Bear Creek Campground

Star4.38
10 reviews

Quick Facts

7,211 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

4 campsites

Season

1

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Get Directions
Bear Creek Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees are required for this campsite.
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

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What Campers Say

4.38

Recommended

Based on 10 reviews

7 Google reviews

Most mentioned

views

"User reviews describe Bear Creek Campground as peaceful, remote, and scenic. While some appreciate its seclusion, they also caution about the lack of amenities like bear food boxes and cell service. Common themes include the beauty of the creek, starry night skies, and the basic but functional facilities."

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Campground Map

Bear Creek Campground

45.1100, -110.5996

Driving directionsPrimitive campground located 5 mi northeast of Gardiner on Jardine Rd, 5.5 mi on Bear Creek Rd (Forest Rd 493). Bear Creek is a primitive campground and is only accessible by walking a short distance due to flood-related damage. Contact District Office for info.
No vehicle access due to flood-related damage. Campground road not suitable for long or towed vehicles. There is NO TURNAROUND for long vehicles.
Nearby places
Gardiner - 5 miles northeast
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies will be found in Gardiner.

Best Time to Camp at Bear Creek Campground

The mountain climate brings dramatic seasonal changes to Bear Creek, from crisp spring mornings filled with birdsong to warm summer days perfect for exploration. Autumn paints the surrounding landscape in brilliant golds and oranges, while winter transforms the area into a snow-covered wonderland. Weather can shift quickly at this elevation, so visitors should come prepared for sudden temperature drops and afternoon thunderstorms during summer months.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Warm summer days are described as ideal for exploration and hiking; reviews praise summer beauty.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Autumn is noted to 'paint the surrounding landscape' though few seasonal reviews given.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring 'crisp mornings' and birdsong noted, but potential flood impacts and muddy conditions implied.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

High elevation implies snow; campground is primitive with no winter services mentioned.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: 1

About Bear Creek Campground

Tucked away in the rugged wilderness, Bear Creek offers an authentic backcountry experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This primitive campground requires a scenic walk from the parking area due to recent flood damage that has temporarily closed vehicle access. The journey on foot becomes part of the adventure, allowing you to gradually transition from the modern world into the peaceful embrace of nature. While the approach may require a bit more effort, the reward is an intimate camping experience far from the crowds. For current trail conditions and access updates, please contact the District Office before your visit.
Bear Creek Campground is a primitive site with limited facilities. It is only accessible via a short walk due to flood-related damage.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
12
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12

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Bear Creek Campground provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking and fishing. Official sources list day hiking trails and river/stream fishing among the available activities. User reviews emphasize the natural beauty and remote setting of the campground.
HikingOfficial information identifies day hikes as a key activity at Bear Creek Campground. No specific trail details are included, though the remote and scenic location likely appeals to hiking enthusiasts.
FishingFishing in nearby rivers and streams is explicitly mentioned in official sources as an option for campers.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Bear Creek Campground

Reviews

4.4
10 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Bear Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Bear Creek Campground as peaceful, remote, and scenic. While some appreciate its seclusion, they also caution about the lack of amenities like bear food boxes and cell service. Common themes include the beauty of the creek, starry night skies, and the basic but functional facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

Key positive aspects highlighted by users include seclusion, natural beauty, flat camping areas, and stunning night views of stars. Reeses On Recess calls it a 'Gem of a campground,' while Lauren...
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Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues raised by reviewers include the lack of bear food boxes, potable water, and cell service. Chris Johnson notes that the site's remoteness can feel 'a little eerie at night.'
Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Lauren Secor advises avoiding Google Maps and using the actual dropped pin for navigation, emphasizing the importance of accurate directions.
Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Most reviews do not specify seasonal trends, though the campground's remote nature implies year-round usability for those prepared for primitive camping conditions.
Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Pit toilet, flat ground, beautiful creek, and stunning night view of stars.' - Lauren Secor - 'Secluded and quiet. Can get a little eerie at night.' - Chris Johnson - 'Remote camping. Pit toilet,...
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Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific campsite numbers or areas within the campground are mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

No comments or information are available specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews mention pet policies or experiences related to pets.
Based on 10 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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