About AQUARIUS RANGER STATION
Overview Aquarius Ranger Station is located about 15 miles south of Loa, in eastern Utah. It sits on the west side of beautiful Boulder Mountain, which makes up half of the expansive Aquarius Plateau. The station was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937 and was used by generations of Forest Service employees working in the surrounding back country. Recreational activities abound in the surrounding area. Guests enjoy fishing in many lakes on Boulder Top, and exploring local trails.Recreation Pine Creek Reservoir is less than a mile from the ranger station. This small lake covers three acres, and offers fishing for brook trout. Cook Lake, Miller Lake and numerous additional fishing lakes are scattered across Boulder Top. Many hiking, biking and off-road vehicle trails meander through the surrounding area. The Great Western Trail spans nearly 4,500 miles through five states, and runs alongside the station. Hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers and off-road enthusiasts love this spectacular trail. Big game hunting for black bear, mule deer, elk, grouse and antelope is also a popular activity.Facilities The Aquarius Ranger Station Complex can accommodate a maximum of 20 people, with four inside and 16 camped outside in tents or RVs. The rustic two-room cabin sleeps four people comfortably on one double bed and one set of bunk beds. No linens or bedding are provided. Two or three RVs and several tents are allowed outside. The cabin is equipped with a table and chairs, a wood stove and propane appliances including a cook stove and oven, and hot water heater. Some pots and pans, dishes and utensils are provided, but guests are encouraged to bring their own. A vault toilet is located adjacent to the cabin, as is a campfire circle and several picnic tables. Potable water is available inside the cabin and at a hydrant outside. Solar lighting is available inside the cabin.Please note: pets are not allowed inside the Ranger Station. No smoking in the Ranger Stati
How to Get There
From Loa, travel directly south on the paved county road for about 2 miles. From that point, turn south on Forest Road 154 and travel about 8 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 178 and travel about 5 miles, then turn left onto the Aquarius Ranger Station Road and travel approximately a quarter-mile to the cabin.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to AQUARIUS RANGER STATION
Heading to AQUARIUS RANGER STATION? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for AQUARIUS RANGER STATION?
No central reservation system listed for AQUARIUS RANGER STATION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234572) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to AQUARIUS RANGER STATION?
From Loa, travel directly south on the paved county road for about 2 miles. From that point, turn south on Forest Road 154 and travel about 8 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 178 and travel about 5 miles, then turn left onto the Aquarius Ranger Station Road and travel approximately a quarter-mile to the cabin.
How do I contact AQUARIUS RANGER STATION?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-836-2811.
References & Official Resources
