Dispersed camping spots near Alta, Wyoming sit along the western side of the Tetons at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 8,500 feet. Summer nighttime temperatures frequently drop into the 40s Fahrenheit even in July, requiring adequate insulation and cold-weather gear regardless of season. Most dispersed areas lack formal facilities, with visitors relying on established fire rings and occasional vault toilets.
What to do
Teton River activities: Access the Teton River for paddling and fishing at Big Eddy/Rainey Campground, located 25 minutes west of Alta. "Great spot if you have a boat or kayak. Only 15 minutes to Driggs to stock up on supplies," notes camper Abby M. The area offers "Supreme floating opportunities as well as drift boats. It is a launch site as well as a take out."
Mountain biking trails: Find excellent mountain biking options near Mike Harris Campground on the Idaho side. "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," explains Fletcher W. The campground is just 20 minutes from Alta, making it convenient for day trips.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer optimal wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the area. "Likely to see moose, sand hill cranes, ducks, geese, owls and other wildlife" at Big Eddy/Rainey according to Katherine B. Early arrivals at Upper Teton View may spot elk, deer, and occasional bears at dawn.
What campers like
Off-the-beaten-path solitude: USFS Teton Canyon Campground receives praise for its peaceful atmosphere away from crowded park areas. "A wonderful and small camp ground... Get the back loop in the woods, away from the Dusty road," suggests Matthew L. With only 19 sites, campers find more space than in larger campgrounds.
Unobstructed mountain views: Upper Teton View dispersed camping offers panoramic vistas across the valley. "Incredible site with insane views of the Tetons. You are pretty close to neighbors, but the views makes it all worth it," reports Ryan L. Sites at higher elevations provide the most dramatic scenery, especially at sunrise.
Mountain access: The location gives campers easy routes to multiple mountain areas without park crowds. "We were able to grab a Mountain View in open air. We passed a couple of other spots that had lots of shade as well and a little more privacy," notes Avery O. about Shadow Mountain. Most dispersed sites feature rustic conditions with basic amenities.
What you should know
Early arrival necessity: Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping fills quickly during peak season. "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," shares Ryan L. During July and August, aim to arrive before noon to secure a site.
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require careful driving on unpaved roads. "We were in my Honda CR-V and it did fine, but if you're not careful, you could easily do some damage," warns Dave E. about Shadow Mountain. At Upper Teton View, "Road up is a little rough but made it fine towing our 38ft 5th wheel."
Bears and food storage: Proper food storage remains mandatory throughout the region. "There were sites that had bear boxes at every site," notes Avery O. When camping at sites without bear boxes, all food must be stored in vehicles or bear-resistant containers. Rangers actively enforce these requirements.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly established sites: Families with young children often prefer Jenny Lake Campground for its amenities and location. "Nice sites, and not as busy since they don't have as many 'amenities'... Flush toilets, tables, fire pits, wildlife right outside your tents amazing views should be more than enough amenities," notes Elliott B. The campground provides easier access for children.
Kid-specific activities: Several areas offer child-friendly recreation options. "Site 7 tent pad is more tucked away and has bigger space. Close to restrooms and trails," recommends Raina S. about Jenny Lake Campground. Mike Harris Campground provides easy trail access for families with "plenty of shaded areas" according to Curtis H.
Safety considerations: When camping with children, choose sites with more facilities. "This is a bear food storage enforced area and any bear attractants are required to be stored properly," warns a camper at Teton Canyon. Families should also prepare for significant temperature fluctuations, as evening temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers at Gros Ventre Campground recommend specific approaches. "Site sizes are fantastic," notes Tammy L., who spent a week there. "Large open campground...Some sites have great partial views of Tetons," adds Andrea P. Arrive early in the day to secure sites that accommodate larger rigs.
Generator usage: Regulations vary significantly between locations. "Generators are not allowed in the tent-only section," reports a camper at Gros Ventre. Many dispersed camping areas restrict generator usage during evening hours, while established campgrounds have designated generator-free zones.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain throughout the region. "Most sites are pretty uneven so bring blocks. I had to get pretty creative in our super C," warns Chris A. about Colter Bay RV Park. Upper Teton View offers more level areas for larger rigs but requires careful positioning to maintain views.
