The earliest known use of Panguitch Lake was as a fishery by Paiute Indians. In fact, the name Panguitch means "big fish" in the Paiute language. The area around the lake was settled in 1873.
Farming and ranching was the basis for the economy of the area. A dam was constructed on Panguitch Lake to increase the lake’s ability to hold water and to provide irrigation water. Dairy products (cheese & butter) and fish were traded or sold in neighboring communities. As southern Utah grew in the late 1800’s the Panguitch Lake area became a retreat for people from throughout the region. Horse races, fishing, dancing and other activities became commonplace at and around the lake.
These traditions have continued and today you’ll find restaurants, boat rentals, general stores, lodges and cabins for rent, ATV riding, horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking and much more.
Summer is the most active time of year around the lake, but ice fisherman and outdoor enthusiasts (x-country skiing, snowmobiles) frequent the area through the winter months
Panguitch Lake contains several campgrounds, convenience stores and an LDS chapel. Road access to the lake is provided by Utah State Route 143, also known as the Brian Head-Panguitch Lake Scenic Byway or Utah's Patchwork Parkway.
The lake is in close proximity to several world-class attractions such as Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Cedar Breaks National Monument and Zion National Park. Also close by is the community of Brian Head, Utah. For a comprehensive and detailed overview of Panguitch and the surrounding area, go here. On the North side of the lake lies "Beaver Dam Village".