One of my favorite ways to escape the intense summer heat in Southern Utah is by cooling off in a lake or reservoir. The area has plenty of these spots, perfect for staying cool when the temperatures rise.
Some of the places I’ve escaped the heat include Gunlock State Park, Sand Hollow State Park, and Quail Creek State Park. This summer, I spent most of my time on the water at Quail Creek due to swimmer’s itch at Sand Hollow, which is where I usually go. Before deciding which state park to visit, be sure to check their website to ensure the water is safe and clean.
Quail Creek State Park
The reservoir at Quail Creek State Park is the main attraction and one of the reasons I love visiting. It’s usually less crowded than some of the other reservoirs. However, that wasn’t the case this summer, as many people flocked to Quail Creek to avoid swimmer’s itch at other locations.
This reservoir is perfect for paddleboarding, swimming, boating, jet skiing, or even tackling a water adventure course. If you don’t have your own gear, no worries—you can rent everything you need right at the state park. You’ll need to pay the state park entry fee to access the reservoir, which is a bit cheaper if you’re a Utah local. I have the state park pass, which gives me access to all the state parks in Utah. If you plan on visiting several parks or returning throughout the year, I highly recommend getting the annual state park pass.
Southern Utah is generally quite windy, and that was definitely the case during my visits to Quail Creek this summer. The wind created some waves that added a bit of challenge to paddleboarding. However, the breeze was a welcome relief from the intense heat of the sun.
Top Tips for Quail Creek State Park
- Keep Hydrated – You’re responsible for bringing your own water, and I highly recommend packing extra. Spending time in the sun can quickly dehydrate you, so it’s important to stay hydrated and ensure you have enough water on hand.
- Arrival – The best times to visit the state park to beat the crowds are early in the morning, ideally before 10 a.m., or later in the evening around 7 or 8 p.m. I’ve gone paddleboarding in the evening right after sunset and found it to be incredibly relaxing.
- Sun Protection – With the sun beating down all day, it’s essential to bring plenty of sunscreen and other forms of shade. Hats or a sunshade for your gear can provide extra protection and keep you cool.
- Food – The state park isn’t near any dining options, and it’s about a 10-minute drive to get food, which can cut into your time on the water. To make the most of your lake time, be sure to bring all your food with you.
- Life Jacket – One of the most crucial items to bring is a life vest. If you don’t have your own, you can rent one. You never know what might happen, so it’s always safer to have a life jacket with you.
- Protect Your Phone – Make sure to bring a waterproof pouch for your phone. It’s a simple way to protect it from water damage and avoid the risk of losing it in the lake.
Spending time at Southern Utah’s lakes is an incredibly enjoyable experience and a must-do if you’re in the area. The scenic beauty, the chance to cool off, and the variety of water activities make these lakes perfect for a refreshing escape from the heat. Whether you’re paddleboarding, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water, exploring these stunning spots will create lasting memories. Make sure to take advantage of all that Southern Utah’s lakes have to offer—you won’t be disappointed!
Stay Safe and Start Exploring!