Baker Dam Recreation Area
Nature preserves
A trout-stocked reservoir at the base of the Pine Valley Mountains, 24 miles north of St. George, with an 18-site BLM campground and cool-season fishing.
A cooler alternative
Baker Dam Reservoir sits below the Pine Valley Mountains about 24 miles north of St. George on State Route 18. The elevation is the appeal: it offers an escape from valley heat without the drive to Cedar Mountain, and the reservoir is small enough to feel quiet.
Fishing
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources stocks it with trout regularly, and it fishes best in spring and autumn. It is managed in partnership with the Baker Dam Reservoir Association.
Camping
The Bureau of Land Management campground has 18 sites with parking, tent pads, picnic tables and fire pits with grills. Both the campground and the day-use area have accessible vault toilets.
There is no potable water — bring your own. Sites must be reserved through Recreation.gov; first-come, first-served camping is not allowed. Stays are capped at 14 days and quiet hours run 9pm to 7am.
Other uses
The surrounding country is used for deer, quail and rabbit hunting, and as a staging point for off-highway vehicles heading to higher ground. OHVs may use existing roads and trails on BLM and Dixie National Forest land, but not within the recreation area itself.
See also camping near St. George and fishing around St. George.
Frequently asked questions
Can I camp at Baker Dam without a reservation?
No. All 18 sites must be booked through Recreation.gov — first-come, first-served camping is not permitted, and stays are limited to 14 days.
Is there drinking water at Baker Dam?
No. There is no potable water at the campground or day-use area, so bring your own.