Causey Reservoir: Best Place to Paddleboard in Utah
Despite living in Utah for over thirty years, I didn’t hear about Causey Reservoir until 2020. Crazy to think that something so close to home can remain unexplored for so long, right?! Causey Reservoir is quickly gaining popularity among paddleboard & kayak enthusiasts but is still somewhat of a hidden gem in Utah. There are no motorized boats, so it’s a perfect place to enjoy paddling on the glassy smooth water all day long.
I didn’t know what to expect when I drove up the canyon to check it out for myself but I was blown away by what I found! Red rocks, cliff jumping, tranquil green waters… things you normally associate with Southern Utah but which can found just an hour north of Salt Lake City. Do yourself a favor and take a day trip to explore this Utah hidden gem before it becomes too popular and overcrowded.
Directions to Causey Reservoir
Causey Reservoir is located just 15 minutes east of Huntsville, Utah near the much more famous and much larger Pineview Reservoir. Drive up the canyon past several campgrounds until you get to Cafe Red Rock (only open on the weekends) and hang a right.
Google Maps won’t take you to the parking area – it will take you along the north arm of the lake. However, that is where you see the red rock so it’s worth a quick detour. But to park, take a hard right across the dam instead of following the road to the north. The turn is easy to miss. There are a few parking spaces right there at the edge of the dam, or you can continue up the road a short distance to a larger parking area.
What to Expect When You’re at Causey Reservoir
This reservoir is a playground for adventure seekers! Whether you’re into water sports, hiking, picnicking, or just soaking up the serenity, Causey Reservoir has it all. What sets this reservoir apart is its stunning mountainous backdrop. The crystal-clear water is surrounded by lush pine forests and rugged cliffs, making it a picturesque destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The reservoir is nestled in a deep canyon and has three different fingers – lots to explore. The north arm of the lake is where you’ll find the red rocks. The south and east arms of the lake are where you’ll find the best cliff jumping spots.
There are no amenities at Causey Reservoir – no picnic areas, no lifeguards, no bathrooms. But what you get in exchange is a blissful, serene day spent in nature. There are no motorized boats, meaning no noise and no wakes chopping up the water. Smooth, glassy emerald water is what you get all day long, just like the picture above. Just come prepared!
Is Causey Reservoir Kid-Friendly?
The shoreline at Causey Reservoir is steep and rocky, so there isn’t anywhere to set up a shade canopy and just relax for the day. And there’s a steep dropoff once you get to the water, so there isn’t anywhere for the kids to sit and play in the water, either.
Had I known this, I probably wouldn’t have brought my youngest kids. It made things a little more stressful! But as long as you’re aware of that and you’re just in it for the paddleboarding or kayaking, then you can still have a great day on the lake. Plus if you it’s a beach you’re after, just head 15 minutes back towards Huntsville to hang out at Pineview when you’re done.
5 Things to Do at Causey Reservoir
Causey Reservoir is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you prefer a relaxing day on the water, a night under the stars, a hike through nature’s beauty, or an adrenaline-pumping cliff jump, this Utah gem offers something for everyone. So, grab your gear, gather your loved ones, and let the adventures at Causey Reservoir begin!
Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Get ready to embark on an aquatic adventure like no other at Causey Reservoir! Whether you’re an experienced water enthusiast or a first-time paddler, kayaking and paddleboarding on the serene waters of Causey are an absolute must. It’s one of the best lakes in Utah for paddleboarding.
Glide along the crystal-clear surface, explore hidden coves, and take in the awe-inspiring scenery that surrounds you. The calm, mirror-like reservoir is perfect for all skill levels, making it an ideal spot to create unforgettable memories with friends and family. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as you’re bound to capture picture-perfect moments while basking in the tranquility of this Utah gem.
Camping: Imagine waking up to the soothing sounds of nature and the fresh mountain air filling your lungs – this is the magic of camping at Causey Reservoir! Whether you prefer the simplicity of tent camping or the comfort of an RV, there’s a spot for you. Set up camp under the starry night sky and gather around a crackling campfire for s’mores and stories. With well-maintained campsites and picnic areas nearby, Causey Reservoir is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the great outdoors.
Hiking: For the adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, Causey Reservoir offers an array of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and reveal breathtaking vistas. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails that take you deeper into the natural wonders of the Ogden Valley. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, there’s a path for every hiker. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife and the vibrant flora that graces the landscape.
Cliff Jumping: If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Causey Reservoir has something that will make your heart race – cliff jumping! Feel the rush as you leap off the rugged cliffs into the refreshing water below. It’s the perfect way to beat the summer heat and add an extra layer of excitement to your day at the reservoir. Just be sure to follow safety guidelines and ensure the water is deep enough for a safe landing. It’s an exhilarating experience that will have you coming back for more, making Causey Reservoir your go-to spot for adventure and thrill.
Fishing: Calling all anglers! Causey Reservoir is a true angler’s paradise, offering some of the finest fishing opportunities in the region. The reservoir is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and brown trout, making it a prime spot for reeling in your next big catch. It’s also one of the best places in Utah to see Kokanee Salmon! So, pack your fishing gear, bait your hooks, and prepare to catch trout that will make your fishing tales legendary among friends and family.
Causey Reservoir Camping
If you’re up for an overnight adventure, the closest campgrounds nearby are located at Weber Memorial Park where you can set up camp and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the night sky.
Weber Memorial Park is an 86-acre haven for camping and outdoor adventure right next to Causey Reservoir along the South Fork of the Ogden River. Their camp sites are designed to cater to all campers, whether you’re going solo or with a lively group of friends and family. Plus, there’s something truly special about their recently renovated historic lodge, making it an idyllic setting to enjoy the outdoors.
They accept reservations for group camp areas and facilities but if you’re more of a spontaneous camper, no worries! Individual camp sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and you can pay your fees to our friendly camp host on site.
With 58 individual sites and four large group sites that can host up to 200-300 people, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the great outdoors. The individual sites can comfortably accommodate up to eight people, two cars, and two tents, or one trusty trailer and one cozy tent.
There are several other campgrounds as well throughout the canyon on your way to Causey Reservoir. If Weber Memorial Park is full, you could also try Willows Campground, South Fork Campground, or Magpie Campground.
Causey Reservoir Rentals
There are no on-site amenities or rental shops. The nearest rental shop is Ogden Valley Sports in Huntsville. They rent hard-top paddleboards, kayaks, and other watercraft. The only downside is you would need a truck or a roof rack to transport them.
If you want something easier to transport, inflatable paddleboards are the way to go. If you happen be to driving through Lehi on your way up to Causey Reservoir, then we recommend reserving an inflatable paddleboard from JJ’s Rentals. Again, this is located in Lehi – NOT near Causey. But if you can swing by on your way, the paddleboards are super easy to transport. You can easily fit 2-3 in the trunk of your car.
Or you could buy a paddleboard of your own. It’s actually a great time to buy one on Amazon. Despite inflation almost everywhere else, I’m seeing prices 25-40% lower than last year. Check out our Amazon affiliate links below – we may make a small commission if you purchase.
- Isle premium paddleboard – was $795, now only $495!
- ROC 10′ paddleboard – was $349, now $249
- Intex inflatable kayak – was $190, now $153
If you’ve never been to Causey Reservoir, now is the time to check it off your Utah Bucket List. Go have an adventure!
🤘🏻
-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!
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