Starvation Reservoir, Utah

Looking for wide-open water, year-round adventure, and land you can call your own? Starvation Reservoir in Duchesne County, Utah is one of the state’s hidden gems. Known for its crystal-clear water, excellent fishing, and peaceful setting, it’s where Utahns go to boat, camp, and enjoy the outdoors without the heavy crowds of the Wasatch Front. At Mountains West Ranches, many of our properties are just minutes from Starvation Reservoir, making it easy to enjoy all the recreation this area has to offer while owning affordable land nearby.

Things to do at Starvation Reservoir

  • Close-up of a hand holding a trout over water.

    Fishing

    Known as one of Utah’s top fishing spots, Starvation draws anglers year-round.

    Warm Weather Fishing: Cast for walleye, smallmouth bass, perch, and trout.

    Winter Ice Fishing: A local favorite, with steady catches of walleye and perch.

    Tournaments: Fishing competitions are often hosted at the reservoir, bringing together anglers from all over Utah.

  • White yacht cruising on ocean water

    Boating and Water Sports

    Starvation offers over 3,500 acres of open water, perfect for all kinds of boating.

    Speedboats & Wakeboarding: Smooth stretches of water make it a favorite for watersports.

    Jet Skis & Paddleboarding: Quiet coves and sandy beaches give you options for a slower pace.

    Marina Access: The Starvation State Park marina has boat ramps, slips, and a fuel dock for easy access.

  • Person relaxing near a campfire with logs burning, wearing a hat, and sitting in a camping chair. Trees and green foliage in the background.

    Camping Near Starvation Reservoir

    If you want to stay overnight, there are plenty of options.

    Developed campgrounds with hookups.

    Primitive beach camping for those who want privacy.

    RV-friendly spaces with stunning lake views.

  • Close-up of hikers' legs walking through a dry grassy trail.

    Hiking and Exploring the Area

    The desert landscape around Starvation is rugged and beautiful. You’ll find hiking trails with panoramic views of the reservoir, plus off-road trails for ATVs.

  • Person swimming in lake

    Swimming & Beaches

    On hot summer days, sandy beaches invite families to swim, picnic, and relax. Unlike more crowded Utah lakes, Starvation offers space to spread out and enjoy the water.

Where is Starvation Reservoir?

Located in Duchesne County, Utah.

  • 1hr 15m drive from Heber City

  • 2hr drive from Salt Lake City

  • 1hr 45m drive from Vernal

 

Weather at Starvation Reservoir

  • Summer (Jun-Aug)

    Warm and dry with highs around 80–90°F. Perfect for boating, swimming, and camping. Nights cool off into the 50s, making it comfortable for stargazing.

  • Fall (Sept-Nov)

    Crisp air and fewer crowds. Highs in the 60s–70s, with cool nights. A favorite season for hunters and anglers.

  • Winter (Dec-Feb)

    Cold, with highs in the 20s–30s. Ice fishing is popular on the frozen reservoir, and snow adds a peaceful beauty to the area.

  • Spring (Mar-May)

    Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Highs in the 50s–70s, ideal for early-season camping and fishing.

Featured Listings Near the Reservoir

Water Rights Included • Power Nearby on Select Lots • Waste Management Options Available Nearby

Lake Side Acres 3-5
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Lake Side Acres 3-5
$79,900.00
Buck Horn Mesa 17-E | 5.02 ACRES Buck Horn Mesa 17-E | 5.02 ACRES
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Buck Horn Mesa 17-E | 5.02 ACRES
$74,900.00
Buck Horn Mesa 12-J | 5 Acres Buck Horn Mesa 12-J | 5 Acres
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Buck Horn Mesa 12-J | 5 Acres
$94,900.00
Lake Pointe Ranches -2-10-J-1 Lake Pointe Ranches -2-10-J-1
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Lake Pointe Ranches -2-10-J-1
$77,900.00

Why Buy Land Near Starvation Reservoir

What makes Starvation truly special isn’t just the water, it’s the land around it. This part of Duchesne County offers wide-open acreage at a fraction of the cost of resort towns like Park City or Heber.

At Mountains West Ranches, we specialize in affordable land close to Starvation Reservoir. Many of our parcels:

  • Start at just 5 acres (with larger tracts available).

  • Have power nearby.

  • Can support a well for water.

  • Are zoned A5 agricultural (allowing farming, gardening, livestock, and rural living).

Imagine having your own base camp just minutes from the reservoir, where you can park an RV, build a cabin, or start a homestead.

 FAQs

  • From Park City, it’s about 1 hour 45 minutes. From Provo, about 2 hours.

  • Yes, there are developed campgrounds, primitive sites, and RV hookups.

  • Absolutely! Walleye, bass, trout, and wipers are common catches.

  • Yes! Mountains West Ranches has multiple properties just minutes away. View available listings.

  • It’s known for excellent fishing (especially walleye), wide-open boating, camping, and peaceful scenery. It’s less crowded than reservoirs along the Wasatch Front, making it a favorite hidden gem for Utah locals.

  • Yes. Dogs are allowed on the shoreline and in campgrounds, but they must be leashed in developed areas.

Want to live near Starvation Reservoir? Book a land tour now!

If you're looking for the perfect place to build, invest, or start your off-grid lifestyle, now is the time to buy land near Starvation Reservoir. With beautiful landscapes, access to outdoor recreation, and a growing community, this area offers the ideal setting for those seeking space and opportunity. Whether you want a weekend retreat or a long-term homestead, explore available properties and take the next step toward owning land in Duchesne today!