Many know Utah for its red rock hikes and snowy adventures, but it's also full of places to cool off during summer. From alpine lakes to desert reservoirs, Utah's landscapes — both natural and manmade — offer every kind of water adventure.
But first, make sure you practice water safety. If you're boating, wave the orange flag when someone is in the water. Definitely wear a life jacket. If you're hiking to a swimming hole, tell someone where you're going. Always check the weather. And for heaven's sake, don't drink the water.
Let's dive right in, shall we?
Lakes and reservoirs
Take all your watercrafts and water toys to maximize your time at these lakes and reservoirs across Utah.
Quail Creek State Park and Reservoir
Head to southern Utah for one of the warmer places to swim. You're close to Zion National Park and surrounded by gorgeous red rock scenery. You can visit all year long for fishing, boating, paddleboarding and camping.
Bear Lake
Ah, the Caribbean of the West — except a little colder. Drive to the Utah/Idaho border to stay in a cabin or campground, show off your wakeboarding skills and swim in the turquoise waters.
Rockport State Park
A lesser-visited mountainous gem in Peoa — people go to paddleboard, jet ski, picnic and camp along the shore. You can bring your pupper, too!
Mirror Lake
Up in the Uinta Mountains, you'll find this alpine lake where you can camp, paddleboard and hike around. Even if you're not up for a cold plunge in the water, the scenery alone is worth the drive.
Rivers and swimming holes
Buckle your life vest for some rugged water adventures.
Mill Creek Trail
A short, family-friendly trail near Moab takes you to a waterfall and swimming hole below massive red rock cliffs. Bring water, wear a bucket hat and dorky shoes perfectly equipped for walking across wet sandstone.
Meadow Hot Springs
Just off I-15 near Meadow is a deep, blue hot spring. You can relax there all year round, but if it's a summer dip, save it for early morning or evening so you don't overheat.
Wayne Bartholomew Family Park
Located in Springville, this family-friendly park is the perfect spot to cool off and relax with family. Enjoy the picnic area, play volleyball and splash at the swimming beach.
Provo River
Floating a tube down the mostly mellow Provo River is a rite of passage for Utah County dwellers. It's a great way to enjoy the mountain scenery, get a few thrills, but mostly relax and beat the summer heat.
Colorado River
Near the Moab portion of the river are areas to casually swim and paddleboard below stunning red canyon cliffs. Find a guide for white water rafting or go packrafting for several days. Caution: These types of trips quickly turn you into a river rat.
Park fun
Nature is neat, but so are modern water parks.
Splash Summit
Relaxing in the cabana rental is great, but so is being a kid at heart no matter your age. It's almost impossible to not spend the whole day on each and every water slide, float the river or try to withstand the wave pool. Bonus points because the park has plenty of food and treat vendors.
Thunder Junction All Abilities Park
While not strictly a water park, Thunder Junction in St. George has a splash pad and other fun. It's a dinosaur themed, wheelchair accessible park with a climbing wall, volcano and a whole lot of inclusion for all.
City splash pads are also becoming more popular, so be sure to check out your local parks to see if they have one. And remember to stay water safe no matter where you go.
What's your favorite place to play in the water in Utah? Leave us a comment and let us know.
