Wilson, Wyoming serves as a convenient base for exploring both Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest. Located at 6,145 feet elevation, the area typically receives heavy snowfall from November through April, with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during summer months. Many dispersed camping areas require 5-14 day advance planning during peak season with campsites filling by noon on summer weekends.
What to do
Trail access from camp: Mike Harris Campground provides excellent connectivity to mountain biking routes. "It offers access to some of the best Mtn Bike Trails in our area. Rush hour, Nemo, and Mail Cabin are all great rides. Rush Hour and Nemo are the best kids rides in the area besides Grand Targhee," notes a local camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings at Gros Ventre Campground offer exceptional wildlife sightings within camp boundaries. "Moose in the campground almost daily. Friendly, knowledgeable staff," reports one visitor. Another mentioned, "Saw three moose inside this campground. Only stayed for a night but it sure was beautiful!"
Lakeside activities: Plan water activities at Jenny Lake where campground proximity allows for early morning access before day-visitor crowds. "You are a 30 second to two minute walk from Jenny Lake with fishing, hiking trails, or a boat ride," explains a camper, highlighting the operational advantage of overnight stays.
What campers like
Thermal pool access: Fireside Resort at Jackson Hole provides unique amenities uncommon at other area campgrounds. "The Virginian Lodge right next door has a very nice inner corridor with a new pool, 2 hot tubs and plenty of seating areas with fire pits and string lights. It is available for campground guests and open 10-10," notes a visitor who appreciated the heated pool and large hot tubs.
Privacy levels: The Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping area offers varying degrees of isolation based on how far you drive. "Some sites like mine are tucked more into the forest. I had a beautiful view of a small valley below me. Other sites are more open on top of the grassier part of the canyon with a broader view," explains a camper who appreciated the seclusion options.
Bear safety features: Most established campgrounds and some dispersed sites provide secure food storage. "The sites are well maintained and include a bear box," notes a Curtis Canyon camper, while another at Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping mentioned, "It also had a metal ring fire pit and bear box at every site!"
What you should know
Site availability patterns: Arriving early is essential at popular locations. For Upper Teton View Dispersed, "We arrived around 12pm and had our pick of spots. It does fill up so get there early," advises a camper, while another notes, "If you have a larger rig, I suggest arriving around early to mid-day to make sure you get a spot."
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough terrain. At Curtis Canyon, "The final ascent to the campground was switchbacks and a little uncomfortable for a 12 passenger van. The roads were dry and we made it with no issues." A different camper adds, "I made it up in my Prius including in the rain but I had to drive slow."
Seasonal considerations: Not all sites open simultaneously in spring. "Most of this area is not open in early May, and the part of it that is open is packed with people. Wouldn't recommend in spring," warns an Upper Teton View visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible biking routes: Choose campgrounds with beginner-friendly trails. Mike Harris Campground connects to trails suitable for younger riders. "Rush Hour and Nemo are the best kids rides in the area besides Grand Targhee," notes a local camper familiar with family-friendly options.
Wildlife education opportunities: Jenny Lake Campground provides natural wildlife viewing without driving. "There is wildlife in the area, moose, bears, elk, deer. If you love the outdoors you will love Jenny Lake Campground," shares a visitor who found the proximity to animals educational for family members.
Noise considerations: Traffic sound varies significantly between sites. At Phillips Bench Trailhead, "The creek water sound is nice but the highway noise is loud so be aware, although the noise almost stops completely by 9/10pm," notes a camper, important for families with early bedtimes.
Tips from RVers
RV size limitations: While many sites accommodate RVs, accessibility varies. "We were in site 12 and it could fit up to a 30' trailer I'd guess," notes a Mike Harris camper. At Upper Teton View, "Road up is a little rough but made it fine towing our 38ft 5th wheel," shares another.
Hookup availability: Full-service options are limited near Wilson. Fireside Resort offers the most amenities, as a camper notes: "We were in an RV, the spots were level and roomy. Great to have full hookups! Super close to the park and Jackson without the insane prices."
Road warnings: Some access routes prohibit RVs entirely. "Word of advice if you are in an RV, don't make a right out of the park, the road into Tetons is closed to all RVs," warns a Fireside Resort visitor about the Moose-Wilson Road restrictions that affect route planning.
