Equestrian camping near Jackson, Wyoming offers alternatives beyond the rodeo grounds for travelers with horses. The area sits at elevations ranging from 6,000-7,000 feet with temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night common even in summer months. Grizzly bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region's dispersed camping areas, with several locations providing bear boxes for safety.
What to do
Hiking with mountain views: Access trailheads directly from dispersed camping at Phillips Bench Trailhead. "Some wiled life it is grizzly country but one of my favorite spots by Wilson wy," notes Mike J. The area features approximately 12 spots on terrain that starts rough but becomes accessible even to Subarus.
River access for cooling off: During hot summer days, find refreshing water at Moose Creek Trailhead Dispersed Area. A camper describes it as having "Cold, clear water makes for a refreshing (very cold!) natural bath." Despite highway proximity, the sound of rushing water dominates the camping experience.
Wildlife viewing: Buffalo Valley Road provides excellent opportunities to spot elk herds. "We were woke up by bugling Elk one of the mornings we stayed and saw about 30 head coming into camp another night across the river," reports one visitor at Turpin Meadows. Many ranches line the route to this location, creating a quintessential Wyoming landscape.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Palisades Creek Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "There is plenty of room between camp spots and it is very well kept," writes Adam B., adding, "Everyone was very respectful and no ATVs or Dirt Bikes are allowed except for the camp hosts and so it was nice and quiet."
Natural sound barriers: Despite proximity to highways, many sites feature running water that masks road noise. At Moose Creek, a visitor notes, "The site is close to the highway, but like other reviewers mentioned, all you really hear is the little river running right next to the campsite, which was super peaceful."
Bear boxes for food storage: Safety features enhance camping in grizzly territory. At Moose Creek, Kimberley D. mentions, "Site had Fire pit set up and a bear box too," providing essential protection in bear country without requiring campers to bring their own containers.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance matters: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough roads. At Turpin Meadows Campground, Kathleen D. warns, "A drive in will reward you with greater odds of privacy but also greater risks of vehicle damage. I scratched the hell out of my new car. There are horrific potholes. We bottomed out and feared worse damage multiple times."
Limited cell service: Communications become unreliable outside town. One camper at Turpin Meadows notes, "There is no Verizon cell phone service at this location or other amenities." Plan ahead with downloaded maps and emergency information.
Extreme temperature variations: Summer nights remain cold at elevation. At Teton Canyon Road, Steve M. reports, "Last night, July 2nd, was damp and about 36° and it was an uncomfortable sleep!" Pack appropriate sleeping gear even for summer camping.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with facilities: When traveling with children, Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch provides essential amenities. "There's WiFi and free hot shower; the campground seems big but the facilities are never further away than a 5 min walk," notes Alex I. These conveniences make family camping more manageable.
Consider cabins in wet weather: Alternative accommodations provide backup for unpredictable mountain weather. Les R. shares, "We arrived after a long day of traveling and it was wet and cold outside, so we were very happy to have a cabin waiting for us." The lodge at Headwaters offers meals when cooking outdoors becomes challenging.
Bring insect protection: Mosquitoes create significant issues in certain locations. At Teton Canyon Road Dispersed Camping, conditions can be challenging with "Great views if you can deal with the 10 gazillion mosquitoes," according to Steve M. Proper repellent becomes essential equipment.
Tips from RVers
Limited private spots with trailers: Death Canyon Camping Zone offers seclusion but requires effort. "A beautiful 8 mile hike up the mountain finished with secluded sites with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains," notes Allyse. Horse trailers find more limited options requiring advance planning.
Narrow roads create passing challenges: Road width limits can cause problems with larger vehicles. At Turpin Meadows, a reviewer cautions, "The road is narrow and can only accommodate 1 vehicle. If you encounter another, good luck. If you're towing a short wheel base trailer (like us) and backing up is impossible, hail Mary!"
Uneven terrain at dispersed sites: Be prepared to level your rig at unprepared locations. As one camper at Phillips Bench describes it as "Just a dirt circle with room for a few cars, vans etc. No actual designated spots. Just for sleeping mostly." Bring leveling blocks and stabilization equipment.
