The Teton Valley region near Felt, Idaho provides an elevation range from 6,100 to 8,500 feet, creating distinct temperature zones and variable road conditions across different seasons. Late spring brings wildflower blooms across the valley floor while summer temperatures average 75°F during day and drop to 45°F at night. Fall brings aspens turning gold along mountain slopes with visibility extending 50+ miles on clear days.
What to do
Kayaking on Teton River: Access the water at Big Eddy Dispersed Camping, a popular put-in location for paddlers. "Great hiking, kayak on the Teton River! The Big Eddy campgrounds are spacious and well kept. Mostly quiet with a bit of fishing traffic but everyone is respectful," notes Michele at Big Eddy/Rainey Campground.
Table Mountain hiking: The 12-mile round trip from Teton Canyon climbs 4,000 feet with stunning views across Idaho and Wyoming. "There's several camping spots to choose with different coverages--trees, partial, full sun, etc. North Fork Teton Creek runs just east and is a nice little stream. There's a few trailheads to hike also," reports Andy O. from USFS Teton Canyon Campground.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk offer best wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for moose and sandhill cranes. Katherine B. notes, "Very likely to see moose, sand hill cranes, ducks, geese, owls and other wildlife. Fishing isn't bad, but some of those big ones are pretty smart. I've seen hundreds of them in the river when it's clear."
What campers like
Back-side views of Tetons: The western aspect provides unique mountain perspectives different from Jackson Hole. "Followed the directions on a review as Google was taking us the wrong way, so be aware of this. We parked at sunset and saw the sky turn all beautiful colors around the tetons, listening to the river babble, while the coyotes howled to each other," explains Dolly L. from Big Eddy Dispersed Camping.
Off-grid feel with amenities: Many sites balance remoteness with basic facilities. Abby M. reports, "There are a couple spots that have fire rings and picnic tables but anywhere that allows driving is fair game. There were two clean valult toilets and a host that would drive around every morning to make sure you don't stay longer than the 10 day limit."
Quieter alternatives to Jackson: The Idaho side provides similar views with fewer crowds. "A wonderful and small camp ground. The restrooms are a bit rough, but worth it for the hiking. Get the back loop in the woods, away from the Dusty road," suggests Matthew L. from USFS Teton Canyon Campground.
What you should know
GPS misdirection: Navigation apps frequently provide incorrect routes to dispersed camping areas. "If you were coming from Driggs, do not follow Google map instructions. Continue down the road until you hit 6000 and turn right. If you follow the Google map to turn on the first road, it is extremely rutted and unless you have a very high clearance, likely will damage something," warns Abby M.
Extreme weather shifts: Summer days can reach 85°F while nights drop below 45°F, requiring layered clothing. "We visited Jenny Lake, August 2014 and absolutely loved it. It is a perfect location to get away from RVs and Trailers. They offer a wide variety of campsites, some being open and some in the woods," reports David B. from Jenny Lake Campground.
Limited drinking water: Many dispersed sites lack potable water sources. "Dispersed campgrounds near the river. It seems that is managed during the summer season, but there was no one to check anything in May and plenty of places with fire pits. The road to access is okay from the north, but coming from the south is difficult if you use Google Maps," notes Mathilde A.
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety education: Make food storage practices a learning opportunity for children. "You absolutely need to camp at Jenny Lake once in your life. Yes it's tent only so you will be 'roughing it'. But the being lakeside at the base of the Grand Teton is nothing short of spectacular. There is wildlife in the area, moose, bears, elk, deer," advises Shane P. from Jenny Lake Campground.
Activity planning: Schedule more strenuous activities for morning hours before afternoon thunderstorms. "Outstanding little USFS campground with convenient trail access for Jedediah Smith Wilderness, Alaska Basin, and Grand Teton National Park. Vault Toilets are recently updated, the water is cold and clear, the creek is beautiful," reports Greg N.
Tent selection: Sites 7, 8, and 11 at Jenny Lake offer different configurations for family camping. Raina S. details: "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."
Tips from RVers
High clearance access: Dispersed areas often require 4WD or high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. "We took 5000w instead of 6000w and was in for the ride of my life. The roads were a mangled mess and I thought we were going to get stuck or badly damage our Rav4. Once you get here - it's very nice. Lots of places to park," warns Ryan C. from Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping.
Hookup logistics: RV sites with utilities typically require advance reservations. "This campground was a good base to see the Tetons. The sites are close. Sites have concrete pads that the hook ups are on, making it challenging to get a good flow for sewer," notes Chris L. from Teton Peaks Lodge & RV Park.
Off-season considerations: Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but require self-sufficiency. "It is close to Driggs Idaho and roads are easily accessible for any size rig. Boondocking area is relatively level. There are two bathrooms that were kept very clean. No water nor trash receptacles," reports Timothy.
