Rockport State Park

Another Year-Round Reservoir Recreation Spot

Rockport State Park is located 45 miles east of Salt Lake City just off I-80 near the town of Wanship. It is a year-round recreation playground in a picturesque setting between the Wasatch and Uinta mountain ranges. At an elevation of 6,000 feet, the park’s main draw is a 1,080-acre body of water created by the Wanship Dam on the Weber River.

Although it isn’t even among the top 25 Utah lakes in terms of size, it is more than adequate for the people that love this lake. Like all the reservoirs in Utah, the amount of mountain snow and subsequent spring run-off determines the depth.

This also determines how much fun is to be had each year. We experienced several dire, drought-caused years in the last decade but thankfully, those were followed by one of our wettest years ever.

In 2021, the water levels were so low that the remains of the long-forgotten ghost town, Rockport, were revealed. It was reported that “faint traces of foundations of old homes and a road” became visible according to a Deseret News article. It didn’t last long as the record snowfall of two years ago filled the lake and covered “old Rockport” once again.

The area was colonized in 1860 and originally called Crandall. Then it was renamed Enoch City and, eventually, Rockport in 1867 after the rock fort built to protect settlers from any potential conflicts with local Indians.

In 1957, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation bought the land for the construction of the dam which created the reservoir and, subsequently, established the state park in 1966. ​

Photo: Travel Utah

Summer Activities: It’s All About The Water

During the warmer months, Rockport Reservoir becomes another hub for water-based recreation. Anglers can fish for rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass and yellow perch.

Boating enthusiasts enjoy waterskiing, wakeboarding, sailing and paddleboarding. The park provides a marina with boat ramps and rentals including kayaks and paddleboards. ​

Many years ago, a friend of mine bought a Hobie Cat catamaran and took my wife and me sailing on Rockport. It was a very hot … 90º+ day … and the clear blue waters were more than refreshing.

It was the only time I’ve ever been on a sailboat of any kind and I’ve often longed to repeat the experience. Rockport was a perfect place for my friend’s small sailboat.

Swimming is popular along the reservoir's shores on steamy summer days with several day-use areas that provide easy access to the water. Picnic areas with tables and grills are available for families who are looking forward to spending a relaxing day by the lake.

Once again, like all of Utah’s lakes, it isn’t near as fun when the water levels are down. It is comforting to see them back at their max levels again.  ​

Winter Wonderland: Ice Fishing and Snow Sports

When winter arrives, Rockport State Park transforms into another popular snowy playground. Ice fishing becomes a favorite pastime with anglers braving the cold temperatures to catch perch and trout beneath the frozen surface.

The mountain sunshine beckons during the winter and offers an escape from the smog and inversion in the valleys below. The park also provides access to nearby snowmobile trails and there is suitable terrain for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. ​

The surrounding mountains used to be … I can remember when … completely free from cabins and vacation homes but that has changed dramatically. With the overflow from Park City and the selling off of private land for development, the mountains are dotted with cabins of all sizes and shapes. This has seriously impacted the wildlife habitat of the area. And not for the better at least for the wildlife.

Camping: From Primitive Sites to Glamping

Rockport State Park offers a variety of camping options to suit the various preferences of visitors. Over the years, my tastes and tolerance for certain kinds of camping have certainly evolved.

When once I would pitch a small one-person tent just about anywhere without batting an eye … like I used to when I was a bowhunter … now that just isn’t happening. I’ll take a trailer or an Airbnb now, thank you.

To satisfy almost all tastes, there are eight campgrounds within the park offering a mix of developed and primitive sites:​

• Juniper Campground: Provides sites with water and electric hookups.
• Cottonwood Campground: Offers both single and double sites.
• Crandall Cove Campground: Features group sites and easy lake access.
• Twin Coves Campground: Known for its scenic views and proximity to the water.
• Riverside Campground: Located near the historic Old Church below the dam (see below).
• Pinery Campground: Offers a more secluded camping experience.
• Cedar Point Campground: Accessible by boat and is ideal for those seeking more solitude.
• Hawthorne Group Site: Designed for larger gatherings and group camping.​

In addition to traditional camping, the park offers rental cabins and yurts for those seeking a more comfortable experience. ​ You can also reserve a glamping tent complete with a queen bed and solar power if that interests you. I know a particular lady whose entire idea of camping is spelled “glamping.”

The Old Church

The Old Church, as it is now known, was built by settlers in the Rockport area in 1892. It was originally used as a meeting house, town hall, dance hall, wedding facility and even for church services.

Having been fully restored, it is a small, white-frame, one-room building. When the Rockport dam was finished in 1956, the backed-up Weber River eventually created Rockport Reservoir. The Old Church was moved to its present location in the campground below the dam to escape being completely covered by the lake like the remnants of the old town.

The Old Church was vacant and in total disrepair until 2005 when it was fully restored. It sits now with wooden pews, natural light and a lot of history. You can actually rent the Old Church venue … including surrounding grounds … for $825.00. If cleaned sufficiently, you get $150.00 back.

Renting this classic old building and grounds is perfect for family reunions and other similar outings. The building can hold up to 90 people. If you are interested, go to the Old Church page on the state website for more information.

Unique Attractions: Archery and Dark Skies

Rockport State Park features a 3D archery range for those looking for a semi-realistic spot to sharpen their skills. Open during the warmer months, archers can take aim at full-size animal targets like deer, elk, bison and bears. Being a former archer and bowhunter, I wish there would have been more venues like this available when I was looking for places to practice.

In 2021, the park was designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association. This title signifies the exceptional quality of the area’s starry nights and showcases a commitment to preserve these experiences. The Park staff hosts programs to educate visitors about light pollution and the importance of dark skies for wildlife and human health. ​

Wildlife and Birdwatching at Rockport State Park

The park's diverse habitats support a wide array of wildlife including mule deer, foxes, raccoons, and occasional sightings of elk and moose. With the reservoir’s proximity to the Uintas, there are of course other varieties but most of those avoid any contact with humans.

Wolverines, bobcats and even wolves have been seen or caught on camera in the Uintas. Birdwatchers can spot bald eagles, hawks, ospreys and various waterfowl especially during the migration seasons. ​

Park Information and Fees

• Park Elevation: 6,000 feet
• Park Acreage: 770
• Surface Water Acreage: 1,080
• Park Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Day Use: $20 per vehicle
• Senior Entrance Fee: $15 or $65 for a yearly pass

• Camping Fees:

         - Juniper Campground: $45 Single, $70 Double
         - Cottonwood Campground: $35 Single, $50 Double
         - Crandall Cove Campground: $35 Single, $50 Double
         - Twin Coves Campground: $35
         - Riverside Campground: $35 Single, $45 Double
         - Pinery Campground: $35
         - Group Camping Area: Hawthorne Group Campground (rates vary)​
         - Reservations:  Reserve America

Nearby Attractions

For those not familiar with the state, some of the attractions in close proximity to Rockport State Park are places you might want to include in your itinerary. If you happen to think like my wife and I, we like to plan but not too much. Spontaneity seems to give us the most harmonious outcome.​

• Park City: Known for its ski resorts, shopping and dining only 15 minutes away.
• Echo State Park: Offers additional boating and fishing opportunities similar to Rockport.
• Wasatch Mountain State Park: Features hiking trails and golf courses.​
• Heber and Midway: Scenic towns with fantastic scenery in the Heber Valley.
• Jordanelle State Park: Boating, fishing, water-skiing, jet skiing, kayaking, an abundance of condo-type accommodation. One of our favorite areas.

Rockport State Park
Address: 9040 North Highway 302
Peoa, Utah 84061
Phone: (435) 336-2241
Website: https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/rockport/

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