Tent camping opportunities near Logan, Utah range from primitive mountain sites to beachside locations. The region sits at elevations between 4,500 and 8,000 feet, creating distinct temperature variations between valley and mountain campsites. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-90°F in valley locations, while mountain sites remain 10-15 degrees cooler with nighttime temperatures often dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Bear Lake State Park Campground, campers enjoy swimming in the uniquely colored waters. "The water depth is super gradual - it'll take 50-60 yards to get waist deep. Crystal clear water. I don't normally get into lakes, but this was different," notes Heather C.
Early season camping: Visit tent sites near Logan during May-June for smaller crowds and spring wildflowers. "The campsite 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. about Bear Lake camping.
Winter yurt access: Green Canyon Yurt offers winter tent alternatives with a 3.8-mile access trail. "The trail is approximately 3.8 miles long with a steady incline most of the way. There are a few spots with decent little Hills," explains Steven E., who recommends snowshoeing or cross-country skiing to reach the site.
What campers like
Solitude in dispersed areas: Many tent campers value privacy at Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin. "We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It's very quiet, barely any people. There's man made firepits made out of rocks of people who have stayed here," notes Hannah M.
Fall color viewing: Autumn brings spectacular foliage to higher elevation sites. "We could not have asked for a more perfect spot. The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out, it was the end of September and all the leaves were changing," reports Colyer D. about camping near Monte Cristo.
Beachside tent sites: "The views were amazing right from our tent! The waters were crystal clear turquoise blue and we could hear the sound of the waves from our tent," shares Amanda T. about her experience at Bear Lake, where tent sites provide direct water access.
What you should know
Site size limitations: Many tent-only areas have space constraints. At Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, "most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks," according to Brendan J.
Water availability: No potable water exists at most dispersed tent sites. Bring 1-2 gallons per person per day. "Had my own trail straight to the water facing the sunset. There are no showers. But they have vault toilets," reports Danielle T. about facilities.
Road conditions: Forest service roads accessing tent sites often require appropriate 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," warns Sarah C. about Smithfield Canyon access.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: Cottonwood Campground offers family-friendly beach access. "The beach is spectacular and lots of other things to do around the lake," notes Danielle and Kamal L.
Glamping options: Families wanting comfort can find tent alternatives. "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," explains GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about options beyond traditional tent camping.
Weekend timing: For family trips to popular tent sites, arrive Thursday. "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. about Monte Cristo area.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Many tent campsites near Logan can accommodate small trailers. "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," shares Brian C. about dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Seasonal considerations: Spring access to higher elevation tent sites requires planning. "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," advises Shani C. about alternative options when mountain sites aren't accessible.
Road clearance: Most tent sites accessible by vehicle require higher clearance during wet conditions. "A great and spacious area worth the trip for sure!" reports Becky J., though accessing these areas typically requires vehicles with 6-8 inches of clearance.
