Bear River Campground (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)
4.5014 reviewsFR122, Evanston, WY 82930
Bear River Campground (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut)
$15.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Fees range from $24 per night for single campsites to $15 for day-use sites. Extra vehicles cost $10 per night, and trailhead overnight parking is $5 per vehicle. Firewood bundles are available for purchase at $9 per bundle at Stillwater Campground.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine Uinta Mountains, Bear River Campground offers an intimate escape for those seeking solitude in the high country. This hidden gem features just 4 secluded campsites along the gentle curves of the Bear River, where the sound of flowing water mingles with the whisper of wind through towering pines and quaking aspens. At 8,400 feet elevation, this peaceful retreat provides essential amenities including vault toilets and a hand-pump well, perfect for adventurers who prefer their wilderness experiences authentic and uncrowded.
Bear River Campground provides a rustic outdoor experience with options for tent camping in a scenic natural setting.
Historical SignificanceThe ancient Uinta Mountains stand as silent witnesses to millennia of human history, forming one of North America's oldest mountain ranges. These sacred peaks have long held deep spiritual and cultural significance for indigenous peoples who traveled these high passes and hunted in these valleys for generations. The mountains' timeless presence continues to inspire reverence in all who venture into their remote wilderness, connecting modern visitors to a landscape that has shaped human stories for thousands of years.
Weather and SeasonsPerched high in the alpine zone at 8,400 feet, Bear River Campground experiences the dramatic beauty of mountain weather. Spring arrives late here, with snow often lingering into May, creating stunning contrasts against emerging wildflowers. Summer brings gloriously mild days perfect for hiking and fishing, with crisp mornings that warm to comfortable afternoons and cool evenings ideal for campfire stories. The thin mountain air keeps temperatures refreshing even in July and August, making this an ideal escape from sweltering valley heat.
ElevationAt 8,400 feet above sea level, Bear River Campground sits in the sweet spot of the Uinta Mountains' alpine environment. This elevation creates a unique microclimate where mountain meadows meet conifer forests, offering visitors crisp, clean air and temperatures that can be 20-30 degrees cooler than the valleys below. The high altitude provides stunning clear skies perfect for stargazing and creates that distinctive mountain atmosphere where every breath feels refreshing and every view seems to stretch forever.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground embraces visitors with a tapestry of mountain beauty, where the melodic Bear River winds through groves of stately pines and shimmering aspens. In summer, the understory erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers - Indian paintbrush, lupine, and columbine - while native grasses sway in the mountain breeze. The dappled shade from the forest canopy creates perfect spots for afternoon relaxation, while open meadows invite exploration. This intimate setting offers glimpses of wildlife and endless opportunities to connect with the raw beauty of the Uinta wilderness.
Geological RegionBear River Campground rests within the magnificent Uinta Mountains, a geological wonderland unique among North American ranges for its east-west orientation. This ancient landscape showcases dramatic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and vast forests of pine, spruce, and aspen that paint the mountainsides gold each autumn. The Uintas offer endless recreational opportunities, from fishing in crystal-clear streams to hiking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and panoramic vistas. This high-elevation playground attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking everything from challenging peak ascents to peaceful meadow strolls, all within one of Utah's most spectacular mountain environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified in the authoritative or user-provided content.
Sites SizeThe campsites are standard-sized for tents, with enough space to accommodate up to 8 people and 1 vehicle per site.
Sites PrivacySites provide limited privacy due to the thin forest of pine and aspen trees, though site 1 is noted for being 'nicely secluded from the other sites.'
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 offers privacy and direct river access. Sites 2 and 3 are close and suitable for group bookings.
Best CampsitesSites 1 and 4 are highlighted in user reviews for seclusion and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time: 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out time: 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 days maximum stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 people per single site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 4 single sites arranged in a linear layout along the Bear River.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 30, 2025 - September 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability begins June 20, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to arrival with a $10 service fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night’s fee. No refunds for Scan & Pay transactions.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bear River Campground offers basic recreational opportunities both within and near the site. Popular activities include hiking and mountain biking trails, fishing in the Bear River, and backpacking within 5 miles of the campground. The nearby Mirror Lake Scenic Byway provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and horseback riding.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within 5 miles of the campground. The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway also offers access to additional trails, making the area attractive to hiking enthusiasts.Fishing
Fishing is a major activity at Bear River Campground, as the Bear River runs directly next to the campsites. One visitor described it as a 'nice place to play in since it’s very shallow.'Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible within 5 miles of the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer and potentially elk, as one user reported hearing 'what sounded like an elk calling out during portions of the night.' Bear activity is mentioned in postings, with campers advised to store food securely.Winter Activities
The campground is not specifically geared toward winter activities, but a review noted 'still good patches of snow, but melting quickly' in early May.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing are mentioned as being available nearby along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Fireworks or explosives are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is in bear country, requiring secure food storage to avoid attracting wildlife. Other potential hazards include cold river water and uneven terrain.
Active alertsNo current active alerts.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Nearest ranger station - Evanston/Mountain View Ranger District, phone 307-789-3197; nearest hospital - Evanston Regional Hospital in Evanston, WY (~27 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30, 2025 - September 20, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a 'pack it in, pack it out' system for trash and recycling. Campers are expected to bring trash bags and carry out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Bear River for fishing and wading.
Common complaintsVault toilets reportedly smell unpleasant, and the hand-pump water has been described as tinted yellow. Limited large-trailer accessibility.
HostA campground host is onsite and has been described as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
FR122, Evanston, WY 82930
Driving directionsBear River Campground is located approximately 27 miles south of Evanston, Wyoming, just off the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway.
The campground is accessible via the paved Mirror Lake Scenic Byway; however, roads within the campground are not suitable for large trailers or RVs.Nearby places
Evanston, WY - 27 miles (~30 minutes drive)
Salt Lake City, UT - approximately 95 miles (~1.5 hours drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Evanston, WY (~27 miles away), including groceries, fuel, and camping equipment.
Camper Reviews
4.5
14 reviews
Bear River Campground (Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Ut) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground as a 'hidden gem' with simple amenities, clean vault toilets, and a peaceful atmosphere. The Bear River is a prominent feature, providing both aesthetic value and fishing opportunities. Some complaints include the quality of the water and occasional odor from the vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the peaceful environment, the proximity to the river, and the clean vault toilets. "Two box toilets in the campground, very clean," said one user. The campground's secluded nature and...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback focuses on issues like the smell of the vault toilets and water quality ('tinted yellow' water). One user felt that $18 per night was too high given the basic amenities.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing trash bags due to the 'pack it in, pack it out' policy and suggest arriving mid-week for more seclusion. Site 1 is noted for its privacy.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is quieter mid-week and during the off-season; snow may be present in early May, affecting access.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The Bear River is right next to each site and nice to play in since it's very shallow." "Small campground by the Bear River... a hidden gem."
Based on 14 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is considered 'nicely secluded,' while sites 2 and 3 are close to one another, making them suitable for group reservations.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be leashed and limited to two per campsite.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025