Camping sites near Cokeville, Wyoming offer access to high-elevation terrain typically ranging from 6,000-7,000 feet above sea level in the Bear River Valley. The camping season in this region generally runs from late May through September, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 45°F even in summer months. Access roads to remote sites frequently require navigation of significant elevation changes across varied terrain.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 10-15 miles from Cokeville at Viva Naughton Marina by PacifiCorp provides excellent lake and stream fishing. "The fly fishing is excellent below the dam, which is about a 3/4 mile drive from the campground. The area is very popular with boaters and anglers alike. This place stays busy year round and ice fishing is very popular in the winter months," notes one regular visitor.
Stargazing at high elevations: 8-10 miles from main roads offers exceptional dark sky viewing in remote locations. "I wanted dark quiet and remote! And I got it at fossil butte. At north end of park is a 17% grade loose gravel narrow road with two hairpins - good luck! But northern end of park boundary is well marked. Dark dark sky and unbelievably quiet," reports a camper.
Hiking and exploring: Short trails available at several campgrounds within 45 minutes of Cokeville. "Behind the bathrooms on the South side there is a little trail with a beautiful view of the lake. If you go exploring behind the East bathrooms you'll see a little creek. The trails are no longer maintained which is a bummer so be careful," advises a camper at Sunrise Campground.
What campers like
Privacy in forested sites: Many campers appreciate the wooded areas at established campgrounds. "This campground is beautiful and the sites are huge! The bathrooms were pretty clean. Cell service was decent," notes a visitor to Sunrise Campground.
Turquoise waters at Bear Lake State Park Campground: The distinctive blue water draws campers throughout summer. "The water is perfect and so blue. Really earns the title of the Caribbean of the Rockies. Had my own trail straight to the water facing the sunset. It was heaven," says a satisfied camper.
Family-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreation options. "We love this campground! There are a variety of ways to camp here, tent, RV, cabins and the set up allows for privacy. It really feels like a resort. There is an amazing playground for kids, swimming pool, and jumping pillow," reports a visitor to Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Campground quality and amenities differ significantly throughout the region. "Not a lot of info listed for this location so adding a review to hopefully help out! We didn't get to camp here but it made me leave stars. The drive into the monument is easy, zero issues. Once the road turn to gravel, it gets steep," shares a camper about BLM land near Fossil Butte.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate only during warmer months. "I frequent this area often. I'm blessed to live 15 minutes from this great area in the town of Kemmerer," mentions a local about Viva Naughton Marina, highlighting the importance of local knowledge.
Weather preparation required: Temperature fluctuations demand proper equipment. "All alone and loved it. Yes, there were mosquitoes, cows, and a bit of green water, but it was very peaceful and beautiful. Whenever the options are a crowded and powered RV campsite versus a peaceful boondock such as this, we opt for the latter," explains a camper at Viva Naughton Marina.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve early for lakeside camping: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We had wanted to camp at Bear Lake and there was 1 site left were we had wanted. Unfortunately this guy on a bike had claimed the site and luckily for him it was my Christian hour or I would of argued with him. The campground was super simple and close to the lake," explains a visitor to Bear Lake State Park.
Consider multiple recreation options: Look for campgrounds with varied activities. "Awesome place for kids. They loved all the activites available to them. Right close to the shops and ice cream shakes. You can ask for passes for the larger KOA down the street. This gets you into the pool and everything the big KOA has," suggests a camper at Bear Lake Trail Side KOA Journey.
Check water conditions: Lake levels and access change seasonally. "Bear Lake is currently so high there are very few sandy beachs availabe. This is one of them! Cost for day use is $6 per vehicle and $15 overnight," reports a visitor to the Idaho side of Bear Lake.
Tips from RVers
High-clearance vehicles required: Many dispersed camping areas have challenging access roads. "The drive into the monument is easy, zero issues. Once the road turn to gravel, it gets steep. We have a 15k pound fifth wheel and a 2wd dually and we're only able to make it a couple 100 yds up the hill before we started spinning," warns an RVer about Fossil Butte National Monument BLM.
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites for bigger vehicles. "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," advises a camper about South Eden Campground.
Plan for limited amenities: Many campgrounds have minimal services. "This campground is located along the bank of the Viva Naughon Resivoir. There are about 8 sites with picnic tables and fire pits, but is pretty primitive. There are vault toilets available near the boat ramp. The campground is FREE!" notes a local camper.
