Even though fall is coming on, there is still plenty of beautiful weather — and plenty of time to enjoy Fire Lake Park Ivins.
Often referred to as Ivins Reservoir, Fire Lake Park Ivins reopened in June 2018.
Fire Lake Park Ivins | History
From what was originally envisioned as “more enjoyable recreation area” by Ivins Mayor Chris Hart, Fire Lake Park Ivins is born.
According to the Ivins City web site, Ivins Reservoir itself dates back to 1918. Fitting, then, that 100 years later, the Fire Lake Park Ivins enhanced the original space.
The reservoir is an off stream reservoir that can hold 500 acre feet of water. It is mainly used for irrigation and recreation.
In 2004 the Washington County Water Conservancy District took ownership of the area.
For years it has been a place to cool off when the summer sun gets too hot. And there was even a boat launching dock and a picnic table.
Much of that has been updgraded now.
Ripples of change
Based on Mayor Hart’s vision, the idea was to create a site that could be enjoyed on a more recreational level. But what Ivins Reservoir needed to become Fire Lake Park Ivins was a more reliable water level and a sandy beach.
The plan was drawn up as a result of meetings with Ivins City, Ivins Irrigation Company, The Washington County Water Conservancy District,the Shivwits Band of Paiute Indians of Utah and Kayenta Development. Those meetings began in 2008. But economic difficulties for the area (and the nation) resulted in putting Fire Lake Park Ivins on the back burner for a time.
What’s New? | Fire Lake Park Ivins
The agreement between the groups allowed the water district to section off a portion of the reservoir by using a causeway, constructed last summer, according to the Ivins City web site. This created a four-acre swimming bay. And it allowed for the constant water level.
It works because of a water supply line running into the recreation bay from Gunlock Reservoir. Then, it runs into the main body of Ivins Reservoir, making it available to the irrigation system that relies on the reservoir.
Win-win, right?
Now, to make it a more appealing recreation site.
Work prior to the summer 2018 opening of Fire Lake Park Ivins included removing vegetation and importing 7,000 cubic yards of sand. Workers also removed 12,000 cubic yards of native soils.
The majority of the sandy material used for the beach came from the Shivwits Band of Paiutes — a group the Ivins City web site calls “a vital member of the coalition.”
The reservoir actually sits within the reservation property for the Shivwits Band of Paiutes.
Plus, the water district donated the temporary restrooms on site. More permanent restroom facilities are planned.
The draw to Fire Lake Park Ivins
There are so many things that make Fire Lake Park Ivins a worthwhile attraction in the area. First of all, you simply cannot beat the backdrop.
Situated against the signature red mountain of Ivins, it is impossible not to be in awe of your surroundings at Fire Lake Park Ivins.
One benefit, so far, is that it’s not too crowded. Though of course as word spreads, and as the amenities continue to improve, that positive may cease to exist.
No motorized water craft are allowed at Fire Lake Park Ivins, making it the perfect place to kayak, canoe, peddle boat and swim.
The sandy beach offers plenty of sand castle fun. And the parking is close enough to carry all your beach gear for a fun day in the sun.
So far (fingers crossed this continues) there has not been a problem with swimmer’s itch at Fire Lake Park Ivins. Apparently it’s the last body of water in the area that remains untainted by it.
Directions
Fire Lake Park Ivins is located in the small community of Ivins, Utah, just 15 minutes from St. George, Utah.
To access Fire Lake Park Ivins, take Sunset Boulevard in St. George and continue on to Santa Clara Highway 91. You will turn right immediately following the entrance to Kayenta. There is a sign for Fire Lake Park Ivins.
Picture yourself living in an area with convenient access to the beauty of Fire Lake Park Ivins. That could be a reality when you consider the great home listings here.
