Seven are located in the San Rafael Swell, a large, uplifted, geologically fascinating area, while the eighth is located farther to the east along the Green River. The San Rafael Swell may be reached via Interstate 70 which bisects the Swell, from Utah State Route 10, located on the northwest side of the Swell, or from Utah State Route 24 which parallels the San Rafael Reef south of Interstate 70. The Horseshoe Canyon North WSA is generally approached from State Route 24. The Horseshoe Canyon North WSA occupies the rim lands and canyons between the Green River and the San Rafael Desert. WSA elevations in the San Rafael area range from 4,000 to 7,400 feet.
Vegetation is sparse in most areas, except in riparian zones along streams.
Scattered pinyon-juniper woodland is the most common type of vegetation. The San Rafael Swell is home to Utah's largest herd of desert bighorn sheep. Other animals in the area include peregrine falcon, wild horses and burros, mountain lion, mule deer, and pronghorn antelope. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall months as summer day-time temperatures normally hover in the high nineties and often exceed 100 degrees. About half of the WSA is considered important desert bighorn sheep habitat.