Glamping in Garden City, Utah provides elevated comfort while maintaining the outdoor experience around Bear Lake. The region sits at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, causing cooler nights even during summer months when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. The camping season typically runs from late spring through mid-fall with most facilities closing by mid-October due to snowfall at this elevation.
What to do
Hiking nearby: Tony Grove Campground offers multiple trails leading to the lake and surrounding mountains. "This is such a lovely place to camp. The campsite has many trails going down to the lake. Fir trees are everywhere, and the campground is very clean," notes one Tony Grove Campground visitor.
Creek fishing: Willow Flat Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities along its creek. "My boys could have stayed two weeks fishing the creek! Lots of trout. Saw a moose! The water was freezing, but clean and refreshing," shares a camper at Willow Flat Campground.
Stargazing: The mountain location offers excellent night sky viewing. "Stayed one night great spot to see stars at night!" reports a visitor at Bunchgrass Yurt.
What campers like
Privacy in natural settings: Despite proximity to other sites, tall trees create seclusion. A visitor at Willow Flat notes, "The campsites are close together but it doesn't feel like it because there are so many trees and the creek that runs through the campground is loud enough to drown out other's noise."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "There were deer grazing down the hill in the evening," mentions a camper at OsoBlu Bear Lake Yurts.
Sunrise views: Certain campgrounds feature optimal viewing for early risers. "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," says a visitor at Sunrise Campground.
What you should know
Site reservations: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Sunrise CG is located right of hwy 89 about 10 minutes west of Garden City. The CG sits above Bear Lake. The sites are pretty spacious, heavily wooded with good shade. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site. There are 27 sites available," explains one camper.
Temperature swings: Prepare for cool evenings despite warm days. Given the 6,000+ foot elevation, nights can drop below 50°F even in summer months.
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on campground location. "We have no cell service in the campground but you can walk to the road and get service if needed," states a Sunrise Campground visitor.
Busy periods: Certain locations experience heavy use during peak times. "Very crowded, very noisy (screaming babies from 1 am - 5 am within 100 feet of you: guaranteed), and very expensive," warns a camper at Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer extensive amenities. "Close to Bear Lake Marina and rentals and tons of great activities. Cabins, tiny homes, a variety of camper and campsites. Activities range from basketball, pickle ball, bounce area, mini golf, shuffle board, sand volleyball, and a pool as well as hot tub," reports a visitor about Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday.
Yurt options: Yurts provide weather protection and comfort for families. "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," shares a camper from Sunrise Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms were pretty clean. Cell service was decent," notes a recent visitor at Sunrise Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have tight access roads for larger vehicles. "The road in the campground is tight on some corners for longer rigs. A lot of spots are difficult to back into with a trailer. Small trailers and tents will work best up here," advises an experienced visitor at Tony Grove Campground.
Full hookup options: Bear Lake North RV Park provides comprehensive services. "Full Hookups, nice staff," summarizes a camper.
Luxury RV sites: Premium spots include additional amenities. "We stayed in an RV supersite that included a private hot tub and BBQ grill," mentions a visitor at Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday.
