Planning a dispersed camping trip near Bridger-Teton National Forest? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Recreation area with activity Dispersed Camping
Seasonal dates are approximate. Contact the Ranger Office for details on closures. Curtis Canyon offers 23 designated dispersed campsites located about 10 miles east of Jackson, Wyoming. This area is managed by Bridger-Teton National Forest https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/btnf/recarea/?recid=71397 and is a popular site for camping near the https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/btnf/recarea/?recid=71647 and https://www.nps.gov/grte/index.htm. Campers should be aware that Curtis Canyon Dispersed Campsites have a https://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/PA_WIDContribution/simplegetfile?dDocName=STELPRDB5444487&url;=/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5444487.pdf May through early-September, campsites are first-come-first-served and do not have developed facilities or potable water (dry/primitive camping). The access road to the camping area is very rough, small high-clearance vehicles with 4x4 recommended.
Upper Teton View Dispersed camping is a fantastic destination for those who enjoy primitive camping and stunning natural scenery. The campsite is located on the east side of the Teton Range in Wyoming, offering a remote and peaceful camping experience with breathtaking views of the Teton Range. The campground is located in a dispersed camping area, but the lack of amenities is more than made up for by the feeling of being immersed in nature. The Teton Range offers hiking trails, mountain biking routes and fishing opportunities. Visitors can also explore nearby Yellowstone National Park, which is home to a wide range of wildlife, including bison, elk and grizzly bears. Additionally, the campsite is located near several hot springs and natural swimming areas, providing a refreshing and unique way to cool off after a long day of outdoor activities.
Whether you are a new visitor to the Bridger-Teton National Forest or a local devotee already, this Recreation section of our website offers detailed information on the many recreation opportunities this Forest has to offer. With 3.4 million acres of land and water to recreate in the possibilities are endless and exploring the Forest will last a lifetime. When it comes to recreation, the Bridger-Teton National Forest is known for the four W’s - Wildlife, Winter opportunities, Wilderness, and Wild and Scenic Rivers. We invite you to explore, relax, and to soak in the beauty and awe that make the Bridger-Teton National Forest the amazing and unique place we love.
The Jackson Ranger District offers an incredible abundance of recreation areas and activities to choose from for all visitors. From internationally recognized skiing to world-famous fishing to wildlife watching, the variety is endless. The District contains the Gros Ventre Wilderness, hundreds of miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers including the famous Snake River, and many more areas that are all amazing. Because of the large variety and expanse of options, we have tried to make it easier for you to find and choose a place to recreate by breaking the Jackson Ranger District down into ten different areas, each providing more detailed information about specific trailheads, river access, camping and more. Click to learn more: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=cbb801efefc0496992ea3a1788b10e6e Type: Open Dispersed Camping Water provided: no; creek nearby
The Slide Lake Boating Site is a small, beautiful lake access point, ideal for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and other non-motorized watercraft. It is located down the Taylor Ranch Road, a spur off the main Gros Ventre Road that winds down through aspen stands and large boulders from the Gros Ventre Slide. There are several small parking spots amongst the willows, aspens and large boulders, directly adjacent to the lake and a small beach. A small sandy trail leads down to the beach, located near the lake’s outlet and offers great access to the lake’s western shores. There are no facilities located on site, although dispersed and fee campgrounds are located nearby. Parking is limited and tight and does not have ample space for trailer turnaround. No cellular service is available.
This is a remote trailhead located in the Granite Creek drainage south of Jackson. The trailhead is a large gravel parking area in thick pine and spruce forest near the creek and the developed Granite Hot Springs, which receives high use in the summer months. A lower trailhead also exists near Granite Falls, a stunning waterfall which has a small natural hot spring. The Granite Cr Road is gravel and in good condition and does not necessarily require four wheel drive, although it is recommended when wet or in the spring and fall. This is the main access to the Granite Cr Trail #4018, a non-motorized trail which enters the Gros Ventre Wilderness and leads visitors through stunning wildflower meadows surrounded by high mountain peaks and eventually up to Turquoise Lake. No facilities are located at the trailhead itself but picnic areas and bathrooms are available at the hot springs. Single kiosk with a map. No cellular service available. Trailhead is large enough for trailer turnaround. Driving time from Jackson is approximately 1 hour.
Ranger
If your wanting a place that overlooks the Grand Teton National Park this is your place. The views from campsites 1-15 are absolutely unreal and overlook Antelope Flats followed by the Grand Teton's. Some of the other campsites at Shadow Mountain are harder to navigate. Around Shadow Mountain there is about 8 miles worth of 4 wheeler trails that you can bike or walk where the other campsite locations are located.
Shadow Mountain is part of the Bridger-Teton National Forest and from May 1- Labor Day you can stay a maximum of 5 days, the other dates you can stay up to 16 days. The camp ambassador has more detailed maps of the camping areas. This part of the national forest allows for FREE dispersed camping but only at assigned campsites. There is a camp ambassador on-site near sites 1-15 to help enforce the rules(this is a busier campsite in the summer as its very close to Jackson and lots of locals come out- kind of a party spot). There is a porta-potty on site on campsites 1-15 but no water or other amenities near other campsites.
The road to get this location can be difficult but maneuverable as there are some large ruts in spots and larger river rock makes slower travel. It can be navigated by pretty much any car type or truck with trailer. If you have an RV it may be difficult to get to this location.
Overall we highly recommend you check out this spot as the view is absolutely gorgeous. There is animal activity in the area Moose, Elk, Grizzly so use proper animal safety,"be bear aware." The camp ambassador mentioned a few weeks prior to our stay a grizzly attached a mom and her baby Moose near campsite 14!
Check out our video review: https://youtu.be/8mVj1dxL5t4
Guide
Hi Campers!
We stopped in this part of the National Forest on our way to Yellowstone by way of Jackson Hole, WY. The access is off of HWY 191. You turn West onto Cliff Creek Rd/Forest Rd 30530 and follow Cliff Creek to many dispersed coming sites.
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!
We stayed here one night so that we could get on the road again in the morning. We found a nice secluded site. It was pretty close to the creek (there are closer sites but they were taken already) and you could easily walk there to get into some fly fishing.
Our photos are from driving and getting close to the camping area. When we got there it was pretty close to getting dark (just one photo from the site) and we left really early to get on the road.
We'll stop here again if we're in the area! Can't beat free dispersed camping!
GuideThis is an awesome dispersed camping area near Grand Teton National Park. The perfect place to camp for solitude in a busy national park area, with awesome access to the town of Jackson, Shadow Mountain mountain bike trail, and free, dispersed camping.
Ranger
Found on Google Maps
Free dispersed camping in allowed areas.
There are a few fire rings and a pit toilet.
There were quite a few campers but was actually quiet.
Beautiful sunset over the Tetons.
LegendThere were many options for camping in Grand Teton, but our choice was by far the most beautiful and remote.
We camped in Bridger-Teton National Forest when we were on our way out of the park, but it would be possible to stay here even while you are hiking and driving your way through the park itself (although you’d add a bit of driving into your day).
Dispersed camping is allowed in the National Forest, so as long as you drive out of the National Park and into the National Forest far enough, you can find a place to set up camp. We found a pull-off (on the right side of the road) that led down to a flat, gorgeous site with established fire rings and a perfect place for a tent. There was a road leading down to this spot, but we opted to park up top and hike down because of our limited 2-wheel drive vehicle. It was only a few hundred feet down.
Camping in dispersed areas are the perfect way to feel alone, even in popular areas like Grand Teton and Jackson Hole.
During our time in the park in May, we still found plenty to do: our highlights included the view from Signal Mountain, early mornings at Schwabacher’s Landing, photos along Mormon Row, hiking to Toggart Lake, and kayaking along Snake River.
You can read much more about our five days in the park on our blog: Switchback Kids (Grand Teton)
TravelerGreat spot on forest service road. Able to park right next to the creek. Lots of spots on the road with fire rings. Free dispersed camping with a great view of the mountains. Hiked to the top of the mountain on the left side coming in. Great views of the valley from the top. Our spot was spot on level, no need to unhook the TT from the truck.
RangerIn the Bridger Tetons National Forest, thus offering some sensational FREE campsites. Remarkable views of the Tetons at both lower and upper sites. Directions are easy and available online. Bathrooms available near parking spaces at the lower spots. Following the road up the hill leads to more sites. The road is rough, but our manual Honda Civic squeaked up there. There are not many sites available, SO GET THERE EARLY. People will try to cram into little flat spaces, but the forest rangers WILL show up and tell you to leave if you aren’t in a designated campsite.
Guide
I stayed in the Bridger Teton National Forest off Buffalo Valley Road to be close to the Moran entrance of Grand Teton National Park. There was a large pullout that had a couple of 'sites' below. The view of the Grand Tetons from this spot is gorgeous. It overlooks the valley and the Buffalo Fork River. It's a quite road and peaceful. I had elk around most nights and could hear the sandhill cranes calling down below. This, like most national forest sites, is primitive. There is no fire rings up top and no restrooms. However, it is free!
RangerImagine camping under the Grand Tetons... for FREE. This campsite is part of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. You go down some long gravel roads to the entrance, where there are some campsites at the base of the mountain. There is a road that goes up the mountain- which is pretty rough. You probably don’t need 4 wheel drive to get up, but a higher clearance would make it less stressful. I still have no idea how my Honda Civic made it up... but she did. The views were worth the stress. The Tetons were right there, right across the valley from us. Gorgeous. Absolutely amazing views. All around.
WARNING Although this is National Forest this area is designated camping only!! There are only a handful of sites at the base and along the road. The rangers are super strict about this as well. We had a Ranger come up to us (right before dark) and tell us we weren’t in a designated campsite. She was super kind about it, and thankfully the folks next to us at a designated spot let us join them! So make sure to get there early folks!!! So worth it!
Ranger
Great option if the Curtis Canyon campground is full, or if you would prefer something a little more remote. High clearance vehicles recommended - forest road 30440 is in pretty rough shape. Town of Jackson is fairly close.
Same great views you'd expect anywhere near the Tetons; trailhead to Goodwin Lake is close by. Full Teton view is better at the trailhead, but its not far. Dispersed sites are spread out with plenty of space; although no one stayed in the site next to us on this rainy evening in June.
To get there, continue past the Curtis Canyon campground in Bridger-Teton National Forest (behind the Elk refuge) as if you were heading to the trail head. You'll start to see marked sites along the extremely rutted forest road. I would not attempt very muddy conditions.
Guide
This is a great location if you are exploring the Teton/Jackson area. It's a little far to camp here and then go to Yellowstone.
There are a lot of camping spots that are dispersed to choose from, but keep in mind that even with the low amount of reviews here it's a well known spot to locals.
We stayed here in June and finally found a spot after passing dozens of filled ones, only to see about half a dozen other vehicles drive by looking for somewhere to park.
This is true back-country camping, pack in and pack out. No potable water is available and no facilities so be prepared with all your needs before coming here. Also note that this is bear country so be prepared with food and smell management to limit attracting them in.
The Sunset over the Tetons was amazing and we would stay here again in the future.
Guide
We have tried many dispersed camping spots now and this is by far the best one we’ve visited. Easy access to lake swimming, free WiFi at the brewery and many spots to choose from. Nice July temperatures. Would definitely come back!
LegendA bit of a drive and a rough road, but totally worth it! Off of antelope flat Rd, take a left at the dead end toward the national Forest land. Then you will veer left on the dirt road. There is a camping area at the base of the mountain but if you continue on up the mountain there are many, many dispersed camping pullouts. Beautiful views of the Tetons and excellent wildflowers. There are sites that have some shade and trees but several are pretty exposed. This is a very popular place on the weekends so make sure you get there early to set up camp (or avoid it if you like quite on a Saturday night). No water, no toilets, just a free place to camp with established fire rings! Dogs are welcome.
Scout
Designated dispersed camping - spots had bear boxes. Potentially crowded, I had a big space to myself. Beautiful views, quiet - river nearby
Guide
Where this pin is serves more as a day use area with camping spots highly used and trashed. However there is better dispersed camping along this road.
RangerCampground Review:
Does waking up to Teton views, colorful wildflowers, and the chorus of all types of birds sound up your alley? Well, this is the place!
Just outside Grand Teton National Park in Bridger-Teton National Forest, these sites are a little quieter and a little more spacious than the hustle and bustle below. They are first come, first serve and no amenities, but the experience makes up for it. Numerous hiking options are nearby: Blacktail Butte, the Shadow Mountain trail, or head to the park. On the way to the site from Jackson or Grand Teton, it is very likely you will see pronghorn, bison, elk, or even a moose.
This area is popular for a reason. Get there early - these sites fill up. Getting there on a weekday will help secure the choice spots. One downside is the air traffic; this overlooks the Tetons as well as the Jackson Hole airport.
Product Review:
As a review Ranger for TheDyrt, I am honored occasionally to test and evaluate products. On this trip, I tested the ICEMULE Pro XL cooler.
What makes this cooler unique is not only its backpack style; but the ability to add insulation (and buoyancy, as we found out) by inflating the sidewalls through a valve. It's a bit similar to how a sleeping pad works. Without ice, I threw a few cold ones and some sandwiches into its cavernous interior for a day hike in Bridger-Teton. After a few hours of hiking when we were ready for lunch, they were as cool as the moment they went in. The pack itself is fairly comfortable for a short hike, with padded straps and holes to allow some air circulation.
On the way home, we decided to paddle our favorite river and decided to test the Pro XL's floatation abilities. Why my husband chose the deepest spot to throw it into the drink I will never know, but lucky for me it stayed on top of the water. Because its sealed like a dry bag, no river water got in either. Our sandwiches and gummy bears were safe!
RangerWe stayed in a lovely dispersed camping site on Mosquito Creek road in Wilson, Wyoming. Some of the campsites have views of the creek and are very private. All sites are very private.
The road to get there, as is usual with dispersed camping, is very bumpy and 4WD is recommended.
Our friend saw a large black bear after leaving our site. It is also moose territory.
Gorgeous, private, but with no bathrooms or amenities at all.
Even though there is no water, bathrooms, or other amenities, it is free. And it is a few short minutes to the town of Jackson Hole.
Bonus: we have cellular reception enough that I could make calls and send emails (Not strong enough to send pics and stream though).
Legend
Coordinates: 42.78898,-110.68746. Free. Camped here Sept 17, 2024. One of several dispersed campsites along Greys River Road (Forest Road 10138). Large dispersed site, set back from forest road; no concerns with dust coming into the site from passing vehicles. Should comfortably accommodate 3 or 4 rigs. Clean rock fire ring. Mostly level, dirt surface. Easy access from forest road. Open site surrounded by trees. Next to Grey's River; easy access for bank fishing. There is a set of trees that may accommodate hammock camping. Tent camping also possible. Area can get muddy after rain. Solar recharging possible in middle of afternoon. No T-Mobile nor AT&T cell service. Loved this spot.
Guide
We stayed in early June so the creek was gushing with water and it was nice to sleep to the sound of running water. We dispersed camped in our trucks. It was a great area for an overnight stop on our way to Yellowstone from Salt Lake City. Town was only about 5-10 minutes away but we felt very isolated and area was private.
Traveler
The sites are down such a long road that I almost didn't believe they really existed, but I'm glad I persisted in driving all the way to the coordinates! Beautiful dispersed campsites right next to Whiskey Creek and some well-maintained hiking trails in the national forest and wilderness area. Wish i could stay longer. Also, I saw a bighorn sheep!
Scout
We stayed at site 10 on Forest Service road 30290. No markings on the road. Good gravel road until you hit National Forest. There is a very large gravel parking lot area for big rigs. We have a 24’ toyhauler. We stayed right and followed the road down until a T, then went left. And came across site 10. It already had a camper in it and had plenty of space. The current occupants were not keen on sharing but took our name and number if they were going to leave. We shortly got a text saying we could stay. They ended up leaving that day while we were out. Everyday since then other people have squished into our site. Every time we leave, we come back to more people. There is space but several people seam to share one spot. I guess it’s ok, but it is kinda weird people don’t even ask. It’s hard because we boondock for space and because we have a dog. But everyone is friendly so we decided may as well make friends. Fingers crossed nobody blocks us in.
Guide
This is the perfect dispersed camping area for when you forget to book a campsite in advance and every other option nearby Yellowstone/Tetons is on a closed road 😂 Bear box provided, fire pits in some areas, several campsites available
GuideWe were lucky to find an open spot. There are 14 campsites dispersed down a four mile long gravel road. Part of the National Forest. Great views of the Tetons from several sites. We made it to the end of the road in our 38’ motorhome with tow vehicle attached. Just drive slow. Kids had a blast playing along Spread Creek. Tons of mosquitoes, so bring lots of bug spray. Had AT&T cell service and Verizon. Probably my favorite spot to camp on our recent trip, other than those darn mosquitoes.
ScoutWe drove around for 3.5 hours looking for a campsite for a last minute trip to Grand Teton over Labor Day. This was the ONLY place we could find that had any camping spots left, and even then we had to drive pretty far back into the woods to get there. "Spread" creek dispersed campground is a very accurate name! Many of the camping spots were enormous- big enough for several campers or tents- and there was a LOT of driving space between each site, so you really feel secluded.
GuideNice Dispersed Camping. Doesn’t have Grand views of the Tetons but has nice grassy level areas and spots by the creek. If you run stuck there are big grassy sites in the back that could easily accommodate multiple campsites. Some rough road but you’ll be fine with an SUV/truck. Bring bug spray!
RangerIf this is Grey’s River Dispersed Camping then this is where we were trying to stay. Some free spots along river, kind of on long bumpy gravel road. Didn’t end up staying. We were able to see lots of kayakers on the river and trails to hike.
Scout
I
For some reason campsites 1-3 aren’t showing up for me but 4-7 are close enough to garner a review of this spot: the camp sites are perfect for free camping for less than a 10 minutes drive away from the Grand Teton park entrance. No fees to camp here, amazing views, fire pits provided with bear storage too. No toilets however so you’ll have to dig a 4-6 foot hole to bury your scat if you’re not in an RV. Still gets very chilly in the summer so bring layers, the night I camped out here got to 37 degrees Fahrenheit
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bridger-Teton National Forest in Wyoming, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of camping experiences, from riverside retreats to secluded forest hideaways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Bridger-Teton National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bridger-Teton National Forest is Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping with a 4.6-star rating from 72 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Bridger-Teton National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 83 dispersed camping locations near Bridger-Teton National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
