Pet-friendly camping near Randolph, Utah offers both primitive and developed options across mountainous areas with elevations between 6,000-9,000 feet. The region's cooler temperatures provide relief from summer heat with typical daytime highs in the 60s-70s°F at higher elevations. Several dispersed areas provide free camping with varying levels of accessibility depending on vehicle clearance and seasonal conditions.
What to do
Mountain hiking trails: Monte Cristo area features several interconnected hiking paths with moderate elevation gains. A camper noted, "There are also easily accessible hiking trails connecting from the campground. ATV/UTV trails are plentiful nearby as well as fishing and swimming" at Monte Cristo.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings provide the best chance to spot local wildlife. "I could hear owls hooting at night and elk bugling in the morning. It was fantastic!" according to one visitor at Monte Cristo who stayed at site 12.
Shoreline activities: The eastern shore of Bear Lake offers rocky beaches with swimming access. A camper at South Eden Campground mentioned, "The beach is rocky with patches of sand. It's a good SUP spot," making it suitable for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Sunrise viewpoints: Some campgrounds have dedicated viewing areas for spectacular morning vistas. At Sunrise Campground, a reviewer shared, "Behind the bathrooms on the South side there is a little trail with a beautiful view of the lake. If you go exploring behind the East bathrooms you'll see a little creek."
What campers like
Quiet camping environment: The dispersed areas around Monte Cristo provide peaceful surroundings away from crowds. One camper reported, "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful" at Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Generous campsite spacing: Many established campgrounds feature well-separated sites. A visitor to Sunrise Campground observed, "This campground is beautiful and the sites are huge! The bathrooms were pretty clean. Cell service was decent."
Lakeside access: Direct water access remains a major draw for campers. At Woodruff Narrows Public Access Area, a reviewer noted, "Great campsites next to the lake. Excellent views and quiet. Only saw a couple other campers off in the distance. Lots of birds and ducks to watch."
Fall foliage viewing: The aspen groves provide spectacular autumn colors. A camper at dispersed sites near Monte Cristo shared, "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."
What you should know
Limited water availability: Many campgrounds have seasonal or no water facilities. At Monte Cristo, a visitor warned, "There is still no water available and the pit toilets are closed. They have Honey buckets to use however."
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites vary in quality. A camper at Woodruff Narrows advised, "Very private boondocking area about 10 miles off the highway. Wide open area; fairly level in the campsites we saw. The road is okay if you go slowly."
Weather preparation: Higher elevations experience significant temperature drops at night. At Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin, one camper mentioned, "It's chilly and very pretty around. Nice view of the sunset. There's no cell service."
Site reservation timing: Popular areas fill quickly during peak seasons. For dispersed camping near Monte Cristo, a reviewer cautioned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Yurt options for easier family camping: For families wanting comfort without tent setup, Sunrise Campground offers alternatives. A visitor 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" at Sunrise Campground.
Lake wading areas for children: Bear Lake features gradual entry points ideal for younger children. A visitor to Bear Lake State Park noted, "Again a awesome lake for kids because you can walk out in the lake pretty far before it gets deep."
Pet supervision requirements: Dogs need consistent monitoring in wildlife areas. While Curtis Creek/Arbs Basin permits pets, the open terrain requires vigilance as there are no fenced areas or designated pet zones.
Site selection for privacy: Families should target specific loops for better seclusion. At Monte Cristo, a camper advised, "Loops A, B, C (1-18) have better privacy than the other loops."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger RVs. At Little Creek Campground, a visitor explained, "This place has lots and lots of places to pull off and camp pretty much to accommodate any group size."
Hookup availability: Determine whether water and electric connections are necessary for your stay. At South Eden Campground, a camper reported, "Very nice spots for a 40 ft classA or any large RV. Pretty level with nice views. All have water,electric but no sewer."
Turning radius challenges: Some campground roads have tight turns requiring careful navigation. One RVer at Sunrise Campground mentioned, "Very tight to maneuver car or suv, host was meh and rude."
Cell service for remote work: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. At Woodruff Narrows, a reviewer noted, "Good Verizon service" despite the remote location, making it suitable for those needing to stay connected.
