Tropic Reservoir is a beautiful 180 acre lake located in Dixie National Forest. The reservoir sits at 7,835 feet elevation and is the trailhead for the Paunsaugunt OHV Trail. The Paunsaugunt Trail offers stunning views of the pink cliffs on the Grand Staircase National Forest and the Kaibab Plateau.
Taking the trails south and east of the reservoir’s King Creek Campground gives hikers a look at the spiraling hoodoos of nearby Bryce Canyon National Park and Red Canyon. Hoodoos are tall thin spires of rock typically formed from erosion. Trails headed west lead to the nearby town of Hatch. The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, camping, snowmobiling and ATV riding.
Kings Creek Campground has a paved boat ramp for small boats, kayaks, and canoes. The campground is open from May to September and has thirty seven spots for tents and RVs. Features include flush toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, drinking water, paved sidewalks and graveled spurs.
There are two group sites which may be reserved separately or together. The group area is isolated from the rest of the campground, offering more privacy. The group sites have a large covered pavilion with picnic tables. Individual sites are reserved on a first come first serve basis. More information about the campground can be acquired by calling 801-226-3564.
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ATV enthusiasts love the campground because of its access to six OHV loop trails that are part of the Paunsaugunt OHV Trail System. King Creek Trail and Chimney Rock Trail are also accessible from the campground. These trails provide views of the hoodoos and the reservoir.
Fishing is permitted on the shore or on a boat. The reservoir is home to many varieties of trout including small to medium brown, rainbow, brook, and cutthroat. The average water depth is 10 feet and the maximum depth is 29 feet. Trout are not the only form of wildlife abundant in the area.
Tropic Reservoir is a great bird watching spot for waterfowl and songbirds. Clark’s Grebe, bald eagle, prairie falcon, nuthatches and many flycatcher species can all be seen there as well. Many visitors also enjoy bringing their dogs to enjoy the water.
Opportunities for adventure are endless at Tropic Reservoir. High elevation, shady ponderosa trees, and crisp water create lower temperatures and allows for a break from the Southern Utah heat. It is a perfect spot to bring the family and enjoy all of the activities and views the area has to offer.
Written by: Lauren Kehoe