Cokeville sits in the western Wyoming high country at 6,200 feet elevation where mountain valleys and alpine lakes create a distinct camping environment with cool summer nights even when days reach the 80s. Winter temperatures frequently drop below zero, making the camping season relatively short from late May through early October. The terrain transitions between sagebrush plains and forested mountain slopes.
What to do
Fishing at Viva Naughton Reservoir: Located 15 minutes from Kemmerer, this free campground offers excellent fishing opportunities. "The fly fishing is excellent below the dam, which is about a 3/4 mile drive from the campground. The area is very popular with boaters and anglers alike. This place stays busy year round and ice fishing is very popular in the winter months," notes reviewer Carrie C. at Viva Naughton Marina by PacifiCorp.
Hiking to mountain lakes: The region features trails leading to scenic alpine settings. At Willow Flat Campground, campers can access several routes. "The hike to the headwaters is a must and if you're feeling up to it you can hike over the mountain to Bloomington Lake. There's also tons of UTV/ATV trails nearby," shares Kassidy S. about Willow Flat Campground.
Swimming and boating: Bear Lake provides water recreation options with its distinctive turquoise waters. "The sand is nice, and one can wade out quite far in the water to lounge all day," reports Matthew H. about Rendezvous Beach, noting that the gradual depth makes it family-friendly.
What campers like
Creek-side camping spots: Many campgrounds feature sites next to flowing water. "The creek was 10 ft from our tent. Trail for hiking right there and the cleanest bathrooms! My boys could have stayed two weeks fishing the creek! Lots of trout," writes Beth B. about her experience at Willow Flat Campground.
Secluded camping options: For those seeking quiet, Little Creek Campground offers dispersed sites. "We stopped by on our way to Wyoming and trough up a tent. Lots of stars and really quite. The view are nice and it is a great primitive camp spot," says Brad B. about Little Creek Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: KOA locations provide organized activities for children. "There is an amazing playground for kids, swimming pool, and jumping pillow. The area is stunningly beautiful and relaxed. The store next to the entrance is amazingly well stocked with all you'd need," according to JJ V. at Bear Lake Marina Side KOA.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The mountain climate brings temperature variations and occasional wind. "While the sites are uninspiring with very few shade trees, the beach is right there," notes Matthew H. about Rendezvous Beach, pointing out the trade-offs of lakeside camping.
Campsite availability: Reservations are essential during peak season. "It filled up with reservations from thurs-sun," reports Beth B. about summer weekends at Willow Flat Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities operate only during warmer months. The Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday is open "April 1 to October 15," while Sunrise Campground operates from "June 10 to September 23," with most sites closing after the first snow.
Tips for camping with families
Shade availability: Look for forested campgrounds during summer months. "Shade everywhere here! The creek also runs nearby which makes it nice and cool. There's vault toilets plenty of spigots, and tent pads at most spots," recommends Alan B. about Sunrise Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation. "Activities range from basketball, pickle ball, bounce area, mini golf, shuffle board, sand volleyball, and a pool as well as hot tub. Great bathrooms/wash house," notes GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about the Bear Lake Marina Side KOA.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several sites offer chances to see local animals. "There were deer grazing down the hill in the evening," reports johny R. about his stay at OsoBlu Bear Lake Yurts, adding another dimension to glamping in Cokeville, Wyoming region.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites vary in service levels across the area. "Full hookups" are available at Bear Lake North RV Park according to Joan R., though water pressure can be inconsistent at some locations.
Campground layout considerations: Some areas have space limitations. "Very tight to maneuver car or suv," warns Veronica H. about Sunrise Campground, suggesting larger rigs may face challenges.
RV site selection: Premium sites offer additional amenities. "We stayed in an RV supersite that included a private hot tub and BBQ grill," shares JJ V. about Bear Lake Marina Side KOA, demonstrating how luxury glamping near Cokeville extends to RV accommodations.
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