Quail Creek State Park | St George

Information

Landmark: Quail Creek State Park
City: St George
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Quail Creek State Park, St George, USA Utah, North America

Quail Creek State Park is a reservoir located in Washington County, Utah, near St. George. It is managed by the Utah Division of State Parks and Recreation.

Visual Characteristics

The reservoir is characterized by its clear, turquoise-blue water, a result of its depth and water clarity. The surrounding landscape consists of arid desert terrain with low-lying desert vegetation, including sagebrush and various cacti. The shoreline is primarily composed of sand and gravel.

Location & Access Logistics

Quail Creek State Park is situated approximately 10 miles (16 km) northeast of St. George, Utah. Access is via State Route 9 (Red Cliffs Drive) and then turning onto Quail Creek Road. The park entrance is clearly marked. Ample parking is available at designated lots near the reservoir and boat launch areas. No public transport directly serves the park; private vehicle is the primary access method.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established around the Quail Creek Reservoir, which was created by the construction of the Quail Creek Dam. The dam was completed in 1985 to provide municipal and agricultural water supply for the St. George area. The reservoir itself is an artificial body of water, impounding water from the Virgin River watershed.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include boating, including power boating and personal watercraft use. Fishing is permitted, with common species including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill. Swimming is allowed in designated areas. Hiking trails are present around the reservoir perimeter, offering views of the water and surrounding desert.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the park entrance and near the boat launch. Shaded picnic areas are provided. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the park. No food vendors are located within the park; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for water activities is during the warmer months, from May through September. For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer softer light. The reservoir is open year-round, but water temperatures can be cool outside of summer. High tide is not a relevant factor for this reservoir.

Facts & Legends

Quail Creek Reservoir is known for its exceptionally clear water, which is a significant draw for boaters and swimmers. The water level is actively managed for water supply purposes, meaning it can fluctuate. A unique aspect is the presence of invasive quagga mussels, requiring boaters to follow strict decontamination procedures to prevent their spread.