The Hidden Bridger Bay Beach In Utah Will Make You Feel A Million Miles Away From It All

Who says you need an ocean to have a beach? Utah has plenty of beaches around its lakes and reservoirs, all of which provide a welcome chance to splash around and cool off from the summer heat. Bridger Bay Beach, at Antelope Island State Park, is an underappreciated hidden gem in the Beehive State. Park rangers report that the biting gnats (no-seeums) typically disappear in June, so your trip to the beach in August is much more pleasant. Take a look at Bridger Bay Beach and consider visiting soon!

Antelope Island is about 40 miles north of Salt Lake City. To get there, take exit 332 off I-15, then drive across the causeway (Antelope Drive).

You'll pay just $10 per car to enter the park; seniors pay $5.

If you walk or ride your bike across the causeway, you'll pay $3 per person to enter.

Antelope Island is 23,000 acres. It became a state park in 1981.

Bridger Bay Beach is on the north side of the island.

Beach amenities include picnic pavilions, flush toilets, and coin-operated showers.

Depending on the current water level, you may have to walk out as far as 500 feet to the water's edge.

Yes, you really do float!

The Great Salt Lake is super salty; salinity levels range between 5-27 percent, depending on the water level. By contrast, the world's oceans average a salinity level of 3.5 percent.

The beach is a great place to play and cool off during your visit to Antelope Island.

Bring a beach umbrella and chair; the only shade is under the picnic pavilions.

Consider camping overnight at Bridger Beach Campground.

The cost is just $15 per night. There's no water or electricity at the campsites. Reservations are recommended; the sites often fill up on weekends.

Is there a better way to spend the day than at the beach with your friends?

When was the last time you visited Antelope Island? If you'd like to visit even more Utah beaches, read 9 Beaches You Have To Check Out and 7 More Beaches To Visit.