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Willard Bay is a freshwater reservoir located 12 miles northwest of Ogden on the flood plains of the Great Salt Lake. An earth filled dike and natural shoreline make up the 20-mile enclosures. The dike is officially named the Arthur V. Watkins Dam, for a former U.S. Senator from Utah who was essential in getting the Weber Basin Project passed through congress in 1949. The area had a need for a reservoir to store surplus water from the Ogden and Weber rivers that could later be pumped out and used on farmlands.
Design and construction of the dam was completed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. The reservoir is operated by the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District and recreation activities are administered by the Utah State Parks and Recreation. Willard Bay State Park consists of two separate marinas next to Willard Bay. Recently renovated, the park offers state-of-the-art day-use and camping facilities, boat launch ramps, and group-use areas.
Willard Bay North Marina
Select a day-use cabana on the beach, launch your boat, and pick the perfect campsite with full hookups at the North Marina.
Willard Bay South Marina
This boat launching and camping area offers modern facilities for overnight and day-use.
Boat, swim, waterski, and fish on the warm waters of Willard Bay. Camp under tall cottonwood trees that frame the night sky. During winter months, Willard Bay is a wildlife watching area for nesting eagles. Two areas, North and South Marinas, offer all the amenities for a weekend at the Bay.
Location:
Approximately 50 miles north of Salt Lake City. From I-15; take exit 357 for the North Marina (main park area) and exit 351 for the South Marina.
More Information:
Willard Bay State Park
900 West 650 North #A
Willard, UT 84340-9999
Phone: 435-734-9494
Park Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Nearby City
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