Tent campsites near Alpine, Wyoming border three distinct ecosystems: sagebrush plains, alpine forests, and river valleys. Most sites sit between 6,000-8,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature drops after sunset even in summer months. Primitive campsites in this region typically lack maintained access roads, requiring high-clearance vehicles for reliable entry.
What to do
Fishing access nearby: The free dispersed sites at Curtis Canyon provide convenient access to fishing opportunities. According to one camper, you can "Walk down to the creek for some fishing" though they note "Bear sign visible" in the area, suggesting proper precautions are necessary.
Trail exploration: Phillips Bench Trailhead offers immediate hiking opportunities from its small parking area. A visitor described it as "Just a dirt circle with room for a few cars, vans etc. No actual designated spots. Just for sleeping mostly," making it ideal for hikers wanting an early start.
Wildlife viewing: Targhee National Forest Trail Creek Campground provides opportunities for wildlife observation. One camper noted it's "Very close to a fun fishing pond" and not far from Victor, Idaho, which has "some amazing hole in the wall food options."
What campers like
Mountain panoramas: Several sites deliver exceptional mountain views. At Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping, a visitor reported, "Up on the ridgeline, you can see the whole Teton range, and Curtis Canyon behind you!" noting specific fire pit locations for optimal viewing.
Water features: Tincup Campground attracts campers seeking solitude near water. A camper noted, "I like it there's no amenities or anything it's been pretty empty here except for Labor Day weekend so very quiet," highlighting its off-peak tranquility.
Low crowds: Small, unmarked camping areas often provide more seclusion. At Phillips Bench Trailhead, a camper discovered, "Steep 3 miles up highway outside Jackson. Pull off on RIGHT small area with a beautiful waterfall fed pond! Right next to highway, but not a lot of traffic or road noise."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer storms develop quickly in the mountains. A visitor to Curtis Canyon shared that flies can be problematic in warm weather: "Never in my LIFE have I been swarmed by this many flies and horse flies...Truly could not make it out of my tent and car. SWARMS."
Site availability patterns: Competition for limited sites follows predictable patterns. One Curtis Canyon camper recorded precise timing: "Date 7/1/2025 Tuesday, Arrival time:4:45P, Sites available 3/10, Camp full by 5:30P."
Bear safety requirements: All camping areas near Alpine require proper food storage. At Jenny Lake Campground, a reviewer observed the tent sites include "bear-safe food storage containers, picnic tables, and access to flush toilets."
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival essential: Many tent sites fill rapidly during peak season. At Jenny Lake, a visitor advised, "It's worth the early wake up to get in here. It's worse on the weekends but the views make up for it."
Campsite selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific amenities needed. One Jenny Lake camper provided detailed site comparisons: "Site 7 tent pad is more tucked away and has bigger space...Site 8 has space, close to restroom, and trails...Site 11 not much space, and tent pad closer to where the car is parked."
Toilet availability: Most dispersed sites lack bathroom facilities. A camper at Curtis Canyon noted the free dispersed sites come with "a fire pit and ample room for tents or trailers" but no toilets, while adding that "The park ranger on site was very helpful and alerted us when there were bears in the area."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance limitations: Many roads to prime tent sites have challenging conditions. One Curtis Canyon visitor warned, "There are only 16 spots at this site. Several of them are only accessible if you have a 4WD with high clearance...Maybe a jeep or taco could get up there."
Alternative parking options: Several tent campsites offer variable parking arrangements. At Curtis Canyon, a camper observed a "community spot on the left which I camped at a few years ago with other campers. Seems like about at least a half a dozen regular size vehicles would fit."
Seasonal road access: High elevation tent campsites have limited seasons. According to a camper at Cliff Creek Road, "The panoramas were stunning" but access depends on seasonal road conditions, with some areas requiring 4WD vehicles depending on recent precipitation.
