Tetonia sits along the western slope of the Teton Range at an elevation of 6,100 feet, providing views of the Grand Tetons from the Idaho side. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, with cool nights even during peak season. Many campgrounds remain open from May to October, though higher elevation sites often don't open until mid-June due to snowpack.
What to do
Float the Teton River: Big Eddy/Rainey Campground provides boat launch access for kayaks and canoes. "This is a very popular put in and take out for river trips, so expect traffic during the day - or even at night; full moon floats happen too! Very likely to see moose, sand hill cranes, ducks, geese, owls and other wildlife," notes Katherine B. about Big Eddy/Rainey Campground.
Hike Table Mountain: Access popular trails like Table Mountain from Teton Canyon. "Plenty of hiking options from the campground. Road not terrible to the canyon. Pit toilets not the greatest. Plenty of sites able to reserve and walk in first come/serve," reports Justin S. about USFS Teton Canyon Campground.
Mountain biking: Trails near Mike Harris Campground offer excellent mountain biking. "It offers access to some of the best Mtn Bike Trails in our area. Rush hour, Nemo, and Mail Cabin are all great rides. Rush Hour and Nemo are the best kids rides in the area besides Grand Targhee," says FLETCHER W. about the campground located just 25 minutes from Tetonia.
What campers like
Clear night skies: The Tetonia area provides excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "The night sky was amazing!" shares Ashley A. about Big Eddy Dispersed Camping, noting it's "right next to a river as well" making it ideal for overnight stays.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds report frequent wildlife sightings. "Moose in the campground almost daily. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Open May to October," notes Ted K. about Gros Ventre Campground, which is within an hour's drive from Tetonia.
Access to towns: Many campers appreciate the proximity to small towns for supplies. "Great spot if you have a boat or kayak. Only 15 minutes to Driggs to stock up on supplies. Great AT&T service," writes Abby M. about camping near Tetonia, adding that there are "good restaurants" in the area.
What you should know
Mosquito protection: Bring repellent, especially when camping near water. "There were swarms of bugs since it is on the river but it works for a quick stay," notes haley G. about dispersed camping along the Teton River in summer months.
Google Maps caution: Several campers warn about GPS directions to dispersed sites. "To get here (don't follow google maps): pass the Bates Bridge to your right (if you're coming from town), turn right on 6000 W, then right again on 2000 N. The road is gravel and flatter than the alternative," advises Jamie C.
Full campgrounds: During peak season (July-August), arrive early to secure spots. "We arrived around 2PM on our first day and all sites were full, we came back around 8 the next morning and found one site available for us to take," explains Ryan L. about Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping.
Tips for camping with families
Dog friendly campgrounds near Tetonia: Many families bring pets to Teton Canyon. "Pet friendly campsite and hiking! This is an off the grid campground. No showers or running water. There were some exceptionally clean bathroom outbuildings though," advises Bethany W.
Bear awareness: Teach children proper food storage in bear country. "All Food MUST be stored in a hard-sided camper or the provided Bear Boxes, there are both Grizzly and Black Bears in the area!" warns Ellen W. about camping in the Teton region.
Accessible facilities: Mike Harris Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Very lovely site for Tetons. Lots of sites, plenty of walk-ins, 2024 hosts are AWESOME ♥️ Moose in the campground. A pretty, shady place to stay," reports Lilly E., adding that it has "maybe the cleanest pit toilets ever" and "nice bear boxes."
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Not all dispersed sites accommodate larger rigs. "If you have a low clearance car or something that doesn't have AWD I would not recommend attempting to get to the higher sites but the ones at the entrance would suite you well," advises Tyler M. about certain mountain camping areas.
Hookup options: Teton Peaks Lodge & RV Park provides full services for RVers. "I loved my full hookup spot! My favorite thing about the place was the interactions I had with one of the owners. They have beer and kombucha on tap in the office," shares Amy G., noting the convenience of staying near Tetonia.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "Dump and potable water could use a bit more room to navigate. Love this place and hope to return down the road. No hookups but was worth it to dry camp at this location!" notes Tammy L. about campgrounds in the Teton area.
