Kolob Reservoir - Image 1
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Kolob Reservoir Utah

4.5
·239 reviews·, United States

A tranquil lake fringed by aspen trees & low hills, known for trout fishing & camping, offering a serene escape from Zion's crowds.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cooler temps, less dust

CrowdMedium
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Kolob Reservoir - Image 1

Kolob Reservoir Utah

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cooler temps, less dust

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil lake fringed by aspen trees & low hills, known for trout fishing & camping, offering a serene escape from Zion's crowds.

4.5
(239 reviews)

"Away from the crowds of Zion, this road offers breathtaking views and a serene reservoir."

Vertical photo
TIP

Drive the Scenic Road

Don't just go to the reservoir; explore the entire Kolob Terrace Road for stunning views!

Pack for Dust

The dirt road around the reservoir can get dusty, especially with other vehicles.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kolob Terrace Road Scenic Drive

Kolob Terrace Road Scenic Drive

Breathtaking drive with mountain, forest, red rock, and Zion views. A journey in itself!

Tranquil Kolob Reservoir

Tranquil Kolob Reservoir

The Reservoir

A peaceful lake surrounded by aspens and evergreens, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and relaxation.

Dispersed Camping

Dispersed Camping

Around the Reservoir

Find your own spot among the trees for a rustic camping experience with stunning views.

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Planning Your Visit

Escape the Zion Crowds

Kolob Reservoir offers a serene escape from the bustling main areas of Zion National Park. The scenic Kolob Terrace Road provides breathtaking views and access to dispersed camping, making it a perfect alternative for a peaceful retreat. Reddit

Camping & Access

Dispersed camping is available around the reservoir, offering a rustic experience. While the road is generally accessible, be prepared for dust and potential snow in colder months. Vaulted restrooms and dumpsters are available. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temps, less dust
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Beautiful foliage, mild weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Entering through Kolob Canyon

Drive the Scenic Road

Don't just go to the reservoir; explore the entire Kolob Terrace Road for stunning views! Reddit

Pack for Dust

The dirt road around the reservoir can get dusty, especially with other vehicles. Reddit

reddit.com

3 day visit.

reddit.com

Areas to stay and scenic (non-hiking) things to do?

Fishing Fun

Trout fishing is popular here; try fishing from kayaks for cooler water. Reddit

Embrace Dispersed Camping

Plenty of spots to camp, but arrive early to snag a good one. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Drive the Scenic Road

Don't just go to the reservoir; explore the entire Kolob Terrace Road for stunning views! Reddit

Pack for Dust

The dirt road around the reservoir can get dusty, especially with other vehicles. Reddit

Fishing Fun

Trout fishing is popular here; try fishing from kayaks for cooler water. Reddit

Embrace Dispersed Camping

Plenty of spots to camp, but arrive early to snag a good one. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(239 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning scenic drive along Kolob Terrace Road and the serene beauty of Kolob Reservoir itself, offering a peaceful escape from Zion's crowds. The dispersed camping is a major draw for those seeking a rustic outdoor experience. Some find the dirt roads dusty and camping spots can be competitive.

"I love the drive to kolob reservoir! Beautiful! If you have the time keep driving past the reservoir and explore the mountain range!"

Laury Smith

"Loved getting out to Kolob reservoir. The scenic drive along Kolob terrace road was an experience in itself. Away from the crowds of Zion, this road crosses in and out of the park a few times along the way. As the road climbs in elevation, the drive offers breathtaking views of mountains, lush forestry, red rock scenery, and portions of Zion. Once we arrived at the reservoir, it was noticeably cooler thanks to the higher elevation. The reservoir sits among the mountains surrounded by aspens and evergreens with dispersed campsites along the lake. There are vaulted restrooms, which are decently maintained, dumpsters, along with a boat ramp, and dock. While it’s a great spot for kayaking, canoeing, float tubing, and fishing; for this trip we stayed on the shore. There were a few people fishing from their kayaks, as the water is cooler away from the shore so you are more likely to hook a fish. I throughly enjoyed spending time at this serene and picturesque reservoir. It offers a sense of tranquility that is hard to come by. Kolob reservoir is a place to escape the heat and crowds of southern Utah, making it a great little spot for a wonderful retreat. On my next visit, I plan to stop along some of the trailheads off Kolob terrace road and do some more exploring. Don’t skip out on this gem."

Lauren Porter

"Nice reservoir. It's a beautiful drive up from Springdale. Successful fishing - caught and released two nice trout."

Michael Howe

What People Like

Beautiful scenic drive
Tranquil reservoir setting
Dispersed camping opportunities

What People Dislike

Dusty roads
Crowded campsites

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kolob Reservoir is accessed via the Kolob Terrace Road, which can be reached from near Springdale. This scenic drive offers a different perspective of Zion National Park and leads directly to the reservoir. Reddit

The Kolob Terrace Road is a mix of paved and dirt sections. The road around the reservoir itself is primarily dirt, so be prepared for dust. Reddit

The road to Kolob Reservoir may be open in winter, but expect snow and icy conditions. It's best to check local conditions before heading out. Reddit

While the Kolob Terrace Road passes through parts of Zion National Park, the reservoir itself is a separate recreational area. It offers an escape from the main park crowds. Reddit

The drive is incredibly scenic, offering views of mountains, forests, red rock formations, and parts of Zion. It's an experience in itself! Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Kolob Reservoir is not within the main fee area of Zion National Park, so a park pass is generally not required for access to the reservoir itself. However, if you plan to enter Zion's main canyon, a pass will be needed. Reddit

There are typically no entrance fees specifically for Kolob Reservoir. It's a public land area managed for recreation. Reddit

Camping at Kolob Reservoir is mostly dispersed and does not require reservations. You can find a spot along the lake, but popular times may require arriving early. Reddit

Kolob Reservoir is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, road conditions can vary significantly with weather. Reddit

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed around the reservoir. Look for established spots or areas that show minimal impact. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, boating, and simply relaxing by the water. The surrounding area is great for exploring. Reddit

Yes, Kolob Reservoir is known for trout fishing. Anglers often have success fishing from kayaks or the shore. Reddit

Vaulted restrooms are available at various points around the reservoir, which are generally well-maintained. Reddit

Swimming is generally permitted, but the water can be quite cold due to the high elevation. Reddit

The reservoir is stocked with trout, making it a popular spot for anglers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants directly at Kolob Reservoir. You'll need to bring your own food or dine in nearby towns like Springdale before or after your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! Kolob Reservoir is a fantastic spot for a picnic. There are many scenic areas along the shore to set up. Reddit

Yes, there is a store nearby that can supply some essentials, but it's advisable to bring most of your food and drinks with you. Reddit

Pack non-perishable items, plenty of water, and any cooking supplies if you plan to grill or prepare meals at your campsite. Reddit

Campfire regulations can vary. Check for any fire restrictions before your visit, especially during dry seasons. If allowed, use designated fire rings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire Kolob Terrace Road offers stunning vistas. The reservoir itself, with its surrounding aspens and mountains, provides beautiful reflections and landscapes. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but the reflections on the water can still be lovely. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant mountain details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water and sky. Reddit

The contrast between the red rock formations and the lush greenery, especially during fall foliage, makes for unique shots. The starry night sky is also impressive due to low light pollution. Reddit

Be mindful of the dust from vehicles if you're near the dirt road. Also, respect campers' privacy and avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kolob Reservoir offers a fantastic, more relaxed family outing compared to the main Zion park. The scenic drive is engaging for kids, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy changing landscapes. At the reservoir, fishing is a great activity to keep children entertained, and the open spaces are perfect for them to run around. The dispersed camping provides a unique adventure, allowing families to bond under the stars. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The cooler temperatures at the higher elevation are also a plus for families looking to escape the summer heat. Ensure children are supervised around the water, and be prepared for the dusty conditions on the dirt roads. It's a wonderful way to introduce kids to the beauty of Utah's outdoors in a less overwhelming setting. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Fishermen

For fishing enthusiasts, Kolob Reservoir is a prime destination. It's known for its trout population, offering a rewarding experience for those who enjoy casting a line. Many anglers find success fishing from kayaks, as the water tends to be cooler and more productive further from the shore. The tranquil setting enhances the fishing experience, allowing for a peaceful day spent by the water. Reddit

Bring your fishing gear and be prepared for a day of potential catches. While some visitors report not catching anything, others have had great success. Renting a boat or using a float tube can also be excellent ways to access prime fishing spots. The reservoir's accessibility via the Kolob Terrace Road makes it a convenient spot for a dedicated fishing trip. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Kolob Terrace Road Experience

The Kolob Terrace Road is more than just a route to the reservoir; it's an integral part of the Kolob experience. This scenic byway winds through diverse landscapes, offering a dramatic contrast to Zion's main canyon. As you ascend, you'll encounter breathtaking panoramic views of rugged mountains, dense forests, and the iconic red rock formations that define Southern Utah. The road frequently crosses in and out of Zion National Park boundaries, providing glimpses of its less-visited northern section. Reddit

Travelers often describe the drive as an adventure in itself, with numerous pull-offs perfect for soaking in the scenery or capturing stunning photographs. Keep an eye out for potential wildlife sightings along the way. The elevation gain means a noticeable drop in temperature as you approach the reservoir, making it a welcome respite from the desert heat. This road is a must-drive for anyone seeking a more immersive and less crowded experience of the Zion region. Reddit

Exploring Trailheads



Along the Kolob Terrace Road, you'll find access to various trailheads that lead into the backcountry. These trails offer opportunities for hiking and further exploration away from the main reservoir area. Planning to stop at some of these trailheads on your next visit is a common recommendation for those who want to delve deeper into the natural beauty of the Kolob region. Reddit

Camping and Recreation at Kolob Reservoir

Kolob Reservoir is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate dispersed camping. The lake is fringed with numerous spots where you can set up camp, offering a rustic and intimate connection with nature. While there are vaulted restrooms and dumpsters available, amenities are basic, so come prepared for a self-sufficient experience. The dirt road encircling the reservoir allows for easy access to different camping locations, though it can get dusty. Reddit

The reservoir itself is a hub for water activities. It's a popular spot for trout fishing, with many visitors casting lines from the shore or their kayaks. Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are also common, allowing you to explore the cooler waters away from the shore. While swimming is possible, be prepared for the chilly temperatures due to the high elevation. The serene atmosphere makes it ideal for a peaceful retreat, far from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist destinations. Reddit

Tips for Campers



* Arrive early: Popular camping spots can fill up, especially during peak season. Reddit
* Pack out what you pack in: Help keep the area pristine by taking all your trash with you. Reddit
* Be fire-aware: Always check for fire restrictions and use designated fire rings if permitted. Reddit

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