The East Fork of the Sevier River Scenic Backway (FR-087) follows the river southward along the western edge of Bryce Canyon National Park to Tropic Reservoir. The high-elevation lake (7,800 feet) is located about seven miles south of the turnoff from Scenic Byway 12.
Surrounded by soaring ponderosa pines, red rock formations, and the Pink Cliffs, Tropic Reservoir is a recreational haven for camping, boating, canoeing, and fishing. The reservoir is stocked annually with rainbow trout and occasionally brook trout. Brown trout are also a good catch, finding their way into the reservoir from the East Fork Sevier River.
King Creek Campground is located near the northwest tip of Tropic Reservoir. Limited amenities include drinking water, tables, campfire rings, and flush toilets. The maintained yet primitive campsite is ideally located for access to Tropic Reservoir, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and a large network of ATV trails. The Fremont ATV trail can be reached a quarter-mile from the campground. Dirt trails near the reservoir are ideal for horseback riding. Hiking is available on the nearby Aqua Canyon Connecting Trail and Sheep Creek Connecting Trail. A boat ramp within a half-mile of the campground offers lake access.
The East Fork of the Sevier River Scenic Backway ends at the Podunk Guard Station built in 1928. The maintained gravel road is appropriate in good weather for passenger cars and RVs.
