Quail Creek State Park

Reservoir, Trails & Camping Guide

Day Use Fee

$10/vehicle

Reservoir Size

590 acres

Distance from St. George

25 minutes

Warmest Reservoir

Year-round

Recreation Activities

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Largemouth bass thrive in warm water year-round. Rainbow trout stocked in winter months. Early morning and evening prime times. Shore fishing accessible from campsites.

Tip: Best before 10 AM or after 4 PM

Winter Trout Stocking

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources stocks rainbow trout during winter. Cooler water temps create ideal conditions. Excellent fishing opportunity during holiday season.

Tip: Check stock dates at wildlife.utah.gov

Swimming & Water Fun

Warm water temperatures year-round ideal for families. Safe swimming areas with no designated lifeguards. Life jackets recommended for children.

Tip: Water stays 50°F+ even in winter

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Calm waters perfect for beginners and families. No-wake zones in designated areas. Stunning red rock views from the water.

Tip: Rent kayaks from outfitters in St. George

Shoreline Trails

Quail Creek Trail offers 3 miles of scenic shoreline. Reservoir walking paths with red rock views. Interpretive signs along trails.

Tip: Early morning for solitude and wildlife

Campground

Twenty-three campsites with electric hookups and restrooms. Scenic red rock views enhance camping experience.

Tip: Reservations recommended weekends

Warm-Water Fishing & Year-Round Action

Quail Creek Reservoir is Southern Utah's warmest reservoir, making it ideal for year-round fishing. Largemouth bass thrive in the warm water with consistent catches early morning and evening. The reservoir also hosts bluegill and crappie, providing diverse fishing opportunities for all skill levels.

Winter stocking by Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (typically December-March) introduces rainbow trout, creating excellent cold-weather fishing when other area lakes freeze. Water temperatures stay above 50°F year-round, supporting diverse aquatic life and consistent fishing success.

Water Sports & Swimming

The warm, calm waters of Quail Creek are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Families enjoy safe swimming year-round—water temperatures remain 50°F+ even in winter and reach 75-80°F in summer. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available from outfitters in nearby St. George.

Designated no-wake zones ensure a peaceful experience for swimmers and small boats. The reservoir's scenic red rock backdrop enhances the experience, and boat ramps provide easy access for those bringing their own watercraft. Life jackets are recommended for children and non-swimmers.

Scenic Trails & Nature Walks

The Quail Creek Trail is a scenic 3-mile shoreline walk offering stunning red rock views and wildlife viewing opportunities. Early morning visits provide solitude and excellent chances to spot deer, birds, and other desert wildlife. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the park's geology and ecology.

Additional shorter reservoir walks and picnic area trails provide easy exploration for families and less experienced hikers. All trails are accessible for various fitness levels and offer shade from desert vegetation. The park's elevation of 3,600 feet keeps temperatures moderate compared to lower-elevation areas.

Campground & Lodging

Quail Creek State Park offers 23 campsites with electric hookups and modern restroom facilities. Some sites feature scenic red rock views and proximity to the water. Camping rates are $20-$25 per night, making it an affordable destination for families and groups.

Reservations are recommended, especially weekends and holidays. Book online at stateparks.utah.gov or call (435) 774-4407. The park serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby Zion National Park (45 minutes) while enjoying a quieter, less-crowded alternative with excellent water recreation.

Entry Fees & Pricing

Day Use

$10/vehicle

Access to beaches, trails, and day-use facilities

Camping (per night)

$20–$25

Electric hookup campsites available

Annual Pass

$75

Utah State Parks Pass covers all 43 parks

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish are in Quail Creek Reservoir?

Quail Creek Reservoir is home to largemouth bass, rainbow trout (winter stocking), bluegill, and crappie. The warm water supports year-round bass fishing with consistent catches, especially early morning and evening. Winter stocking by Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (typically December-March) provides excellent trout opportunities. Shore fishing is accessible from campsites and designated areas.

Can you swim at Quail Creek?

Yes, swimming is a primary activity at Quail Creek. The warm water—typically 50°F+ even in winter and 75-80°F in summer—makes it ideal for families year-round. While there are no designated lifeguards, safe swimming areas are clearly marked. Life jackets are recommended for children and non-swimmers.

How warm is the water at Quail Creek?

Quail Creek is Southern Utah's warmest reservoir. Water temperatures remain above 50°F year-round, reaching 75-80°F in summer months (June-August). Winter temperatures (typically 50-55°F) are warmer than most area lakes, making it unique for winter recreation and fishing. This warm-water ecosystem supports year-round activities.

Is there camping at Quail Creek?

Yes. Quail Creek State Park has 23 campsites with electric hookups, restrooms, and modern facilities. Camping rates are $20-$25 per night. Some sites offer scenic red rock views and proximity to the water. Reservations are recommended, especially weekends and holidays. Book at stateparks.utah.gov or call (435) 774-4407.

What trails are at Quail Creek?

The Quail Creek Trail is a scenic 3-mile shoreline walk offering red rock views and wildlife viewing opportunities. Additional shorter reservoir walks and picnic area trails provide easy exploration. Early morning visits offer best solitude and wildlife viewing opportunities. Trails are accessible for most fitness levels.

How far is Quail Creek from Zion National Park?

Quail Creek State Park is approximately 45 minutes from Zion National Park's south entrance (Springdale). It's 25 minutes northeast of downtown St. George and makes an excellent day trip or multi-day destination combined with Zion exploration. The park offers a quieter, less-crowded alternative to Zion with excellent water recreation.

Hotels, Camping & Fishing Services Near Quail Creek

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