🌤 Weather at Jordanelle State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25–61 °F | 46–80 °F | 23–69 °F | 16–35 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Park City, 5 mi away, elevation 6,900 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Jordanelle State Park is Utah’s premier watersports playground—a 3,300-acre reservoir just minutes from Park City. With an 8-lane boat launch, dedicated wakeboarding zones, and hosting duties for the Pro Wakeboard Tour, this park draws water enthusiasts from across the region. Three distinct recreation areas offer everything from high-speed motorboating to peaceful boardwalk birdwatching. Year-round camping, marina rentals, and stunning Wasatch Mountain views make Jordanelle a four-season destination.
Three Recreation Areas
Jordanelle offers three distinct areas, each with its own character and amenities.
| Area | Focus | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 🚤 Hailstone | Motorized Recreation Hub | 8-lane boat launch, marina, beach, cabanas, campground |
| 🌿 Rock Cliff | Nature & Wildlife | Elevated boardwalks, interpretive trails, birdwatching |
| 🛶 Ross Creek | Non-Motorized Boating | Kayak/canoe launch, 23 day-use cabanas, Perimeter Trail |
Boating & Water Sports
Jordanelle Reservoir is a powerhouse for water recreation—from casual cruising to professional-level wakeboarding.
| Water Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| 🚤 Boat Launch | 8-lane launch at Hailstone (Utah’s largest!) |
| 🏄 Wakeboarding | Dedicated zones; hosts Pro Wakeboard Tour |
| 🎿 Waterskiing | Excellent conditions; wake-free zones for beginners |
| 🛶 Kayak/SUP | Rentals available; Ross Creek for non-motorized only |
| 🛥️ Marina Rentals | Boats, jet skis, paddleboards at Hailstone |
| 🎣 Fishing | Bass, perch, trout (ice fishing in winter!) |
🦪 Aquatic Invasive Species Requirements (2024+)
- All boaters must complete the Mussel Aware Boater Course
- Motorized vessels require AIS Vessel Enrollment
- Complete before launching—no exceptions!
- Protects Utah waters from invasive quagga/zebra mussels
Camping – Year-Round
Jordanelle offers camping for all styles—from full-hookup RV sites to hike-in backcountry solitude. Campgrounds are open year-round!
| Campground | Sites | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 🏕️ Hailstone | 103 RV sites | Water & electric hookups; showers; laundry; near beach |
| ⛺ McHenry | ~20 sites | Tent-only; more secluded |
| 🥾 Keetley | 6 sites | Hike-in only; backcountry experience |
📅 Reservation Tips
- Individual sites: Reserve up to 4 months in advance
- Group sites: Reserve up to 11 months in advance
- Peak season (May-Sept) books quickly!
- Off-season (Nov-Mar): Some sites are walk-up only
Hiking & Trails
| Trail | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 🥾 Perimeter Trail | Ross Creek Trailhead | Multi-use (hike, bike, horse); circles reservoir |
| 🌿 Rock Cliff Boardwalk | Rock Cliff Area | Elevated boardwalk; interpretive signs; birdwatching |
| 🐦 Interpretive Nature Trails | Rock Cliff Area | Wildlife viewing; wetland habitats |
Park Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 💵 Entry Fee | $15/vehicle (day use); Annual Pass accepted |
| 📐 Reservoir Size | 3,300 acres |
| 🗺️ Location | 10 min from Park City; 45 min from Salt Lake City |
| 🐕 Pets | Allowed on leash (not on public beaches) |
| ❄️ Winter Activities | Ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jordanelle Reservoir good for wakeboarding?
Excellent! Jordanelle is one of Utah’s best wakeboarding destinations. The reservoir hosts the Pro Wakeboard Tour and features dedicated wake zones as well as wake-free areas for beginners. The Hailstone Recreation Area is the main hub, with an 8-lane boat launch (Utah’s largest) and marina rentals. The relatively calm waters and mountain setting make it a premier spot for wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and waterskiing.
Can you rent boats at Jordanelle State Park?
Yes! The marina at Hailstone Recreation Area offers a variety of rentals including powerboats, jet skis, pontoon boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months. If you’re bringing your own boat, the 8-lane launch at Hailstone can accommodate the crowds. Remember: all boaters must complete the Mussel Aware Boater Course, and motorized vessels need AIS enrollment.
Is Jordanelle open year-round?
Yes! Jordanelle State Park is open year-round. In winter, the park transforms into a destination for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Campgrounds remain open, though some sites may be walk-up only during the off-season (November through March). The reservoir freezes enough for safe ice fishing in most winters. Summer remains the busiest season for boating and swimming.
How far is Jordanelle from Park City?
Jordanelle State Park is just about 10 minutes from downtown Park City along Highway 40, making it an easy day trip or add-on to a Park City vacation. From Salt Lake City, it’s approximately 45 minutes. The proximity to Park City means you can combine world-class skiing in winter or mountain biking in summer with a day at the reservoir.
Can you swim at Jordanelle?
Yes! The Hailstone Recreation Area has a designated beach area perfect for swimming and wading. The water is typically cold—it’s a mountain reservoir at 6,000 feet elevation—but refreshing on hot summer days. Beach access is included with park entry. There are also cabanas available for rent at both Hailstone and Ross Creek areas for shade and relaxation.
What fish are in Jordanelle Reservoir?
Jordanelle Reservoir offers excellent fishing for smallmouth bass, yellow perch, rainbow trout, and brown trout. The bass fishing is particularly popular, with fish up to 5 pounds caught regularly. In winter, ice fishing is excellent once the reservoir freezes safely. A valid Utah fishing license is required. The reservoir’s clear, cold water supports a healthy fishery year-round.
🏄 Utah’s Watersports Paradise
Whether you’re wakeboarding, camping by the reservoir, or enjoying a peaceful paddle—Jordanelle delivers year-round adventure just minutes from Park City. Visit the official Jordanelle State Park website for camping reservations, marina rentals, and current conditions.
Explore More Utah State Parks
Jordanelle State Park 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.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail State Park is a short drive away, and Rockport State Park is a short drive away.
⛺ Camping at Jordanelle State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | Hailstone RV Campground: 103 RV sites with partial hookups (30 amp power & water), fire pits, BBQ grills, picnic tables, hot showers/flush toilets, dump station. McHenry: 4 tent-only loops, RVs/trailers prohibited. Phostan Bay: hike-in backcountry sites, 0.5-1 mile walk, mix of reservable and first-come-first-served. |
|---|---|
| Cabins & Lodging | 5 cabins (Mahogany Ridge, Sage Hen Hollow, Elkhorn, Deer Ridge, Kokanee Run), sleep 6-8 people. 3 cottages with kitchenettes and bathrooms. 3 of the 5 cabins allow dogs for a non-refundable $20/pet/stay fee. |
| Pets | Dogs allowed on leash in all areas of Hailstone. |
| Reservations | ReserveAmerica, 800-322-3770; check-in 3pm/check-out 12pm. Hailstone main line 435-649-9540. |
| Special sites | Keetley Group Camp: up to 75 people, 4 tent pads, pavilion with 9 picnic tables, 4 RV hookup sites (water & power), 2 restrooms with showers. Ross Creek: day-use only, 23 first-come-first-served day-use cabanas, non-motorized boat ramp, 5 pit toilets, no camping. |
| Season notes | Only cottages remain open year-round; dry camping is not allowed in the winter. |
Camping questions about Jordanelle State Park
Can you camp at Jordanelle State Park?
Hailstone RV Campground: 103 RV sites with partial hookups (30 amp power & water), fire pits, BBQ grills, picnic tables, hot showers/flush toilets, dump station. McHenry: 4 tent-only loops, RVs/trailers prohibited. Phostan Bay: hike-in backcountry sites, 0.5-1 mile walk, mix of reservable and first-come-first-served.
How do you reserve a campsite at Jordanelle State Park?
ReserveAmerica, 800-322-3770; check-in 3pm/check-out 12pm. Hailstone main line 435-649-9540.
Are there cabins at Jordanelle State Park?
5 cabins (Mahogany Ridge, Sage Hen Hollow, Elkhorn, Deer Ridge, Kokanee Run), sleep 6-8 people. 3 cottages with kitchenettes and bathrooms. 3 of the 5 cabins allow dogs for a non-refundable $20/pet/stay fee.
Are pets allowed at the Jordanelle State Park campground?
Dogs allowed on leash in all areas of Hailstone.
Source: stateparks.utah.gov (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Jordanelle State Park
- 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 Jordanelle State Park?
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 Jordanelle State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
