Best Tent Camping near Macks Inn, ID
Dispersed tent camping opportunities abound in the areas surrounding Macks Inn, Idaho, with several primitive sites located within 30 minutes of the West Yellowstone entrance. Targhee Creek offers walk-in tent sites within Targhee National Forest, featuring established fire rings and scenic mountain views. Bootjack Dispersed Camping provides additional tent camping options with grassy sites suitable for smaller setups, located approximately 25 minutes from West Yellowstone along Highway 20.
Sites may be set on dirt, gravel, or grassy meadows with minimal grading throughout the area. Most primitive tent campgrounds feature rough access roads that can be challenging for low-clearance vehicles, particularly at Targhee Creek where campers report "the road is a bit rough, but a few sites available for dispersed camping." Many tent sites include established fire pits but lack amenities like drinking water, picnic tables or toilets. The 14-day stay limit appears common but is not strictly enforced at all locations. Cell service is generally available at most tent campsites, with several campers reporting good Verizon coverage at Targhee Creek and Bootjack areas.
Areas farther from the main roads offer deeper seclusion and less traffic noise for tent campers. Targhee Creek provides access to a 13-mile trail and features sites along a beautiful creek that tent campers particularly appreciate. Early arrivals have better chances of securing prime tent sites, as one camper noted: "Most cleared spots filled with other campers as we drove in." Wildlife sightings are common, with reports of moose, elk and bears near tent camping areas. Campers frequently mention the scenic mountain views as a highlight, especially at sunset. The best tent sites balance accessibility with privacy, with the most secluded spots typically requiring slightly more difficult access but rewarding tent campers with quieter surroundings.
