When you want a little sunshine, water, scenery, and adventure, Bear Lake is the place to go. As one of the best lakes in Idaho, Bear Lake is perfect for a year-round vacation. Swim, camp, play in the sand, or just relax near the lake — you’ll never be bored.

Bear Lake is 20-miles long and 8-miles wide, making it one of the larger lakes in the Gem State. This lake crosses a state line with half of the lake sitting in Idaho and the other half in Utah.

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Individuals flock from multiple states to spend some time in this water and it’s no surprise why. The water at this lake is a beautiful turquoise color, which is caused by the refraction of limestone deposits in the lake. Because of its gorgeous color, this lake is often referred to as the “Caribbean of the Rockies.”

Bear Lake State Park/Facebook

When you visit this lake during the summer, you’ll want to spend your time on the water. Boating and fishing are two popular activities on this lake.

Bear Lake State Park/Facebook

Although, you can also enjoy the water from the shore. The North Beach at Bear Lake is one of the busiest beaches and also one of the best. This two-mile-long beach features a gradual slope into the lake, making it perfect for wading and swimming.

Bear Lake State Park/Facebook During the summer months, you will want to arrive early to North Beach as it typically reaches capacity every Friday and Saturday morning. If you want to spend time here, consider visiting during the week or reserving your spot by purchasing a day pass in advance.

Every year, nearly 15,000 campers spend the night at Bear Lake State Park in Idaho. At this state park campground, you will find serviced and standard campsites and large group campsites that can accommodate up to 50 campers.

Bear Lake State Park/Facebook

Even in the winter, this lake is the perfect outdoor destination. Try your hand at ice fishing, ice hockey, or even snowmobiling around the lake. Not far from Bear Lake is Beaver Ski Resort, which is located in Garden City, Utah.

Bear Lake State Park/Facebook

After a day on the water or exploring the surrounding area, drive a few miles north to Cody’s Gastro Garage in Paris.

Cody’s Gastro Garage

Cody’s Gastro Garage This themed restaurant is open throughout the year and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Here, you will find an assortment of delicious menu items like hamburgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and hand-scooped shakes.

Have you ever been to Bear Lake? Did you check out North Beach? We’d love to hear about your experience(s) and maybe even a few tips to more fully enjoy this lake! You can also learn more about Bear Lake State Park in Idaho on its website and Facebook page.

Aaron Hawkins/iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Bear Lake State Park/Facebook

During the summer months, you will want to arrive early to North Beach as it typically reaches capacity every Friday and Saturday morning. If you want to spend time here, consider visiting during the week or reserving your spot by purchasing a day pass in advance.

Cody’s Gastro Garage

This themed restaurant is open throughout the year and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Here, you will find an assortment of delicious menu items like hamburgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and hand-scooped shakes.

If you are looking for a more quiet and hidden lake in Idaho, check out Baker Lake. You’ll find this lake in the Sawtooth National Forest and at the end of a 2-mile hiking trail.

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Address: North Beach State Park, 3890 N Beach Rd, St Charles, ID 83272, USA