Dispersed camping options near Jackson provide camping spaces on national forest land with varying levels of accessibility. Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping sits 9 miles from downtown Jackson with elevations between 6,800-7,200 feet, offering both cleared meadow sites and wooded spots. Sites fill quickly from June through September when daytime temperatures average 70-85°F.
What to do
Morning hikes with dogs: Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping offers access to hiking trails where dogs can join. "We strolled the creek in the morning, and the dogs really enjoyed it," notes Temio G. The trails connect to wider networks with varied difficulty levels.
Wildlife viewing: The areas surrounding Gros Ventre Campground provide regular wildlife encounters. "Moose in the campground almost daily," reports Ted K. Early morning and dusk offer the best viewing opportunities, with rangers providing wildlife safety information.
Mountain biking: Trails near Mike Harris campground offer extensive biking opportunities. "It offers access to some of the best Mtn Bike Trails in our area. Rush hour, Nemo, and Mail Cabin are all great rides," explains Fletcher W. The Rush Hour trail is particularly noted for being family-friendly.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Jackson feature larger-than-average sites. At Upper Teton View Dispersed, campers appreciate that "sites were wooded. Sites are well maintained and include a bear box," according to Layla P. Most sites accommodate multiple tents or a vehicle plus sleeping setup.
Affordable options: Free camping areas provide budget alternatives to paid sites. "This is a free spot and had stunning views of the Tetons and came with a fire ring," notes Caroline R. about Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping. Most free sites operate on a 5-14 day maximum stay policy.
Higher elevation cooling: Summer visitors appreciate camps at higher elevations. "We were in my Honda CR-V and it did fine, but if you're not careful, you could easily do some damage. The risk was worth the reward though as we found a great spot at the top of the hill," reports Dave E. about Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping, where temperatures can be 5-10 degrees cooler than in Jackson.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping require careful driving. "The final ascent to the campground was switchbacks and a little uncomfortable for a 12 passenger van," explains Michael S. about Curtis Canyon Campground. Most dispersed sites require at least 6-8 inches of clearance.
Water access: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. "No water, no toilets, just a free place to camp with established fire rings! Dogs are welcome," says Natalie B. Campers should bring 1-2 gallons of water per person per day.
Cell service variability: Reception varies widely between campgrounds. "I have Starlink Mini and was able to get acceptable WiFi reception," notes Joe A. while staying at Curtis Canyon Campground. Most higher elevation sites have better reception than valley locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with gradual terrain. "It is a great place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors," explains one visitor to Spread Creek Dispersed Campground, which features grassy meadows near creek access points where children can explore safely.
Bear safety education: Use camping as a teaching opportunity. "All Food MUST be stored in a hard-sided camper or the provided Bear Boxes, there are both Grizzly and Black Bears in the area!" advises Ellen W. Rangers check sites regularly for compliance, making this a practical learning experience for children.
Evening wildlife watching: Plan family activities around wildlife viewing times. "We saw three moose inside this campground. Only stayed for a night but it sure was beautiful!" shares Taylor H. Most wildlife activity occurs between 6-8pm and 5-7am.
Tips from RVers
Site selection timing: RVs need to arrive early to secure appropriate sites. "We got here about 2:30pm on a Friday. May 30 2025. It had some people in the best spots but we were able to get a spot with a view," writes Lori J. about Upper Teton View Dispersed. Most dog-friendly campgrounds fill by 3pm during peak summer months.
Dump station planning: Plan your water management carefully. "We stayed three nights and really enjoyed it... $20 a night was definitely worth it especially compared to the cost of hotels in Jackson which ran $350+," notes Layla P. about Curtis Canyon Campground, which offers basic services. The nearest public dump stations are at the Virginian RV Park for a $15 fee or Colter Bay for $5.
Leveling preparations: Many sites require significant leveling. "Most of these sites are fairly level and settled in small groves of trees," reports Arturo S. Bringing 2-4 inch leveling blocks helps with the uneven terrain found at most dispersed sites.
