilderness adventure with peaceful desert beauty just a short drive from Salt Lake City.
- Area (mi²)
- 42
- Annual visitors
- 1 000 000
- Established year
- 1969
Top 3 Facts about Antelope Island State Park
The island becomes a peninsula when the Great Salt Lake is at extremely low levels, with its minimum elevation at 4,200 feet (1,300 meters) at the shore. This unique geological feature is a result of the lake’s fluctuating water levels.
Home to a herd of American bison, introduced in the 1890s and still roaming freely.
The island’s rugged terrain features salt flats, mountains, beaches, and unique geological formations.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit the park website to check road conditions, campground availability, and bison roundup dates. Book sites early in summer.
Pack Appropriately
Bring water, sun protection, binoculars, and insect repellent. Prepare for ticks, gnats, and fluctuating desert temperatures.
Respect Wildlife
Never approach or feed bison or other wildlife; stay a minimum of 25 yards from all animals at all times.
Stay Informed
Watch for road closures, wildlife alerts, and weather advisories on the Utah State Parks website or visitor center.
Seasons
Spring is an ideal time to visit Antelope Island State Park. During this season, the island comes to life with vibrant wildflowers, migratory birds, and newborn wildlife. The weather is mild, with comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and photography. Additionally, spring offers opportunities to witness the Great Salt Lake’s annual rise in water levels, providing picturesque landscapes and reflecting pools. Visitors can enjoy the island’s beauty without crowds often present during summer.
Summer is the peak season for visiting Antelope Island State Park, offering warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This season is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like horseback riding, mountain biking and sunbathing on the island’s beaches. The park’s campgrounds and picnic areas are bustling with visitors, so booking accommodations and planning activities in advance is advisable. Despite the crowds, summer provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including bison, bighorn sheep, and numerous bird species.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds to Antelope Island State Park, making it an excellent time to visit for those seeking a more tranquil experience. The island’s landscape transforms with the changing colors of the foliage, creating breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities. Fall is also a prime season for hiking and biking, as the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the shoreline or explore the island’s interior while soaking in the beauty of the autumn scenery.
Winter is the quietest time of year at Antelope Island State Park, offering solitude and stunning snowy landscapes for those willing to brave the colder temperatures. While some amenities may be limited during this season, such as ranger-led programs and visitor center hours, winter provides unique opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and peaceful nature walks. With fewer visitors around, it’s easier to spot wildlife such as bison and bighorn sheep against the backdrop of the snow-covered terrain. Dress warmly and come prepared for winter conditions, and you’ll discover the serene and tranquil side of Antelope Island State Park.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Antelope Island State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive is approximately 47 miles and takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes from Salt Lake City. The route involves driving west on Antelope Drive and then across a narrow causeway to the island. Traffic may affect the exact duration.
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The easiest hiking trail is the Buffalo Point trail, which is a 0.4 mile hike (0.8 miles round trip) with minimal elevation gain and offers 360-degree views of the Great Salt Lake and the island.
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Dogs must be on a maximum six-foot leash and under control at all times. They are not allowed in buildings or on developed beaches. Owners must clean up after their dogs.
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There is a separate fee for motorcycles, which is $5 per motorcycle. This fee is different from the vehicle entrance fee.
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Hike one of the 36 miles of trails, such as Frary Peak for stunning sunsets or the South Island Trail for views of the Great Salt Lake. Watch for wildlife like bison, pronghorn antelope, and mule deer, and give them plenty of space. Enjoy scenic drives, birding, or rent kayaks and paddleboards at the Great Salt Lake marina.
