Willard Bay State Park
Fishing, Boating and Camping Just Off I-15
Just south of Brigham City, Willard Bay is a 9,900-acre freshwater reservoir on the edge of the Great Salt Lake. Anglers come for walleye, wiper and catfish, families come for the beaches and campgrounds, and in winter the park lights up with the Fantasy at the Bay holiday display. With two marinas right off the interstate, it's one of the easiest places in northern Utah to get on the water.
Managed by Utah State Parks: View hours, fees and reservations
Quick Facts
Reservoir
9,900 acres
Marinas
North & South
Top Catches
Walleye, wiper, catfish
From Brigham City
About 15 minutes
From Salt Lake
About 1 hour
Sauna & Cold Plunge
Open year-round
Freshwater on the Great Salt Lake
Willard Bay was built as a freshwater reservoir on the Great Salt Lake's floodplain, and it opened as a state park in 1966. Today it's a summer favorite for boating, waterskiing and paddleboarding, with sandy beaches and shady cottonwoods along the shore.
The park has two separate areas. The North Marina is the main hub, with campgrounds, beaches, a boat launch, day-use areas and the sauna. The South Marina offers a quieter, more rustic option with its own launch and campground.
Things to Do at Willard Bay
Fish for Walleye and Wiper
Year-round · Boat or shore · Utah fishing license required
Willard Bay is known for walleye and wiper, along with channel catfish and black crappie. Fish from shore near the marinas or head out by boat for the best chance at a big wiper. A valid Utah fishing license is required.
Boat, Swim and Paddle
Summer · Two boat launches · Sandy beaches
The warm water makes Willard Bay a go-to for waterskiing, wakeboarding and paddleboarding. Launch from either marina, rent a beach cabana or just spread out on the sand. Utah requires all boats to be cleaned, drained and dried before and after launching.
Camp by the Water
North & South Marinas · Tent & RV sites
Pitch a tent or park the RV under tall cottonwoods. The North Marina has modern campgrounds with hookups, hot showers and flush restrooms, while the South Marina is more rustic. Reservations are recommended in summer.
Relax at the Willard Bay Sauna
Year-round · Daily · Sauna & cold plunge
Drive Through Fantasy at the Bay
Late November–December · Nightly · Holiday lights
Each holiday season, the park transforms into a drive-through light show with thousands of lights and 3D displays. It's a favorite family tradition in northern Utah. Check Utah State Parks for this year's dates and tickets.
Watch for Bald Eagles
Winter · Shoreline · Wildlife viewing
In winter, bald eagles gather in the cottonwoods along the shore. Walk the easy Linda C. Higley Nature Trail or scan the trees from the marina. Bring binoculars and dress warm.
Seasons at Willard Bay
SUMMER
Peak season for boating, swimming and camping. Weekends fill up fast, so arrive early or reserve ahead.
FALL
Cooler days, quieter campgrounds and good fishing as the water cools.
WINTER
Bald eagles along the shoreline and the lakeside sauna make for a great cold-weather visit.
HOLIDAYS
Fantasy at the Bay turns the park into a drive-through holiday light show from late November through December.
Before You Go
KNOW YOUR EXIT
Take I-15 exit 357 for the North Marina and the sauna, or exit 351 for the South Marina. The two areas aren't connected by road inside the park.
ENTRANCE FEE
A day-use fee applies per vehicle. Check Utah State Parks for current rates.
RESERVE AHEAD
Summer campsites, sauna sessions and holiday weekends book up early. Reserve before you go.
CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY
Utah requires boats to be cleaned, drained and dried to prevent invasive species. Plan for an inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit to Willard Bay
Bring your boat, your rod or just a towel for the sauna. Willard Bay is minutes off the interstate, with the Fruit Way just up the road and Brigham City close by when you're ready for dinner.