Tent camping near Laketown, Utah offers diverse terrain ranging from lakeside beaches to forested mountain settings. The region sits at approximately 5,900 feet elevation, creating distinct temperature variations between day and night even during summer months. Water levels at Bear Lake fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach accessibility and creating unique camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Boat access camping: At Bear Lake State Park Campground, sites provide excellent water recreation options. "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 Alan B.
Cave exploration: North Fork Campground in St. Charles Canyon places campers near Minnetonka Cave. "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.
Mountain biking: Green Canyon Yurt provides winter and summer recreation options for active campers. During warmer months, bikers can access numerous trails, while winter visitors find groomed paths for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Cottonwood Campground, campers appreciate the spacing and natural barriers. "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," mentions Danielle and Kamal L.
Gradual beach entries: Bear Lake offers family-friendly swimming conditions with gentle slopes. "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.
Canyon water features: Smithfield Dispersed Campsite campers enjoy creek access. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it. Would recommend," states Brendan J. Another camper notes, "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."
What you should know
Limited spots at dispersed areas: Smithfield Dispersed Campsite fills quickly during peak seasons. "Most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks," cautions Brendan J.
Road conditions: Access to Monte Cristo dispersed camping requires preparation. "About 1/4 mile down a dirt road from Hwy 39 is a good single boondocking spot with a great view. Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small," explains Brian C.
Arrival timing matters: Popular dispersed sites fill early, especially during weekends. "There are tons of free site all up and down the main road. The only problem is it is busy if you leave on Friday plan to get there by 3 at the latest. Spots fill quick," advises Bryce R.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: Beaches along Bear Lake offer safe swimming for children. "The water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep. Crystal clear water," reports Heather C.
Group accommodations: Conestoga Ranch provides unique family options. "Conestoga Ranch offers luxury tents and a chance to stay in a covered wagon... The covered wagons are super unique and can sleep up to six," shares GoWhereYouAreDraw N.
Off-water activities: When weather or crowds make lake access challenging, alternatives exist. "After all that we ended up going towards Garden City area and ended up finding a beach to swim and have lunch at. The water was beautiful and refreshing, dogs were allowed just keep them on a leash," suggests Shani C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Bear Lake State Park Campground offers various RV services. "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," explains John M.
Size limitations: Narrow canyon roads restrict vehicle size in some areas. "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.
Weather considerations: Mountain camping near Laketown experiences significant seasonal changes. "It can get quite blustery. We weren't able to have a fire when we stayed there," reports Briana about dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
