Situated east of the Teton mountain range at around 6,800 feet elevation, Moran, Wyoming serves as a strategic basecamp for exploring both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The area experiences short summers with cool nights where temperatures can drop below 40°F even in July. While RV sites provide basic amenities, the yurt camping options near Moran offer weatherproof accommodations that can handle the region's unpredictable mountain weather patterns.
What to do
Paddling on Jackson Lake: Access the water directly from Colter Bay RV Park where paddlers can enjoy mountain-framed water activities. "The campground is just a place to lay your head, but the hikes around Colter Bay are majestic! Church at the amphitheater was enjoyable, and the grocery store provided necessary items and ice cream treats daily!" notes Chelsea W.
Creek floating opportunities: At Crystal Creek Campground, visitors can escape summer heat in the cool water. "We caught and ate all the trout and whitefish we could handle. Nights got down to thirty-four degrees Fahrenheit, making for chilly pees," reports Ron M., highlighting both fishing and temperature considerations.
Wildlife viewing: The area provides excellent wildlife spotting chances without crowds. "We saw a grizzly, and a moose with her calf, among other creatures," shares Celina M., describing how Colter Bay RV Park offers wildlife viewing right from camp.
What campers like
Evening ranger programs: Educational presentations add value to the camping experience. According to Celina M., "The ranger talks in the evening were really marvelous" at Colter Bay, providing insights into local ecology and wildlife.
Convenient services: Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch offers practical amenities that make longer stays more comfortable. "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., highlighting the accessibility of essential services.
Quieter alternatives to park campgrounds: When main park locations fill up, Atherton Creek Campground provides a peaceful alternative. "Forget waking up at 2am to try and snag a site at Jenny Lake. This off-the-beaten-path campground in Teton NF only has 23 sites, with beautiful views of Lower Slide Lake and the mountains," advises Kate D.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: The area has active bear populations requiring proper food storage. "The area is in bear country and we did see a bear. And there were obvious signs that the bares were in the ariea alot. When we saw the dear was near us there was also 3 rangers following it keeping the campers safe," explains Heather H. about her experience at Colter Bay.
Road conditions to remote sites: Some of the most scenic yurt camping near Moran, Wyoming requires careful driving. "The road leading to this campsite is rough and only gets tougher as you get closer. Beautiful, absolutely silent... but the road is not for the faint of heart or engine!" warns Bri about Crystal Creek Campground.
Seasonal limitations: Weather affects accessibility and camping comfort. "We arrived Friday afternoon around ~4pm and there were 4/10 spots open and by night I'm sure all the spots were taken," reports Sophia A., noting how quickly sites fill during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: For families seeking more shelter than tents but a more rustic experience than hotels, yurt camping near Moran provides middle ground. "All basic spots were taken so I got the last little cabin a few days before arriving- this is a busy place! Spendy, but right in Grand Teton and with free hot showers and laundry," shares Paige P. about Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch.
Pet-friendly options: Some locations welcome family pets, expanding accommodation choices. "Pet friendly campsite and hiking!" reports Bethany W. about Teton Canyon, where families can bring their four-legged members.
Educational opportunities: Ranger-led programs engage children while teaching them about the environment. "We were able to use our active military ID for a discount at the campsite. There are large number of sites and you are assigned a spot as you pull up to the gate," notes Krissy P., highlighting discount opportunities for military families.
Tips from RVers
Overflow parking options: When campgrounds fill, some sites offer alternatives. "There is overflow parking nearby so if there are no sites available and you just need a place to park for the night there were several people who took advantage of that," explains Wyatt J. about Hatchet Campground, providing a backup plan for late arrivals.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management with accessible dump stations. "The Shell station on Broadway also has fresh water and propane service but no longer offers a dump service," notes Wyatt J., providing practical RV maintenance information.
Seasonal water availability: Water systems shut down during off-season, requiring advance planning. "There are two water spigots in the center of the park that are also off during the off season, but there is a vault toilet available year round," shares Wyatt J., highlighting what remains accessible year-round versus seasonal amenities.
