Explore
Mantua
Reservoir
A quiet mountain lake just 10 minutes from Brigham City
Tucked into a high valley at the top of Box Elder Canyon, Mantua Reservoir is one of northern Utah's favorite spots for a morning on the water. It's small, calm, and ringed by mountains, a place to cast for bass, paddle glassy water, or spend a summer afternoon at the beach. It's about 10 minutes from Brigham City and roughly an hour from Salt Lake City.
Quick Facts
Open
Year-round
Fish
Bass, Trout, Bluegill, Perch
Nearest town
Mantua
Best time to visit
Summer
To Salt Lake
About 1 hour
To Brigham
10 minutes
Things to Do at Mantua Reservoir
Fishing
Mantua Reservoir is known for big largemouth bass and is usually good for bluegill, rainbow trout, and perch. Its small size and calm water make it a favorite for fishing from shore or from a float tube. Anglers 12 and older need a Utah fishing license, and the reservoir has its own special rules, so check current Utah DWR regulations before you go.
Ice Fishing
When winter sets in, the reservoir usually freezes over and offers good ice fishing. Always check ice conditions before heading out, and review DWR regulations for any winter-specific rules.
Boating
Motorboats are welcome, and a boat ramp makes launching easy. To keep the water from getting crowded, no more than 25 powered watercraft are allowed on the reservoir at a time. Fishing and swimming aren't allowed within 25 feet of the ramp.
Swimming
On hot summer days, the reservoir's swimming beach is a local favorite for families and day-trippers. Swimming isn't allowed within 25 feet of the boat ramp, and harmful algal blooms can cause temporary closures in warm months, so check current water quality advisories before you go.
Paddleboarding, Kayaking and Canoeing
Because the reservoir is small and sheltered from the wind, its water stays calm, making Mantua one of the best places in the area to paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. Mornings are usually the smoothest. Bring your own gear, since there are no rentals at the reservoir.
Camping Nearby
Box Elder Campground sits about a mile from the reservoir in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Sites are shaded by hardwoods along Box Elder Creek, and the campground has flush restrooms and drinking water. It takes tents, RVs, and trailers and is typically open from late April through early October. Reserve on Recreation.gov, or try for a first-come, first-served site.
Hiking Nearby
For a hike close to the water, the Box Elder Creek Trail starts off Willard Peak Road near Mantua. It's a quiet, moderate 4.6-mile loop through country where moose and deer are often spotted. Find more trails on our Hiking page.
A Bit of History
Mantua Reservoir was created in 1961, when an earthen dam was built at the top of Box Elder Canyon. The dam holds back the water that now fills this small mountain valley, turning it into one of northern Utah's favorite spots for fishing, paddling, and summer days at the beach.
Before You Go
Rules and Regulations
Mantua has special fishing rules and a 25-boat limit on powered watercraft. Check Utah DWR regulations before you launch or cast.
Water Quality
Algae blooms can cause temporary closures in warm months. Check current advisories before swimming or letting pets in the water.
Getting Here
Take US-89/91 about 4.5 miles east of Brigham City and follow the signs to Mantua. The reservoir is right off the highway.
Seasons
The reservoir is open year-round. Summer is best for paddling and swimming, spring and fall for fishing, and winter for ice fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit to Mantua Reservoir
Mantua Reservoir makes an easy day trip or a relaxed base for exploring northern Utah. The reservoir sits beside the small town of Mantua, which is mostly residential, so you'll find the best lodging and dining 10 minutes away in Brigham City, from hotels and vacation rentals to local restaurants and classic diners. Grab breakfast in town before a morning on the water, or head back for dinner after a day of fishing or paddling.