Dispersed camping areas near Bridger-Teton National Forest range in elevation from 6,000 to 10,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature variations even in summer months. Nights can drop below freezing at higher elevations, with afternoon thunderstorms common during July and August. Many tent campsites near Bridger-Teton National Forest become accessible only after late May due to snowpack conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Fisherman Creek Road offers prime angling opportunities. A camper noted, "Long dirt road with lots of trails leading to nice spots. The road and most of the campsites are fit for large RVs. Most spots have shade and fire rings."
Wildlife viewing at dawn: Colter Bay Tent Village provides excellent wildlife spotting areas. "We were a minute walk away from the lake and a perfect view of the mountains... When we saw the bear near us there was also 3 rangers following it keeping the campers safe," shared one visitor.
Stargazing from high points: Shadow Mountain offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Shadow mountain dispersed camping has approximately 15 sites in designated areas along a back gravel road that is not for everyone. Site 10 is shared with 10A but site 9 is also along the ridge but more private," explains a camper.
What campers like
Morning views: Many visitors prioritize the panoramic scenery at dispersed sites near Bridger-Teton. One camper at Shadow Mountain - Dispersed Campsite #10 shared, "In the morning, we walked down the road a bit to watch the sunrise reflecting off the Tetons. Even though our experience wasn't perfect, it was gorgeous, so close to the park, and most importantly, free!"
Quieter times: Late September through early October offers less crowded tent campsites. At Phillips Bench Trailhead, a visitor observed, "Right next to highway, but not a lot of traffic or road noise, could change seasonally."
Fishing spots: Taylor Ranch Road Dispersed Camping provides excellent angling access. One camper noted, "Very convenient spot for visiting Teton, just outside of Kelly. If you come to the bridge, you've gone too far. Once you turn off, there is a large spot at the end of the little road, down by the river."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping roads deteriorate after rain. At Antelope Springs Designated Dispersed Camping, a visitor warned, "The road is bumpy, but it was doable in our car. We arrived on a Thursday night around 5pm and got the last spot."
Seasonal pests: Insect activity varies dramatically by season and elevation. A camper at Shadow Mountain reported, "The mosquitoes were so bad, we ended up leaving before the night set." Another at Curtis Canyon mentioned, "I am a pretty experienced camper. Never in my LIFE have I been swarmed by this many flies and horse flies."
Arrival timing: Most popular tent sites fill by mid-afternoon. "We got to the campsite around 4:00 pm and had no issue finding one but they did fill up pretty quickly after us so I wouldn't get there too late," advised a visitor at Curtis Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Toilet accessibility: For families with young children, Jenny Lake Campground offers more reliable facilities. A visitor noted, "Quiet campground. Didn't need a reservation and by Jenny Lake. Sites were not very level but the views are unreal."
Protected sites: Look for sites with natural wind barriers. "Loved this campsite! Super pretty, tucked away, close to trails, lakes, visitor center, and camp showers. Site 7 tent pad is more tucked away and has bigger space," shared a Jenny Lake camper.
Wildlife education: Create educational wildlife spotting journals for kids. A camper at Colter Bay mentioned, "The best part about this campground is the short trail to Jackson Lake. We watched the sunset both nights and it was magical!"
Tips from RVers
Parking logistics: Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping offers varying site accessibility. A visitor noted, "There are only 16 spots at this site. Several of them are only accessible if you have a 4WD with high clearance. If have this on my sprinter van and attempted but quickly realized it was not going to work."
Site arrival planning: Access larger sites before 2pm. "Date 7/1/2025 Tuesday. Arrival time:4:45P. Sites available 3/10. Camp full by 5:30P. 2 large sites with room for RV," reported a Curtis Canyon camper.
Seasonal weather preparation: Mountain storms can emerge quickly at tent campsites near Bridger-Teton. One Fisherman Creek visitor advised, "We found a large spot about a mile up the road, on the left side. The road was pretty good, even for our overloaded car and rented trailer."
