Dispersed camping areas surround Dubois, Wyoming, with most sites situated at elevations between 7,000-9,000 feet where temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night are common. Camping options on public lands managed by Bridger-Teton National Forest and Bureau of Land Management provide no-cost alternatives to developed campgrounds. Water availability is limited, making filtration equipment essential for longer stays.
What to do
**Streamside exploration: Locations like Green River Lakes Road offer direct water access. "Found a spot decently off the road and close to the water. Pretty buggy. The sound of the river was so peaceful to fall asleep to," notes a camper.
**Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds provide opportunities to observe native species. At Spread Creek Dispersed Campground, one visitor shared, "On our walk out this morning, we noticed a family of deer munching in the field; this is a very lovely spot."
**Mountain hiking: The area serves as a gateway to numerous trails. Near Glacier Trailhead Campsites, a camper recommends, "The hike to Lake Louise is worth every step! Don't forget to log your name in the register before setting off on the trails."
What campers like
Isolation options: Multiple camping areas provide solitude. "We never saw another person," reported one visitor at East Fork Road Dispersed, describing their spot "just a 100 yards or so from a beautiful river."
Night sky viewing: The area's limited light pollution creates stellar stargazing conditions. A camper at Glacier Trailhead noted the stars were "very bright" with "the milky way very bright."
Bathroom facilities: Despite being dispersed sites, some areas include basic amenities. At Trail Lake Dispersed Sites, one reviewer appreciated that "there's a few lots you can stay in that are flat and would be good for tents. Clean bathrooms."
What you should know
GPS reliability issues: Several campgrounds report inaccurate location data. One East Fork Road camper advised, "Like others have said, the pin seems incorrect. Go up the road another five minutes or so and you'll find the main area."
Seasonal closures: Some roads become impassable during shoulder seasons. A visitor to Upper Teton View Dispersed warned, "Most of this area is not open in early May, and the part of it that is open is packed with people."
Bear safety requirements: Bear boxes exist at several sites. As one camper at East Fork Road mentioned, "Great camping bear boxes everywhere," while another at Trail Lake noted being in "bear country but you're close to others so it feels safe."
Insect preparation: Bugs are prevalent, particularly near water. "Bring bug spray and you'll be fine," notes a camper at Green River Lakes Road, describing the area as "pretty buggy."
Tips for camping with families
Toilet access sites: Some dispersed areas include basic facilities. At Trail Lake Sites, a camper noted, "Not secluded. Private property surrounded. Still peaceful though. There's a few lots you can stay in that are flat and would be good for tents."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple sites offer animal sightings appropriate for children. A Glacier Trailhead camper shared, "I saw a bighorn sheep!" while others report beaver and elk sightings nearby.
Water safety considerations: Stream crossings require caution with children. One camper at Glacier Trailhead mentioned, "Remember Torrey Creek is glacial melt and is likely to be heavier later in the day than in the morning."
Early arrival strategy: Popular sites fill quickly. A visitor to Upper Teton View advised, "We arrived about 12pm and had our pick of spots. It does fill up so get there early."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Many forest service roads have challenging sections. Regarding the approach to Green River Lakes Road, one camper warned, "The road in is washboard, so be patient."
Site accessibility: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles better than others. At BLM above Dubois, a camper noted, "Located 6 miles off Hwy 26/287 on Union Pass Rd. west of Dubois Wy. You will find a lovely camping area equipped with a vault toilet. The road up to the Pass is gravel but well maintained."
Turning radius limitations: Consider vehicle maneuverability when selecting sites. A Bridger-Teton National Forest camper recommended, "Best to find your site in the car as turning around there with the road may be difficult."
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation sites present unique challenges. For free camping near Dubois, Wyoming, campers at Upper Teton View reported, "Road up is a little rough but made it fine towing our 38ft 5th wheel. Views are amazing and probably none better in the Tetons when camping for free."
