Camping at BIGC

Location and Overview

Bear Lake State Park's BIGC, or Bear Lake Interpretive Center and Gift Shop, is located in Garden City, Utah, near the beautiful Bear Lake. This area is known for its striking turquoise-blue water and offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including camping. The park is situated on the borders of Utah and Idaho, providing visitors with picturesque views and numerous campgrounds to enjoy.

Camping Information

Campground Options: Bear Lake State Park features multiple campgrounds, including:

• Rendezvous Beach: Situated on the south shore of the lake offering access to the beach, water activities, and full-facility campsites.
• Eastside Campgrounds: A series of campgrounds along the east shore with more primitive camping facilities.
• Bear Lake Marina: Located on the west side, close to the marina for easy boat access.

Campsite Amenities: Depending on the campground, amenities might include:

• Hookups for RVs
• Tent sites with nearby water spigots
• Restroom facilities
• Showers
• Fire pits and picnic tables
• Dump stations for RVs

Reservations and Fees:

• Campsite reservations are generally recommended, especially during peak summer months.
• Fees vary depending on the campground and whether you choose a site with hookups or a more primitive site.

Activities and Attractions

Recreational Activities:

• Water Sports: Boating, water skiing, paddle boarding, swimming, and fishing are popular.
• Trails: Hiking and biking trails are available nearby.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area offers opportunities to see various wildlife, including birds and deer.

Attractions: The BIGC itself serves as a hub for visitor information and education about Bear Lake's natural history.

Camping Etiquette and Regulations

Safety and Environment:

• Fire Safety: Follow any fire regulations. Sometimes, bans are in place due to high fire danger.
• Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from any wildlife, and do not feed them.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, leave sites cleaner than you found them.

Rules and Regulations:

• Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours, which typically run from late evening to early morning.
• Vehicle Limits: There may be limits on the number of vehicles per site.
• Pet Policy: Pets are often allowed but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

Access and Contact Information

• Directions: Bear Lake State Park is accessible via US-89. The park has various entrances depending on the campground or area you wish to visit.
• Contact: Information about current conditions, campsite availability, and reservations can be obtained by contacting Bear Lake State Park directly or visiting the official website for Utah State Parks.

Before You Go

Make sure to check the latest updates on weather conditions, fire risk, and any wildlife advisories. It's also a good idea to review the park's specific rules and regulations before your trip for a smooth camping experience.