2023 Map of Crows Nest Spring

About this map

The San Rafael Desert dominates this corner of Emery County, Utah, where water sources dictate the movement of travelers and wildlife across the arid landscape. While much of the terrain is defined by dry washes and high-desert contours, specific points like Crows Nest Spring and Cottonwood Spring provide critical relief. The hydrology is further shaped by Iron Wash in the northwest and Cottonwood Wash in the northeast, both of which serve as the primary drainage paths through the desert floor. This 2023 survey indicates a terrain largely void of permanent settlements, reflecting the enduringly wild nature of the region where seasonal drainages and isolated springs remain the most prominent landmarks for those navigating the eastern edge of the San Rafael Swell.