Best Campgrounds near Garden City, UT
Garden City, Utah provides multiple camping options along the shores of Bear Lake, with developed campgrounds and private resorts catering to various camping styles. The area features two KOA campgrounds, Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday and Bear Lake/Trail Side KOA Journey, offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Several state park campgrounds including Rendezvous Beach, South Eden, and Birch also provide camping access to the lake, while Franklin Basin offers dispersed camping opportunities in the nearby national forest.
Most developed campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with peak season typically running from May through September. A camper noted, "We had never been to a KOA campground before but we were tired. For $43 for a tent site we got a nice patch of grass and a fire pit. It's clean and comfortable, but definitely a busy place." Campgrounds near the lake tend to be busy during summer months, with many requiring reservations. Bear Lake State Park campgrounds provide beach access, paved sites, and hookups, though water levels can vary seasonally. Winter conditions typically limit camping options, with some areas closing entirely during colder months.
The lakefront setting defines the camping experience around Garden City, with water recreation being a primary draw. Many campgrounds provide direct beach access or are located within short driving distance of the lake. According to reviews, family-friendly amenities are common at the KOA locations, with one visitor commenting that there are "tons to do for the kids" including swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities. Spacing between campsites varies by location, with some reviewers noting that KOA sites can feel crowded during peak season. State park campgrounds generally offer more space between sites and better lake views, though they still fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays.
