Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation is a public state park in Utah near Duchesne in Duchesne County. Spanning 3,500 acres and established in 1972, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Utah |
| Nearest City | Duchesne |
| County | Duchesne |
| Park Size | 3,500 acres |
| Established | 1972 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.5/5 (400 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation is located near Duchesne, Utah. The park’s coordinates are 39.8167, -110.4167.
Things to Do
Utah state parks showcase the dramatic red rock landscapes, ancient geology, and high desert beauty that define the American Southwest. Activities include hiking through slot canyons and across sandstone formations, mountain biking world-class desert singletrack, boating and water skiing on deep blue reservoirs surrounded by red cliffs, fishing for trophy trout in mountain streams, rock climbing sandstone towers, off-roading on designated trails, camping under spectacular starry skies, and exploring dinosaur track sites and ancient petroglyphs.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the prime seasons for Utah parks, offering warm days, cool nights, and comfortable hiking conditions. Summer (June–August) brings extreme heat to desert parks (100°F+), though mountain parks and reservoirs remain pleasant. Winter is cold but beautiful, with snow-dusted red rock creating stunning photography. Many reservoir parks are popular for boating May through September. Flash flood risk peaks during summer monsoon season (July–August) — never enter slot canyons when rain threatens.
Visitor Tips
Utah state parks charge day-use fees of $10-$20 per vehicle. An annual pass ($75) covers all 44 state parks. Camping reservations through stateparks.utah.gov. Water is scarce at many desert parks — carry at least one gallon per person per day. Popular parks like Dead Horse Point and Goblin Valley require reservations for day use on weekends. Cell service is nonexistent in remote southern Utah parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Utah state parks?
Day-use fees range from $10 to $20 per vehicle depending on the park. An annual pass costs $75 and covers all 44 Utah state parks. Camping fees are separate and range from $20-$40 per night.
Do I need a reservation for Dead Horse Point?
Yes, Dead Horse Point State Park now requires day-use reservations on weekends and holidays during peak season. Reservations can be made through stateparks.utah.gov. The park frequently reaches capacity.
What are the best state parks near Moab?
Dead Horse Point (dramatic canyon overlook) and Goblin Valley (alien rock formations) are the top state parks near Moab. Both are within 1-1.5 hours of town and offer stunning red rock scenery.
Is there cell service at Utah state parks?
Cell service is nonexistent or very limited at most remote southern Utah parks including Goblin Valley, Kodachrome Basin, and Coral Pink Sand Dunes. Download offline maps and inform someone of your plans before visiting.
Explore More Utah State Parks
Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation is one of many outstanding state parks in Utah. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Utah guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Fred Hayes SP at Starvation — on Starvation Reservoir (3,310 acres) in the Uinta Basin. The park’s desert reservoir, sagebrush, and painted hills support mule deer, pronghorn, and golden eagles. Walleye, rainbow trout, and bass provide excellent fishing.
Nearby Attractions
Duchesne — 4 miles west. Uinta Mountains — 20 miles north. Strawberry Reservoir — 30 miles south.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Starvation State Park (within about an hour’s drive) and Scofield State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted at most Utah state parks and campgrounds, on a leash and never left unattended.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft maximum leash required at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- No statewide beach ban; rules vary by park - dogs are prohibited on the beach at Antelope Island, while Jordanelle has a designated area where dogs may swim off-leash
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in cabins and yurts at most parks (confirm with the park before reserving); additional lodging pet fees may apply
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No pet fee at standard campsites; additional fees apply for pets in cabins, yurts and cottages
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Park-specific restrictions such as Antelope Island's Frary Peak Trail and Deer Creek water areas
Are dogs allowed at Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation?
Pets are permitted at most Utah state parks and campgrounds, on a leash and never left unattended. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.utah.gov. More: Utah state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
