One Of The Most Remote State Parks In Utah Is The Perfect Place To Escape
By Courtnie Erickson|Updated on April 22, 2024(Originally published August 30, 2023)
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
One of my favorite day trip destinations is a state park. There are several incredible state parks around Utah that are worthy of a visit, but many of these draw in quite a crowd. While still quite busy during the summer and weekends, Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation is one Utah state park that I recommend. With a beautiful reservoir, 3D archery course, hiking and geocaching opportunities, and more, this remote state park in Utah is where you can easily go for some time away.
Also known as Starvation State Park, Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation is located approximately 10 minutes away from Duchesne and 2.5 hours away from Salt Lake City.
In 2019, this state park was rededicated in memory of Fed Hayes, a former director of the Utah Division of Parks and Recreation.
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Starvation State Park is home to a 3,495-acre reservoir. While you can find remote beaches to enjoy, Starvation Reservoir is an excellent fishing destination and draws in anglers of all ages.
In fact, this state park is home to an annual walleye fishing tournament where some winning fish can weigh more than 10 pounds.
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I also recommend simply sitting and enjoying the views of the water and surrounding area. If you love photography, there are plenty of photo opportunities at this Utah state park.
If you want to practice your archery skills, Starvation State Park is one excellent place to go. The park’s 3D archery range allows you to practice shots of varying angles and difficulty levels. There are life-size targets to shoot at that range from 15 to 60 yards away.
The range is seasonal and typically open from April to November.
You can even feel like you are going on a real-life treasure hunt during your visit. This state park offers exceptional geocaching opportunities where you can search for hidden boxes filled with items. There are several geocaching locations around the park just waiting to be found.
Starvation State Park is home to several campgrounds including Beach Campground, Mountain View Campground, Indian Bay Campground, and Rabbit, Jumper, and Knight Hollow Campground. In total, you’ll find more than 135 campsites and four cabins. Both primitive campsites and those with full hookups are available.
Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation may require a bit of a drive to visit but it is the perfect place to escape. Come with your family, by yourself, or with a group of friends and enjoy the water, time outdoors, and a few unique activities. It’s the getaway you deserve and need.
Have you ever spent time at Starvation Reservoir? What did you think of this remote area? Let us know in the comments and if you need gear for a day outdoors, make sure to check out REI and Backcountry for everything you need.
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