Dispersed camping near Randolph, Utah ranges from high-elevation forest settings to lakeside options across northern Utah and southern Idaho. The area sits at elevations between 5,900-8,000 feet with dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. Most dispersed sites require self-sufficiency with no amenities, though established campgrounds with facilities exist within 45 minutes of town.
What to do
Fishing the creeks: Curtis Creek offers fishing opportunities with easy access from dispersed camping areas. "We stayed here for the night on our rooftop tent. It's chilly and very pretty around. Nice view of the sunset. There's no cell service," reports Hannah M. about Curtis Creek / Arbs Basin.
Water sports on Bear Lake: The turquoise waters of Bear Lake provide swimming, boating and fishing options approximately 45 minutes from Randolph. "The water is perfect and so blue. Really earns the title of the Caribbean of the Rockies. Had my own trail straight to the water facing the sunset," writes Danielle T. about Bear Lake State Park Campground.
Winter activities: The Randolph area transforms in winter with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities. The Green Canyon Yurt offers winter accommodations accessed by a 3.8-mile trail. Steven E. notes, "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."
What campers like
Mountain views: The Monte Cristo area provides elevated camping with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. "We came during a week day and the whole site was empty! Very quiet, very pretty, and very colorful. There were only two or maybe three spots total, so get here early," shares Karson M. about Dispersed camping near Monte Cristo.
Fall colors: September brings spectacular leaf changes to the higher elevation areas. "It was the end of September and all the leaves were changing," reports Colyer D. about camping at Monte Cristo, adding, "The views were immaculate, the sites were very spread out."
Creek-side camping: Several dispersed areas offer camping alongside mountain creeks. "It's a very pretty canyon with a creek running through it," states Brendan J. about Smithfield Dispersed Campsite, adding that "most of the spots are pretty small and would only work for one or two tents or maybe a couple of hammocks."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping sites require driving on dirt roads that can become challenging after rain. "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.
Limited availability: The best tent camping near Randolph, Utah fills quickly during summer 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. about Monte Cristo.
Weather changes: Mountain camping brings variable conditions with potential for high winds and sudden temperature drops. "The views are beautiful, but it can get quite blustery," notes Briana about dispersed camping at Monte Cristo.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: Bear Lake features gradual-entry beaches ideal for children. "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," explains Heather C. about Cottonwood Campground at Bear Lake.
Group camping options: Some areas offer designated group camping for families traveling together. David F. notes about Bear Lake State Park, "The group site has full hookups with a pit toilet and a dump station. The group site also has a pavilion, grass, and trees."
Limited services: Most dispersed areas near Randolph have no facilities, requiring families to pack accordingly. Campers must bring water, waste disposal bags, and all necessary supplies when tent camping in the national forest areas.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many dispersed sites have limited turning space and size constraints. Brian C. cautions about Monte Cristo, "Not for large RVs. Our 17 ft trailer with 4x4 was tricky to get into the spot because the loop was so small."
Full hookup options: For RVers seeking amenities, established campgrounds near Bear Lake offer more services. "It's a beautiful spot, with full hook ups and lovely campgrounds," reports Danielle about Cache National Forest Bridger Campground. "Spacious and not too crowded."
High clearance recommended: When exploring the best tent camping areas near Randolph, Utah with an RV, high-clearance vehicles provide better access to primitive sites. Many forest roads become rutted during wet periods, creating challenges for lower-clearance RVs.
