Dispersed camping near Felt, Idaho provides access to both high-elevation mountain sites and backcountry opportunities in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and Grand Teton National Park. The region sits at elevations between 6,000-7,500 feet, creating temperature variations of 30-40°F between day and night even in summer months. Most dispersed sites require vehicles with moderate clearance due to rutted forest roads that can become impassable after rain.
What to do
Hiking access: Pine Creek Pass serves as a trailhead for several backcountry routes. As one visitor noted, "Follow Route 31 to Pine Creek Pass. There is a large turn off... we made it to the top without incident. There's a wide level space here with a fire pit. Room for several vehicles."
Wildlife viewing: Jenny Lake Campground offers opportunities to spot various animals. A camper described their experience: "You absolutely need to camp at Jenny Lake once in your life... being lakeside at the base of the Grand Teton is nothing short of spectacular. There is wildlife in the area, moose, bears, elk, deer."
Boat rentals: The Colter Bay area provides water recreation options on Jackson Lake. "Amazing lake right off the campground where you can swim and rent boats. Awesome spot," according to one visitor who stayed at Colter Bay.
Backcountry permits: For experienced hikers seeking solitude, Death Canyon Camping Zone requires advance planning. A reviewer shared: "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."
What campers like
Mountain panoramas: The best tent camping near Felt, Idaho often features dramatic views. At Pine Creek Pass, a camper observed, "I've stayed here three times and almost always because I'm cutting a day short and I know this place is nice... Views of the three Tetons, Palisades, and Baldy plus sunsets and sunrises."
Secluded spots: Trapper Lake Backcountry Camping provides isolation for those willing to hike. "Need a backpack permit and reservation. It's a little over 4 miles to get to. Not a ton of foot traffic makes it that far so it's pretty quiet. Great view of Mt Moran," reported one visitor.
Early-morning wildlife: Dawn offers prime animal sightings at many Teton Valley camping areas. One camper at Antelope Springs Designated Dispersed Camping shared: "We just happened to get lucky on a Saturday morning to find this spot open. Absolutely beautiful!"
Ranger-led programs: Jenny Lake Campground provides educational opportunities through park programs. A visitor mentioned, "The camp host was friendly and the sites were clean. You are a 30 second to two minute walk from Jenny Lake with fishing, hiking trails, or a boat ride."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads to dispersed sites can be challenging. One camper warned about Pine Creek Pass: "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."
Site competition: During peak season (June-August), arrive early for best spots. A visitor at Squirrel Meadows Cabin advised: "Squirrel Meadows Cabin in WY is a lot of fun, and great for a family. The cabin is pretty awesome, although there is no electricity- but that didn't really bother my family and I."
Bear safety: All camping in the region requires proper food storage. A backcountry camper noted: "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."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. A tent camper shared: "Although it rained for two days at the Grand Tetons, camp was amazing! Big spots, lots of trees for shade (if it's not raining) fire pits and much more."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: For families wanting basic shelter with outdoor access, rental cabins offer compromise. "The cabin does fit 6, although we had 5 people in our group and that seemed like plenty. We did a lot of outdoor activities like hiking, biking and also picked some really good berries."
Developed sites: Colter Bay Tent Village provides more amenities for families with younger children. A visitor reported: "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."
Elevation awareness: Children may need time to adjust to higher elevations. One parent advised: "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."
Food preparation: Plan simple meals that can be cooked over fire or portable stove. A family camper recommended: "The cabin does provide bunk beds- not the most comfortable so I would suggest bringing some type of air mattress or camping pad to put down on the bed."
Tips from RVers
Alternative spots: When primary sites fill, explore backup options. One RVer shared: "This is one of the few parks in the area you can get into with short notice."
Site selection: For RVs, look for level spots away from dense trees. A reviewer noted: "Sites are FHU and level with gravel pads. This is one of the few parks in the area you can get into with short notice."
Reservation systems: Understand how each campground handles check-in. "Made reservations by phone and instructions were to enter campground and pick a site, then come to office, which is in the lodge to register."
