Camping near Garden City, Utah offers diverse options at elevations between 5,900-6,200 feet with shoreline and mountain camping opportunities. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F and cooler nights dropping into the 50s. Many campgrounds operate seasonally with most sites closing by late September or mid-October due to colder weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Sunrise Campground provides excellent proximity to fishing spots, with one visitor noting, "If you go exploring behind the East bathrooms you'll see a little creek." The trails aren't maintained but offer fishing opportunities for those willing to explore.
Hiking with views: Located west of Garden City, Sunrise Campground offers a short trail with spectacular vistas. A camper mentioned, "There is a very short trail in the back of the campsite between 2 bathrooms where you can see the sun rise over Bear Lake. I'd camp here just for that."
Dispersed camping adventures: For those seeking more remote camping near Garden City, Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping offers backcountry experiences. A reviewer shared, "If you keep driving for maybe 20-30min down the road there's even more beautiful spots, but it's pretty rocky so be careful if you don't trust your car/have low clearance."
What campers like
Private camping spots: The South Eden Campground offers spacious sites with waterfront access. A visitor noted, "Our site is 11 and it is right off the beach and no campers are able to block our view. Again a awesome lake for kids because you can walk out in the lake pretty far before it gets deep."
Shade availability: Red Banks Campground provides welcome tree cover during hot summer days. According to a camper, "Me and my kids stay for only one night, but I was very impressed how clean the campground was. It has one bathroom area, and was right next to the Logan River."
Yurt accommodations: For those wanting a camping experience without tent setup, Sunrise Campground offers yurt options. One happy camper shared, "This was the first time that we stayed in a yurt, and it is a game changer. It is honestly so nice once in a while to not have to put up camp or break camp."
What you should know
Campsite reservations: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (June-August). At the Bear Lake/Trail Side KOA Journey, a visitor commented, "Smaller than the Lake Side KOA in town, but guest have access to facilities at both locations. Really appreciated the quiet location."
Beach conditions: Beach quality varies by location, with some areas having sandy shores while others are rockier. A visitor at Bear Lake State Park Campground remarked, "The beach is rocky with patches of sand. It's a good SUP spot."
Wind and weather: The Garden City area experiences sudden weather changes, especially wind. At Birch Campground, one camper observed, "It gets really windy from one moment to the next. The water is absolutely beautiful!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday offers numerous activities for children. A reviewer explained, "There is an amazing playground for kids, swimming pool, and jumping pillow. The area is stunningly beautiful and relaxed."
Water safety: Bear Lake's depth increases gradually, making it suitable for younger swimmers. A camper at South Eden Campground mentioned the lake is "awesome for kids because you can walk out in the lake pretty far before it gets deep."
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening wildlife sightings enhance family camping experiences. At South Eden Campground, one visitor reported, "Quiet lots of deer near the campsite #12. Very large space, picnic table."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Birch Campground, RVers should consider wind exposure when choosing sites. A visitor advised, "Birch CG has nice paved (mostly level) spots. Each site has a covered picnic table in a concrete pad."
Hookup availability: Most developed campgrounds offer varying hookup options. At Bear Lake State Park Campground, a reviewer confirmed, "The sites all have electricity (15, 30, and 50 amp) and water hook ups. The sites are huge and well maintained."
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping can be challenging for larger rigs. At Franklin Basin Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted, "2wd friendly road for MILES. You can drive well into Idaho. You can drive for about 1.5 hours up in here and see amazing river meadow mountain views."
