Bear Lake Camping and Campgrounds

Bear Lake Camping and Campgrounds: Where to Stay Under the Stars

Nestled on the border between Utah and Idaho, Bear Lake is one of the most scenic destinations in the Rocky Mountains—a haven for beach lovers, boaters, anglers, and especially campers. Whether you prefer tent camping near the shore, RV camping with full hookups, or primitive campsites tucked beneath pine-covered hills, Bear Lake offers a wide variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts.

In this article, we focus exclusively on camping and campgrounds at Bear Lake, helping you plan the perfect overnight stay under the stars.

Why Camp at Bear Lake?

Camping at Bear Lake allows you to experience the lake’s tranquil mornings, starry skies, and quiet sunrises that day-trippers never get to see. The cool mountain air, access to beaches, fishing spots, and nearby trails make it an ideal destination for both rustic adventurers and family campers alike.

With campgrounds available on both the Utah and Idaho sides, visitors can choose from developed sites with restrooms and power to secluded primitive spots with no neighbors in sight.

Bear Lake State Park Campgrounds (Utah Side)

The Utah side of Bear Lake is home to Bear Lake State Park, which features multiple campgrounds with easy access to the water, boat launches, and recreation areas.

1. Bear Lake State Park – Marina Campground (Utah)

Location: Near Garden City, UT

Type: RV and tent camping

Amenities: Full hookups, restrooms, showers, dump station

Highlights: Close to the Bear Lake Marina, perfect for boaters and anglers

This campground is ideal for visitors bringing watercraft, as it provides easy access to the state marina. The paved pads and hookups also make it suitable for larger RVs.

2. Bear Lake State Park – Rendezvous Beach

Location: South end of the lake, near Laketown, UT

Type: Tent, RV, and group camping

Amenities: Flush toilets, hot showers, pavilions, full hookups in some sites

Highlights: Sandy beaches, family-friendly, shaded sites

Rendezvous Beach is one of the most popular campgrounds at Bear Lake. It's perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and beach lounging. Group areas and spacious campsites make it great for family reunions or large gatherings.

3. Birch, Cottonwood, and Big Creek Campgrounds (Utah)

Location: Just off the Scenic Byway south of Garden City

Type: Primitive camping

Amenities: Basic vault toilets, no hookups

Highlights: Quieter, more remote, good for star-gazing and solitude

These smaller campgrounds offer a more rustic experience and are better suited for tent campers or those looking for a quiet retreat.

Bear Lake State Park Campgrounds (Idaho Side)

The Idaho side is generally less developed and more natural, making it popular with visitors seeking a peaceful, slower-paced camping experience.

4. North Beach Campground (Idaho State Park)

Location: Northeast shore of Bear Lake

Type: Tent and RV camping

Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits

Highlights: Wide sandy beaches, shallow waters, perfect for kids

This campground is situated near the widest stretch of beach in Bear Lake and is a favorite for families. The shallow waters are ideal for safe swimming and playing.

5. East Shore Campgrounds (USFS and Primitive Sites)

Location: Along the east side of the lake, Idaho

Type: Primitive/dispersed camping

Amenities: Limited or none

Highlights: Secluded, scenic, and popular for fishing and kayaking

There are a number of U.S. Forest Service or undeveloped spots along the east shore, perfect for campers who want a back-to-nature experience. While amenities are sparse, the views and solitude are unmatched.

RV Camping Around Bear Lake

Several private campgrounds and RV parks surround Bear Lake, offering electric and water hookups, dump stations, Wi-Fi, and other conveniences.

Notable Options:

Bear Lake KOA Holiday (Garden City, UT): Pool, store, playground, Wi-Fi

Bear Lake Venture Park: RV pads, glamping tents, yurts

Ideal Beach Resort: Resort with RV and condo rentals near the beach

These are ideal for those who want a bit more comfort while still staying close to Bear Lake's natural beauty.

Final Thoughts: Why Camp at Bear Lake?

Whether you're watching the sunset from a sandy beach at Rendezvous, telling stories around the campfire on the Idaho side, or waking to the sound of lapping waves and chirping birds, camping at Bear Lake is an experience like no other.

With a mix of well-equipped state park campgrounds and rugged primitive spots, Bear Lake caters to every type of camper. Add in its stunning scenery and outdoor recreation, and it’s easy to see why Bear Lake camping remains one of the top draws in the region.