Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation
00 reviewBOX 584, DUCHESNE, Utah, 84021-0584, United States
Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation
$15.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Fees range from $15 for primitive camping to $36 for full hookup RV sites. Additional vehicle fee applies for beach and Mountain View campgrounds (charged at half a camping fee per night).
About this campground
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.
Historical SignificanceThe park's evocative name tells a powerful story of human perseverance. Early settlers faced extraordinary hardships along the Strawberry River, their struggles forever memorialized in this landscape. As you explore the park's trails and shoreline, you're walking in the footsteps of pioneers who transformed adversity into opportunity, adding a profound layer of meaning to every sunset viewed from your campsite.
Weather and SeasonsExperience 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.
ElevationPerched at high desert elevation, the park rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic vistas that stretch endlessly toward the horizon. This elevated position creates spectacular viewing opportunities, where the interplay of light and shadow across the desert floor provides an ever-changing canvas throughout the day.
Natural Features and SceneryStarvation Reservoir serves as the park's glittering centerpiece, its waters lapping against secluded beaches and dramatic red rock bluffs that glow like embers at sunset. This diverse ecosystem supports fascinating wildlife, including majestic falcons that nest among the cliffsides, their aerial acrobatics providing entertainment for observant campers. Desert flora dots the landscape, creating a tapestry of textures and colors that shift with the seasons.
Geological RegionCarved by time and the persistent flow of the Strawberry River, this striking desert landscape showcases nature's artistry through towering red rock bluffs and expansive reservoir waters. The geological story written in these rocks spans millions of years, creating a dramatic backdrop where ancient stone formations frame the modern recreational paradise of Starvation Reservoir.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park provides handicap access and paved paths in some areas, as noted in the official description. User reviews report mixed experiences with accessibility features, particularly at primitive sites.
Sites SizeCampsites range in size, accommodating both RVs and tents. Some sites are described as large and level, while others are more compact.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are described as private and secluded, while others are closer together, especially in the main campgrounds.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and larger size, choose Indian Bay waterfront sites or Mountain View bluff RV sites.
Best CampsitesIndian Bay: sites near water with shoreline access; Mountain View: bluff sites with RV hookups and grass surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No explicit maximum stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies by site type (single vehicle reservation for primitive areas).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes primitive areas (Indian Bay, Rabbit Gulch, Juniper Point, Knight Hollow) and modern campgrounds (Mountain View, Beach).
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round camping availability.
Reservation PlatformsReservation hotline: 435-738-2326.
Walk-in AvailabilityPrimitive camping at Rabbit Gulch is half site-specific and half walk-in.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules unclear in authoritative sources; some reviews report challenges in canceling reservations and getting refunds.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
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.
Hiking
The park and surrounding areas provide trails for hiking. Detailed descriptions of trail difficulty and length are not provided, but users mention opportunities for exploration.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction with species such as walleye, smallmouth bass, trout, and perch. The annual walleye tournament is a highlight.Swimming
Several areas around the reservoir allow swimming. Beaches are praised for their cleanliness and sandy quality, though some mention cold water temperatures even in summer.Boating
Boating is highly popular, with facilities for launching and dock access. Rental equipment such as kayaks and paddleboards is available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as baby falcons can be observed. Specific recommendations for viewing areas are not provided.Beach activities
The park features sandy beaches suitable for sunbathing and water sports. Some areas are rockier, and users recommend being cautious in these spots.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the available sources.Water Sports
Users frequently mention water sports like paddleboarding, jet skiing, and kayaking as popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed; must bring your own firewood.
- Quiet hours are Begins at 10 PM; enforcement reportedly inconsistent (user review: generator running past quiet hours, drunken parties not addressed).
Hazards
General hazardsWindy conditions can affect tents; rattlesnakes and other wildlife present in Rabbit Gulch. Some reviews mention high mosquito activity.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station: 435-738-2326; Closest hospital located in Duchesne (~4 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season for summer: June-August.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but some users report overflowing bins and scattered trash, particularly in primitive areas.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites at Indian Bay and Mountain View offer close proximity to Starvation Reservoir.
Common complaintsComplaints include unclean restrooms and showers, lack of site maintenance (weeds, dog waste), unhelpful ranger interactions, and noise ordinance issues.
HostLimited interaction with hosts noted; reviews report inconsistent presence.
Campground Map
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).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Fred Hayes State Park At Starvation has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor maintenance of trash bins and some facilities, inconsistent enforcement of rules, and staff attitudes.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend securing beachside spots early, bringing bug spray and sunscreen, and preparing for windy conditions.
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.
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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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.
Accessibility Features
Users report mixed experiences with accessibility. While some areas are handicap accessible, rough terrain in primitive sites poses challenges.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but enforcement of leash rules varies. Some users report negative experiences with rangers regarding pet policies.
Last updated August 10, 2025