Shoshone National Forest borders both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, offering year-round camping at elevations ranging from 4,600 to 13,804 feet. This diverse terrain includes sagebrush deserts, mountain meadows, and alpine forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-80°F during the day, dropping to 40-50°F at night, while winter brings below-freezing conditions with significant snowfall.
What to do
Fishing in pristine waters: The Wind River runs through several campgrounds, providing excellent fishing opportunities. At Double Cabin Campground, visitors can catch brook and cutthroat trout. "Great fishing for brookies and cutthroat trout. There are corrals for horses nearby," notes Nathan K.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse wildlife including grizzlies, black bears, moose, and elk. Mark M. describes Double Cabin Campground as "one of those places that makes you feel small. Every time I'm near Debois, I have to plan a few days getting back to what life should be."
Stargazing after sunset: Limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Jon G. observed at Double Cabin: "The stars go on forever & we were lucky enough to stay here for 3 clear nights & a full moon. It is a top notch spot."
Boating on area lakes: Atherton Creek Campground offers direct water access. "This is a great spot for boaters, no matter the vessel. There's a boat ramp but also some pretty easy access for kayaks or SUPs," writes Katherine B.
What campers like
Private riverside sites: Many campgrounds feature secluded sites along waterways. At The Longhorn Ranch Lodge & RV Resort, Brandon G. reports: "We stayed in a riverfront spot and we would definitely recommend! These are very large spots that are back in spots and the Wind River is right outside your door."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Despite remote locations, several campgrounds maintain high standards. A guest at The Longhorn Ranch shares: "Beautiful views, friendly staff, level sites with full hookups either viewing the River and mountains or in the woods. Call store is open until 10 every night for essentials and firewood."
Proximity to national parks: Locations between Yellowstone and Grand Teton provide strategic access. "We really enjoyed the location — smack between Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Campground is quiet, beautiful, and with good amenities," notes Wes L. about Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation camping offers relief from summer heat. At Wood River Campground, visitors enjoy heavily forested sites with natural shade. Bryan P. describes it as having "five sites, but all are really nice, spacious and clean. Pit toilets were surprisingly very clean and well kept. The sound of the river is very peaceful to listen to."
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Hard-sided camping requirements exist in some areas. Ryan notes about Newton Creek Campground: "This was a great campsite on the banks of Newton creek. Very clean, host was super friendly as were camping neighbors. Hardsides only because of bear activity."
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have no cell service or limited WiFi. Susan R. observed at Headwaters: "Very limited Wi-fi that had to be accessed at the lodge reception area. No cell phone service. A courtesy phone is available at the lodge reception desk."
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly, requiring preparation. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, and afternoon storms are common in summer months.
Water availability concerns: Some campgrounds have seasonal water restrictions. Josh R. warns about Double Cabin: "Be aware that a sign posted at the campground says water won't be available again until the 2022 season."
Mosquito issues: Insect activity varies by location and season. Julianne H. cautions about Hatchet Campground: "We went at the end of June, so I should have expected some bugs but man it was rough. If you go further up the forest service road there's free dispersed camping which is what we were planning on."
Tips for camping with families
Mini-golf and swimming activities: Some glamping near Shoshone National Forest includes family-friendly amenities. Colter Bay RV Park offers numerous activities. One visitor shares: "You could spend your entire vacation here without leaving the campground (but don't do that because there are two incredible National Parks right there)."
Kid-friendly hiking trails: Short trails suitable for children exist throughout the region. At Colter Bay, Chelsea W. recommends: "This place is unbelievably beautiful! The campground is just a place to lay your head, but the hikes around Colter Bay are majestic!"
Educational ranger programs: Evening ranger talks provide learning opportunities. Celina M. notes: "The ranger talks in the evening were really marvelous."
Wildlife viewing safety: Teach children proper wildlife viewing distance. Heather H. observed: "We were a minute walk away from the lake and a perfect view of the mountains. When we saw the bear was near us there were also 3 rangers following it keeping the campers safe."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Some access roads have rough sections requiring careful navigation. Jon G. cautions about Double Cabin: "Getting to this place with our 30' TT was a challenge. Most of the road there is a one lane, winding road with dropoffs at times. There are lots of horse trailers that use this road so be prepared."
Site leveling: Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites. Chris A. advises: "Most sites are pretty uneven so bring blocks. I had to get pretty creative in our super C."
RV size limitations: Many forest service campgrounds accommodate smaller rigs only. At Hatchet Campground, Wyatt J. explains: "Most are back in however there are a few that are pull through. If you depend on solar you're going to have a lot of shading in this park."
Dump station locations: Note services available at campgrounds. "We found The Virginian RV park in Jackson hole to be a good place to dump and refill for a modest fee of $10. The Shell station on Broadway also has fresh water and propane service but no longer offers a dump service."
