Tent camping opportunities near Preston, Idaho range from primitive dispersed sites to established campgrounds with basic amenities. The area's elevation around 4,700 feet creates cool summer nights even when days are warm. Many camping areas open seasonally from late May through September, with some higher elevation sites having shorter windows due to snow.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: From North Fork Campground - St. Charles Canyon, campers can easily access hiking paths. "This beautiful campground lies close to the end of St Charles Canyon near the Minnetonka Cave," notes Alan B., highlighting the prime location for exploring the surrounding mountains.
Hot springs soaking: The area offers natural hot springs access near some campgrounds. At Maple Grove Hot Springs, Jordan H. explains, "Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day. There's running water in the bathhouse with a toilet and shower. There's yoga classes included in the price as well."
Water recreation: Bear Lake provides clear water for swimming and boating. "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," shares Danielle T. about Bear Lake State Park Campground.
What campers like
Creek-side camping sites: The creek access at several locations offers both scenic value and practical water source. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it," mentions Keaton L. about Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, adding "I first visited this area in the spring, and have since been there around 4-5 times. It's very beautiful with lots of greenery and a river through the whole canyon."
Privacy between sites: Several camping areas feature good spacing between sites. Alan B. notes about Dry Canyon Campground, "This place had plenty of place for activities and many picnic tables close to a large cement fire place."
Gradual beach access: Families appreciate the shallow entry at Bear Lake. Amanda T. shares, "The waters were crystal clear turquoise blue and we could hear the sound of the waves from our tent." Another camper, Heather C., notes, "The beach has fine sand and the water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some access roads present challenges. "The road is dirt and bumpy so be prepared for that but I've never had a problem finding a spot," explains Keaton L. about the Smithfield area.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most dispersed camping areas lack amenities. "Only downside is there's no water there," points out Alan B. about Dry Canyon Campground.
Seasonal fluctuations in visitation: The best tent camping near Preston, Idaho becomes significantly busier on weekends and holidays. "Bear Lake is currently so high there are very few sandy beaches available. This is one of them! Cost for day use is $6 per vehicle and $15 overnight," notes Carrie C. from North Fork Overflow.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water access: Bear Lake offers gradual entry points for safer swimming. Heather C. reports, "Crystal clear water. I don't normally get into lakes, but this was different. There is hiking and biking nearby - a little bit of something for everyone."
Look for designated fire rings: Most established campgrounds provide metal fire rings for safety. David F. notes, "The group site has full hookups with a pit toilet and a dump station. The group site also has a pavilion, grass, and trees."
Arrive early for best sites: Popular camping areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. "After all that we ended up going towards Garden City area and ended up finding a beach to swim and have lunch at. We got there pretty early but after 12 it seemed a bit crowded," shares Shani C.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations on forest roads: Some access roads limit larger vehicles. "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. The only spaces large enough for my 23 ft RV were occupied," warns Sarah C. about Smithfield Dispersed Camping.
Alternative routes matter: GPS may not show the best RV-friendly routes. John M. advises about Bear Lake, "Google will take you the shorter way which you will be traveling on a very dusty dirt road for 6 miles or more. Sometimes the shorter way isn't the best way."
Leveling considerations: RV campers should note the terrain at potential sites. "Sites are pretty level they have electric some with water and some with 50amps. They all have picnic tables no sewer. They have a dump station for that," John M. reports from his Bear Lake State Park experience.
