Near Randolph, Utah, dispersed camping spots range from 5,900 to 9,000 feet elevation, with Monte Cristo campground sitting at 8,700 feet. This elevation variation creates distinct temperature differences between camping locations, with higher areas like Monte Cristo experiencing summer daytime temperatures in the upper 60s and overnight lows in the 40s. Seasonal availability varies significantly with many sites closing from October through May due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Fishing access points: Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area provides shoreline fishing with views of the reservoir. One camper noted, "Gorgeous location right next to the lake. It was very quiet and open. We were the only campers there!"
Wildlife viewing: Monte Cristo offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "I could hear owls hooting at night and elk bugling in the morning. It was fantastic!" reports one visitor to the campground.
Paddleboarding opportunities: Bear Lake's unique blue waters make it ideal for paddleboarding. "The sites all have electricity (15, 30, and 50 amp) and water hook ups. The beach is rocky with patches of sand. It's a good SUP spot," according to a visitor at South Eden Campground.
Mountain hiking trails: Explore trails connected directly to campgrounds in the area. "There are also easily accessible hiking trails connecting from the campground. ATV/UTV trails are plentiful nearby as well as fishing and swimming," a camper at Monte Cristo observed.
What campers like
Private camping areas: Sunrise Campground offers secluded sites away from crowds. "This campground is beautiful and the sites are huge! The bathrooms were pretty clean. Cell service was decent," noted one camper.
Fall foliage viewing: Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo provides spectacular autumn colors. "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing," shared one visitor.
Accessible water activities: Bear Lake State Park offers clear, shallow water perfect for wading. "The beach has fine sand and the water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep. Crystal clear water. I don't normally get into lakes, but this was different," explains a camper.
Cool summer temperatures: Higher elevation campsites provide relief from valley heat. "We took my daughter to this campground just to day camp and hang hammocks. It was a perfect day to do so. The temp was 76 when we got there and it was the right day to get out of the heat and relax," a Monte Cristo visitor reported.
What you should know
Site availability timing: Many dispersed camping areas fill quickly on weekends. "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick," warns a camper about dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Insect conditions: Some waterfront areas have significant insect activity. "Beautiful views but insanely buggy this time of year. Couldn't open my vehicle doors for a second or they flooded in," reported a visitor to Woodruff Narrows Bear Riverside.
Water temperature realities: Despite hot summer days, lake water remains cold. "Very cold lake!" notes a camper at Rendezvous Beach, while another mentions, "The water was a little on the chilly side so we did more wading than swimming."
Cell service limitations: Reception varies widely between campgrounds. "We have no cell service in the campground but you can walk to the road and get service if needed," explained a Sunrise Campground visitor, while Monte Cristo reports "no cell service" in some areas.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water swimming: Rendezvous Beach — Bear Lake State Park offers gradual-entry swimming areas. "Bear Lake State Park offers multiple developed campgrounds with beach access and water views. The water depth is super gradual so if you have kids not to worry so much," explains a visitor.
Trail exploration with children: Little Creek Campground provides accessible outdoor activities. "This place has lots and lots of places to pull off and camp pretty much to accommodate any group size. Good fishing, good riding and away from everything what's not to love?!" shares a camper.
Group camping options: Larger family gatherings can utilize designated group areas. "The group site has full hookups with a pit toilet and a dump station. The group site also has a pavilion, grass, and trees," reports a visitor to Bear Lake State Park.
Yurt accommodations: Sunrise Campground offers yurts for families wanting a more comfortable option. "This was the first time that we stayed in a yurt, and it is a game changer. It is honestly so nice once in a while to not have to put up camp or break camp. For a nice, glamping getaway this is the place to be."
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Finding level sites requires advance scouting in dispersed areas. "Very nice spots for a 40 ft classA or any large RV. Pretty level with nice views. All have water, electric but no sewer. Our site is 11 and it is right off the beach and no campers are able to block our view," explains a visitor to South Eden Campground.
Access road navigation: Woodruff Narrows Bear Riverside has specific access considerations. "Great spot. Easily accessible via a good, easy gravel road. Plenty of spots to choose from. Great view of the lake and the mountains."
RV size limitations: Not all dispersed areas accommodate larger rigs. "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small," explains a camper about dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
