Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation

Star4.19
80 reviews
BOX 584, DUCHESNE, Utah, 84021-0584, United States
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,764 ft

Price

$15 - $36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

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Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation
$15.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $15 for primitive camping to $36 for full hookup RV sites. Additional vehicle fee applies for beach and Mountain View campgrounds...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$36.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.19

Satisfactory

Based on 80 reviews

1024 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spaciouswatersiteshookups

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for the park are generally positive, highlighting beautiful scenery, diverse recreational options, and the cleanliness of some facilities. However, concerns about maintenance, staff attitudes, and crowded conditions are recurring themes."

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Campground Map

BOX 584, DUCHESNE, Utah, 84021-0584, United States

Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation

BOX 584, DUCHESNE, Utah, 84021-0584, United States

Driving directionsFred Hayes State Park at Starvation is located four miles northwest of Duchesne on Highway 40.
Accessible via paved Highway 40, located four miles northwest of Duchesne.
Nearby places
Duchesne (4 miles, ~10 minutes)
Salt Lake City (~90 miles, ~2 hours drive)
Nearby supplies
Nearby in Duchesne: Burger King, Subway, gas stations, grocery stores (~4 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation

Experience the dramatic temperature swings of high desert camping, where sun-drenched days give way to crisp, star-filled nights. Summer brings inviting water temperatures in the mid-50s Fahrenheit—perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of exploration, though steady winds often sweep across the reservoir, adding a wild element to your stay. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, creating an entirely different camping experience for hardy adventurers.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season for water sports and fishing; water temps mid-50s and can be windy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Off-season offers tranquility and good scenery though cooler conditions arrive.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Should be good for fishing and fewer crowds; weather can be variable in high desert.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Park open year-round but colder, fewer water activities and no winter-sports focus.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season for summer: June-August.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Year-round camping availability.

About Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation

Where stark desert beauty meets shimmering blue waters, Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation unfolds across 3,500 acres of dramatic Utah landscape. This captivating destination seamlessly blends modern amenities with primitive camping opportunities, inviting adventurers to explore a land where pioneer history echoes through red rock canyons. The reservoir's sapphire waters create a stunning contrast against the rugged desert terrain, offering visitors an unforgettable backdrop for their outdoor adventures.
Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation offers a variety of camping options, from primitive to fully equipped sites. Developed sites include hookups for water and electricity, while primitive areas provide a more rugged experience.
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Stay Limit
No explicit maximum stay limit mentioned.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation offers a wide array of recreational opportunities, from water sports to fishing and wildlife viewing. The reservoir is a prominent feature, drawing boaters, anglers, and swimmers. Hiking trails and nearby attractions also enhance the outdoor experience.
HikingThe park and surrounding areas provide trails for hiking. Detailed descriptions of trail difficulty and length are not provided, but users mention opportunities for exploration.
FishingFishing is a major attraction with species such as walleye, smallmouth bass, trout, and perch. The annual walleye tournament is a highlight.
SwimmingSeveral areas around the reservoir allow swimming. Beaches are praised for their cleanliness and sandy quality, though some mention cold water temperatures even in summer.
BoatingBoating is highly popular, with facilities for launching and dock access. Rental equipment such as kayaks and paddleboards is available.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as baby falcons can be observed. Specific recommendations for viewing areas are not provided.
Beach activitiesThe park features sandy beaches suitable for sunbathing and water sports. Some areas are rockier, and users recommend being cautious in these spots.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWindy conditions can affect tents; rattlesnakes and other wildlife present in Rabbit Gulch. Some reviews mention high mosquito activity.

Weather at Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation

Reviews

4.2
80 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for the park are generally positive, highlighting beautiful scenery, diverse recreational options, and the cleanliness of some facilities. However, concerns about maintenance, staff attitudes, and crowded conditions are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 80 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers praise the park's scenic beauty, spacious campsites, and variety of activities. Sites near the water and those with hookups receive special mention.
Based on 80 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor maintenance of trash bins and some facilities, inconsistent enforcement of rules, and staff attitudes.
Based on 80 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend securing beachside spots early, bringing bug spray and sunscreen, and preparing for windy conditions.
Based on 80 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that summer offers the most opportunities for water sports and fishing, though it can be windy. Off-season visits are noted for their tranquility, but colder conditions.
Based on 80 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Stunning lake view from our very large, very private, very level RV site." - Jean Batchelder. "Bring lots of bug spray and sunscreen!" - Ashley B. "Vault restrooms that were pretty clean. Water...
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Based on 80 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Indian Bay: Primitive sites with shoreline access. Mountain View: Developed sites with hookups and pavilions. Lower Beach: Popular for its beach access and RV-friendly features.
Based on 80 reviews

Accessibility Features

Users report mixed experiences with accessibility. While some areas are handicap accessible, rough terrain in primitive sites poses challenges.
Based on 80 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but enforcement of leash rules varies. Some users report negative experiences with rangers regarding pet policies.
Based on 80 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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