Glamping close to Bloomington, Idaho offers a unique mountain escape at elevations between 5,800-6,200 feet, where temperatures typically drop into the 40s at night even during summer months. The Bear Lake region's limestone-rich soil contributes to the Caribbean-like turquoise water color that makes this area distinctive from other mountain lake destinations. Visitors should prepare for significant temperature variations between day and night regardless of season.
What to do
Natural hot springs access: Maple Grove Hot Springs provides tent sites, van sites and various shelters with hot springs access included from check-in until 4pm the next day. According to Jordan H., "There's yoga classes included in the price as well. The bathhouse also has a nice little shop with snacks and gifts. They sell tinfoil dinners too if you want to really relax."
Off-road exploration: Areas near Willow Flat Campground offer extensive UTV and ATV trails. Kassidy S. notes, "There's also tons of UTV/ATV trails nearby. I love this place. The only con is that it can get very dusty, especially come July and August when it doesn't rain as much."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple streams and Bear Lake provide fishing options. Beth B. from Willow Flat reports, "My boys could have stayed two weeks fishing the creek! Lots of trout. Saw a moose! The water was freezing, but clean and refreshing."
Hiking adventures: Sunrise Campground serves as a base for multiple hiking trails. According to GoWhereYouAreDraw N., "Short drive into town or access water. In my opinion, the drive is worth it as this is way more peaceful than any area campground."
What campers like
Winter glamping accommodations: Unlike most seasonal options, some glamping facilities near Bloomington remain open during winter months with heated options. As noted at Montpelier Creek KOA, "Staff will help ensure a relaxing stay. Pool is heated but not hot, due to being in the trees there is a few floating items but gets cleaned every day. Creek runs through the front of camp."
Creekside sites: Multiple glamping locations feature creekside accommodations. Jennie R. describes, "Our cabin was right on the creek, and I found my pace and place on the porch and nature trail watching birds and listening to the creek while the kids enjoyed the pool and playground."
Private amenities: Some luxury glamping spots feature unexpected privacy features. The yurts at OsoBlu Bear Lake Yurts are thoughtfully arranged. As johny R. explains, "The yurts are close together but the way they are layed out and turned greatly increased the privacy feeling."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife. According to a Sunrise Campground visitor, "There was a little dirt road that went off from the campground that we didn't have time to explore. Lots of summer flowers! Also lots of summer mosquitos, but that's expected."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May-October with limited winter options. At Caribou National Forest Emigration Campground, skoerber notes, "One night here when it first opened for the season, so there were still patches of snow and little streams here and there. It's in the spruce-fir forest with some aspens and open understory."
Size restrictions: Not all glamping options accommodate large RVs. Susan V. advises, "I wouldn't take big rigs in here because most of the sites aren't long enough. A person could base camp here and explore roads and trails in the area."
Road noise: Some otherwise tranquil locations experience road noise. Susan V. mentions, "The campers here were quiet and respectful, but there is road noise from the highway that runs sort of above the campground. Trucks use the highway and it's on a little bit of a grade, so you could definitely hear them."
Holiday crowds: Popular glamping spots fill quickly during peak periods. Christopher W. notes, "Can be a very popular and crowded place on holiday weekends."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday offers extensive family-oriented amenities. GoWhereYouAreDraw N. details, "Activities range from basketball, pickle ball, bounce area, mini golf, shuffle board, sand volleyball, and a pool as well as hot tub. Great bathrooms/wash house."
Fishing for children: Streamside camping options provide safe fishing experiences for young anglers. Beth B. reports, "My boys thought this was the greatest spot we've ever found... Trail for hiking right there and the cleanest bathrooms! Camp host was friendly and helpful with on questions about exploring the area."
Playground facilities: Several glamping locations feature dedicated play areas. Shane C. notes, "Tons to do for the kids. Pancake breakfast was a nice plus for breakfast. Restaurants are close. Marina was close. Lots of activities for all ages."
Wildlife education opportunities: The area offers opportunities to see wildlife in natural settings. A visitor shares, "There was a golden eagle nest above us where eagles were flying to and from; this was quite the sight to see!"
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: Full service sites with electric, water and sewer are limited but available at select locations near Bloomington. At Rendezvous Beach — Bear Lake State Park, Cody C. notes, "Electricity and water hookups are included at each campsite for those of you with RVs."
Beach proximity: RV sites near the lake provide direct water access. Matthew H. advises, "While the sites are uninspiring with very few shade trees, the beach is right there, the sand is nice, and one can wade out quite far in the water to lounge all day."
Road quality issues: Some access roads require caution. One visitor reports, "Road is very weathered asphalt, bumpy in spots. I didn't see tent pads. There are water spigots (once it's turned on for the season)."
Seasonal water availability: RVers should confirm water system status during shoulder seasons. A camper notes, "I had 2 bars of Verizon. I wouldn't take big rigs in here because most of the sites aren't long enough."
