Tent camping around Montpelier, Idaho offers access to both mountain and lake environments at elevations ranging from 5,900 to 6,500 feet. The camping season typically runs May through September at most Forest Service sites, with Bear Lake locations accessible longer. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and can drop to 40-50°F at night, requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
Fishing local waters: Lake Alice, located about 45 miles east of Montpelier, offers unique fishing opportunities for Bonneville Cutthroat Trout. A camper noted, "Lake Alice is home to the only pure lake strain of Bonneville Cutthroat Trout in Wyoming. We caught about 4 this trip... Fish AM/PM, the wind can pick up in the afternoons, and temps rise making fishing not so great."
Hot springs soaking: Maple Grove Hot Springs provides natural hot pools with camping access. "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," reports Jordan H.
Hiking mountain trails: Several trails begin near camping areas, including Poker Creek Trail from Lake Alice. "If you continue along Poker Creek Trail that follows the east side of the lake, you can visit Mount Isabel which is 5 miles from the start of Lake Alice. Poker Creek Trail will reach LaBarge Creek Road at mile 9."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Secluded Maple Creek River Bottoms offers private tent sites just minutes from town. As one camper explains, "This private oasis in the woods feels secluded, but you are 6 min away from local amenities. Lots of trees and perfect place to relax around your fire-pit."
Beach access at Bear Lake: Cottonwood Campground offers direct access to Bear Lake beaches. A reviewer mentioned, "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."
Mountain solitude: North Fork Overflow provides isolation for those seeking quiet camping experiences. A camper described it as "back in the mountains a couple hours from civilization. Makes you thankful for the Idaho wilderness."
What you should know
Limited services: Most Forest Service campgrounds near Montpelier have vault toilets but no drinking water. Cold Springs Campground requires campers to bring their own water supply, with no sources available on site.
Road conditions: North Fork Campground - St. Charles Canyon has two distinct camping sections with varying access. "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."
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis, particularly during shoulder seasons. For popular summer weekends, arrive early to secure spots. One camper warned about Bear Lake State Park: "It was 1st come 1st serve and I would suggest you get there as early as you can."
Tips for camping with families
Gradual shoreline: Bear Lake State Park Campground offers family-friendly swimming areas. A family camper noted, "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."
Group facilities: Some campgrounds offer designated group sites with additional amenities. At Bear Lake State Park, "The group site has full hookups with a pit toilet and a dump station. The group site also has a pavilion, grass, and trees."
Pack extra water: With limited facilities at most Montpelier area campgrounds, families should bring at least 1 gallon of water per person per day, plus extra for cooking and cleaning.
Tips from RVers
Site separation: At Conestoga Ranch near Bear Lake, glamping options provide more comfort than traditional tent camping. A reviewer shared, "Conestoga Ranch offers luxury tents and a chance to stay in a covered wagon. The tent had a king bed, shower, and deep claw foot tub."
RV-specific sections: North Fork Campground separates tent and RV camping areas for different camping experiences. "The RV spots seemed kind of close but the tent sites had ample room along with metal fire rings and picnic tables."
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads near Montpelier become narrow with few places to turn around larger vehicles. Some campgrounds like Cold Springs have challenging access, with a camper noting "the only down side is the narrow roads."
