10 Best Lakes near St George Utah for Family Fun

Amidst the breathtaking red rock desert landscape of St George lies something unexpected – a handful of pristine lakes perfect for family fun. Whether you’re seeking the thrilling watersports and sandy shores of Sand Hollow, the secluded charm of Gunlock Reservoir, the azure allure of Quail Creek, or the hidden gem that is Ivins Reservoir, St George’s aquatic treasures have something for everyone. Dive in with us as we explore these remarkable oases, where memories are made and nature’s beauty shines at its brightest. These are the 10 best lakes near St George Utah!

Best Lakes Near St George Utah

Best Lakes in St George Utah for Recreation

In the greater St George area, or within a 20-30 minute drive of St George proper, there are 4 amazing lakes that are perfect for recreation and water sports. Whether you like to boat, water ski wakeboard, wake surf, paddleboard, kayak, or just plain swim, these lakes offer it all.

1. Sand Hollow State Park

Kicking off out list is what we think is hands down the best lake in St George – Sand Hollow! Nestled just a stone’s throw away from St. George, this place is a water-lover’s dream come true. Think of it as Mother Nature’s ultimate splash pad, where adventure junkies and sun worshippers unite. Picture this: a sparkling turquoise reservoir framed by the rugged, red rock cliffs of Utah.

Sand Hollow is our favorite lake because of the combination of the unique orange sandy beaches, the nearby sand dunes, and some awesome cliff jumping spots. In fact, we think it’s the best sandy beach in Utah.

If you don’t own a boat or any water sports equipment, no problem. The Beach at Sand Hollow has a treasure trove of watery toys for rent. Whether you’re a seasoned water warrior or a newbie looking to make a splash, they’ve got you covered.

First up, you can snag yourself a trusty paddleboard if you’re all about that balance and zen. Glide across the pristine waters while soaking in the stunning surroundings. For the speed demons among us, jet skis are up for grabs. It’s like riding a rocket on water – a thrilling way to explore the vastness of Sand Hollow Reservoir.

Also, adventure awaits off the lake. With the giant sand dunes nearby, you could have yourselves a pretty epic outing riding a RZR in the dunes.

Paddleboard Rental Alterntive: If you’re coming from northern Utah, you can rent an inflatable paddleboard from JJ’s Paddleboards and pack it in the trunk to save some money.

2. Gunlock State Park

Nestled in the heart of southwestern Utah, Gunlock State Park is like that hidden gem you stumble upon in a vintage store – quirky, unique, and oh-so-delightful. Imagine a cozy reservoir surrounded by stunning red rock cliffs, where you can bask in the glory of sunshine and serenity.

The water here is so clear and inviting; you’ll want to jump in faster than a kid reaching for a melting ice cream cone on a hot summer’s day. Whether you’re a kayaking crusader, a paddleboarding pro, or just a laid-back floater, Gunlock’s got a water adventure with your name on it.

Here’s the kicker! The water sports are more of a bonus to what I think is the main attraction – the seasonal waterfalls! Even calling them ‘seasonal’ is somewhat of a misnomer because sometimes they go years without appearing. The unique waterfalls is what makes this one of the best lakes near St George – something you’ll for sure want to add to your Utah bucket list.

But when the water levels in the spring are high enough, the reservoir overflows, creating these stunning and picturesque waterfalls over some classic red rock cliffs. Spring break is the ideal time to see the falls, then spend the rest of the day playing at the lake.

3. Quail Creek State Park

Quail Creek State Park is a gem nestled in Utah’s southwestern desert, offering a diverse range of activities for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Here’s the scoop. Located in Hurricane just 15 minutes northeast of St. George, this is the lake closest to town, making it a very popular spot for families looking for fun in the sun. In fact, it often reaches max capacity so it’s a good idea to arrive early.

Quail Creek is one of the best lakes near St George Utah because of the warm water and variety of activities you can do. You can indulge in various water sports, including boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. And the sandy beaches along the shoreline are perfect for picnics, sunbathing, or just lounging with a good book. The clear, cool waters beckon for a refreshing swim during the warmer months.

4. Ivins Reservoir | Fire Lake Park

Ivins Reservoir, sometimes affectionately referred to as Fire Lake Park, is a charming oasis tucked away in the scenic town of Ivins, Utah, just a stone’s throw from St. George. This hidden gem may not be as well-known as some of its larger counterparts, but it’s still one of the best lakes near St George Utah thanks to its tranquil charm that’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.

This is more pond than lake, but the lack of motorized boats make it a great option for families to do a little kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming. The best part about this lake is that it is near Snow Canyon State Park and has a great view of the magnificent red cliffs. We love doing a little hiking in the morning and then heading over to the reservoir nearby to cool off afterwards.

Best Lakes Near St George Utah for a Family Getaway

5. Lake Powell

Lake Powell is a spectacular man-made reservoir located in the southwestern United States, primarily in Utah and extending into Arizona. It is one of the largest and most iconic reservoirs in the country, known for its stunning red rock scenery and crystal-clear blue waters. It reigns supreme at the top of our Utah Bucket List and is hands down our favorite place to visit in Utah!

We’ve been boating there for many years. The warm water and amazing scenery make it ideal for water sports of all kinds. It’s located just a couple hours from St George, so it makes for a perfect family getaway from St George or even just a day trip if you’re visiting from out of state.

Check out our budget-friendly guide to Lake Powell for more details.

6. Lake Mead

Lake Mead, located in Nevada, not far from St. George, Utah, is a true desert gem. As the largest reservoir in the United States, it offers an array of recreational activities amidst its striking desert landscapes. With its close proximity to St. George, it’s a top choice for residents and visitors alike. Boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities abound, while the stunning Hoover Dam adds a touch of engineering marvel to its natural beauty, making Lake Mead one of the best lakes for unforgettable adventures in the region.

7. Lake Las Vegas

Most people have heard of Lake Mead but closeby in Henderson is a hidden gem that we love telling people about! It’s only about 90 minutes from St George so it makes for a great family getaway if you’re looking for an affordable luxury stay right on a lake!

Spring break in St. George can get a little crowded and surprisingly expensive, so why not keep heading south for a bit to save some money? Las Vegas may not be top of mind for a family-friendly spring break trip but we promise you won’t regret it. You’ll get warmer weather and warmer water, not to mention a better hotel for a cheaper price with more amenities! We stumbled upon this hidden gem while looking for a place to stay in East Las Vegas that was off the strip and family-friendly.

We stayed at the Westin Lake Las Vegas – It’s a 4-star hotel for less than $150/night!

Resort right on the lake
Firepits
State of the art fitness center with yoga classes
High-end spa–if mom needs a break from the kids
Multiple pools and a waterslide
Small private beach that’s a perfect launching spot for paddleboarding or kayaking
Not far from Lake Mead or Valley of Fire
Sits across from a European-style village with waterfront activities and good restaurants

Quck tip: schedule a day trip to Valley of Fire for some very cool kid-friendly hikes. Spring break is the perfect time to go, before it gets too hot. 🔥

For more ideas of what you can do in Las Vegas, check out: Vegas Vacation for Under $500: 10 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Las Vegas

Best Lakes Near St George Utah for Fishing

8. Kolob Reservoir

Kolob Reservoir is a pristine alpine lake nestled in the Pine Valley Mountains of southern Utah, approximately 35 miles north of St. George. This secluded gem sits at a high elevation of over 8,000 feet, offering a refreshing escape from the desert heat and a breathtaking natural landscape.

The reservoir is surrounded by dense pine forests and meadows, creating a stunning backdrop against the crystal-clear waters. It’s a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kolob Reservoir is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can try their luck catching rainbow trout and brook trout, making it a popular spot for both novices and experienced fishermen.

9. Enterprise Reservoir

Enterprise Reservoir is a small, yet charming, body of water located in southern Utah near the town of Enterprise, which is approximately 45 miles northwest of St. George. This reservoir, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Pine Valley Mountains, offers a peaceful escape and various outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

Enterprise Reservoir is primarily known for its fishing opportunities. It is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for anglers. You can cast your line from the shore or bring a small boat or kayak for a more extensive fishing adventure.

10. Navajo Lake

Navajo Lake is a picturesque reservoir located in southern Utah, approximately 26 miles northeast of Cedar City and about 50 miles northeast of St. George. It’s nestled in the heart of Dixie National Forest, offering a serene mountain escape from the desert landscapes of southern Utah.

Navajo Lake is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. It sits at an elevation of around 9,000 feet, surrounded by thick pine forests and lush meadows. The area’s alpine scenery, particularly during the fall when the aspen leaves change color, is breathtaking.

The lake is well-known for its excellent fishing opportunities. It’s stocked with rainbow and brook trout, making it a favored spot for anglers. Ice fishing is also popular in the winter months when the lake freezes over.

When is the best time to go to the lakes in St George Utah?

TL;DR – April through October
Along with many Utah residents, we love spending our spring and fall breaks in St George. April and October in southern Utah are typically an idyllic 70s & sunny — think Southern California weather –perfect to enjoy some time on the water or lounge in that red desert sand. But you can’t go wrong with visiting anytime in the summer as well.

Where to stay near the best lakes in St George Utah?

And if you’re looking for a place to stay in St. George, we recommend the S pringHill Suites in Washington. It’s right on a golf course, close to shopping and restaurants, and less than 20 minutes from Sand Hollow.

Things to Do Near St George Lakes

Beyond the lakes in St George, there are a ton of things to do nearby. Hiking, biking, shopping, dining, golfing, you name it. Here are some ideas:

Enjoy your St George lake days!

-JJ 🤘🏻

Our family is on a mission to experience the best our home state of Utah has to offer and help other families find affordable, kid-friendly adventures in the process. You can follow us on Instagram @theminivanbucketlist or download our free printable The Ultimate Family-Friendly Utah Bucket List with the top 100 things to do in Utah, both kid-friendly and more adventurous.