Canyonlands' first superintendent, Bates Wilson, invited visitors to "come to our wilderness, but ne ready to rough it." Today, many years later, that advice still holds true for much of the park. Park rangers strongly recommend that you stop for information at the Moab or Monticello Information Center or at any park visitor center or ranger station. Park activity schedules are also posted there.

Campgrounds and Picnic Areas: Two modestly developed campgrounds are open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Willow Flat, at Island in the Sky, and Squaw Flat, in the Needles, have picnic tables, grills and toilets. Squaw flat has water spring through fall; Willow Flat has no water. A fee is charged at Squaw Flat spring through fall.

Primitive campsites are located along four-wheel-drive roads and in other remote areas; they do not have water. Backcountry permits and fees are required for primitive camping.

Picnic areas at Island in the Sky have tables, grills and toilets, but no water. The Needles picnic areas have tables only.

Climate: The park's desert climate is characterized by hot summers, pleasant spring and fall months and cool winters. Low humidity partially offsets the heat of summer. Precipitation is scarce; most of it falls in later summer and early fall thunderstorms. Light snowfall occur in the winter.

Exploring Canyonlands by Road: Driving in the park can mean a comfortable ride on a paved road or a tortuous four-wheel-drive climb up a steep, rock road. Paved and two-wheel-drive dirt roads at Island in the Sky and in the Needles lead to interesting natural features, overlooks, trailheads, picnic areas and developed campgrounds. Four-wheel-drive roads wind throughout the park, offering trips as short as a days or longer than a week. One of the most popular, the 100-mile White Rim Road, can be driven in two days or explored over many days. Primitive camsites are located along many of these roads. A backcountry permit and free are required for overnight trips. Always carry food, water and tools for emergencies. In remote areas, travel in the company of a second vehicle. Motorized vehicles and bicycles must stay on designated roads.

Exploring Canyonlands by Trail: Both short walks and long hikes lead to some of Canyonlands' outstanding features. Short trails (less than one mile) on the Island and in the Needles will take you to overlooks, to arches and other geologic features and to archeological sites. Some trails have wayside exhibits or brochures, which can be picked up at trailheads or visitor centers. Longer trails penetrate wilder regions. Trails are generally primitive, marked only with rock cairns. They are rugged and require strenuous exertion. Do not hike alone. Stay on trails. Carry a map and water. Obtain a backcountry permit if you plan to camp.

Exploring Canyonlands by River: Motorboats, rafts and canoes can navigate the quiet upper waters of the Green and Colorado. Persons boating above the confluence are required to have a backcountry permit and pay a fee. Anyone planning a trip below the confluence through Cataract Canyon in a raft or specialized whitewater boat must obtain a permit in advance. A limited number of available permits restricts the number of people allowed to run this challenging whitewater stretch each year. Boat launch sites are located north of the park near the towns of Moab abd Green River. There are no services along the rivers. The best times for trips are spring through fall.

Guided Tours: Four-wheel-drive and mountain bike tours, hiking trips and river float trips are operated by commercial tour guides. The tours vary widely in the territory covered, length, cost and amenities provided. Tours operate out of nearby towns year-round. Reservations are usually required. A list of Park Service concessioners is available from the park.

Reservations and Fees: Fees are charged to enter Island in the Sky and the Needles. Permit fees are charged for overnight backcountry camping and some day use; reservations are available ba writing to the park.