Bear Lake State Park (Idaho) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bear Lake State Park |
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Bear Lake seen from the park
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 Bear Lake State Park
Location in Idaho
Bear Lake State Park
Location in the United States
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| Location | Bear Lake County, Idaho, United States |
| Nearest city | St. Charles, Idaho |
| Area | 966 acres (391 ha) |
| Elevation | 5,900 ft (1,800 m) |
| Designation | Idaho state park |
| Established | 1969 |
| Visitors | 162,787 (in 2014-2015) (expressed as Total Visitor Days) |
| Administrator | Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation |
| Website | Bear Lake State Park |
Bear Lake State Park is a fun outdoor area in Idaho. It sits right on the north and east sides of Bear Lake. This park is in the southeast part of Bear Lake County. It is also close to the borders of Utah and Wyoming. The park is about 15 miles south of Montpelier. Right next to the park's north side is the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
Park History
The state bought land for Bear Lake State Park in 1969. They used special funds to help create this park. At the same time, a part of the park called the North Beach unit was leased. It was leased from a company called Utah Power and Light. Today, this North Beach unit is still managed under a lease from PacifiCorp.
What Animals Live Here?
Bear Lake State Park is home to many different animals. You might see some unique fish like the bonneville cisco and cutthroat trout. Larger animals like moose and deer also live here. You could even spot a cougar! Many birds visit the park too, such as pelicans and cranes.
Fun Things to Do and See
Bear Lake is famous for its amazing turquoise blue color. This color comes from tiny bits of calcium carbonate (like limestone) floating in the water. The park has two main areas, and each has a beach over a mile long! The lake bottom slopes gently, making it a great place for swimming.
You can even go camping in the east part of the park. In winter, people love to go ice fishing here. They especially look for a special fish called the Bonneville cisco.
Images for kids
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Bear Lake seen from the park
