Roughly three-quarters up the Open Canyon trail in Grand Teton National Park, a hike-in dispersed site sits 50 to 75 feet off the path in an open clearing among the trees. Water access is available just before the campsite where the forest opens up along the trail. No pets are permitted, reservations are available, and nightly fees run $35 to $45. This site makes sense for backpackers comfortable with a sustained uphill approach and self-supported camping in a backcountry setting. Nearby options include Phelps Lake — Grand Teton National Park and Death Canyon Camping Zone — Grand Teton National Park for those exploring the southern end of the park.
Description
While visiting the backcountry is a great way to experience Grand Teton National Park, a trip into the backcountry requires advance planning. Download the backcountry trip planner for more details: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/upload/grte_backcountry.pdf
All backcountry camping requires a permit. Backcountry camping permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis no more than one day before the start of your trip. Visit the backcountry reservations page to learn more about the reservation process and submit a reservation. Apply for a permit at the Colter Bay Visitor Center, the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, or the Jenny Lake Ranger Station. Climbing permits are NOT required, but backcountry camping permits are required for all climbing that involves overnight camping. Backcountry camping permits while climbing or mountaineering must be obtained at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station during the summer.
When planning a backcountry camping trip in Grand Teton National Park, backpackers should expect to travel no more than 2 miles per hour (3.2 km per hour). Add an additional hour for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Trip planning that requires going over more than one pass in a day is not recommended.
Park-approved bear canisters must be used in the backcountry. The park provides canisters free of charge for use in the park.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsOpen Canyon is located in Wyoming near Teton Village
Dispersed CampingCoordinates
43.63655949793099 N
110.83844580740379 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Open Canyon — Grand Teton National Park needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 56 min from Idaho Falls, ID
- 2 hrs 40 min from Pocatello, ID
- 3 hrs 40 min from Logan, UT
- 4 hrs 9 min from Bozeman, MT
