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Starvation State Park adventures

Starvation State Park Adventures

Starvation State Park offers a serene desert reservoir surrounded by rugged canyons and pinyon-juniper forest, providing a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping in eastern Utah.

6300
Acres Protected
15
Miles of Trails
50,000
Annual Visitors
1972
Year Established

About Starvation State Park

 

Located in Duchesne County, Utah, Starvation State Park centers around the Starvation Reservoir, created by the Starvation Dam on the Strawberry River. The park spans a landscape characterized by desert terrain, rocky cliffs, and high desert vegetation including sagebrush and pinyon pine. Established to provide water storage and recreational opportunities, the reservoir is a key feature attracting anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s history is connected to local water management efforts dating back to the 1970s when the dam was completed to support irrigation and flood control. Visitors can explore various bays around the reservoir, each offering different access points and camping areas. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to see mule deer, eagles, waterfowl, and a variety of fish species such as kokanee salmon and rainbow trout. Starvation State Park is also favorable for hiking and mountain biking on nearby trails that weave through the surrounding foothills. With several developed campgrounds and boat ramps, the park appeals to day users and overnight campers seeking a blend of water sports and desert scenery. Its relatively remote location limits overcrowding, enhancing the quiet, natural experience. The combination of accessible waters, framed by striking canyon walls and desert landscapes, makes Starvation State Park a favored spot for both relaxation and active outdoor recreation in eastern Utah.

Highlights

Highlight

Starvation Reservoir – a large lake ideal for boating and fishing

Highlight

Scenic bays such as Starvation Bay and Three Forks Bay

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Abundant wildlife including bald eagles and mule deer

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Remote campgrounds with lakefront access for quiet camping

Notable Natural Features

Starvation Reservoir

A 3500-acre water body created by Starvation Dam, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports.

Starvation Dam

Constructed in 1970, it controls Strawberry River flows and supports irrigation for the surrounding agricultural region.

Red Canyon Overlook

A vantage point providing expansive views over the reservoir bordered by striking red rock formations.