Dispersed camping near Afton, Wyoming offers primitive sites within Bridger-Teton National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,900 to 7,500 feet. The area receives approximately 20 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush riverside vegetation along Grey's River and Salt River watersheds. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, limiting year-round accessibility to most sites.
What to do
Fly fishing access: The Palisades Reservoir Dispersed Camping area provides direct access to both reservoir and river fishing. "I camped here during a Snake River float trip. Easy to get to launch quickly and close proximity to Alpine WY where you can pick up supplies," notes one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Take binoculars for wildlife spotting at Dispersed camping along Cliff Creek where multiple campers report seeing diverse species. "Wildlife viewing (moose, deer, elk, whooping cranes, etc), bring your binoculars!" recommends a visitor who spent seven days at the location.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies provide excellent night viewing opportunities. "Amazing stars at night," reports a camper at Cliff Creek, while another adds, "I'd almost drive there again from St Louis just to lay under those stars in that picturesque valley."
What campers like
Brewery access: Campers at Reservoir Disperse Camping near Melvin Brewing appreciate the convenience of nearby food and drink. "Right next to a dog friendly brewery that made for a good meal and lovely to watch the sunset! We could kayak right off from our spot," shares one reviewer. Another adds, "Our first time boondocking in a camper van and we may be spoiled for life! Had a spot right on the water, with a brewery 100 yards away."
Water proximity: Many sites offer direct water access. "We easily found a spot right next to the water! It was quiet and peaceful," notes a camper at Reservoir Disperse Camping. At Diamond Creek Guard Station, visitors enjoy the stream setting: "You can relax by the fire pit or read a book on one of the two picnic tables provided."
Privacy between sites: Most dispersed areas provide adequate separation between campers. "Wonderfully peaceful, all sites right next to the creek, plenty of options and pretty well spaced out from each other," notes a visitor to Cliff Creek.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation. At Salt River Pass, a visitor warns: "The road is a bit rough and you definitely need a high clearance vehicle to drive through." Another adds, "In my equinox I had to drive half on the edge of the road because the dirt road into the area where other tires go was so deep."
Water level changes: Reservoir camping requires attention to fluctuating water levels. "Main issue—can't really tell how far the reservoir tide will come up. We set our chairs up by a fire pit before dinner and came back to them in a few inches of water," reports a camper at Reservoir Disperse Camping.
Limited services: Most sites lack basic amenities. "Make sure to bring your own water," advises a visitor to Diamond Creek Guard Station, while a Palisades Reservoir camper notes: "There are no amenities at the campground. It is just across the Idaho/Wyoming boarder and on the banks of the Palisades Reservoir. There are trees along the banks. Only fire pits available. No tables, bathrooms, nothing."
Tips for camping with families
Guard station option: For colder weather with children, consider the rental cabin at Diamond Creek. "The guard station can be rented cheaply through Recreation.gov and it was worth every penny! With a wood-burning stove, we stayed nice and toasty," shares one family. Another adds, "There is a spot to hang your hammock."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential livestock encounters at dispersed sites. At Lynx Creek, campers report enjoying the sounds of "the creek gushing with water," while at another site a camper mentions, "This is open range so be aware that there are cattle grazing. Plus, it is of course bear country...so know how to stay safe!"
Accessibility timing: Mountain weather affects access with families. "We drove in from Jackson Hole at about 5pm, and immediately found multiple spots that were right on the water with nice fire pits," reports a Cliff Creek visitor, who also warns, "It did get down to 15 degrees Fahrenheit over night, so pack warm."
Tips from RVers
Trailer-friendly spots: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles despite being dispersed. "Decent road, including wide enough to pull our Basecamp trailer," notes a Cliff Creek visitor. Another adds that they found "Great serene views of the mountain range with a nice river running nearby."
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven ground at most sites. "Mostly level, dirt surface. Easy access from forest road," reports a camper at Grey's River, adding that "Area can get muddy after rain."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely across the region. A Cliff Creek camper notes, "The down side is zero cell service here. You will have to drive into Jackson to get service," while at Reservoir Dispersed Camping, a visitor reports "Verizon 5g 3 bars."
