Emery County

Emery County is located in central Utah, United States. The county was named after George W. Emery, governor of the Utah Territory from 1875 to 1880. The area now known as Emery County was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Ute, Paiute, and Navajo. These tribes relied on the area’s rich resources, including water, game, and plant life, for their survival.

In the mid-1800s, Mormon pioneers began to settle the area, establishing several small communities throughout the county. These pioneers built irrigation systems to cultivate the land and established small farms and ranches. The county’s first permanent settlement was established in 1877 in the town of Huntington, located in the southeastern part of the county.

Emery County played an important role in Utah’s mining industry in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The area was rich in coal, which was mined and transported by rail to fuel the growing demand for energy in the western United States. The coal industry led to the growth of several small mining towns throughout the county, including the towns of Castle Gate, Sunnyside, and Hiawatha.

In addition to coal, Emery County was also home to several other valuable minerals, including uranium, copper, and gold. The county’s mining industry experienced a boom in the mid-1900s, with several large mining operations opening throughout the county. The county’s mining industry declined in the latter half of the 20th century, due in part to declining demand for coal and increased regulation of the mining industry.

Today, Emery County is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The county is home to several state parks, including Goblin Valley State Park and the San Rafael Swell, which offer visitors a chance to explore the area’s unique geological formations and rugged landscapes. The county is also a popular destination for hunting, fishing, and camping, and is home to several popular hiking and mountain biking trails.

Emery County Campgrounds

A Goblin formed from a soft limestone, water and time offer a unique hiking experience. Photograph by James L Rathbun

Goblin Valley Utah

Goblin Valley is located in Utah is a state park and campground which is adjacent to eroded flood plain. Formed by water, time and a…