History of Bear Lake State Park

Bear Lake State Park is a state park located in both Idaho and Utah, along the border of the two states. It was established in 1962 and covers an area of 966 acres. The park lies on the northwest shore of Bear Lake, which is sometimes called the "Caribbean of the Rockies" for its intense blue-green waters.

The Bear River flows into the lake from the east, and out of the west side of the lake is a short channel that leads to St. Charles Creek. The shore is primarily composed of large boulders, formed over thousands of years by glaciers coming down from Yellowstone National Park. This makes much of the shoreline inaccessible for swimming or wading.

The area that is now Bear Lake State Park has been a popular vacation spot since the mid-1800s. Mormon explorers first discovered the lake in 1811 and named it after an aboriginal chief they had encountered on their journey. The area's rich soil and abundant wildlife made it ideal for settlement and people began to settle in the area in the 1840s.

In 1861, the first homestead in Bear Lake Valley was established and settlers began to settle around the lake. By 1875, there were over 100 homes in the region and with increasing numbers of tourists visiting for recreational fishing and boating, a number of resorts began to open along the lake's shores.

The early 1900s saw the development of Bear Lake State Park and the gradual conversion of the area from agriculture to recreation. In 1913, a bill was passed in the Idaho legislature establishing a state park along the northern shore of Bear Lake.

In1962, it was designated as an official state park. The park has undergone numerous improvements over the years and today offers a wide variety of recreational activities such as camping, boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking.

Today the park is managed by the Bear Lake State Park Division and visitors can enjoy a variety of interpretive programs at the on-site amphitheater or take part in one. Bear Lake State Park is one of the most popular parks in Idaho and Utah and is known for its stunning beauty. With miles of shoreline and hundreds of acres of campgrounds, the park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, take in breathtaking views from nearby mountains, enjoy fishing and boating on Bear Lake, or just relax in one of the many secluded spots scattered throughout the park.

In recent years, Bear Lake State Park in Garden City, Utahhas become a major destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with the park offering something for everyone. Whether you are looking to explore the area's rich cultural history, take a leisurely stroll through the trails, or just kick back and relax in one of its many peaceful spots, Bear Lake State Park has it all!

With its stunning natural beauty, an abundance of activities, and rich history, Bear Lake State Park in Garden City, Utah is a destination you won't want to miss.