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Best Dispersed Camping near Grand Teton National Park

487 Reviews

There are few places better suited for camping than northwestern Wyoming. Whether it’s a trip on its own or part of your pilgrimage to Yellowstone, there are few pockets of the United States with more natural beauty.

Grand Teton National Park is one of the meccas of all things outdoors and has a number of campgrounds. Campsites go fast in all of them, so you’ll want to reserve a spot as far in advance as possible. If there’s no place to put your RV or tent, the best camping near Grand Teton National Park is found at John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway to the north, or Jackson, WY to the south.

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Grand Teton Lookout

Grand Teton Lookout

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Dave’s Site By Grand Teton

Dave’s Site By Grand Teton

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Grand Teton National Park (98)

    1. Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    83 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 739-5500

    "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."

    "A 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."

    2. Upper Teton View Dispersed

    58 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    9 miles
    Website

    "This spot in the National Forest was great for the nights we were visiting Grand Tetons National Park."

    "With that said the upper road to the main camping area was closed off by the forest service at the lower parking area / pit toilet. The view made it worth the trip up."

    3. Spread Creek Dispersed Campground

    47 Reviews
    Queens, WY
    12 miles
    Website

    "Nice Dispersed Camping. Doesn’t have Grand views of the Tetons but has nice grassy level areas and spots by the creek."

    "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."

    4. Moran Vista on Forest Road 30290

    14 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    10 miles

    "Great spot, close to the park. I didn’t drive all the way to the coordinates just stopped at a spot by the road. Pretty peaceful, gravel road."

    "We tried to access other dispersed camping locations in the Tetons first, but the roads were difficult to travel on with our RV. This was perfect."

    5. Shadow Mountain - Dispersed Campsite #10

    10 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    11 miles
    Website

    "We got there around 1-2pm and every spot was already filled except for 10a. We accidentally missed it the first time but caught it on our way back down."

    "Multiple dispersed spots that are very large with amazing views of the Tetons! Bring your bug spray through!"

    6. Shadow Mountain Campground

    9 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    10 miles

    "First come first serve, no reservations....you can stay up to five days.

    No electric or water, but you trade all of that for the view alone. They do have a fire pit."

    "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."

    7. Bridger-Teton National Forest

    18 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    17 miles
    Website

    "I was planning on staying in Grand Teton National Park, but since it was the Thursday before the 2017 Solar Eclipse the Park was full. And I am glad it was."

    "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."

    8. Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping

    31 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 739-5500

    "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."

    "We camped at spot 5 which is a little harder to get too. the road too 5,6 is pretty rough. only attempt if you have 4wd, it looks like a pretty washed out road either way lots of holes."

    9. Buffalo Valley Designated Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 739-5500

    "The dirt road isn't tooo bad, certainly easier to navigate if you have a high clearance vehicle but manageable for my boyfriends Subaru Legacy."

    "Beautiful crystal clear river running right next to the site."

    10. Pacific Creek (FR 30090) Designated Dispersed Campsite

    7 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    13 miles
    Website

    "Right next to a wonderful stream.  Bring bug spray and you'll be fine. No water, no toilet of any kind."

    "Plan ahead for this one, because you'll drive for what feels like forever. I have terrible shocks in my bus, so the gravel roads were slow going for me."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Grand Teton National Park

447 Photos of 98 Grand Teton National Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Grand Teton National Park

487 Reviews of 98 Grand Teton National Park Campgrounds

  • Austin R.
    Aug. 31, 2017

    Bridger-Teton National Forest

    Ranger Review: Klymit Insulated Static V in Bridger-Teton National Forest

    Campground Review

    Alright. I was planning on staying in Grand Teton National Park, but since it was the Thursday before the 2017 Solar Eclipse the Park was full. And I am glad it was. I decided to just drive down a Forest Service Road and ended up on FS 30165 in a valley with wonderful views of the Tetons. There was even a creek a short walk away where I could filter water. The site I picked out was around 8 miles (20 min) from the main paved road into the park and around 50 min from the Visitor Center. Since it is in bear country you need to make sure you have a bear proof cooler or store everything in your car. While I was there the NFS had placed a fire ban due to the sheer number of campers in the area for the eclipse, I believe that fires are allowed otherwise.

    Product Review

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time - over the summer I tested the Insulated Static V from Klymit.

    I put this pad through the ringer for sure. I used it no less than once per week during June, July, and the first half of August. It still looks good as new. This pad is incredibly comfortable for all types of sleeping positions. At an R-value of 4.4, it packs down to just slightly bigger than a Nalgene water bottle and weighs only 25 oz. The bag that it comes with is slightly oversized, which means that you can actually get it back in the bag with little issues every time even if your roll is slightly sloppy. It also comes with a patch kit so you can fix it in the field should an issue arise, not that I have ever needed it.

    I can also attest to Klymit's customer service as well. Prior to getting the Insulated Static V, I owned one of the original Static V pads. That pad survived from 2012-2016 until the valve developed a slight leak. I contacted Klymit to check out their warranty. They told me pads are covered under a lifetime warranty and after shipping it back to them I received a brand new pad within 2-3 weeks if I'm remembering correctly. So not only are the products great, but they stand behind them too!

  • Deanna C.
    Jul. 9, 2018

    Bridger-Teton National Forest

    Free!

    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!

  • UnnamedAdventures The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 25, 2019

    Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful Spot! Rough Road.

    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

  • Natalie B.
    Aug. 14, 2017

    Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Awesome view!

    A 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.

  • Hawkin S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Amazing Free Camping Close to Grand Teton National Park

    This place is awesome! I can't believe they have this free camping available so close to Grand Teton National Park. Since it is so nice it will likely be busy.

    When we arrived on a Thursday evening in September 2024, the initial loop by the bathrooms was totally full. We continued up the dirt road for a bit until we found a nice secluded site we liked amongst the trees. There were plenty of other open spots we saw too farther up the road, but the more you go, the rougher the road gets. We saw a black bear and cubs on the road too so be bear aware and lock up your food! We also had a large bull moose walk through our camp at 6am. Really sweet encounter but just be safe if you camp here!

  • Nicki S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Darby Canyon Dispersed

    Darby

    I have not personally spent the night camping here, but I do work for the Forest Service and wanted to give more information about the Darby Canyon dispersed camping sites. I also had a friend stay here for three nights last September and they had a good time. There are about 10~ sites (I will check and edit when I can) all along the canyon road, some are just right off road and others require a short drive down beaten paths to find the sites. All of these sites (except 2 or so very close to the road) are past the cattle guard. Depending on the time of year, many of these sites may not be accessible. Snow typically stays in the canyon until mid-June and starts collecting in October. The area may also be buggy at the height of the summer (July 2024 had been atrocious). There is limited cell service down most of the road and it completely disappears the closer to the Wind Cave trailhead you get. This area has a 14 day stay limit, meaning that once 14 days (13 nights) have been reached you must move at least 5 miles away to continue camping on forest service land and cannot return to this canyon to camp for 30 days. This is in a bear food storage enforced area and any bear attractants (food, pet food, soaps, sunscreen, etc.) are required to be stored properly in a locked hard sided vehicle or other bear resistant containers. Fires are allowed but must be put out dead (cold to the touch) before leaving a campsite. This canyon is regularly patrolled by Forest Service staff and ranger law enforcement officers, especially on the weekends, to keep up with the food storage and fires out dead orders. Hope this helps weary travelers that are deterred by low-rated reviews.

  • Katherine B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2018

    Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Solitude but close to town

    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.

  • Joshua M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Upper Teton View Dispersed

    Very Busy, but great sites

    This spot in the National Forest was great for the nights we were visiting Grand Tetons National Park. If you have a pickup truck with a RTT or are car camping you can find a spot here almost any time of the night. It is busy but there are plenty of sites and plenty of signs that say one more than one person can share a site. The spots up the road from the bathrooms are great but fill up quickly and it seems like people park RVs or leave tents to reserve spots while they are out for the day. I don’t know if I love that but hopefully the National forest rangers are making sure people don’t overstay their 5 day limits. Overall I recommend this for people visiting the NP

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2024

    Upper Teton View Dispersed

    Awesome view

    We spent one night mid May here on the way to Yellowstone. The view was awesome. With that said the upper road to the main camping area was closed off by the forest service at the lower parking area / pit toilet. The view made it worth the trip up. Not sure when the road will open up to the main dispersed site. Be aware that there is only enough room for about 20 campers / vans in the lower area. There is room for about another 15 cars and tent camping. Arrive early! Plenty of hiking and well worth it if you get a spot!

Guide to Grand Teton National Park

Experience the beauty of nature with dispersed camping near Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. This area offers stunning views, a variety of camping options, and the chance to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Dispersed campers should check out Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

  • This site provides breathtaking views of the Tetons, making it a favorite among campers looking for a picturesque backdrop. You can find more details about this spot at Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping.
  • Campers have reported incredible sunrises and sunsets, enhancing the overall experience of staying in this beautiful location.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a drive on rocky roads to reach the best spots, but the effort is well worth it for the stunning scenery.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season, as many sites fill up quickly. For instance, Upper Teton View Dispersed is known for its popularity and beautiful views.
  • Always store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife, as bears are known to frequent the area. Sites like Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping provide bear boxes for safe food storage.
  • Bring plenty of bug spray, as mosquitoes can be quite bothersome in the warmer months. Campers at Spread Creek Dispersed Campground have noted the need for effective insect repellent.

Scenic views and wildlife encounters at Bridger-Teton National Forest

  • This area offers numerous dispersed camping options with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Bridger-Teton National Forest is a prime location for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
  • Wildlife sightings are common, including deer and various bird species, making it a great spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
  • The forest features well-maintained roads, but some areas may require a high-clearance vehicle, so plan accordingly to ensure a smooth journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is dispersed camping allowed in and around Grand Teton National Park?

Dispersed camping is not allowed within Grand Teton National Park itself, but is permitted in the surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest. Popular areas include Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping, which offers stunning views of the Tetons from sites 1-15 overlooking Antelope Flats. Bridger-Teton National Forest provides numerous dispersed camping opportunities, particularly off Buffalo Valley Road near the Moran entrance. Other options include Curtis Canyon, Gros Ventre Road, Upper Teton View, Pacific Creek, and Fall Creek Road. Most dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles as roads can be rough, especially after rain. Always check current Forest Service regulations before camping, as seasonal restrictions may apply.

What BLM land camping is available near Grand Teton National Park?

While Grand Teton National Park is primarily surrounded by national forest rather than BLM land, the closest BLM camping options are found west and south of the park. The primary dispersed camping opportunities near the park are in Bridger-Teton National Forest, not BLM land. Shadow Mountain Designated Campsite 1 and other Shadow Mountain sites are on national forest land but offer a similar dispersed experience to what campers seek on BLM land. Spread Creek Dispersed Campground provides another forest service option. For true BLM camping, you'll need to travel further west toward Dubois or south toward Pinedale, where you'll find more extensive BLM lands with dispersed camping opportunities. These areas typically have 14-day stay limits and minimal facilities.

Is free camping available near Grand Teton National Park and what are the options?

Yes, free camping is available near Grand Teton National Park in the surrounding national forest lands. Upper Teton View Dispersed offers free camping with spectacular Teton views, though access roads can be rough and seasonal closures may apply. Gros Ventre Road Dispersed provides free sites about 45 minutes east of Antelope Flats Road with easier access for 2WD vehicles in good conditions. Other free options include Buffalo Valley Designated Dispersed Camping, Spread Creek, and Fall Creek Road areas. Most free sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with a 14-day limit. Early arrival is recommended during peak season (June-August) as prime spots fill quickly. No amenities are provided, so come prepared with water and waste disposal plans.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Grand Teton National Park?

Dispersed camping is not allowed within Grand Teton National Park boundaries, but is permitted in adjacent national forest lands with specific regulations. In Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping and other Bridger-Teton areas, the standard 14-day stay limit applies. Campers must set up at least 100 feet from water sources, 200 feet from trails, and use existing fire rings when having campfires. Pack out all trash and waste. Some areas like Darby Canyon Dispersed have designated sites only. Seasonal closures protect wildlife and prevent resource damage—typically roads open in mid-May through October, weather dependent. Food storage regulations are strictly enforced in bear country; all food and scented items must be stored properly in hard-sided containers or vehicles.

What are the best areas for boondocking near Grand Teton National Park?

The best boondocking near Grand Teton National Park can be found in the surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest. Buffalo Valley Designated Dispersed Camping offers excellent boondocking opportunities with gorgeous Teton views and relatively easy access off Buffalo Valley Road near the Moran entrance. Snake River Dispersed - Rockefeller Memorial Parkway provides riverside boondocking between Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Other prime boondocking areas include Forest Road 30290 (Moran Vista), Pacific Creek Road (FR 30090), and Fall Creek Road areas. For most sites, high-clearance vehicles are recommended as roads can be rutted and challenging, especially after rain. Arrive early during peak season (June-August) to secure the best spots with views. No hookups or services are available, so come fully self-contained.

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