Utah’s Freshwater Oasis on Great Salt Lake’s Floodplain — 9,900-Acre Reservoir, Two Marinas, Walleye and Wiper Fishing, Winter Bald Eagles, Box Elder County
Willard Bay State Park is a state park near Willard, Box Elder County, Utah, approximately 12 miles northwest of Ogden. The park features a 9,900-acre freshwater reservoir on the Great Salt Lake floodplain, two full-service marinas (North and South), walleye, wiper, crappie, and catfish fishing year-round, camping with full RV hookups, swimming beaches, water skiing, and winter bald eagle watching.
Willard Bay is Utah’s freshwater surprise — a 9,900-acre reservoir created by diking a section of the Great Salt Lake’s floodplain, producing fresh water right next to one of the world’s saltiest lakes. The result is excellent warm-water fishing and full water recreation just 50 miles north of Salt Lake City.
In winter, Willard Bay becomes a bald eagle watching destination — eagles nest in the cottonwood groves along the reservoir’s shoreline.
Things to Do
- Fishing — walleye, wipers, crappie, catfish
- Boating — two marinas, boat ramps
- Water skiing — 9,900-acre reservoir
- Swimming — freshwater beaches
- Camping — RV full hookups + tent sites
- Eagle watching — winter bald eagles
Marinas
| Marina | I-15 Exit | Features |
|---|---|---|
| North | Exit 357 | Cottonwood + Willow Creek campgrounds, full hookups |
| South | Exit 351 | Camping, boat launch |
Park Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Willard, Box Elder County, UT |
| Reservoir | 9,900 acres — freshwater |
| Hours | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily |
| Distance | ~50 mi N of SLC, ~12 mi NW of Ogden |
| Managed By | Utah Division of State Parks |
| Coordinates | 41.3878° N, 112.0800° W |
Frequently Asked Questions
Wildlife & Nature
Willard Bay SP — a 9,900-acre freshwater reservoir created by a dike in the Great Salt Lake — so fresh water sits immediately beside one of the saltiest lakes in the world. The park’s wetlands, marshes, and reservoir support bald eagles, white pelicans, and great blue herons. Walleye, channel catfish, and crappie provide fishing.
Nearby Attractions
Willard — adjacent. Great Salt Lake — adjacent. Ogden — 10 miles south.
Is Willard Bay freshwater or saltwater?
Willard Bay is freshwater — the 9,900-acre reservoir was created by diking a section of the Great Salt Lake’s floodplain, producing fresh water right next to one of the world’s saltiest lakes. Located near Willard, Utah (I-15 Exit 357 for North Marina, Exit 351 for South Marina), the park offers walleye, wiper, crappie, and catfish fishing, camping with full RV hookups, swimming beaches, and winter bald eagle watching. Open 6 AM–10 PM daily.
Last updated: May 2026
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Hyrum State Park (within about an hour’s drive) or Antelope Island State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Utah state parks online at utahstateparks.reserveamerica.com.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Willard Bay State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are permitted at most Utah state parks and campgrounds, on a leash and never left unattended.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft maximum leash required at all times
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- No statewide beach ban; rules vary by park - dogs are prohibited on the beach at Antelope Island, while Jordanelle has a designated area where dogs may swim off-leash
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in cabins and yurts at most parks (confirm with the park before reserving); additional lodging pet fees may apply
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No pet fee at standard campsites; additional fees apply for pets in cabins, yurts and cottages
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Park-specific restrictions such as Antelope Island's Frary Peak Trail and Deer Creek water areas
Are dogs allowed at Willard Bay State Park?
Pets are permitted at most Utah state parks and campgrounds, on a leash and never left unattended. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.utah.gov. More: Utah state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Willard Bay State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
Top Tours & Activities Near Ogden
from $20
from $25
from $50