When it comes to family-friendly adventures, road trips are the way to go!
I was randomly scrolling through the internet when I found it... the perfect getaway destination. I stumbled upon a glamping site in Garden City, Utah (a rural town with fewer than 600 local residents) that took my breath away. It just so happened to be nestled up near Bear Lake, a recreational body of water that spans Utah and Idaho. Later I would learn and understand why this special place is nicknamed, "The Caribbean of the Rockies."
GETTING THERE:
From the Denver Tech Center to Garden City Utah, the drive is 7.5 hours (not including pit stops). We didn't find any quirky roadside attractions, but we did note some places to visit for next time.
- American Fossil, Kemmerer, Wyoming ~ Dig for fossils and keep the ones you find. This quarry is world-famous for its fossil fish.
- Fossil Safari, Kemmerer, Wyoming ~ Kids and pets are welcome at this you-dig-it fossil quarry.
- JCPenney Mother Store, Kemmerer, Wyoming ~ Complete with some of the original finishings, this store was the very first in JCPenney's history.
WHERE TO STAY:
Bear Lake offers an abundance of vacation properties. From rustic cabins to contemporary new-builds, each property seems strategically built such that regardless of where it's located in town, there's always a view of the lake. To my surprise and delight, I learned that it's not uncommon in Garden City to have an indoor slide, rock climbing wall with foam pit, or other family fun entertainment like pool tables, hot tubs, or full-size recreational courts. You could enjoy your entire vacation without even leaving the property.
We spent our vacation at the lovely Conestoga Ranch, a glamping resort that offers a variety of tents suitable for 2-6 guests. At the time of our booking, rates were 50% off, so we opted for a family tent with an en-suite bathroom. I've never experienced camping quite as luxurious as this.
The property hosts an array of practical amenities such as a restaurant, laundry facility, and single-use bathrooms that include showers and baby changing tables. The amazing staff is just a text away from helping guests start campfires, replenishing linens, and hitching a ride in a golf cart ride to get from the tent to the car. Macaroni Kid Tip: ATMs are limited in town. Pack cash for tips.
Other recommendations worth considering:
- KOA Bear Lake Marina Side (Garden City)
- VRBO or AirBnB properties (anywhere along the lake!)
- Need a really, really big place to sleep as many people as possible? Try the Sunrise Resort at Harbor Village. With 19 bedrooms, 19.5 baths, a private pool, and recreation courts, this impressive property sleeps 85 in beds with room for 100 people max... all under one roof!
WHAT TO DO:
- On-Site Amenities at Conestoga Ranch (Garden City) ~ Conestoga Ranch is equipped with an abundance of family-friendly entertainment. Practice your roping skills, visit the game tent, ride bikes, play volleyball, climb the playground, or listen to live music at the Campfire Grill restaurant.
- Limber Pine Trail Hike(Garden City) ~ This 1.2-mile trail offers educational plaques along a counter-clockwise loop. The perfect picture op awaits at a tree estimated to be ~600 years old.
- KOA Bike Barn (Garden City) ~ Rent a surrey and cruise through Garden City on the designated bike path that winds through town.
- North Beach at Bear Lake State Park (Idaho) ~ A $5 day-pass grants you access to a beautiful swim beach. Amenities include picnic tables, public restrooms, and a covered picnic pavilion. The beach has soft, smooth sand with tiny seashells.
Other recommendations worth considering:
- Pickleville Playhouse Theatre ~ Watch live theatre, enjoy dinner, and kids' programming.
- Bear Lake Renegade Raceway Go-Karts ~ Race as an individual (ages 7+) or as a team (ages 2+ ) at this outdoor track.
- Bridgerland Adventure Park ~ Try an array of activities: zip line, aerial challenge course, tubing, mini-golf, bungee trampoline, axe throwing, and more!
- Rent a watercraft
- Play golf
- Go on a "Bear Hunt" and count the bear sculptures around town
PLACES TO EAT:
- Garden City grows some of the best raspberries you'll ever eat, and the town is surely proud of that- rightfully so! Each August they host their annual Raspberry Days Festival highlighting the delicious berry. Driving through the town you'll find a number of eateries that boast "the world's best raspberry milkshake." We couldn't try them ALL, but I'll say that La Beau's was phenomenal.
- Crepes and Coffee ~ A great way to start your day, Crepes and Coffee offers a variety of drinks and quick bites.
- Cooper's at Bear Lake West Golf Course was a winner for our family. You can't beat indoor and outdoor seating with views of Bear Lake. Our kids loved having their meals served on frisbees - a bonus surprise of extra family fun!
What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hop in the car. It's time for your family to explore this special place that has certainly made its way to the top of my favorite family vacation destinations.
