Big Eddy/Rainey Campground provides free dispersed camping on public land approximately 15 miles from Felt, Idaho. The open, grassy campground sits at approximately 6,200 feet elevation along the Teton River's western bank. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are significant, with summer days averaging 75-85°F but nights cooling to 45-55°F even in July. The campground operates under a 10-day maximum stay limit enforced by local management.
What to do
Kayaking on Teton River: Access the river directly from the campground area for paddling adventures. The calm current makes it ideal for beginners and families. "The Big Eddy campgrounds are spacious and well kept. Mostly quiet with a bit of fishing traffic but everyone is respectful. I would definitely camp here again. Great hiking, kayak on the Teton River!" notes a visitor at Big Eddy/Rainey Campground.
Hiking trails: Explore nearby trails in Targhee National Forest, many offering western views of the Teton Range. "Teton Canyon was an amazing getaway! Travel up to the camp ground by truck or 4 wheel drive. The hikes are breathtaking! We even came across an old avalanche. Super relaxing place," shares a reviewer from USFS Teton Canyon Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Plenty of hiking options from the campground. Pit toilets not the greatest. Plenty of sites able to reserve and walk in first come/serve," reports a camper about the quiet Teton Canyon area where wildlife sightings are common.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The area's limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "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. There were other people there but most were very respectful," writes a visitor to Big Eddy Dispersed Camping.
Peaceful camping atmosphere: The location offers a quieter alternative to more crowded national park campgrounds. "We arrived on a Sunday evening and there were still plenty of areas to call home. During my seven nights, it was a great stay! Only a few people stayed the entire time I was there and many of them were just one night campers," explains a camper from Big Eddy/Rainey Campground.
River access: Direct river access for fishing, swimming, and water activities ranks high with visitors. "It is a launch site as well as a take out. Looks like great flyfishing if you can find a spot," notes a camper from Jenny Lake Campground, comparing it to other fishing spots in the region.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging without proper directions. "If 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 a visitor about local road conditions.
Limited facilities: While vault toilets are available, no potable water or trash service exists. "There are two bathrooms that were kept very clean. No water nor trash receptacles. There is a boat put/take out that stays busy thru the day," reports a camper from Teton Peaks Resort.
Seasonal crowds: The area becomes busy during summer weekends and holidays. "This is a loop that is next to the Teton River. If crowded there would maybe be 20 campers, but there are not any designated spots. There are a few fire rings scattered about- the stone kind," observes a camper about the spacing and availability during peak times.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly activities: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Felt allow pets with varying restrictions. "Almost every camper that came through here had a dog and I believe most of them were off leash and well behaved but if you are not a dog person or do not have a dog that enjoys other dogs, I would rethink before coming here because it is very likely dogs will be running around off leash," notes a Big Eddy/Rainey visitor about the pet-friendly atmosphere.
Evening temperatures: Pack extra layers even in summer as nighttime temperatures drop significantly. "We were thankful for the space heater that was in there (Stayed here May 17/2025) it got down to just above freezing that night. It was SO COZY though!! There were lots of blankets," shares a visitor from Teton Peaks Resort about temperature management.
Bug protection: River proximity means mosquitoes and flies are common, especially at dusk. "There were swarms of bugs since it is on the river but it works for a quick stay," warns a camper from Gros Ventre Campground about similar insect conditions along waterways in the region.
Tips from RVers
Level parking areas: Most areas of Big Eddy provide flat ground suitable for any size RV. "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. There is room for 15-20 rigs of any size," confirms a visitor to Big Eddy/Rainey Campground.
Alternative RV options: For those wanting hookups, nearby resorts offer full services. "Clean with nice office staff. However, this is a lot with a variety of guests…tricks, workers, short term and long term. 1 bathroom toilet! Let's call it a reasonable place to shut down for 1 night!" explains a visitor describing nearby Teton Peaks Resort's facilities.
Daytime traffic: Be aware that the boat launch area creates regular traffic flow. "We were here for six nights, quiet at night and other than the boat activity during the day, camping area is quiet during the day," notes an RVer describing the typical daily pattern at Big Eddy/Rainey.
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