Best Equestrian Camping near Island Park, ID

Sheffield Campground in Wyoming offers designated horse corrals for equestrian campers visiting the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway area. The established campground accommodates both tent and RV camping while providing essential amenities for horses. Facilities include picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and access to nearby trails suitable for horseback riding. The campground allows pets and permits campfires, with firewood available on site. Sheffield maintains primitive camping conditions with no electric hookups, drinking water, or shower facilities. The dirt roads leading to the campground can become rutted after rain, requiring careful navigation with horse trailers. Sites are not reservable and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, making early arrival advisable during peak summer months.

Located approximately 30 miles south of Yellowstone National Park's southern entrance, Sheffield Campground connects riders to an extensive network of backcountry trails through the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The surrounding area offers diverse terrain suitable for day rides or extended pack trips, with opportunities to encounter wildlife including moose, elk, and numerous bird species. Water access for horses is available at nearby natural sources, though campers should bring their own drinking water. The campground's location at higher elevation means summer temperatures remain moderate, with cool evenings even during July and August. Riders frequently report excellent trail conditions with minimal crowding compared to park trails. Horse owners should note that proper containment of animals is required at all times, and weed-free feed is strongly recommended to protect the natural ecosystem. The campground's proximity to both Grand Teton and Yellowstone provides multiple options for trailer-accessible day rides.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Island Park, Idaho (15)

    1. Yellowstone Park-Mountainside KOA

    20 Reviews
    West Yellowstone, MT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 646-7662

    "Campground is in a great location close to Yellowstone entrance. It’s a big campground and as expected it can be a little cramped."

    "This campground was an excellent place to get away from the crowds and relax after a day in the park."

    2. Bootjack Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Island Park, ID
    4 miles

    "Island Park, ID 44.5781, -111.341

    Dept Fish & Wildlife 

    14 day limit (doesn't seem to be enforced, but seems to be more seasonal campers, not permanent) Grass Spaces for even big rigs."

    "Great location. Close to yellowstone. Cattle range, but quiet. Lots of free spots for big and small rigs."

    3. Big Springs Campground

    3 Reviews
    Macks Inn, ID
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 558-7301

    "We went up with some friends and had gotten 2 sites next to each other. Our site was a good size area, and was next to walking trails, across from the bathroom, and close to the water spigot."

    "After a random restaurant stop, a local recommended we go check out big springs campground, which is the headwaters of the snake river and not too far outside of Yellowstone. I am so glad we did!"

    4. Pony Express Motel & RV Park

    2 Reviews
    West Yellowstone, MT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 646-9411

    "While this is not a typical “campground “ experience, we enjoyed being in town and being able to walk to shops and restaurants. There is a lovely park with lots of green grass to walk your dog."

    6. Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch — John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway

    45 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 543-2861

    $59 - $122 / night

    "HeadWaters Rv campground is located in the perfect place right between Yellowstone and The Tetons. Perfect for exploring both Parks."

    "Great spot on the outskirts of both Grand Teton and Yellowstone Parks. we stayed in a cabin which was very cozy and clean."

    7. Sheffield Campground

    25 Reviews
    John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, WY
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 739-5500

    $13 / night

    "A few have more trees and there are horse corrals and two secluded sites next to them. We stayed in #3, one of the more treed sites with plenty of room for our tent, and loved it!"

    "The camp host was so kind, we stayed in site #11 which is near the creek and by horses the trail riding place occasionally keeps there. My daughter loved petting the horses."

    8. Grassy Lake Rd — John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway

    13 Reviews
    John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, WY
    42 miles
    Website

    "We camped along Grassy Lake Rd on the way to Yellowstone from the Tetons. The first 7-10 sites are developed and have trash/bathrooms at each site. Some have 2-3 sites at each camp."

    "Set back behind the Grand Teton Mountains. Camp sites are primitive, no water, toilets or other amenities. Camped next to Grassy Lake Reservoir, beautiful lake nestled in the mountains."

    9. Taylor Fork Road Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Big Sky, MT
    39 miles

    "There was a small corral for horses and plenty of room for a horse trailer and truck."

    "You cannot hear traffic from the highway which is about 1/3 miles away. There are wooden horse fences and corrals which are for public use."

    10. Mary Mountain Backcountry Patrol Cabin — Yellowstone National Park

    2 Reviews
    Yellowstone National Park, WY
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 344-2160

    "The trail is hard to follow in some areas. Starts out flat then you go up Mary Mountain where the cabin is located. The Mary mountain cabin is small but has enough bedding for up to 5 or 6 people."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Island Park, ID

4 Photos of 15 Island Park Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Island Park, ID

128 Reviews of 15 Island Park Campgrounds


  • Erin H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2022

    Bootjack Dispersed Camping

    Great free spot near West Yellowstone

    Bootjack Dr.

    Island Park, ID

    44.5781, -111.341

    Dept Fish & Wildlife 

    14 day limit (doesn't seem to be enforced, but seems to be more seasonal campers, not permanent) Grass Spaces for even big rigs.

    Verizon 4g/4 bars (no booster)

    ATT 4g/3 bars

    No OTA channels

    Dump & water available at Henry's Lake St. Park

    Amazon Locker in Idaho Falls

    Large parking area as you exit I20 to Red Rock. visible from the hwy. 

    Good place to drop a rig & scout out (highly recommended). 

    Snow plow turnaround at the end of Bootjack Dr, so you can get turned around on that road.

    Coordinates lead to the main area off the left on Bootjack Dr. 

    There are 4 offshoot roads we saw, some going way back, but most people were parked fairly close to the tree line, or just in front of them for solar. 

    Use Google satellite and then scout them out as the roads can get pretty rutted the further in you go.

    This area gets pretty full in season, but we still found a spot pretty easily, and an even better spot down in a meadow by a creek (we needed sun for solar) with the help of a neighbor.

    CAUTION: if you park down by the creek, watch the weather. It can get a bit mushy in spots, and the road in/out can rut out. 

    This is a local ATV & Fishing hole. 

    There will be traffic. Had a few joy riders on a Friday night, but everyone else great.

    If you park by the creek, you will have fisherman coming down to fish. They were fun to talk to, and we never felt unsafe. Just be aware this IS a public area, and the local public uses it regularly. If you don't want people passing through to the creek, the meadow area might not be for you.

    Wild West Pizza, Firehole BBQ,  Old Town Cafe our favorites in W.Yellowstone,

    Cafe Sabor in Island Park.

    Groceries & Supplies are at tourist prices, come stocked if you don't want to pay them.

    We loved this spot. Peaceful, friendly neighbors, cows across the creek on private land, and Moose in the creek 3 days, easy access to Yellowstone,  and free.  Mid 80's high, mid to low 50's at night. We did have rain, and even some pea sized hail, but mostly just gorgeous days & nights. 

    This one is on the 'return to' list.

  • Rod D.
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Sheffield Campground

    My favorite Yellowstone campground

    What a great campground. Primitive, but it does have a pit toilet, picnic tables and bear boxes. Most of the sites are in pretty wide open meadows. A few have more trees and there are horse corrals and two secluded sites next to them. We stayed in #3, one of the more treed sites with plenty of room for our tent, and loved it! The camp hosts were awesome! The place was spotless and they sold firewood for less than anyone else. We were only planning on staying one night, but liked it so much, we stayed 3! The Creek was right behind our site and was fun to check out. A commercial campground is next door that has horse trail rides. Great fishing in the river a short walk from the campground. Location is the gem here, being only 2.5 miles from the south entrance to Yellowstone and 10 miles north of Grand Tetons!  September was a great time to visit. No mosquitoes! It was cold at night (25  degrees) so plan accordingly! With high R-value pads and 0 degree bags we were toasty.

  • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2019

    Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch — John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway

    Peaceful and close to Snake River

    HeadWaters Rv campground is located in the perfect place right between Yellowstone and The Tetons. Perfect for exploring both Parks. The cell service is pretty spotty, but it’s great to just put down your phone and enjoy your surroundings. It is only 5 minutes walk from the campground to Snake River access. Fires are allowed at this campground. There are Rv, tent, and cabins to stay at. The cabins in the camp area are small but have full sized bunk beds and a desk and dresser. These cabins do not have water or electricity, but there are other cabins with power up the road. The tent and Rv spots are on gravel with lots of shade, a picnic table, and fire ring. Rv sites are Electric and water. There are so many activities to do. Along with the activities they have every day there is horse riding, guided fly fishing, hiking trails for everyone, bus tours, jr. rancher classes and so much more Also on site at the campground is a dish washing area next to the clean bathrooms and showers. There is a propane fill, fresh water fill, restaurant, gift shop, ATM machine, gas station, and bear boxes. I would definitely recommend this campground for any duration of trip.

  • Melissa S.
    Jul. 13, 2023

    Sheffield Campground

    Great Stay

    We luckily found this gem of a campsite after looking in Yellowstone all day, we didn’t get here until later in the afternoon so I was very thankful to finally have somewhere to put up the tent. The camp host was so kind, we stayed in site #11 which is near the creek and by horses the trail riding place occasionally keeps there. My daughter loved petting the horses. Perfect spot between both parks, and we went and played in Snake River which the kids also loved. Gas station not far in case you need last minute things. Definitely recommend!

  • Cody K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Taylor Fork Road Dispersed

    Beautiful Site

    We stayed one night on our way back from Yellowstone. My RTT was perfect for this. There was a small corral for horses and plenty of room for a horse trailer and truck.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2023

    Sheffield Campground

    Beautiful and quiet night

    Stayed here to be closer to Yellowstone’s south entrance but avoid the crowds. It’s a beautiful place - pristine single toilet, extremely friendly camp host, horses, nice neighbors and a pretty night sky. We arrived around 1pm on a summer Sunday night and got one of the last two spots in this small campground. About an hour into the heart of the park. Just beware of construction on the road further north (as of July 2023)

  • L
    Jun. 18, 2018

    Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch — John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway

    Perfect Location

    Great spot on the outskirts of both Grand Teton and Yellowstone Parks. we stayed in a cabin which was very cozy and clean. A double bunk beds with a mattress, a desk and chairs and dresser. warm showers and bathrooms within walking distance. A hiking trail that follows snake river is not that far from ranch. Pricing at the grocery store and convenience store a bit high, $16 total for s’mores, so shop before. Activities available for youth and adults.

  • Shani C.
    Jun. 24, 2019

    Big Springs Campground

    The Drive Was Worth It!

    My 1st time camping here was better than I expected. We went up with some friends and had gotten 2 sites next to each other. Our site was a good size area, and was next to walking trails, across from the bathroom, and close to the water spigot. The scenery was beautiful. Surrounding trees, butterflies and one afternoon a deer had came close to our campsite. Our site did not have electric hook ups. It’s a nice campground, clean, and have walking trails that we took and caught beautiful scenery photos. Would return most definitely..No store, no firewood to buy, but close enough to head to town to get supplies.

  • Risen F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2025

    Taylor Fork Road Dispersed

    Stunning cliff views, secluded, and quiet

    This is very remote feeling with no cell reception or views of any paved roads or buildings. You cannot hear traffic from the highway which is about 1/3 miles away.

    There are wooden horse fences and corrals which are for public use. There is a rock fire ring and a very uneven parking spot - bring your levelers!

    The scenery is stunning with easy access to the creek and a huge cliff on the other side. The area is wooded with green grass and wildflowers everywhere.

    We camped in site 1, the first of three on the first loop.

    So far, the only thing we can hear are birds chirping, the flowing creek, and the sounds of our children squealing with delight as they play out in the grassy field. There are the occasional vehicles passing by on the dirt road (other campers, assumably).

    10/10, would stay here again in a heartbeat!


Guide to Island Park

Sheffield Campground lies in the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway area between Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The equestrian-focused site sits at approximately 6,800 feet elevation, resulting in cool nights even during peak summer months. Primitive facilities cater specifically to horse owners with designated corrals and nearby trail access.

What to do

Trail riding from camp: Access extensive backcountry trails directly from Grassy Lake Rd campsites. "Set back behind the Grand Teton Mountains. Camp sites are primitive, no water, toilets or other amenities. Camped next to Grassy Lake Reservoir, beautiful lake nestled in the mountains. Only drawback was the mosquitoes," notes Christopher C.

Fishing access: Several campsites provide direct river access for anglers within a short walk. At Sheffield Campground, "Great fishing in the river a short walk from the campground. Location is the gem here, being only 2.5 miles from the south entrance to Yellowstone and 10 miles north of Grand Tetons!" reports Rod D.

Horse trail excursions: Book guided rides at commercial stables near camping areas. Rod D. observed that "A commercial campground is next door that has horse trail rides" at Sheffield Campground, making it convenient for non-equestrians to experience horseback riding.

What campers like

Secluded campsites: Taylor Fork Road Dispersed offers privacy with spacious sites. "This is very remote feeling with no cell reception or views of any paved roads or buildings. You cannot hear traffic from the highway which is about 1/3 miles away. There are wooden horse fences and corrals which are for public use," notes Risen F.

Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours provide optimal wildlife spotting from camps. At Bootjack Dispersed Camping, Greg R. reports "We had a moose every morning walk thru" - a common wildlife sighting in the area.

Natural water features: Creeks and springs enhance many camping locations. "The site I stayed at had a fire pit with lots of room to setup a tent or camper if you're interested. Lots of distance between each campsite and again, a pretty valley view with a beautiful creek," shares Tristan S. about Taylor Fork Road.

What you should know

Seasonal conditions: Late spring through early fall provides best access for equestrian camping. At Big Springs Campground, the season typically runs "June to September," with Michelle E. noting "The last 7 miles are a well maintained road. The scenery prior to arrive is breath taking."

Bear safety precautions: Food storage containers are mandatory at most sites. "This is bear country, use some form of bear food storage! Was actually asked to leave earlier than anticipated by the rangers because there was excessive bear activity in the area," warns Elliott B. about Sheffield Campground.

Limited facilities: Most equestrian sites provide basic amenities only. Greg R. advises at Bootjack Dispersed Camping: "Plenty of area to buy food. Chevron south 8 miles had the best food store and cheaper that the rest. Diesel went up 30 cents over night. Shell was the cheapest, south 5/6 miles."

Tips for camping with families

Cabin alternatives: For those with young children, consider cabin options rather than tent camping. At Headwaters Campground, Sjana T. found "Cutest little non-electric cabin. Included full size bunk bed, desk. Plenty of space for your things. Bathrooms were clean, showers available, outlets available in bathrooms for blow dryers."

Weather preparation: Pack for cold nights even in summer months. Joshua M. reports from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed: "It did rain the night we were there and we woke up to 34 degrees. That was shockingly cold for us Arizonans in August."

Campground facilities: Look for sites with toilets and water access when traveling with children. "We really enjoyed the location — smack between Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Campground is quiet, beautiful, and with good amenities. Clean bathrooms and showers. Beautiful setting as well," notes Wes L. about Headwaters Campground.

Tips from RVers

Site access limitations: Check weight and size restrictions before attempting entry with large rigs. Blake M. warns about Sheffield Campground: "There is a weight limit of 5 ton to cross the bridge to get in" and mike M. adds "Not Big rig friendly, so walk or first of your going to try anything over 30ft. The small one lane road and one lane bridge are narrow."

Cell service availability: Some areas maintain good connectivity for remote work needs. Erin H. reported at Bootjack Dispersed Camping: "Verizon 4g/4 bars (no booster), ATT 4g/3 bars, No OTA channels."

Leveling requirements: Bring equipment for uneven terrain at dispersed sites. Risen F. advises at Taylor Fork Road: "There is a rock fire ring and a very uneven parking spot - bring your levelers!"

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Island Park, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Island Park, ID is Yellowstone Park-Mountainside KOA with a 4.4-star rating from 20 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Island Park, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Island Park, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.