Best Dispersed Camping near Kelly, WY

Dispersed camping near Kelly, Wyoming provides exceptional access to Grand Teton National Park through several free primitive sites in Bridger-Teton National Forest. Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping offers numbered sites with spectacular Teton views, while Upper Teton View and Curtis Canyon provide alternative locations with varying terrain and accessibility. According to reviews, Shadow Mountain features "absolutely unreal views overlooking Antelope Flats followed by the Grand Tetons," though the access road requires careful navigation due to ruts and rough conditions.

Most dispersed sites require self-sufficiency with no amenities beyond occasional pit toilets. No drinking water is available, and campers must pack in all supplies. High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended for accessing many sites, particularly after rain. Several campers noted that while roads can be challenging, most passenger vehicles can navigate them by "taking it very slow." Fire regulations vary seasonally, with established fire rings at designated sites. Forest Service staff regularly patrol to enforce proper fire extinguishing and food storage requirements.

This area constitutes active bear habitat requiring strict food storage protocols. All food, toiletries, and scented items must be secured in vehicles or bear-resistant containers. Campsite availability follows a first-come, first-served system with a 5-day maximum stay from May through Labor Day, extending to 14-16 days during off-season. Campers report sites fill quickly, especially on weekends, with early morning (7-10am) offering the best opportunity to secure a spot. The mosquito population can be significant during summer months, so adequate insect protection is essential. Forest Service personnel regularly monitor these areas to ensure compliance with regulations and assist visitors.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Kelly, Wyoming (92)

    1. Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    78 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 739-5500

    "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."

    "Definitely a rough road and can be tougher to find a spot if you come later, but we made it up in a low clearance camper van by taking it very slow and the views are awesome."

    2. Upper Teton View Dispersed

    54 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    10 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "There’s beautiful views of the Teton mountains as people say, the roads are a bit rough and inclined but that’s everywhere in the west really:) no four wheel drive needed at all."

    3. Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping

    29 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    8 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."

    4. Spread Creek Dispersed Campground

    33 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."

    5. Taylor Ranch Road Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 739-5500

    "Very convenient spot for visiting Teton, just outside of Kelly. If you come to the bridge, you’ve gone too far."

    "Recommend high clearance vehicles. Space for 2-3. Right on the river. River is loud in campground. There are a few more spots after crossing the river."

    6. Shadow Mountain - Dispersed Campsite #10

    8 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    5 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!"

    7. Shadow Mountain Campground

    7 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    6 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."

    8. Moran Vista on Forest Road 30290

    11 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    12 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."

    9. Bridger-Teton National Forest

    18 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    17 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "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."

    10. Forest Road 30442

    5 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    5 miles

    "Found this spot after finding another nearby spot was full but this one has more spaces available with a nicer gravel road and better access to get to the Tetons first thing in the morning."

    "my friends and i were in the tetons and headed to another dispersed sight nearby around 6. drove on a decently sketchy road for awhile to have zero open spots. ended up coming here as the sun was setting"

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Kelly, WY

444 Reviews of 92 Kelly Campgrounds



Guide to Kelly

Dispersed camping near Kelly, Wyoming, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. With various options available, campers can find secluded spots that provide both tranquility and breathtaking views.

Dispersed campers should check out Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

  • This site is known for its incredible views of the Tetons, making it a favorite among those seeking picturesque scenery.
  • Campers have reported unforgettable sunrises and sunsets, enhancing the overall experience of staying at Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a drive on rocky roads to reach this site, but the stunning vistas are well worth the effort.

Top activities while free camping near Kelly

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of Upper Teton View Dispersed, which offers access to trails leading into the Grand Teton National Park.
  • Wildlife watching is a popular activity here, with opportunities to spot bears, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
  • Campers can enjoy campfires at night, making it a perfect setting for storytelling and stargazing under the expansive Wyoming sky.

Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

  • The Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping area provides stunning views of the Teton range and is a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
  • This location is also known for its peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to unwind and connect with nature away from the hustle and bustle.
  • The nearby creek adds a soothing soundscape, enhancing the overall camping experience with the gentle flow of water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Kelly, WY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Kelly, WY is Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping with a 4.6-star rating from 78 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Kelly, WY?

TheDyrt.com has all 92 dispersed camping locations near Kelly, WY, with real photos and reviews from campers.