Largest freshwater lake in Utah
Utah Lake State Park
Outdoor activities and plenty of wildlife.
Utah Lake State Park is the largest freshwater lake in Utah, providing visitors with a wide variety of outdoor activities. From paddling to fishing, this state park has it all! Explore the shoreline of the majestic Utah Lake while discovering unparalleled natural beauty and unique wildlife. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or simply want to escape into nature, Utah Lake State Park is the ideal destination. Plan your trip today and get ready to explore!
History
Utah Lake State Park was established in 1970 and is noted for its beautiful landscapes, abundant wildlife, and incredible recreational opportunities. The park was created to protect valuable wetland habitats and provide the public with access to the lake.
The lake itself is one of the oldest natural lakes in North America and has been used by Native Americans for centuries. Today, Utah Lake State Park offers visitors the chance to experience the unique culture and history of Utah and its people. From pre-historic archaeological sites to ancient petroglyphs, there are plenty of reasons to visit this state park.
Located near Provo and Orem, the park covers over 308 acres of open space along the shoreline of Utah Lake. This diverse landscape consists of two major habitats: open-water marshland and upland meadowlands. Visitors will enjoy exploring this incredible natural environment while discovering a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish.
The lake itself is one of the oldest natural lakes in North America and has been used by Native Americans for centuries. Today, Utah Lake State Park offers visitors the chance to experience the unique culture and history of Utah and its people. From pre-historic archaeological sites to ancient petroglyphs, there are plenty of reasons to visit this state park.
Located near Provo and Orem, the park covers over 308 acres of open space along the shoreline of Utah Lake. This diverse landscape consists of two major habitats: open-water marshland and upland meadowlands. Visitors will enjoy exploring this incredible natural environment while discovering a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish.
Wildlife
There is an abundance of wildlife throughout the park. Birdwatchers can observe dozens of species, including waterfowl and shorebirds like ducks, geese, pelicans, and herons. Mammals include American beavers, muskrats, deer, coyotes and bobcats. The lake is also home to a variety of fish such as bass, bluegill and catfish. Reptiles like frogs, turtles and lizards can also be found throughout the park.
Geology
The geology of the area is complex, consisting primarily of sandstone and conglomerate rock formations created millions of years ago during the Paleozoic era. The shorelines of the lake contain many small coves and bays, which are unique because they are formed by a combination of several layers of rock. There is also evidence that during the Ice Age floods, water rushed through these areas and created numerous sandbars along the shoreline.
Planning a trip to Utah Lake State Park
Utah Lake State Park is an ideal destination for outdoor recreation, offering activities such as swimming, boating, fishing and camping. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own to explore the lake’s many coves and bays. Fishing licenses are available at the park office and the lake is stocked with several varieties of fish including bass, bluegill and catfish. The park has a variety of trails to explore which are great for nature walks and bird-watching. The park also offers camping facilities for those looking for an overnight stay. Campers can pitch their tents on one of the many sites available or rent a cabin in the park. Utah Lake State Park is a great place to explore, offering plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and experience the beauty of Utah. From its diverse wildlife to its archaeological sites, this park has something for everyone.
lodging/camping
Utah Lake State Park offers several options for overnight stays. Campers can pitch their tents on one of the many campsites available or rent a cabin in the park. There are also several lodging facilities located nearby, including hotels and resorts, in Provo, Utah and Orem, Utah.
dining
Visitors to Utah Lake State Park will find a variety of dining options, including restaurants in nearby Provo and Orem. They can also enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the many open areas or on their boat.
Fees/permits
For day use, it's $15 per vehicle and $10 for Utah Seniors 65 and older. For camping and the campground, it's open from April 1 - October 31 and it's $40 per night for the first vehicle and $30 for each additional vehicle. For more information about fees and permits, visit the state park website for all amounts for Utah Lake State Park.
Pets
Pets are welcome at Utah Lake State Park but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet in length. Pet owners must also clean up after their pets and make sure not to leave them unattended.
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