Dispersed camping opportunities near Bloomington, Idaho extend beyond the immediate Bear Lake area into surrounding canyons and forest land. Many sites feature elevation changes between 5,940-6,500 feet, creating notable temperature differences between lake level and mountain campsites. Seasonal accessibility varies dramatically with most primitive sites unreachable until late spring snowmelt, typically mid-May through early October depending on conditions.
What to do
Geocaching adventures: Bear Lake State Park Campground provides access to numerous geocaching locations along the shoreline. "Agreat place to go especially if you want to cast your boat off and do some fishing or even some geocaching! If it's too hot on the lake there are some nice forests on the west side of the lake to escape into," notes visitor Alan B. at Bear Lake State Park Campground.
Cave exploration: North Fork Campground in St. Charles Canyon serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring Minnetonka Cave, which maintains a constant 40°F temperature regardless of outside conditions. "This beautiful campground lies close to the end of St Charles Canyon near the Minnetonka Cave. It has 2 sections one of which is mainly for rvs and the 2nd which is for tents and camper Van's," explains Alan B. about North Fork Campground.
Hot springs soaking: For campers willing to travel slightly farther, Maple Grove Hot Springs offers natural thermal pools with camping access included. "This is one of my favorite places on earth. They have tent sites, van sites and a selection of shelters to choose from. Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day," says Jordan H. about the Maple Grove Hot Springs experience.
What campers like
Crystal clear water: The turquoise waters of Bear Lake provide unusually clear swimming conditions compared to other mountain lakes. "Such an appropriate description! We had a wonderful time! Great campsite near the water. 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 dont normally get into lakes, but this was different," shares Heather C. about Bear Lake State Park Campground.
Creek-side camping: Many dispersed sites feature small creeks running alongside campsites, offering both ambiance and a water source for experienced campers. "It's very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon. The road is dirt and bumpy so be prepared for that but I've never had a problem finding a spot," reports Keaton L. about Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
Solitude in mountain settings: Higher elevation sites provide escape from summer crowds concentrated at lakeside campgrounds. "Stayed here for two nights, at the end of a dead end road, close to the creek. Real easy place to be," notes Peter L. about the quieter experience at Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
What you should know
Beach access varies: Water levels at Bear Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach availability for tent campers. "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 Carrie C. about access at Bear Lake State Park Campground.
Road conditions to remote sites: Many dirt access roads to the best tent camping near Bloomington become increasingly narrow and rough. "No warning that the road narrows with no turn around about a mile into the campground, or the trees are overgrown which scratched up my sides," cautions Sarah C. regarding Smithfield Dispersed Campsite.
Temperature variability: Significant temperature drops occur at night, even during summer months, especially at higher elevations. "Breath taking. It's her favorite place to go I like to Camp, Creek fish, hunt there. The only down side is the narrow roads," mentions Austin H. about Cold Springs Campground near Montpelier.
Tips for camping with families
Gradual lake entry: Families with young children appreciate the shallow entry at Bear Lake beaches. "The beach is sandy and water is very shallow so if you have kids not to worry so much. Water is a turquoise color very cool like your in the Caribbean," explains John M. about the family-friendly conditions.
Dedicated family campgrounds: Some established campgrounds offer specific areas designed for family camping with better amenities. "The group site has full hookups with a pit toilet and a dump station. The group site also has a pavilion, grass, and trees," shares David F. about Bear Lake State Park Campground.
Off-peak timing: Early season camping before mid-June or after mid-August provides significantly less crowded conditions. "We had wanted to camp at Bear Lake and there was 1 site left were we had wanted. The campground was super simple and close to the lake. It was 1st come 1st serve and I would suggest you get there as early as you can," advises Shani C.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Many primitive campgrounds lack full hookups or have restricted access for larger rigs. "The RV spots seemed kind of close but the tent sites had ample room along with metal fire rings and picnic tables," observes Alan B. regarding North Fork Campground's layout.
Park positioning for shade: Limited tree cover at many Bear Lake camping spots makes strategic RV positioning essential. "The individual sites had sand, sagebrush, with little to no shade. However, the boat dock is very nearby," notes David F. about Bear Lake State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of seeking alternative shade options.
Full hookup alternatives: For RVers needing complete services, Cottonwood Campground at Bear Lake State Park offers comprehensive hookups. "It's a beautiful spot, with full hook ups and lovely campgrounds. The beach is spectacular and lots of other things to do around the lake," recommends Danielle and Kamal L. about Cottonwood Campground.
