Camping in Bear Lake State Park ID

88% (6 reviews)

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

Top camping in Bear Lake State Park ID

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Bear Lake Campground

88%

(6)

49 sites · RVs, Tents · In Bear Lake State Park ID

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

88% (6 reviews)

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

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Stories from the community

Bonnie

2 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

1 night at Strong Arm Farm

Hard to believe we actually stayed at this amazing spot with endless 360° views. Definitely the peacefulness we were looking for.

Weekend Trip to Strong Arm Farm

The site was so beautiful and private, unfortunately, there were very high winds and we could not stay. Owner refunded us, which was very nice of them. We will definitely be heading back for another time.

Weekend Trip to Secluded Maple Creek River bottoms

Nice, secluded spot, good for tents or RV. Had a good weekend campout

3 nights at Bear Lake Aquatics Base

There was a ton of space for kids to play safely. The view is beautiful. Wear close toe shoes because there are a lot of sticker bushes.

3 nights at Bear Lake Aquatics Base

Site 7 was great! Super private and spacious, the only complaint I’d give is the thorn bushes all over but those were more so annoying than anything, but they wouldn’t stop me from coming back to this campground. The showers were warm, and it was nice to have potable water on the site. Great camping site!

Weekend Trip to Mountain Top Getaways

Having the hammock poles at camp was really nice! There was less flat room than other sites, so if you’re also considering a tent, make sure it’s a small one. We just camped in our cars and it was fine. We weren’t able to use the fire pit as a wild wind storm rolled through, but it was there to use. We enjoyed our stay!

2 nights at Bear Lake Aquatics Base

Campsite #5 is a larger site with a bigger pavilion than most, and no other campsite is directly between it and the lake. It was a nice view any time of day. Sparse trees but that is the norm for that area of the lake. Hosts were wonderful and easy to talk to. Very helpful. Camp was surprisingly empty for that time of year which was a nice bonus. Will definitely stay again!

1 night at Bear Lake Aquatics Base

This site is absolutely gorgeous. We drive right up to the sand! There are shaded areas with picnic tables, bathrooms and a shower upon entry. We missed it because we were to busy looking at the lake view. We were there with one other family but we were so spread out, we didn’t see them. You will also get a quick response if you have any questions:-)

Weekend Trip to Bear Lake Blue Heaven

John’s place is amazing with easy hookups. The view from the site is incredible with both the mountains and Bear Lake. Highly recommend!

Weekend Trip to Lake VIEW RV Site

Christina’s land is beautiful and felt like our own personal safe haven. There is more than enough room for tents & people (we had 20 people/9 tents). We even set up our own volleyball net & had two places for fire pits to hang out at. The bathrooms and handwashing station was SUCH a nice benefit!!! They were clean and you can tell everything is very well taken care of. The walk/drive to the lake is a bit of a distance and you need to wade through the marshes before you get to the water which wasn’t difficult for our group but might be for others. This was a million times better and more secluded than staying in a state park or airbnb. HIGHLY recommend staying here! 5/5 stars for our group and one of the best camping spots we’ve ever stayed at!

Weekend Trip to Bear Lake Aquatics Base

Awesome view! My friends and I loved that place and pretty sure we will come back someday. The hosts were amazing with us!

Weekend Trip to Bear Lake Aquatics Base

Great location, great view, great beach access. You can be entirely by yourself on this beach depending on the time of year and during the weekday. Mary and her husband were so kind and helpful during our stay. We have a reactive dog and they were so kind and helpful in finding us a spot where we could be away from others. They are fantastic hosts and will treat you like family.

Evelyn

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bear Lake Aquatics Base

The views are just so amazing. As always, enjoyed my stay and my visit was pleasant and the host is very welcoming.

Weekend Trip to Bear Lake Aquatics Base

My family loves camping here. The views are Amazing!!! The host are very friendly and kind. We had a great time!!!! My only complaint is the Hipcamp double fees plus taxes, I payed $37.90 only on fees and taxes + 120 for 2 nights a total of 157.90

Weekend Trip to Bear Lake Aquatics Base

It was good site and good time.. Toilets needs to be redone

Weekend Trip to Monte Cristo Recreation Mecca

We loved the site, peaceful, beautiful, and a responsive host with great directions. Look forward to coming back

1 night at Lake VIEW RV Site

Fantastic setup and location - such a great view! Everything was clean and nicely setup. Email instructions had everything we needed to know. Very easy to get to town for anything you might need. Other beaches and marinas are not too far away either.

1 night at Mountain Top Getaways

Truly is THE BEST… It can’t be beat anywhere. We LOVE staying here and have been back multiple times!!! Just go! I promise it’s so worth it!!!

Weekend Trip to Bear Lake Basecamp!

Absolutely stunning site. The drive up is pretty rough in a lower 2wd car but soooo worth it! Highly recommend!!

Weekend Trip to Secluded Maple Creek River bottoms

We camped on spot #2. The approach was a little steep. Definitely recommend 4WD. The spot was spectacular with beautiful vegetation and bird song. The rushing creek was our neighbor. Ken enhanced the spot with a fire ring and picnic table with a ground cover. Perfect balance of sun and shade over the day. No one stayed at #1, so we never saw anyone else and skinny dipped in the creek!! Surrounding roads were quiet and made for a lovely ride. Hiking was easy to find nearby. We discovered a great local diner called LD's. We can't wait to go back and explore the area more. Our puppy was enchanted too.

Top-rated campgrounds near Bear Lake State Park ID

91%

(707)

Bear Lake Aquatics Base

33 sites · Tents300 acres · Laketown, UT

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 has potable water, a picnic table, campfire pit, and restrooms/showers a short walk away. No alcohol, drugs, 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.

97%

(375)

Mountain Top Getaways

7 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Preston, ID

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.

92%

(104)

Secluded Maple Creek River bottoms

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Franklin, ID

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.

Booked 1 time

Endless Empire

2 sites · Lodging7 acres · Fish Haven, ID

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.

100%

(3)

Arcadia Legacy

45 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Dingle, ID

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.

96%

(13)

Strong Arm Farm

1 site · RV, Tent64 acres · Clifton, ID

Strong Arm 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!

96%

(36)

Monte Cristo Recreation Mecca

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Avon, UT

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.

100%

(2)

Lake VIEW RV Site

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Fish Haven, ID

Park your RV in designated areas and camp on 3 private acres overlooking stunning Bear Lake just north of Fish Haven, Idaho. This peaceful, off-the-beaten-path retreat offers unbeatable lake views, crisp mountain air, and plenty of room to breathe. Whether you’re sipping coffee at sunrise or roasting marshmallows by the fire pit under the stars, this site makes it easy to unplug and unwind. The site includes electrical hookups, porta-potties, and a handwashing station. While there’s no running water, you’ll have the essentials—just be sure to bring your own water supply. Enjoy direct lake access for ATVs, perfect for exploring the shoreline and surrounding terrain. Please note: during periods of high water, beach access may be unavailable. There is no on-site boat launch, but public ramps are just a short drive away. While the property offers direct lake access, it’s approximately a 1,000-foot walk to the back gate leading to the lake. When the beach is exposed, there may be an additional walk or ATV ride across the sand, depending on water levels. The lake in this area is very shallow for several hundred feet, making it ideal for easy wading and kid-friendly fun. Please note: there are a couple of shallow ditches on the property that may occasionally hold standing water. These have never posed an issue, but we recommend keeping an eye on young children just to be safe. Please note that FIREWORKS are not allowed. With plenty of space to spread out and no crowded campgrounds in sight, this spot is ideal for RVers and campers seeking peace, privacy, and unforgettable views.

100%

(25)

Ranch View Hillside

1 site · RV, Tent17 acres · Fairview, WY

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.

Booked 2 times

Star Gaze campground

37 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Smoot, WY

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.

85%

(71)

Bear Lake Basecamp!

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Liberty, ID

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.

100%

(31)

Steep Mountain Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Wellsville, UT

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.

Camping in Bear Lake State Park ID 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.

88%

6 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· September 2018

Bear Lake Campground

Can be very hot and dry but isolated and beautiful. Not much around as far as gas stations or restaurants so plan to bring own food.