Bear Lake State Park
00 reviewPO Box 35, Saint Charles, Idaho, 83272-0035, United States
Bear Lake State Park
$7.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A $7.00/$14.00 Motor Vehicle Entrance Fee (MVEF) is mandatory for each vehicle. Camping fees are $25 per vehicle for day visits, with additional fees for facilities and entrance passes. Discounts apply for State Park Passport holders.
About this campground
Nestled along the shores of a stunning turquoise lake, Bear Lake State Park invites campers to experience the perfect blend of mountain wilderness and beach paradise. Choose from well-appointed electric campsites for your RV or tent, or gather your crew for memorable nights at the spacious group camping areas. While the park maintains a rustic charm with vault toilets and clean restroom facilities (note: no showers or sewer hookups), you'll find everything you need for an authentic outdoor adventure. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – launch your boat into the crystalline waters, explore hiking trails that wind through sagebrush meadows, or simply sink your toes into the sandy beaches that have earned this gem its nickname as the 'Caribbean of the Rockies.'
Bear Lake State Park offers various camping options, including electric, group, and primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure sits at the crossroads of natural wonder and American history. Just a short drive away, the mysterious chambers of Minnetonka Cave reveal millions of years of geological artistry, while the National Oregon Trail Center in nearby Montpelier brings to life the struggles and triumphs of westward pioneers. These surrounding attractions transform your camping trip into a journey through time, where you can explore the same landscapes that have captivated Native Americans, fur trappers, and settlers for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Bear Lake in dramatically different hues. Summer arrives with brilliant sunshine and warm days perfect for swimming and water sports, though afternoon winds can bring welcome relief from the heat – savvy campers seek out shaded spots during peak season. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with temperatures that demand cozy sleeping bags and warm campfires. Spring awakens the high desert with bursts of wildflowers, though gusty winds remind visitors to secure their gear. No matter when you visit, the mountain weather keeps things interesting with its quick changes and spectacular skies.
ElevationPerched in the rarified air of the high mountain desert, Bear Lake State Park offers a camping experience unlike any other. This elevated sanctuary combines the stark beauty of desert landscapes with the refreshing presence of an alpine lake, creating a unique ecosystem where sagebrush meets shoreline. The altitude adds a crispness to the air and an intensity to the sunlight that makes colors seem more vivid and stars shine more brilliantly in the night sky.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to have your expectations shattered as you discover Utah's best-kept secret – a Caribbean-blue lake surrounded by high desert wilderness. The park's landscape tells a story of contrasts: silvery sagebrush carpets roll down to meet pristine sandy beaches, while the turquoise waters of Bear Lake sparkle with an almost supernatural brilliance that seems impossible at this elevation. Framing this unexpected oasis, the dark evergreens of Cache National Forest climb the surrounding mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for sunrise photography and sunset contemplation. It's a place where the desert's austere beauty meets the lake's tropical allure, resulting in scenery that defies simple categorization.
Geological RegionBear Lake State Park occupies one of the West's most fascinating geological stages – a high mountain desert valley cradling an ancient lake of extraordinary beauty. The surrounding sagebrush steppe, characteristic of the Great Basin, gives way to the dense forests of Cache National Forest on the mountainsides. But it's the lake itself that steals the show: its distinctive turquoise color, caused by suspended limestone particles, has rightfully earned it the title 'Caribbean of the Rockies.' This unique geological cocktail – ancient lake bed, limestone-rich water, and high desert environment – creates a landscape found nowhere else, where visitors can experience beach camping at 6,000 feet elevation.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome group facilities, yurts, and cabins are ADA-accessible and do not require disability proof.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary; some accommodate equipment up to 90 feet.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are noted to be closely spaced, and privacy may be limited. Ted Wicks commented, 'campsites are nice but very close to each other.'
Total Campsites49 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring shade or an RV awning due to limited tree coverage. Sites closer to the lake offer better access to water and views.
Best CampsitesSite 40 stands out for its proximity to a private sandy beach and scenic views, as per user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 people per site in Mountain Fawn Campground and up to 50-80 people per group site.
Groups
Group sites, such as '100 Group Camp,' accommodate up to 50 people and have water hookups. Another group site, '300 Group Camp,' accommodates up to 80 people but has no water hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes loops like Mountain Fawn and group campsites, offering a mix of electric and group camping options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with seasonal variations in weather and facilities.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are advised particularly on weekends and holidays. Specific platforms for booking were not mentioned.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is mentioned for North Beach. Weekends and holidays see high demand requiring prior reservations.
Cancellation PolicySpecific cancellation policies are not outlined in the source.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Lake State Park provides a variety of recreational opportunities. Official amenities include swimming, hiking, biking, boating, wildlife viewing, and bird watching. The park is known for its clear turquoise waters, which offer excellent opportunities for swimming and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Fishing is also popular, with reviewers noting its availability. Visitors can also engage in beach activities, jet skiing, and stargazing.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, but specific trail details are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is available. Ted Wicks expressed interest in returning to the park for fishing.Swimming
The lake is ideal for swimming. Ana Garcia described the water as 'so clear!! Perfect for swimming.'Biking
Biking is listed among the activities, but specific trail details are not provided.Boating
Boating is a prominent activity. Joey Redzich highlighted that Bear Lake is ideal for 'boating, surfing, skiing, boarding, paddling, swimming, or beaches.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is listed among the amenities, although specific species are not mentioned.Beach activities
Beach activities are popular. Users describe the beaches as sandy and enjoyable, though Gabriel W noted some mud areas at North Beach.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned, but high winds and cold temperatures in early spring were noted by users.Water Sports
Various water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing, are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated areas only.
- Quiet hours are enforced between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWeather hazards include strong winds, especially late in the day, and cold conditions in early spring. Wildlife concerns like large holes from animals and lack of tree coverage for shade were noted in reviews.
Active alertsUser reviews mention maintenance concerns such as overgrown weeds and garbage in fire pits.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including hospitals, are available within 10 miles. A ranger station is located in close proximity.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months are ideal based on climate and visitor reviews.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Bear Lake, offering swimming, kayaking, and boating activities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include limited shade, maintenance issues, theft reported at campsites, and missing water hookups.
HostRanger Andy and his team are noted for maintaining the park and providing welcoming service.
Campground Map
PO Box 35, Saint Charles, Idaho, 83272-0035, United States
Driving directionsBear Lake State Park can be accessed from US 89 at St. Charles, Idaho via the North and East Beach roads. The park is 2 hours south of Pocatello, Idaho, and 3 hours north of Salt Lake City, UT.
The campground is easily accessible via US 89, with directions clearly leading to North and East Beach roads. Some user reviews report difficulties in finding the campground, suggesting reliance on direct GPS coordinates or ranger-provided physical addresses for navigation.Nearby places
Pocatello, Idaho (approx. 2 hours) and Salt Lake City, Utah (approx. 3 hours).
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as firewood, snacks, camping gear, and ice are available within 10 miles. Retail stores, motels, and golf courses are also nearby.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Bear Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Bear Lake State Park are mixed, with many praising the lake's beauty and water clarity but noting some maintenance issues. The park is highly regarded for its recreational options, particularly in summer, though some users highlight a lack of shade and crowded conditions.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users praised the lake's 'beautiful turquoise water' and 'Caribbean-like' appearance. Others enjoyed the spacious group campsites and clean vault toilets. The park is noted as a great spot for...
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Common Concerns
Complaints include a lack of trees and shade, as noted by multiple users. Gabriel W criticized the muddy North Beach and lack of water hookups at RV sites. Michelle Baker and others noted maintenance...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing shade if camping in summer, as noted by Kathryn Olive. Early reservations are advised, particularly for weekends or group sites. Michelle Baker recommends checking...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews are generally positive, with the lake's water and recreational activities receiving praise. Spring reviews note cold and windy conditions, while fall reviews are limited. Winter...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The water changes colors throughout the day in the most beautiful shades of turquoise. It really does look like Caribbean water.' - Courtney Roser. 2. 'If you like boating, surfing, skiing,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Courtney Roser praised site 40, calling it 'perfect... literally steps to what feels like your own private sandy beach.' Gabriel W noted issues with North Beach, calling it a 'mud beach.'
Accessibility Features
Some group sites are ADA-accessible, but detailed reviews on accessibility are lacking.
Pet-Friendly Features
Some users noted issues with pets on the beach and in the campground. Sarah B stated, 'I wish they would enforce the dog rules; they are on the beach and in the campground unleashed.'
Last updated August 10, 2025