The Moose, Wyoming area sits at approximately 6,500 feet elevation within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, experiencing cold winters with temperatures often below freezing and summer daytime temperatures typically between 70-80°F. July and August represent peak camping season when tent sites throughout Grand Teton National Park fill rapidly, with mosquitoes typically most active during these months. The region requires proper food storage due to black and grizzly bear activity throughout the camping season.
What to do
Fishing at mountain lakes: Multiple fishing opportunities exist throughout the Teton region, particularly at Phelps Lake in Grand Teton National Park where backcountry camping permits are required. As one visitor noted, "Death canyon trail head is the starting point for the hike. Permit is required. You can get one at the visitor center."
Explore alpine terrain: The Death Canyon area offers challenging hiking combined with secluded camping zones. According to a camper at Death Canyon Camping Zone: "A beautiful 8 mile hike up the mountain finished with secluded sites with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. Lots of wildlife, a bear cannister is required and provided at the parks Visitors Center when receiving your backcountry permit."
Riverside relaxation: Tent camping along the Gros Ventre River provides opportunities for both fishing and wildlife viewing. A camper at Taylor Ranch Road reported: "Very convenient spot for visiting Teton, just outside of Kelly. If you come to the bridge, you've gone too far. Once you turn off, there is a large spot at the end of the little road, down by the river."
What campers like
Elevated viewing points: Shadow Mountain dispersed camping areas provide panoramic views of the Teton Range from multiple designated sites. According to one reviewer: "Unbeatable view and accessible to GTNP but very busy. We snagged this as the last spot at ~330 on a Tuesday!" Another camper at Shadow Mountain added: "The road is great and there were several open sites on the way up. Some spots were broken up into several smaller spots (a-c). Spot #9 was near the top and had near 360 views, perfect for sunset over the Tetons."
Tent-only environments: Several campgrounds cater specifically to tent campers seeking a more traditional outdoor experience. A camper at Colter Bay Tent Village shared: "This is a great location with lots of amenities. Amazing lake right off the campground where you can swim and rent boats."
Wildlife encounters: The region offers frequent wildlife sightings from established camping areas. A visitor at Colter Bay Tent Village reported: "Stayed here for 6 days had amazing time. We were a minute walk away from the lake and a perfect view of the mountains. They had a great general store with decent prices for being the only store around."
What you should know
Early arrival crucial: Most tent camping sites in the Moose area fill exceptionally early, especially during peak summer months. A camper at Jenny Lake noted: "It's worth the early wake up to get in here. It's worse on the weekends but the views make up for it. Plenty spread out and run by some amazing people."
Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change rapidly, with potential for rain, snow or temperature swings even in summer. A camper at Antelope Springs Designated Dispersed Camping reported: "I strongly recommend this site, but can be packed in the summer. I stayed here Dec 20th-21st. Because of season, there was a foot of snow at least... It was about 4°F/20°C that night."
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require careful driving on unpaved roads. One visitor to Curtis Canyon mentioned: "Pass Curtis canyon campground which I think is $10 a night. Go up another quarter mile and on the third Big bend there is a singular spot with an amazing view."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety knowledge: Teaching children proper food storage protocols is essential when tent camping near Moose. A visitor to Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping noted: "We loved this campground and the view it has of the Teton's... Each site has a fire pit and ample room for tents or trailers. The park ranger on site was very helpful and alerted us when there were bears in the area."
Insect preparation: Summer brings mosquitoes and flies to many camping areas, requiring appropriate repellent and clothing. One camper warned: "I am a pretty experienced camper. Never in my LIFE have I been swarmed by this many flies and horse flies. Maybe it was just bad luck but this is insane."
Water access points: Several camping locations offer safe water access suitable for families with children. A visitor to Taylor Ranch Road Dispersed Camping shared: "A friendly fox came poking down to the river while I was sitting there."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choosing appropriate RV camping requires understanding the terrain limitations at various locations. A visitor to Phillips Bench Trailhead noted: "This has I think 12 spots. It's a little rough in the beginning but not bad after that seen Subarus up there."
Facility limitations: Most dispersed camping areas around Moose lack hookups or amenities for RVs. One camper reported: "Dirt circle with room for a few cars, vans etc. No actual designated spots. Just for sleeping mostly."
Seasonal access: Weather conditions affect road accessibility for larger vehicles, particularly in spring and fall. A camper at Taylor Ranch Road observed: "The road is a little rough but manageable, at least for our 22ft plus trailer. Sites were not very level but the views are unreal."
