The best camping in Bear Lake State Park ID, ID

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88% (6)

Discover Bear Lake State Park: A Haven for Water Enthusiasts and Campers. 

88% (6)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bear Lake State Park ID adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Bear Lake State Park ID

Bear Lake Campground

1. Bear Lake Campground

88%
(6)
Campground in Bear Lake State Park ID · 49 sites · Tents, RVs
Sweetly situated next to the area’s namesake lake, Bear Lake Campground is lined by a slew of reservable campgsites, all of which allow motorized vehicle access
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Top-rated campsites near Bear Lake State Park ID

Arcadia Legacy

1. Arcadia Legacy

100%
(12)
3.6mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Come enjoy the tranquil undeveloped, best kept secret of the Bear Lake valley. We are just 10 minutes off North Beach. Camp above a natural pond, fed by multiple springs, or next to a grove of Ash and cottonwood trees. Listen to the chorus frogs, crickets and numerous birds and coyotes compete in serenading the closing day. If quiet is what you are seeking after a day of play on the water, in the mountains, or just relaxing in farm country, we've got ya covered.
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Bear Lake Aquatics Base

2. Bear Lake Aquatics Base

91%
(786)
19mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 32 sites
Bear Lake Aquatics Base is owned and operated by the Crossroads of the West Council, Scouting America. It is used for Scout events and campsite rentals during the summer season. There aren’t many places inland that you can say you really feel like you’re at the ocean. Bear Lake just happens to be one of them! With one mile of beach-front property, you will enjoy a beach-front camp like you’ve never dreamed of! All campsites are located between the highway and Bear Lake. Each campsite is located near potable water, has a picnic table, and restrooms/showers are only a short walk away. Absolutely NO alcohol, drugs, dogs, pets or fireworks on property per Scouting America policies. Bear Lake Aquatics Base is conveniently located north of Laketown and nearby many local attractions - Bear Lake State Park, Logan Canyon, Minnetonka Cave and the National Oregon Trail Museum. Explore neighboring Laketown to experience the local flavor, maybe even a raspberry shake.
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Potable water
Mountain Top Getaways

3. Mountain Top Getaways

97%
(402)
24mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
My Grandfather owned this property for many years. He dry farmed this land and raised nine children to be hardworking. I visited this property many times to work along side my father and grandfather. I remember horseback riding and building a shed for my grandfathers combine. I recently purchased this property from my grandparents and got to work building my tiny home that my new family lives in. Learn more about this land: **New hammock posts on site #4** These campsites are at the mouth of Cub River Canyon. The views are expansive and beautiful. National forest is only a few minute drive away along with a handful of reservoirs and river access. Come enjoy the views. These are primitive campsites with no potable water. There are antique farm implements visible on the property.
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Secluded Maple Creek River bottoms

4. Secluded Maple Creek River bottoms

93%
(120)
25mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This property was used by the Shoshone Indian tribe as a summer camp area. Later after the pioneers came they set up a dance floor and had parties here. The dance floor has since overgrown. This property has also been the host to never dams. It has been in our family for many years and we have enjoyed it.Learn more about this land:The campsites are located in a wooded area so lots of shade. 2 sites are creek side along maple creek and the other has a small stream and a pond. All sites have a fire pit available. All sites are carry in carry out. Easily accessible with a four wheel drive. You will need to cross maple creek to reach site 1. The road down to the river bottoms is a bit steep so 4 wheel drive is recommended. This area is ideal for tent camping.
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Picnic table
Nevernever Farm

5. Nevernever Farm

97%
(19)
29mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site · Tent, RV
Nevernever Farm is a large, secluded spot to enjoy nature and recreation. Whether you want to get into one of the local reservoirs, hot springs, or head up into the mountains, this location has it all at your fingertips. You’ll never know you’re close to the amenities in town because of how serene the area is. Deer, elk and many more varieties of wildlife frequent the farm. Another level of piece and quiet await you! Redneck waterslide available for campers.
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Ranch View Hillside

6. Ranch View Hillside

100%
(31)
40mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come spend a relaxing time at the base of one of the mountain foothills in stunning Star Valley, WY with a view over a rippling creek below, ranches spread across the valley floor, and watch the sunrise over the mountains on the other side! As the only camper on our 17 acres surrounded by several larger ranches, you will be overlooking part of the old Oregon Trail in the valley below. Above and around you are a rocky hillside covered with wild berry bushes, many songbirds, and larger wildlife like deer, snowshoe hares, elk, foxes, and coyotes. A moose or bear might even wander by. The hillside rises steeply behind you, turning into more mountains as it climbs out of sight. It is generally a quiet rural area about 6 miles from a town with gas, groceries, coffee shops, restaurants, laundromat, camper showers, and other amenities available. There are many trailheads for hiking nearby as well as fishing access to the main river at multiple points across the valley. The Star Valley and Oregon Trail history museums in town provide a fascinating look into the history of this valley. And the largest intermittent spring in the world is a beautiful short hike from a nearby trailhead. In the summer you'll probably hear Red Winged Blackbirds singing in the willows along the creek below and spot brilliant Western Tanagers flitting among the bushes. Bring your binoculars and some patience and you will likely spot a huge variety of other birds as well! This hillside is tucked in the middle of many working ranches so you might see cowboys ride by on horseback, a herd of cows being moved from one pasture to another, or 4 wheelers moving around depending on the time of year. This is a boon-docking site with no water, power, or toilet available. Just lots of nature and views! Plan for pack it in/pack it out and help us keep this spot of nature a place where many people can enjoy the peace of time in the mountains. The parking spot its self is a flat graveled pad suitable for rigs up to a 26 feet in length or tent camping. A small sitting area with a pair of chairs is provided for you to enjoy your morning coffee while watching the sunrise if you like. There is a gravel lane that comes up the hill from the paved county road below, and then the campsite sits off to the side of that tucked into a corner of the steep hillside. Family lives in a cabin further up the hillside, but out of both sight and earshot from the campsite. Sadly no campfires due to the danger of a wildfire. Camp stoves are just fine. We love our pets, and yours are welcome! But please keep them on a leash due to the high volume of wildlife in the area, some of which can easily kill a dog. Verizon phones usually have service in this particular spot, other carriers tend to be hit and miss. Plan to check in sometime after 3:00 p.m. on the day of your arrival and check out before 11:00 a.m. so we have a little bit of time in between guests to do any mowing or other maintenance to the site area.
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Steep Mountain Farm

7. Steep Mountain Farm

96%
(41)
48mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Steep Mountain Farm is a community centered, ecological, regenerative agriculture project located on the indigenous lands of the northwestern band of the Shoshone people. Our primary mission is to build healthy soils, increase biodiversity, conserve resources and build community while producing nutrient dense food, promoting education and experiences. We raise fruits, vegetables and animals on the 16 acre property as part of our sustaining adventure. There are many outdoor recreation opportunities locally. We hope visitors appreciate and enjoy the surroundings while supporting our mission.
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Potable water
Monte Cristo Recreation Mecca

8. Monte Cristo Recreation Mecca

94%
(40)
48mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site · Tent, RV
Hi! Happy you found us! We grew up recreating in this area and it's absolutely beautiful! Our family still has the annual tradition of snowmobiling from Monte Cristo, stopping for lunch at Hardware Ranch, and continuing on to Bear Lake. The trails are endless in these mountains and the solitude abundant. Our property is smack in the middle between Monte Cristo parking lot and Hardware Ranch. It is the perfect location to set up camp and be ready hit the trails first thing in the morning. Learn more about this land: Private land camping between Hardware Ranch and Monte Cristo with fabulous views and stunning sunsets. This area is a recreation mecca with access to miles and miles of national forest trails less than a mile away! Dirt biking, riding ATVs, horse back riding, and hiking are all very popular and very accessible. You can't beat this location if you love the outdoors, enjoy solitude, and crave backcountry recreation! NOTE: If you plan to bring a large group (ie: multiple RVs, trailers, etc.) you may be asked to pay an increased group rate for the site. Please message for details.
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Secret Canyon Ranch

9. Secret Canyon Ranch

99%
(76)
48mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Meadow Springs campground lies at the foot of the Elkhorn hills, on St. John’s bench in SE Idaho. Surrounded by open fields and accessible only by dirt road, this unique spot is located next to two small natural ponds, and as such, is a terrific spot for bird watching and golden sunsets. It is the site of an old homestead, and the surrounding land is still actively farmed, so you can look out over open fields of this year’s crop as you enjoy dinner and quiet evenings in the fresh air.Whether you come as a single family for an adventurous night outdoors, or as a group with one to several tents or RV’s, this site has room to accommodate and is far enough away to be remote, (no neighbors!) while still close enough to town and other attractions to be convenient.--10 minutes from downtown Malad (Picture a small Idaho town with no stoplight still, but easy-to-find grocery, drive-in, pizza place, hospital, bar, etc)--15 mins from Devils Creek Reservoir and Malad Summit trails--20 minutes from Downata Hot Springs--30 minutes from Lava Hot Springs--3 hours from Yellowstone and Jackson HoleLearn more about this land:Come escape and recharge in a private campground under the shade of giant poplars alive with birdsong and a sky full of stars you can actually see. Located on the ancestral lands of the Shoshone-Bannock people, this campsite is nestled under a grove of poplars planted by the original homesteaders over 100 years ago. It features a Tipi, a newly built outhouse, two swings, a picnic table, fire-ring, cast-iron hand pump to access well water, plenty of flat ground for tents, RV's, and car parking, and most importantly, wide-open space in every direction. If you are looking for somewhere completely opposite of hectic city living, this is it.
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Lazy 6-T Ranch

10. Lazy 6-T Ranch

89%
(80)
7.4mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This is our Family owned cattle ranch. Our cattle love this place and we are sure that you will too! Come enjoy some time in the countryside away from the rat race. Only a short drive from Bear Lake where you can relax on the beach and soak up the sunshine or enjoy all types of water sports with your friends and family.
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Lake VIEW RV Site

11. Lake VIEW RV Site

94%
(8)
7.5mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Lake VIEW RV Site — 3 private acres with panoramic views of stunning Bear Lake, just north of Fish Haven, Idaho. Whether you're pulling in with a big rig, gathering the whole family, or just looking for a wide-open space to breathe, this is it. With room for up to 35 guests and 8 vehicles, it's one of the only private campgrounds at Bear Lake that can accommodate a large group without sending anyone to a crowded public campground. Spread out, fire up the pit, and make it yours. What's on site: 50-amp electrical hookups, a covered pavilion, two fire pits, a picnic table, porta-potties, and a handwashing station. Note: there's no running water — bring your own supply. Generators welcome. Getting to the lake: From the camping area, it's approximately 1,000 feet to our back gate at the east end of the property — an easy walk or ATV ride along a flat dirt path. From the gate, you'll continue across a short stretch of Idaho state public trust land to reach the shoreline. When the lake is at or below the 5,916 ft elevation mark, the beach begins to be exposed and the water is incredibly shallow for several hundred feet, making it perfect for wading, kids, and exploring by ATV. Our own kids (ages 5–15) make the walk every summer. During high water years, the path beyond the gate may require a bit more care, but it's always been doable. You can check current water levels here: https://www.bearriverbasin.org/reservoirs/bear-lake-area There's no on-site boat launch, but public ramps are just a short drive away. A few things to know: -No fireworks -There are a couple of shallow drainage ditches on the property — not a hazard, but worth keeping an eye on with young kids -Off-season (Sept 25 – April 26): Porta-potties and wash station are not available. RVs, campervans, and camper trailers only. Winter access may be limited due to snow. With no crowded campgrounds in sight and some of the best lake views in the area, this is the kind of place you come back to every year.
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Blue Water View. RV Spot

12. Blue Water View. RV Spot

100%
(1)
8.3mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site
Bear lake Rv spot on the beach. Located on white beaches Lane. This is known as the best beach in Bear Lake.
Full hookups
Endless Empire

13. Endless Empire

100%
(8)
11mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 5 sites
This is grain bin glamping. Expect it to be like camping except for not in a tent.. there is power enough for lights and to power your devices. The temperatures are the same as inside a tent. I have 2 bins available that sleeps 2 each. There is a porta potty next to each one. There will be outdoor showers, but currently the shower bathroom, it's up at the barn. This is still under development, so more will be added with every grain bin having it's own unique personality. This is also the best views of bear lake that you can get. This area of the property often as deer rabbits, and sometimes even moose strolling through it. No wood fires during the summer months, as it's too dry. I will provide a gas fire for an extra cost.
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Bear Lake Raspberry Patch

14. Bear Lake Raspberry Patch

100%
(7)
12mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site
Private and serene RV site located midway along beautiful Bear Lake's popular west side. One mile north of the UT/ID state line. 6-minute drive to Garden City. 16 minutes to North Beach. Full hook-ups, 30A electrical service. Shaded by large trees. Two concrete pads for leisure. Please note that water is shut off mid-October. Please contact me about winter bookings so I can let you know what the snow build up looks like. Thanks!
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Full hookups
Bear Lake Basecamp!

15. Bear Lake Basecamp!

85%
(72)
18mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This has become a great place for our family to go to get away for the weekends. The nights are absolutely beautiful and you can see the stars. You can hear the coyotes off in the distance chipping and howling. My kids love to ride their ATV on the trails and we go for hikes and just relax. There is one fire pit for use at each camp spot (2 spots), just please go into the trees and find some wood to re-stack what you have used and ensure it is out with water and dirt. I fight wildfires during the summer and don’t want to have to fight one up there. Plus I may be hard to reach depending on where I’m located. Learn more about this land: Our Bear Lake Bascamp is perfect for boondocking or pitch a tent and camp in our 5 acres meadow or find a small shady spot in the 5 acres of  quakies and pine trees!  Off grid camping! OHV trails (ride from camp), bring your mountain bikes or even just go for a hike. Located at the edge of the Caribou-Targhe National Forest, Montpelier Ranger District, Idaho. The sunrises are amazing and in the evening you can listen to the coyotes off in the distance. It is open in the winter for snowshoeing or snowmobiling in with wood ready for the fire pit!  Recommend, that when you first arrive, build a small fire in the fire pit and the smoke will get rid of any of the bugs around.  We get up there about 1 time a month and mow/trim the path, parking and work on the trails in the pines.   Turn left at the smile face....When you see it, you'll know what I mean ;)  Please be respectful of others who have property in the area as well.  Don't climb over anyone's fences.
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Sun Outdoors Garden City Utah

16. Sun Outdoors Garden City Utah

18mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 206 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Sun Outdoors Garden City, Utah, where your outdoor adventure begins in a stunning natural setting. This exceptional campground offers easy access to a variety of recreational watercraft rentals, ensuring endless fun on the water. Whether you prefer the spaciousness of an RV site or the comfort of a fully furnished cabin, Sun Outdoors Garden City caters to your needs. On-site, you can enjoy a sandy beach perfect for swimming, or explore nearby family-friendly attractions that highlight the beauty of the area. With breathtaking scenery surrounding you, this destination invites you to relax and soak in the tranquility of nature. At Sun Outdoors Garden City, you’ll leave with cherished memories and a sense of excitement, eager to plan your next getaway. Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in this remarkable Utah campground!
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Full hookups
Rosebud Ranch

17. Rosebud Ranch

30mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site · Tent, RV
Rosebud Ranch is a scenic retreat located in Idaho, offering a peaceful rural setting surrounded by natural beauty. The property features open land and a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for campers, RV travelers, and those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. Guests can enjoy spacious camping areas with room to spread out, along with a simple, back-to-basics outdoor experience. The ranch provides a quiet basecamp for exploring nearby outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and scenic drives through the surrounding region. Whether you’re passing through or planning a longer stay, Rosebud Ranch offers a calm and welcoming place to relax under open skies and enjoy Idaho’s wide-open landscapes.
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Water hookup
Star Gaze campground

18. Star Gaze campground

100%
(4)
36mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 37 sites · Tents, RVs
A nice big open area between a mountain and the Salt River. You can choose a camp site along the river or at the foot of the mountain. Cottonwood lake and miles of four wheeling trails all around, fishing and hiking. Approximately 10 miles south of Afton Wyoming. hiking.Approximately 10 miles south of Afton Wyoming.
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Cottage Stopover

19. Cottage Stopover

92%
(6)
45mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site
Mountain Desert at its best. Learn more about this land: If you are on your way somewhere and need a place to campout, consider stoping here. In the spring when the creek is full, it is a fun place for kids to play (it dries up in July usually). There is a lot of open space. We have a trampoline and swing and fire pit we can share (fire pit for spring and early summer only). It's very peaceful out here. There are tons of flat roads to ride bikes safely on. It's 30 mins from Bear Lake, 20 Minutes from Monte Cristo. There is fishing nearby and a park around the corner. 15-20 amp electrical hookup (just a standard household plug with an extension cord) and water as well. We have kids who love to make you feel welcome and play with your kids too.
Electrical hookup
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Lava Pine Cabins

20. Lava Pine Cabins

100%
(6)
46mi from Bear Lake State Park ID · 1 site
Gorgeous pine forested location with breathtaking views is just 7 miles from Main Street Lava Hot Springs. You get 2 privates cabins that can sleep 6 to 8 people in each cabin. Plenty of tent space to bring lager groups. Amazing fire pit, and a 1/2 mile hike loop around the property. Nice Bathroom, running water and power. So it’s glamping at its finest. Road is smooth enough for compact cars. This is not shared with any other renters. This property is great for large youth groups or Family reunions.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Bear Lake State Park ID camping guide

Overview

About

The sprawling azure blue waters and aquamarine ponds at Bear Lake will make you feel like you've stepped into a calendar shot. Whether you're down to boat around the lake, or fish for the perfect catch, this place is stock full of fun activities to fill your days. Find a secluded spot to splash around in your birthday suit, or just share a picnic at a serene spot. Trekkers will love all the hiking and mountain biking opportunities available, and you can't go wrong with some wildlife watching, either. With wifi at the visitor's center and snacks to munch on as well, you'll still be able to treat yourself to a taste of modern life on the side.

Notable campgrounds

  • North Beach Campground - A scenic spot with easy access to the lake's vibrant waters and ample space for group camping.
  • East Side Campground - Offers a tranquil setting for campers seeking a serene lakeside experience.
  • Bear Lake Campground - Provides panoramic views and a variety of campsites to suit any adventurer's needs.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your ideal campsite, especially during peak summer months.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations when the park is full.

When to go

The best time to visit Bear Lake State Park ID is during the summer when the lake's turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. Winter offers a unique charm with ice fishing for the endemic Bonneville cisco. Avoid peak holiday weekends if you prefer a quieter visit.

Know before you go

  • Day-use locations are open from 7am to 10pm, with potential changes at park manager discretion.
  • Always check for any park updates or event schedules before your visit.
  • Remember to pack sunscreen and water toys for a fun-filled day at the lake.
  • Accessibility varies across different areas of the park, so plan accordingly.
  • Reservations for campsites can be made by calling 1-888-9-CAMPID or 1-888-922-6743.

Reviews for Bear Lake State Park ID Campgrounds

88%
6 ratings · 1 review
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