Best Dispersed Camping near Grand Teton National Park
Several free dispersed camping areas surround Grand Teton National Park on adjacent Bridger-Teton National Forest land. Shadow Mountain and Upper Teton View offer the most popular sites, providing direct views of the Teton Range without park entrance fees. Most locations permit both tent and RV camping with primitive amenities—typically fire rings but no hookups or drinking water. Only a few areas provide vault toilets.
Access roads vary significantly in quality. Forest Roads 30290 (Spread Creek) and 30310 accommodate most vehicles at their entrances, while the routes to upper elevation sites require higher clearance. A camper noted, "The road to the upper area is a bit dicey in one area but worth the trip." Despite signage suggesting 30-foot vehicle limits, larger rigs frequently navigate these roads when conditions are dry. Most sites enforce a 5-day camping limit. Cell service is generally available but unreliable. Summer visitors should arrive by mid-afternoon as prime locations fill quickly, especially those with mountain views. Bear activity occurs in these areas, particularly during fall months.
