If one was to mention 'white-sand beaches' and 'crystal-clear aqua waters,' the first thought that comes to mind would likely be a pristine beach in the Caribbean. While this would be accurate, the Caribbean is not the only location in the world with those tropical vibes and picturesque vistas. In the U.S., there are quite a number of coastal cities that also boast this but the one in this article isn't any of those, either - rather, it's a landlocked state.
Utah's Bear Lake is a unique setting in itself, featuring all the things one might expect in the Bahamas right in the center of the midwest. It's popular for camping and day trips, and does, indeed, boast white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. This alluring destination might be lesser known to those seeking these same things without ever leaving the U.S., but those who do know it, also know that camping is the best way to experience it all.
What's Included At Bear Lake
The lake itself is 20 miles long and is a natural lake as opposed to many reservoirs that are created for recreation. Surrounded by a gorgeous mountainscape, this lake sits on the border of Utah and Idaho - both of which are breathtaking states in their own right. It's pretty easy to see why Bear Lake is often called the 'Caribbean of the Rockies' with its tropic-like landscape, with the exception of the mountains looming in the distance - all of which makes for a spectacular view from the shore.
Those familiar with Bear Lake also know that it's a KOA campground, which means it's one of 500 that are privately owned. The first few were based out of Montana and can now be found throughout the country as well as in Canada. A KOA campground means that there are often many more amenities than that of national parks, such as WiFi and other modern hookups.
Additional Amenities Offered At Bear Lake
- Trails for hiking, biking, and four-wheeling
- A heated pool
- A wading pool for children
- An area for Ping-Pong
- A jumping pillow
- A playground
- 'Hungry Bear' pancake breakfast is served on weekends
- KOA grocery store on-site
- Kamping kitchen
- WiFi
- Public Pavilion
- Snack bar on-site
- Mini-golf
- Bike rentals
- KampK9
- Propane and firewood are available
- Train & hayrides
- Volleyball court
- Shuffleboard
Camping At Bear Lake KOA
The Bear Lake campground has options for both RV hookups and traditional tent camping. Guests can expect to have a choice from premium campgrounds and RV sites that may include patios, and some KOA locations even include Deluxe Cabins. Group meeting facilities include outdoor pavilions, and those interested should check each individual campground to see other options.
Bear Lake, specifically, offers RV hookups and premium campgrounds as well as an added bonus: the marina. Those who are towing boats looking to indulge in all this lake has to offer can inquire about a marina slip during their stay. With the boat launch being only a mile from the campground, boating is made incredibly easy on these turquoise waters. Additionally, it's easy to access via car since Bear Lake Road circles the entirety of the lake including the marina and campground.
Bear Lake Campground offers these amenities that are unique to the location, as well:
- Family-themed activities
- Pre-planned activities and lake excursions
- Military clubs
- RV clubs & rallies
- Motorcycle clubs
- Tours of the lake and the surrounding trails
Traditional Camping
As far as pricing goes, kids age five and under can camp at the campground for free, and a campsite with a traditional tent will run roughly $42/night. These campsites are pet-friendly and do not include hook-ups so guests can look forward to a rustic and authentic camping experience. Each site includes a picnic bench and a grassy area for each tent.
RV Camping
RV campsites vary, but average around $50-$150, depending on the type and length of the RV, trailer tent, or camper. RV sites feature full hookups and plenty of gravel and grass in between sites, so there's ample space between neighbor campers. Guests will have a choice of campsites with additional amenities as well, which will also increase the price/night.
Cabin Lodging
As of 2018, the KOA campground at Bear Lake has included cabin options. These cabins are one room that's partitioned into two individual sleeping areas with a small common room and a porch. The cabins do not have their own private bathrooms so guests will be using the communal campground restroom facility, but they do sleep large families. These are pet-friendly, however, guests will need to bring their own linens for use during their stay. Rates vary, so those interested should check dates ahead of time - the cabins book up extremely fast.