Fishing and kayaking opportunities draw campers to Kolob Reservoir, a free dispersed camping area managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service at 8,100 feet elevation. The reservoir sits along the Kolob Terrace Road route into Zion National Park, with both drive-in and walk-in camping options available around the shoreline.
Campers can pull directly onto the west side of the reservoir where the gentle slope allows vehicles to park close to the water's edge. Sariah J. notes that "the sites you book under bookyoursite.com would be your regular along the shore sites which can be pretty big with no neighbor campers." The elevation provides relief from desert heat, with temperatures ranging from 70s during the day to 30s at night in fall months.
Trout fishing remains the primary draw, with the Division of Wildlife Resources periodically adjusting catch limits and bait restrictions. Several reviewers mention catching both trout and crawdads from the shoreline. Small watercraft work well on the reservoir, and kayak rentals are available through local operators during peak season. Wildlife sightings include bald eagles, deer, and waterfowl around the lake.
The campground operates March through November, with vault toilets at multiple locations and a dump station available. Road conditions vary seasonally, and the final approach requires attention during wet weather. Cell service is limited, with coverage improving closer to the entrance area. A camp host monitors the area during busy periods to ensure compliance with camping regulations.
For campers wanting developed amenities, Lava Point Campground offers an alternative with designated sites and closer access to Zion's high country trails.
Description
Kolob Reservoir is a 250-acre impoundment of Kolob Creek in southwestern Utah. This mountain reservoir is a popular place for the desert dwellers of St. George, as well as southern Nevada. The reservoir and most of the shoreline are owned by the Washington County Water Conservancy District. Dispersed camping is allowed and a few vault toilets are provided, along with a boat ramp and dock. Private land restricts access around the southwest bay. Seasonal access from the south is by paved county road from Virgin (Utah Highway 9); and from the north, by gravel road from the Right Hand Fork of Cedar Canyon (Utah Highway 14). Winter access is limited to snowmobile.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsKolob Resevoir is located in Utah near Kanarraville
Directions
To get there from the town of Virgin, follow SR-9 to the turnoff at Kolob Terrace Road and continue north for 23 miles. From Cedar City head five miles up Cedar Canyon on highway 14, turn right onto Right Hand Canyon Road and continue for eight miles as the road changes to Kolob Road. Follow Kolob Road for another 11 miles to reach the reservoir.
Coordinates
37.45413509000003 N
113.0490084 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Kolob Resevoir needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 41 min from St. George, UT
- 3 hrs 23 min from Las Vegas, NV
- 5 hrs 7 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 6 hrs 20 min from Prescott Valley, AZ




































