Top 10 Beaches in Utah

By Chelsea Gonzales
Beaches

Utah is home to some awesome beaches. Of course there’s the Great Salt Lake, but there are many other reservoirs and lakes around the state that provide hours of outdoor water entertainment for those who visit. From state parks to grand reservoirs, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular beaches in Utah.

What Are The Best Beaches in Utah?

  • Sand Hollow State Park Beach
  • Lake Powell
  • Jordanelle Reservoir
  • Rendezvous Beach at Bear Lake State Park
  • Pineview Reservoir
  • Bridger Bay Beach
  • Deer Creek State Park
  • Utah Lake State Park
  • Quail Creek State Park
  • Flaming Gorge Reservoir

What Are the Best Utah Beaches for RVers?

ParkCampsite OptionsHookups & AmenitiesRV FriendlinessBest ForKey Advantage
Sand Hollow State ParkCampgrounds within the state park near reservoir and dunesFull hookups available, restrooms, boat rentals, OHV access, marina, beach accessVery high; wide RV camping options with direct access to water and dunesWater sports, off-roading, mixed adventure tripsUnique combination of red sand beaches, reservoir recreation, and ATV/OHV dune access
Jordanelle Reservoir (Jordanelle State Park)Multiple campground areas across three recreation zonesFull hookups, marina, boat rentals, kayak/SUP rentals, inflatable water park, restroomsVery high; modern facilities and easy RV access near Park CityFamily trips, boating, paddle sports, weekend staysStrong mix of resort-style lake amenities and proximity to Park City
Flaming Gorge ReservoirCampgrounds around reservoir and national recreation areaPartial hookups in select campgrounds, restrooms, boat ramps, fishing access, dispersed camping optionsHigh; more remote but well-supported for longer RV staysFishing, boating, quiet nature escapesDramatic canyon scenery with large, uncrowded reservoir and excellent fishing

Sand Hollow State Park Beach

Relax on the red sand at Sand Hollow State Park Beach. This state park has a 1,322-acre reservoir and is a popular destination for water sports and beach activities. Hit the sandy shores to swim or fish, or try out water activities like boating, kayaking, jet skiing, or waterskiing, which are available for rent on the reservoir. Sand Hollow State Park is also a popular place for riding ATVs and OHVs across the sand dunes and technical trails.

Things to do near Sand Hollow State Park Beach

There’s a ton of great things to see nearby. You’re very close to Zion National Park, so be sure to check it out. St. George is also nearby and offers things to see and do. 

Lake Powell

Lake Powell sits on the border of Utah and Arizona, and with 2,000 miles of shoreline there’s plenty of ways to spend your day on or in the water. To explore some of the hidden beaches, bring your own boat or rent a houseboat. Or visit Bullfrog Bay for rentals from houseboats to powerboats to paddleboards, as well as swimming and camping opportunities.

Things to do near Lake Powell

Canyonlands National Park and Capitol Reef National Park are both a few hours’ drive away to the north. Or head south to Arizona to access Lake Powell from Wahweap, and check out Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.

Jordanelle Reservoir

Jordanelle Reservoir is located in Jordanelle State Park, which has three different recreational areas. There are plenty of boat rentals including fishing boats, pontoons, and ski boats if you want to get out on the water. They also offer stand up paddleboards and kayaks for a slower pace. There’s a full marina offering rentals, and kids will love the inflatable water sports park called Aqua X Zone that floats in the reservoir. There’s also camping inside the park if you want to stay overnight or for the weekend.

Things to do near Jordanelle Reservoir

The state park is only an hour away from Salt Lake City and near Park City, Utah. 

Rendezvous Beach at Bear Lake State Park

Called the Caribbean of the Rockies due to the calcium carbonates in the water, this Utah lake has bright blue water and white sandy beaches. Bear Lake State Park is split into three areas, each with water activities. For swimming and sunbathing, start at Rendezvous Beach. Or head to Garden City to rent a boat from the marina and spend the day on the water. There are also fishing opportunities in the lake.

Things to do near Rendezvous Beach

Logan Canyon Scenic Byway is nearby, running along U.S. 89 and offering a scenic drive, especially in the fall.

Pineview Reservoir

Pineview Reservoir is home to several great beaches. Start with Anderson Cove, located about 10 miles east of Ogden, Utah. It has camping and a day-use area with a popular beach. Spend the day paddleboarding or fishing in blue waters with mountain views in the distance.

Things to do near Pineview Reservoir

The reservoir is near Huntsville and not far from Salt Lake City where you’ll find lots to see and do. 

Bridger Bay Beach

Located in Antelope Island State Park, Bridger Bay Beach sits within the Great Salt Lake. This beach is perfect for camping, hiking, swimming, boating, and more. Spend your time swimming in the salty waters or enjoy kayak, paddleboard, and pedal boat rentals from the marina.

Things to do near Bridger Bay Beach

Visit Salt Lake City and explore all the city has to offer. 

Deer Creek State Park

Deer Creek State Park offers plenty to do including windsurfing, boating, swimming, and fishing. Try kiteboarding lessons or a zipline tour, or rent a boat to explore the reservoir. Kids will love the Island Aqua Park, an inflatable floating obstacle course. There’s camping in the park, so you can stay in your RV and enjoy the water for a few days.

Things to do near Deer Creek State Park

The park is a short drive to Salt Lake City and Provo and both offer things to see and do. 

Utah Lake State Park

Utah Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the western United States and a great place to swim, boat, and fish. There are calm waters and beautiful mountain landscapes. When you’re done, there’s hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, all available in Utah Lake State Park.

Things to do near Utah Lake State Park

Provo is about 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, where there are tons of things to see. 

Quail Creek State Park

Quail Creek State Park in southwestern Utah has blue waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. There’s also excellent fishing, and the lake is stocked with various species of fish. Relax at the sandy beach and see red cliffs contrast with blue water. There are picnic tables, bathrooms, changing rooms, and plenty of parking.

Things to do near Quail Creek State Park

The state park is 14 miles north of St. George, Utah. Meanwhile, Zion National Park is a 30-minute drive to the east.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Flaming Gorge Reservoir offers amazing views and endless water sports and activities. Explore by water skiing, wakeboarding, boating, or fishing. When you’re done, explore hiking and biking trails or camp overnight.

Things to do near Flaming Gorge Reservoir

The reservoir is on the Utah-Wyoming border and is fairly remote. Rock Springs, Wyoming is about an hour and a half north and offers dining and shopping. 

Planning an RV Trip to Utah

Make sure to see the best state parks in Utah, as well as all the national parks in the state.