Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island State Park is a nature reserve covering around 28,000 acres in the Great Salt Lake, with white sand beaches, mountain trails, and open grasslands. The island supports diverse wildlife including bison, deer, and other mammals that visitors can observe in their natural setting.

The island was first explored by John C. Frémont and Kit Carson in 1845, earning its name after they hunted a pronghorn antelope there. The Fielding Garr Ranch House, built in 1848, stands as one of Utah's oldest continuously inhabited structures.

The island takes its name from the pronghorn antelopes that roam across its grasslands as part of the natural community. Visitors encounter these animals during walks and grasp why the place is called by this name.

The park is accessible from the mainland via a long causeway and offers beaches, camping areas, and a marina for visitors. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the open landscape provides little shade.

Each October, the park holds an annual bison roundup where rangers gather around 600 animals for health checks and population monitoring. This is one of the last places where visitors can witness this traditional wildlife management practice on such a scale.