Frequently asked questions

What will I see?
You may see a variety of wildlife. Songbirds are plentiful in the riparian areas and you may see several species of raptors. Bears, mountain lions, chukars, and turkeys inhabit the canyon, as well as a few deer and elk. The canyon is rich in Fremont Indian archaeological sites. If you look carefully, you may find rock art and granaries in the cliffs. However, most of the sites are easy to miss. This is not like going to Mesa Verde or Chaco Canyon. You will find no marked trails or signs guiding you to any ruins or rock art.

Do I need a permit to go into Range Creek WMA?
A permit is required for each person entering the RCWMA. The permit is valid only for the date listed on the permit. A visitor must purchase a seperate permit for each day and may purchase permits for up to 5 consecutive days.

How do I get a permit?
Permits are available online. A $5 permit processing fee is charged for each person for each day. The processing fee is to offset the costs associated with running the permit system. Permits are not available at the gate. When obtaining the permit online, choose the permit from the nonresident dropdown menu.

Why are permits required for entry into RCWMA?
Permits are required for several reasons. First, the division wants to ensure that all visitors to RCWMA obtain enough information for a safe and satisfying trip, and that visitors are aware of the terms and conditions of use for the area. Second, the interim management plan for RCWMA set a limit of 28 visitors per day. The permit system gives the division a way to limit the number of visitors. Third, the division will have a record of visitors to assist us in case of missing person reports, medical emergencies, violations, etc.

Do I have to carry the permit while I hike or hunt?
Yes. An officer will not know if you have a permit unless you can show it to him. Citations will be issued to persons without permits.

Why is there a limit of 28 visitors per day?
RCMWA is a primitive area. Limiting the number of visitors helps to preserve the peaceful backcountry experience, and the fragile riparian and archaeological sites.

What about the five consecutive day visitation limit?
Five days will allow a person to spend some time exploring or hunting. Allowing unlimited visitation might prevent other people from having an opportunity.

What facilities and services are available in the canyon?
Pit toilets are located outside the gate at the bottom of Little Horse Canyon. None are inside the gate. No drinking water, food, gas, or cell phone service is available in the canyon.

What camping opportunities are available?
Camping is allowed outside the north gate. Pit toilets are available, but you should bring your own water. Please be a good neighbor to other campers and observe quiet hours of 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Camping is currently prohibited inside the gates to protect fragile riparian areas and archaeological sites. Camping inside the gates may be allowed in future years, after suitable sites are identified.

Are fires allowed?
No. Fires are difficult to fight in the steep, dry canyon. Also, charcoal from fires can contaminate archaeological sites and make it difficult for archaeologists to do their work. Gas stoves and lanterns are OK.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes. For the safety of other visitors, and for the protection of wildlife and archaeological sites, please keep your dog in sight and under control at all times.

Why is access restricted to horse and foot traffic?
The road through Range Creek is a narrow, two-track dirt road with few pull-offs and few places to park. Vehicles traveling off the road may damage archaeological sites or riparian habitat. BLM land in the canyon is a wilderness study area where mechanized travel is not allowed. You may encounter vehicles driven by officers or others, such as biologists and archaeologists, who have been given administrative access.

What is available for my horses?
No corral or pasture is available for horses. Please bring weed-free hay.

Where can I get more information?
Call the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources at (435) 613-3700.