In 1849, Brigham Young established a ranch here for church herds of cattle, sheep, and horses. Ranching has continued to be a major activity, though the Mormons lost ownership of the island in 1884. Today the entire island is a state park with buffalo, deer, and other wildlife. You drive to the island on a seven-mile paved causeway. Park trails for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding allow access to much of the island.
Visitors can use the campground.
Showers and restrooms are available in the swimming area in the northwest corner of the island. Great Salt Lake State Park Bathers have enjoyed hopping into the lake ever since the 1847 arrival of Mormon pioneers. But anyone who puts his head underwater quickly realizes that the salty water causes great irritation to the eyes, throat, and nose. Beginning in the 1880s, several resorts grew up along the lake's east and south shores. Besides bathing, guests could enjoy lake cruises, dances, concerts, bowling, arcade games, and roller-coaster rides.