Caribbean of the Rockies
Bear Lake is a large and spectacularly-blue lake located on the Idaho-Utah border. It enjoys the nickname "Caribbean of the Rockies" thanks to its turquoise color and the truth is that the color of the water is both beautiful and surprising. If you see and unmarked photo of a person swimming in Bear Lake, you'd swear it was taken from somewhere in the tropics. And, as you'd imagine, the lake is one of the most popular summertime destinations in the area. There are lots of little beaches, marinas, and campsites scattered around the shores of the lake but if it's your first time in the area and you're not sure where to begin, I'd suggest heading to North Beach State Park just on eastern shores of the lake. There, you'll find a fantastic sandy beach to set up shop and some campsite outfitted with electricity and running water.