“Factory Butte and the badlands near Hanksville — flat-topped mesa rising from barren clay flats. Used as Mars-like terrain in films. Surreal, elemental, completely treeless.”
About This Location
Factory Butte near Hanksville, Utah is one of the most otherworldly filming locations managed by BLM's Richfield Field Office. The mesa rises sharply from an expanse of eroded clay badlands — a natural Mars analog used in science fiction films and automotive commercials. The terrain is almost entirely devoid of vegetation, creating stark visual contrast between earth tones and sky. Hard-packed flats surrounding the butte allow excellent vehicle staging for large crews. Wayne County BLM lands extend to Goblin Valley area (though Goblin Valley is a State Park), offering complementary terrain. Commercial filming requires a BLM Special Recreation Permit from the Richfield office. Contacts are Sue Fivecoat and Mike Utley. Allow 10–30 business days. Required insurance varies by production scale. Minimal existing infrastructure — crews should be fully self-sufficient.
Color Palette
Location
📍 Open in Google Maps →Permit Information
Permit Required
Type
BLM Film Permit
Fee
$0–$200+/day
Contact
Sue Fivecoat / Mike Utley – BLM Richfield Field Office
Wayne County including Factory Butte and Hanksville area. Excellent Mars analog terrain.
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