Tent camping near Driggs, Idaho provides access to both Caribou-Targhee National Forest and Grand Teton National Park, with elevations ranging from 6,100 feet in town to over 10,000 feet at nearby peaks. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-80°F, with significant cooling at night even during July and August. Most dispersed camping areas remain snow-covered until late May, with higher elevation sites often inaccessible until mid-June.
What to do
Mountain biking on Teton Valley trails: From Pine Creek Pass Dispersed Camping, riders can access numerous forest service trails. "I've seen atv and horses on the road as well. Along the road you'll find spots to park and camp. I only remember a handful of spots for a camper van," notes Jamie C.
Waterfall exploration: Phillips Bench Trailhead offers easy access to scenic water features. "Pull off on RIGHT small area with a beautiful waterfall fed pond! Right next to highway, but not a lot of traffic or road noise, could change seasonally," shares camper Lori F.
Hiking to alpine lakes: The Death Canyon Camping Zone provides backcountry access to pristine alpine lakes. "A beautiful 8 mile hike up the mountain finished with secluded sites with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. Lots of wildlife, a bear cannister is required and provided at the parks Visitors Center when receiving your backcountry permit," explains Allyse.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wake up early for the best wildlife sightings. "There is wildlife in the area, moose, bears, elk, deer. If you love the outdoors you will love Jenny Lake Campground," reports Shane P.
What campers like
Unobstructed Teton views: Antelope Springs Designated Dispersed Camping Sites provide panoramic mountain scenery. "We just happened to get lucky on a Saturday morning to find this spot open. Absolutely beautiful!" shares Abbi M. about Site #5.
Secluded camping spots: The Open Canyon area in Grand Teton National Park offers true backcountry solitude. "Roughly 3/4 up the Open Canyon trail the trees open up to a good spot to grab water. Just further up the trail this camp site was a 50-75ft hike down to this great open spot for setting up your tent," explains James R.
Clean facilities at developed sites: Colter Bay Tent Village maintains well-kept restrooms and common areas. "They had a great general store with decent prices for being the only store around. And a really nice buffet restaurant with some really amazing servers," notes Heather H.
Easy lake access: Many campgrounds provide quick walking paths to water. "The best part about this campground is the short trail to Jackson Lake. We watched the sunset both nights and it was magical!" shares Melanie S. about Colter Bay.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bears are active throughout the region. "The area is in bear country and we did see a bear. And there were obvious signs that the bares were in the ariea alot. When we saw the dear was near us there was also 3 rangers following it keeping the campers safe," reports Heather H. from Colter Bay Tent Village.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "The afternoon rain does create mud throughout your campsite and the bottom of your tent will be wet and muddy. The wind also picks up the dry dirt and makes the inside of your tent quite sandy even with the rain fly on," warns Brooklyn O.
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. "To get into the dispersed camping you'll see the driveway in the corner. Take that. It will take you to a long, narrow bumpy road. Beep the horn around corners as some of the road is on a cliff," advises Jamie C.
Arrival timing matters: Sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We arrived on a Thursday night around 5pm and got the last spot. The road is bumpy, but it was doable in our car," shares Taylor S.
Tips for camping with families
Choose tent-only campgrounds for quieter stays: Families benefit from reduced generator noise. "Nice sites, and not as busy since they don't have as many 'amenities'... I mean you are camping right? Flush toilets, tables, fire pits, wildlife right outside your tents amazing views should be more than enough amenities," notes Elliott B. from Jenny Lake Campground.
Visit String Lake for kid-friendly water access: This shallow lake offers warmer temperatures than deeper lakes. "This area had all the things we needed. I recommend north Jenny lake - beware though, Jenny lake gets crazy busy so perhaps try one of the other lakes. We went to String Lake for lunch and it was lovely," suggests Suzy H.
Pack insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be intense near lakes and streams in June and July. "The wind also picks up the dry dirt and makes the inside of your tent quite sandy even with the rain fly on," notes Brooklyn O. about the elements to prepare for.
Research site-specific features: Some campsites offer better privacy and space. "Site 7 tent pad is more tucked away and has bigger space. Close to restrooms and trails. Site 8 has space, close to restroom, and trails. Site 11 not much space, and tent pad closer to where the car is parked," details Raina S.
Tips from RVers
Stay at Colter Bay for amenities: This campground offers more services than most in the area. "Great access to the park and trails along the lake," notes Miranda M. about Colter Bay Tent Village.
Plan for parallel parking at sites: Site design affects setup. "You pull your trailer, motor home, parallel to the camp site. Know National Park rules, this is not forest service land and the rangers will enforce their rules and regulations accordingly," advises Jay B.
Arrive early for first-come sites: Competition for spots is fierce in summer. "Colter bay....where to relax after Yellowstone and much more accessible. Colter bay has 200-300 camp sites nestled in under the trees. It's crowed but workable. First come first serve. Get there in the AM and getting a spot is easy. Do not wait till 4pm," recommends Jay B.
Consider Thaidaho Victor for cabin alternative: When tent camping near Driggs isn't ideal due to weather. "Thaidaho Victor is a great spot for those looking to enjoy the Tetons and the surrounding area around Jackson Hole, with a small cabin and amenities, you can stay comfortable while surrounded by mountains," suggests Jake C. from Thaidaho Victor.
