Jordanelle State Park
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.
