Palisade State Park

Fees & Reservations: A day-use entry fee is required, purchase in-person or online. The Annual Utah State Park Pass is accepted for park entry. Like many state and national parks, campgrounds at Palisade State Park tend to be booked months ahead, be sure to reserve your campsite in advance.

Weather: The water at Palisade Reservoir begins warming up enough to swim in June and July. Expect highs near 100 degrees in the hottest summer months. In contrast, the reservoir gets cold enough to freeze over in the winter months, a great sign for ice fishing. If you consider stepping out onto the icy lake, never judge the ice on thickness alone. See more information on ice safety here.

Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed in the park, but not on the beaches or in the water. They must be leashed at all times and under full control. And as always, be sure to clean up after your pets.

Rentals: Palisade State Park runs its own park rental service for those seeking water toys. Rent paddle boats, paddleboards, canoes and kayaks for kids and adults for one hour, four hours or the whole day (paddles and life jackets are included in the cost). Full day e-bike rentals are also available.

Whether you’re a die-hard camper or a glamper who enjoys the finer things, Palisade has accommodations for you. There are 74 campsites at Palisade State Park, including tent sites, RV sites with hookups, private cabins and group sites. Group sites can be reserved 11 months in advance, and all other sites may be reserved four months ahead. Sites fill up fast, so make your reservations early. Walk-up sites are not available. 

Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring and grill. If you plan on having a fire, please bring locally-sourced wood or purchase firewood at the park’s rental store. This is an excellent place to enjoy Utah’s dark skies, so be ready to stay up late while you’re here. 

Private cabins are an excellent option for those who’d rather not tent. Each cabin sleeps up to eight people, but you must bring your own sleeping bags and/or linens. Heat, A/C, lights and power are all standard issue, but only three cabins come with running water and a restroom. Otherwise, campground restrooms and showers are a short walk away.