A little about

LIFE ENERGIZED

Emery County is life energized - from the energy industry that has fueled the county to the adrenaline pumping adventure that the land offers, this county has it all.

If you aren’t from here, don’t worry we have put together this guide to all things Emery that will get you enjoying the area like a local.

Let’s start with 

geography

There are three main designations that make up the county. On the western edge we have the Manti La Sal forest, a lush mountainous region known for its cool reservoirs, breathtaking vistas and lush green hills. Great for bouldering,ohving and so much more, people come here to relax and recharge in nature (that is when they aren’t pushing their boundaries bouldering, boating and even snowkiting in the winter).

Moving east, you will find The Swell, a massive geologic uplift. How massive you ask? The Swell is 80 miles long and 35 miles wide, which is roughly 130,000 square miles. Formed over 50 million years ago, the San Rafael Swell, or “The Swell” as the locals call it, is as diverse as it is large. The northern edge of the Swell is designated as Jurassic National Monument, in honor of the world’s largest collection of Allosaurus fossils found there.

The cities, towns and

people of Emery

Let’s not pretend that the great outdoors is all that Emery has to offer. Nestled in amongst the reservoirs and rocks are a series of small towns and cities that nearly 10,000 people call home. These small, tight knit communities are full of local traditions, customs, and more. 

Heading south along Highway 10 will encounter a smattering of small communities, each with their own character and flair. Here is what to know about each of them from North to South.

explore Emery towns

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understanding

our land

Approximately 92% of the land in Emery County is public land. Public lands are managed by the state and federal government, each of which have different designations, rules and regulations. It is important to know what type of public land you are on, and how to recreate responsibly.  

Here in Emery County, you'll find State Parks, BLM land, US Forest Service land, and even a National Monument.

The Ranching Way of Life

"As a ranching operation in Emery County we understand the importance of family and public lands. Without the use of public lands in our area ranching would not exist. Our operation has been consistently growing and evolving for 4 generations. Our family enjoys working together, being outdoors with the animals, and bringing up children with responsibility, work ethic, and integrity, all things which encompass the ranching lifestyle that we love."

-Shelby Bagley 3rd generation rancher. 

breakdown of the

different land types

    • The BLM maintains public lands with a stated mission of sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of the lands to ensure the enjoyment of present and future generations. The vast majority of the land making up The Swell is BLM land. Not all BLM land is the same, there are special land designations that have usage guidelines designed to protect and promote significant resources.

    • Over half a million acres of The Swell is congressionally designated Wilderness. These areas are managed for recreational, scenic, scientific, education, conservation, and historic use while preserving wilderness character.

    • One important note about BLM land is the bureau leases land to local ranchers who graze their livestock on the land. This is a large part of what we mean when we say “mixed” or “multi” use land. It is important to be respectful of grazing livestock and the ranchers tending to them, and to understand that they have as much right to be enjoying the wilderness as you do. (Can we get a personal story?)

    • There are designated trails, campsites and attractions on BLM land that are maintained for visitors, most of which are in and around the Swell. It is also important to note that dispersed camping is allowed on most BLM land.

    To learn more visit blm.gov/utah

    • The US Forest Service maintains the Manti-La Sal National Forest on the western edge of Emery County. The US Forest Service also provides campgrounds, facilities and other amenities in some areas. More information about making reservations, trail types and use restrictions can be found at: fs.usda.gov/mantilasal 

    • Forest Service land is open for a wide range of recreational activity, though many areas are protected, with posted usage Guidelines.

    • While there are no National Parks in Emery County, you are a short drive from several amazing parks. To learn more about the National Parks of Utah, and to plan your trip, visit nps.gov/state/ut.

    • Utah’s State Parks are protected lands designated by the state that offer a wide range of recreational and educational opportunities. There are four state parks around Emery County that offer a wide range of services from camping to golfing. State Parks are open daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Reservations are strongly recommended for campsites, pavilions, group areas or boat slips and can be made online or by calling 800-322-3770. State parks also charge a day use fee, and park passes are available. To learn more visit stateparks.utah.gov/passes.

  • State Institutional Trust Land Administration, SITLA, lands are interspersed among BLM land but are managed at the state level. Most low-impact activities are allowed on SITLA land, but you may require a permit for a larger group gathering.

  • While the vast majority of land in and around Emery County is public land, there are private residences and private lands that should be respected. Private land is often denoted as such though it is your responsibility to do your homework and know where you are and what right you have to be there.

Just a heads-up:

This place attracts plenty of visitors, so while you can camp pretty much anywhere, so can other visitors. Respect for other travelers, the local community, and the shared land is key to maintaining the health and beauty of this travel destination.