The Southern Utah Road Trip That Leads to 5 Stunning Lakes

Southern Utah is best known for its stunning red rocks dotting the landscape and as home to the "Mighty 5" national parks — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Arches. However, it's also home to some gorgeous bodies of water that are worth seeking out, especially when the weather gets warm. One of my favorite day-trip destinations is to the lake, and with dozens of lakes in Utah, the opportunities are plentiful. Sometimes, however, it is hard to choose which lake is worth driving to for a day of exploration, fishing, and outdoor fun. That’s why I created this incredible road trip that leads you to five stunning lakes in southern Utah. Whether you wish to fish, boat, swim, or just bask in the beauty of each one, pack up the car and let’s go on a Utah lake road trip adventure.

This road trip itinerary begins at Navajo Lake and ends at Gunlock Reservoir in southern Utah. While one way is only 4.5 hours, I recommend breaking this trip into multiple days so you can enjoy your time at each Utah lake. Plus, every stop on our road trip is home to several accommodation options, including campgrounds and vacation rentals, if you wish to stay overnight.

1. Navajo Lake in Kane County

Located within the Dixie National Forest, Navajo Lake is a smaller lake in southern Utah, but it’s absolutely beautiful, surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains. Formed by a lava flow that had dammed off part of the valley it's found in, this shallow lake — with depths of only 25 feet — is perfect for swimming and fishing. Boating is another option here, as well. Potable water is not available, so make sure you bring plenty for a day at Navajo Lake. Visit the U.S. Forest Service website for more details.

2. Kolob Reservoir near Virgin City and Cedar City

If you love to fish, you will not want to skip the 250-acre Kolob Reservoir on this road trip — it's arguably one of the best Utah fishing lakes. Here, you can catch fish, including Bear River cutthroat, Colorado River cutthroat, and rainbow trout. This is also a lake where you may just want to spend some time enjoying the views. This body of water sits at an elevation of 8,000 feet on the Markagunt Plateau near Zion National Park and is surrounded by aspen and evergreen trees.

3. Sand Hollow Reservoir in Hurricane

You'll find this next pristine lake at Sand Hollow State Park, its blue waters standing out against the striking red rock landscape. Sand Hollow Reservoir, one of the premier Utah summer destinations, may be one of the busiest reservoirs on this road trip, but it’s certainly a bucket-list-worthy destination. The blue water here is typically quite warm, making for a fabulous swimming destination. This is also a wonderful place for boating, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding, and you can also go off-roading through the park. Learn more on the Utah State Parks website.

4. Quail Creek Reservoir in Hurricane

The 600-acre body of water that is the Quail Creek Reservoir is located in Quail Creek State Park. It is a reservoir where you typically don’t have to worry about cold water, as it's said to have some of the warmest in the state. The lake's maximum depth is 120 feet, where colder water conditions are ideal for fish like rainbow trout and crappie to survive. Bluegill and largemouth bass are found in the warmer water near the surface. Boat, swim, or fish here year-round — it’s an outdoor paradise for all! Visit the Utah State Parks website for the current water temperature, park fees, and more.

5. Gunlock Reservoir in Gunlock

The last stop on our road trip is Gunlock Reservoir, a body of water located in Gunlock State Park, and near the beautiful Gunlock Falls when they are flowing. This reservoir is typically quite calm and is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing on its sparkling waters, surrounded by red rocks. Visit the Utah State Parks website for hours, fees, and boat ramp information at one of the most peaceful southern Utah lakes.

Where To Stay Along This Southern Utah Road Trip

Whether it's camping, a hotel, or a vacation rental, here are a few accommodation options at or near each lake along this scenic road trip in Utah:

• Navajo Lake: Navajo Lake Campground has 12 campsites, 4 double campsites, and 12 walk-in campsites. Reserve yours on recreation.gov. If you prefer a vacation rental, book a stay at a mountain retreat with a hot tub in nearby Duck Creek Village.
• Kolob Reservoir: You may choose to reserve a campsite along the reservoir's shores or have more of a glamping experience at Under Canvas Zion, located in Virgin, Utah.
• Sand Hollow Reservoir: Within Sand Hollow State Park are 130 campsites, including standard, group, standard with either full or partial hook-ups, and cottages. Reserve your campsite on the Utah State Parks website.
• Quail Creek Reservoir: The campground offers 44 sites, either standard or standard with partial hook-ups. Reserve your campsite online.
• Gunlock Reservoir: Within Gunlock State Park are 29 campsites and three cottages, and you can make a reservation online. You can also rent a cabin with a pool near the park in Gunlock.

What other southern Utah reservoirs or lakes would you add to this list? For more stunning bodies of water for swimming, fishing, and boating, check out the 16 most beautiful lakes in Utah, according to Only In Your State readers.