Quail Creek State Park Utah
A stunning desert oasis featuring a vibrant blue reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Quail Creek State Park Utah
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning desert oasis featuring a vibrant blue reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.
"The lake is truly blue and the pictures we got don't do it justice."
🚗 Zipper Merge for Entry
Be prepared for long lines on weekends; understand the 'zipper merge' to navigate traffic efficiently.
🥾 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach is rocky and the water can be mucky; water shoes are essential to protect your feet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue Reservoir
Main Reservoir
A stunningly blue, clear reservoir surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes. Perfect for all water activities.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Reservoir and Quail Creek Inlet
Glide across the calm waters, exploring the reservoir or venturing into the scenic Quail Creek inlet.
+1
Quail Creek Overlook Trail
Trailhead near the park entrance
A short trail offering panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding red rock formations.
Water Playground
Designated area in the reservoir
A fun aquatic park for all ages, featuring slides and inflatable obstacles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Water Gear & Entry Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Zipper Merge for Entry
Be prepared for long lines on weekends; understand the 'zipper merge' to navigate traffic efficiently.
🥾 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach is rocky and the water can be mucky; water shoes are essential to protect your feet.
🏕️ Book Campsites Early
Campsites are popular and fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Reserve in advance!
🚤 Boat Launch Etiquette
If boating, be aware of shallow areas near the shore, especially during peak times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Zipper Merge for Entry
Be prepared for long lines on weekends; understand the 'zipper merge' to navigate traffic efficiently.
🥾 Water Shoes Recommended
The beach is rocky and the water can be mucky; water shoes are essential to protect your feet.
🏕️ Book Campsites Early
Campsites are popular and fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Reserve in advance!
🚤 Boat Launch Etiquette
If boating, be aware of shallow areas near the shore, especially during peak times.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
Good for fishing, especially in cooler months. Check local regulations for catch limits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunningly blue reservoir and the abundance of water activities like kayaking and boating. The park offers a beautiful setting for a day trip or camping, with clean facilities and friendly staff. Some note the beach can be rocky and mucky, and weekend entry lines can be long.
"Incredible experience. It is so beautiful here. It’s all mountain and the lake is truly blue. We kayaked and it was so much fun. The pictures we got don’t it justice. You can spend the whole day here. It was surprisingly not busy when we went. Even the people that were there were surprised saying it’s usually much busier. You can do a lot here, camp, bike, swim, hike, boating, etc. if you ever visit Utah you need to stop by here for the day, it is well worth it."
Daniel Davidson
"We spent the day at Quail Creek in Hurricane, Utah and had a blast paddleboarding! Just a heads-up—the beach is rocky, and when you step into the water it’s pretty mucky (my water shoes even got sucked off when I went in!). Once you’re out on the water though, it’s absolutely beautiful and peaceful. Overall, it turned into such a fun day with my hubby!"
Amy Hjerpe
"Beautiful campground located right on the reservoir. We stayed at campsite #37, which is close to the water, though the view was partially blocked by lakeside bushes. For a clearer view, consider reserving sites 1–36. The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained. All campsites have asphalt pads—some are circular—and each includes a covered picnic table and a fire pit. The cost was about $48 per night and included power and water. A dump station is also available on-site."
Annette Shearer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Quail Creek State Park is located in Hurricane, Utah, about a 20-minute drive from St. George. Take UT-9 E towards Hurricane, and the park entrance will be well-marked. It's also a convenient base if visiting Zion National Park, being only about 40 minutes away.
Currently, there is no direct public transportation to Quail Creek State Park. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access.
From Las Vegas, take I-15 N towards Utah. Take exit 16 for UT-9 E towards Hurricane. Follow UT-9 E for approximately 5 miles, and the park will be on your right. The drive is about 2 hours.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Yes, Quail Creek State Park is a great option for those visiting Zion National Park. It's about a 40-minute drive from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and can serve as an excellent base camp or a place to cool off after hiking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees vary. For Utah residents, it's typically $15 per vehicle, and for non-residents, it's $20 per vehicle. These fees can change, so it's always good to check the official Utah State Parks website.
Yes, a Utah State Park pass can be used for entry, which can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple parks.
The park is generally open year-round from 6 AM to 10 PM. However, hours can vary seasonally or due to special events, so it's advisable to check the official park website before your visit.
While tickets aren't typically required in advance for day use, it's highly recommended to book campsites well in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, as they fill up quickly.
Yes, there is a separate fee to use the water playground, which is a popular amenity for both kids and adults.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Quail Creek State Park offers a wide range of activities including boating, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, fishing, camping, picnicking, and hiking. The reservoir is the main attraction for water sports. +1
Yes, swimming is a popular activity. However, be aware that the beach area can be rocky and mucky, and water shoes are recommended. Once you're in the water, it's beautiful and peaceful.
Equipment rentals are available, often through third-party vendors like Dig Paddlesports. It's best to check for rental availability and locations upon arrival or book in advance if possible.
Yes, there are hiking opportunities, including the Quail Creek Overlook Trail, which provides scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding desert.
The park offers a beautiful campground with campsites featuring asphalt pads, covered picnic tables, and fire pits. Some sites have power and water hookups. Bathrooms are generally clean and well-maintained.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or extensive food services directly within Quail Creek State Park. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for picnics or to enjoy at your campsite.
The nearby town of Hurricane offers various dining options, from casual cafes to family-friendly restaurants. St. George also has a wider selection of eateries.
Absolutely! The park has designated picnic areas, and many campsites are equipped with picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for a day trip picnic.
Yes, most campsites come with fire pits, and some may have grills. These are great for cooking meals during your camping trip.
Pack plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as well as snacks and meals. Consider items that are easy to prepare and transport for a day of outdoor activities.
📸 📸 Photography
The reservoir itself offers stunning blue water against red rock backdrops. The Quail Creek Overlook Trail provides panoramic views. The inlet to Quail Creek also offers unique photographic opportunities with flora and fauna.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for capturing the landscapes. Midday can be harsh due to the desert sun.
Drone usage policies can vary and are subject to park regulations. It's essential to check with park management or the official Utah State Parks website for current drone flying rules before your visit.
Popular shots include wide-angle views of the reservoir, action shots of boating and paddleboarding, and scenic overlooks. Capturing the vibrant blue water is a common theme.
The Quail Creek Overlook Trail is a prime spot. Additionally, exploring the shoreline and the inlet area can yield unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential, as food options within the park are limited.
Consider bringing a large boat or tubes for a fun family day on the reservoir, or rent kayaks and paddleboards for a more active adventure. 🎣 Anglers
Remember to check the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources for current fishing regulations, license requirements, and catch limits before you cast your line. 🚗 Day-Trippers
Don't forget water shoes for navigating the rocky shoreline. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Water Activities at Quail Creek
For a more serene experience, kayaking and paddleboarding are highly recommended. You can explore the main reservoir or venture into the quieter inlet of Quail Creek itself, where you might spot local flora and fauna.
+1 The park also features a water playground, offering a fun aquatic experience with slides and inflatables for both children and adults, though there's an additional fee for this amenity. When engaging in water activities, it's important to be prepared. The beach area can be rocky and mucky, so water shoes are a must to protect your feet.
Camping and Facilities
While the views from many sites are excellent, some campers note that lakeside bushes can partially obstruct views from certain spots. For the clearest water views, reserving sites numbered 1-36 is often suggested.
Comparison with Sand Hollow State Park
Quail Creek, on the other hand, is often described as having a more tranquil atmosphere and a vibrant blue reservoir. While Sand Hollow might have more expansive sandy beaches, Quail Creek offers a different kind of beauty with its clear blue waters and surrounding desert scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit