Utah’s Growth Reveals a Glimpse into its Ancient Past at Fremont Indian State Park
Good news; Utah’s state parks are open! Some of the more popular parks are overrun with crowds, causing an hour or more lines just to get into the park. Now is the perfect time to explore some of Utah’s lesser-known State Parks.
For years I’ve read about and seen the signs for the Fremont Indian State Park. Until recently, I’d never taken the time to check it out. We all know hindsight is 20/20. I shouldn’t have waited.
Fremont Indian State Park is a perfect example of progress unlocking the past. In the 1970’s it was decided that the U.S. needed another interstate running East and West.
As construction began on I-70, it was discovered that a settlement of the Fremont Indians in the Clear Creek Canyon was substantially larger than anyone realized.
The road construction was put on hold to give archaeologists time to dig and preserve the dozens of artifacts in the area. Most of them are on display in the park’s museum.
The Fremont Indian State Park features:
Cave of 100 Hands
Hiking/Mountain Biking
More Americans are wanting to get away from urban life, leaving the pavement jungle and snarled spaghetti bowls for some quality family time. In a place where you can see the stars and create your own adventure, the Fremont Indian State Park offers that and more.
Behind the visitors’ center, you’ll find their version of a spaghetti bowl where numerous trails intersect; all leading to fascinating history left by the original inhabitants centuries ago.
Exploring a Pithouse
Before you start exploring the park, I recommend stopping at the visitors’ center, talking with a member of the staff, and picking up a map to ensure you know exactly what you are looking at.
Many of the trails in the area were designed with mountain bikers in mind. Let the park rangers help you find a trail that matches your skill.
The newest addition to the park is the Belknap Ranger station located virtually adjacent to the Castle Rock Campground. The history of this area doesn’t date back to the Fremont Indians. It explains how and why U.S. Forest Service built and maintained this station starting in the early 1900s.
Horse sculptures at the Belknap Station
Don’t miss the refrigerator that was blasted into the side of the mountain. Take the time to read the plaques along this 1/4 mile loop. They are very informative.
As you hike, bike, and ride ATVs, take time to soak in the incredible scenery! Even without its amazing history, this area would still be a hotbed for outdoor enthusiasts. Come find your trail in “Utah’s Trail Country”.
Entrance to the “refrigerator”
Campgrounds
Having owned a camp trailer for more than a decade, I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that I never spent a night here. There are two campgrounds inside the park.
Sam Stowe campground is east of the visitors’ center. This campground is designed to put a smile on the face of any proud owner of any kind of recreational vehicle. It is complete with full hook-ups, running water restrooms with showers, and nice shade trees. Even if you are a tent camper you’re going to love setting up and sleeping in your tent. There are large, wood planter-box style, designated tent spots that are both shady and level.
Sam Stowe Campground
The Castle Rock campground is set up for those looking for a bit more primitive camping experience. The sites are more spread out with plenty of high desert foliage separating you from fellow campers. There are no hook-ups here, however, each site offers enough room for RV’s and tents. You won’t find showers here but there are flush toilets.
Castle Rock Campground-Teepee available for reservation
Both campgrounds are ATV friendly and you have easy access to the world-famous Piute Trail system.
Make this the year you focus in on a new adventure at Fremont Indian State Park!
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