Antelope Island State Park is an easy day trip about 40 miles north of Salt Lake City, Utah. As the largest island in the Great Salt Lake, it offers a wide variety of year-round activities and spectacular views in every direction: the shimmering lake, the Wasatch Mountains, the Salt Lake City skyline, and the terraces left by prehistoric Lake Bonneville.
On a warm Saturday in April my family drove out to Antelope Island. Early spring in Utah had just begun to color the grasses and trees green, making the landscape especially vibrant. Below are eight enjoyable activities to share with family and friends on Antelope Island State Park.
TIP: Bring your binoculars, spotting scopes, and cameras—there’s a lot to see!
1. See wildlife. Antelope Island supports abundant wildlife, including bison herds, bighorn sheep, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, bobcats, jackrabbits, and other desert species. Watching animals in their natural habitat is one of the park’s prime attractions.
2. Birding. The wetlands around the Great Salt Lake are among North America’s most important resources for migratory and nesting birds. Six to nine million migratory birds pass through the Pacific Flyway each year, and the lake’s marshes provide resting, nesting, and staging areas for about 250 bird species annually.
We saw many groups of bison roaming along both sides of the park road.
Twelve bison were introduced to Antelope Island in 1893. Today the herd typically numbers between 550 and 700 animals. During our visit we watched the bison grazing and roving across the flats and took many photos. We also spotted pronghorn antelope in the distance, though they were too far away for close pictures.
3. Explore backcountry trails. Hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders can enjoy the park’s trail network, which offers routes of varying lengths and difficulty. Trails are dry—no water is available along most routes—so bring water and other hiking essentials and plan accordingly.
4. Star-gazing. The park’s remote location and wide-open skies make it a great place for stargazing. On clear nights the Milky Way and constellations are vivid—bring a telescope if you have one.
5. Camping. Antelope Island offers primitive camping options. Sites are basic—no electricity or potable water and pit toilets—so come prepared for a rustic outdoor experience.
TIP: During the warmer months be aware of biting gnats, midges, mosquitoes, and swarms of brine flies in areas near the lake bed.
We did not experience bothersome insects during our day on the island, but others report heavy fly activity at certain times of year, particularly near the lake edges. Pack insect repellent and plan your visit accordingly.
6. Swim or float in the salty lake. Bridger Bay Beach is the best place to float or swim in the Great Salt Lake’s saline waters, and kayak rentals are often available. The lake’s high salinity means fish and most aquatic plants cannot survive there; instead, brine shrimp, brine flies, and algae thrive and support millions of migrating birds.
7. Spend the day at the beach. Bridger Bay day-use area includes a sandy beach, indoor and outdoor showers, a pavilion, picnic areas, and modern restrooms—perfect for a family beach day with scenic views.
8. Visit a historic ranch. The Fielding Garr Ranch offers self-guided tours of historic buildings and exhibits that provide insight into the island’s past and early ranching life.
Antelope Island State Park also runs guided hikes, Junior Ranger programs, bird walks, astronomy programs, and a variety of special events throughout the year. The Visitor Center is open year-round and provides current information on activities and seasonal conditions.
Other family-friendly day trips in Utah we’ve enjoyed include a short hike to Grotto Falls and visits to Arches National Park, including the hike to Delicate Arch.