The John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway connects Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks through an 82-mile corridor at elevations ranging from 6,800 to 7,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-80°F during days and drop to 40°F at night, while mosquitoes remain active from June through August near lakes and streams. Winter brings heavy snowfall with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing.
What to do
Paddle Jackson Lake: Rent kayaks from nearby facilities and explore the shoreline of Jackson Lake. "We rented kayaks from the campground and explored the little lake...the views were absolutely surreal," notes a visitor at Signal Mountain Campground.
Fish the Snake River: Access prime fishing spots along the parkway, particularly near Sheffield Campground. "Great fishing in the river a short walk from the campground," mentions a camper at Sheffield Campground.
Hike to views: Take the 3-mile trail to the top of Signal Mountain for panoramic vistas. "Drive, or the 3 mile hike, up to top of signal mountain is so beautiful," recommends a visitor from Signal Mountain Campground.
What campers like
Centralized location: Position yourself between both national parks for efficient day trips. "Great location — smack between Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Campground is quiet, beautiful, and with good amenities," shares a guest at Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch.
Morning views: Early risers appreciate the sunrise reflections on water surfaces. "In the morning wake up extra early because the sun rises over the mountains and there is a crystal clear reflection on the lake," advises a visitor to Lizard Creek Campground.
Less crowded options: Find quieter alternatives to busy park campgrounds. "This is one of the least congested campground in the park. Seemed like it was more spacious and they have separate areas for campers/RVs and tents," notes a camper at Lizard Creek Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most facilities operate from June through September. "There is a weight limit of 5 ton to cross the bridge to get in," warns a camper about Sheffield Campground.
Bug preparation: Mosquitoes can be intense, particularly in wooded areas. "We went to bed early to get away from the mosquitos and had to kill at least 50 in our tent!" cautions a visitor at Ashton-Flagg Ranch Road.
Early arrival necessary: Most first-come, first-served sites fill by mid-morning. "Get there in the AM and getting a spot is easy. Do not wait till 4pm," recommends a Signal Mountain Campground visitor.
No cell service: Prepare for limited connectivity throughout the area. "The area has no cell service, making advance planning essential," multiple campers report.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly areas: Most campgrounds within John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway welcome pets with proper supervision. "Our yellow Labrador was extremely dirty when we left, but she loved it there!!" shares a visitor to Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch.
Education opportunities: Attend ranger programs for kids and adults. "Church at the amphitheater was enjoyable, and the grocery store provided necessary items and ice cream treats daily!" mentions a visitor at Colter Bay Tent Village.
Swimming access: Find spots where kids can cool off safely. "Great Hiking, Great Scenery," notes a visitor to Colter Bay Tent Village about the recreational opportunities.
Food storage: Use provided bear boxes for all food items and toiletries. "They ask to clean up your site each evening and put grill and coolers away so as to not attract the bears," explains a Headwaters Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many roads and campgrounds have restrictions for large vehicles. "Most sites are walk on sites, with only one loop being dedicated to anyone with a camper or RV, so if that's how you're traveling I wouldn't recommend this site," notes a visitor to Lizard Creek Campground.
Level preparation: Bring blocks for uneven campsites. "Most sites are pretty uneven so bring blocks. I had to get pretty creative in our super C," advises an RVer at Colter Bay RV Park.
Hookup availability: Only select campgrounds offer electric and water connections. "It's FHU which was nice. The bath houses were nice and centrally located," notes a Headwaters Campground visitor regarding full hookup availability.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal at designated facilities. "Check-in was super helpful to a rookie camper. They suggested how we should pull into the site in order to face the correct direction and they informed us all about the fresh water refill station as well as the black water dumping station," shares a Colter Bay RV Park visitor.
