🌤 Weather at Quail Creek State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40–82 °F | 61–98 °F | 35–89 °F | 28–57 °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 La Verkin, 6 mi away, elevation 3,194 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏜️ Trusted Guide to Utah’s Warm Water Oasis – Updated 2025
Red Rock Meets Warm Water in Southern Utah
In the sun-drenched landscape of Hurricane, Washington County, Quail Creek State Park centers on a stunning 600-acre reservoir famous for having some of the warmest waters in Utah. Framed by dramatic red sandstone cliffs that glow crimson at sunrise and sunset, Quail Creek offers everything from lazy beach days and water skiing to challenging mountain bike trails through desert terrain — all just 15 minutes from Zion National Park. The reservoir reaches depths of 120 feet and stays warm enough for comfortable swimming from May through October, making it southern Utah’s premier water playground.
Water Sports Central
The warm water is Quail Creek’s signature attraction, and the park makes the most of it:
- Swimming: A designated swimming beach with a no-wake zone provides safe, warm water ideal for families — no need for a wetsuit here, even in early spring
- Boating & Water Skiing: Two boat ramps handle everything from jet skis to ski boats. Water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing are popular across the reservoir’s open water
- Paddling: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are excellent along the scenic shoreline, especially in the quieter coves backed by red rock walls
- Fishing: The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and bullhead catfish. Bank fishing along the shore and boat fishing both produce well
Watercraft rentals are available at the park, including kayaks, paddleboards, and motorized boats. The no-wake zones separate paddlers from powerboat traffic.
Red Rock Trails
Beyond the water, Quail Creek offers hiking and mountain biking through stunning red rock scenery. Notable trails include:
- Quail Creek Mountain Bike Trail (3.4 miles): A classic desert singletrack winding through red sandstone formations
- Quail Creek Overlook Trail (4.9 miles): Climbs above the reservoir for panoramic views of the red cliffs and turquoise water below — one of the most photogenic viewpoints in southern Utah
- Reservoir Overlook Loop (12 miles): A challenging ride for experienced mountain bikers wanting a full day on red rock terrain
Camping in Red Rock Country
Quail Creek’s campground is open year-round, taking advantage of southern Utah’s mild winters. The park offers 50 campsites total — the original 24 single-family sites accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 35 feet with shaded structures, picnic tables, fire rings, and power/water hookups. Newer loops add 26 sites with power, water, and an on-site dump station. Dispersed camping on the south side of the reservoir provides a more primitive experience. Every campsite offers views of red rock cliffs — this is one of Utah’s most scenic campgrounds.
Practical Tips
- From St. George (15 miles): Take SR-9 East toward Hurricane, follow signs to Quail Creek
- From Zion National Park (20 miles): A perfect day-trip complement — beach and water sports after hiking the Narrows
- Entry fee: $15 per vehicle day use
- Best swimming: May through October for warmest water; March-April still comfortable for southern Utah
- Sunset photography from the overlook trail is spectacular — the red cliffs catch the last light beautifully
- The reservoir does not have shade on the beach — bring a canopy, plenty of water, and reef-safe sunscreen
- Wind can pick up in the afternoon, creating chop that affects paddlers — morning is calmest for SUP and kayaking
- Winter camping is popular with snowbird RVers escaping northern cold — book ahead for January-March
Explore More Utah State Parks
Quail Creek 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.
Wildlife & Nature
Quail Creek SP — on Quail Creek Reservoir (590 acres) — the warmest body of water in Utah. The park’s red sandstone cliffs, desert, and turquoise water support desert tortoises (threatened), roadrunners, and Gila monsters.
Nearby Attractions
Hurricane — adjacent. Zion NP — 20 miles east. Sand Hollow SP — 10 miles south.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Sand Hollow State Park (a short drive away) and Snow Canyon State Park (a short drive away).
⛺ Camping at Quail Creek State Park: Campgrounds & Cabins
| Campsites | 24 developed campsites (2 accessible), plus a newer campground area with 26 sites each with power & water and a dump station (sites in the 25-50 range have power and water); primitive sites also available. Power/water sites $40/night, primitive sites $28/night. |
|---|---|
| Reservations | ReserveAmerica; sites 1-23 reserved by calling 1-800-322-3770. |
| Season notes | Park hours year-round 6am-9pm; day-use fee enforced at the DWR Field Office/South Overlook parking lot since May 1, 2023. Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in effect (no open fires). |
Camping questions about Quail Creek State Park
Can you camp at Quail Creek State Park?
24 developed campsites (2 accessible), plus a newer campground area with 26 sites each with power & water and a dump station (sites in the 25-50 range have power and water); primitive sites also available. Power/water sites $40/night, primitive sites $28/night.
How do you reserve a campsite at Quail Creek State Park?
ReserveAmerica; sites 1-23 reserved by calling 1-800-322-3770.
Source: stateparks.utah.gov (verified July 2026). Details change seasonally — confirm when booking.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Quail Creek 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 Quail Creek 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
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