Best Dispersed Camping near Teton Village, WY

Several dispersed camping options exist near Teton Village, Wyoming, primarily on Bridger-Teton National Forest land. Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping and Upper Teton View Dispersed are among the most popular free camping areas, offering views of the Grand Tetons. Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping, Spread Creek Dispersed Campground, and Forest Road 30442 provide additional options. These sites are located on public land where primitive camping is permitted without developed facilities, typically accessed via forest service roads.

Many access roads require slow navigation due to rough, rutted conditions. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most sites, with 4WD necessary for certain areas, especially after rain. Shadow Mountain features particularly challenging terrain with steep grades and large ruts. Most dispersed sites have established fire rings but no water sources or trash services. Camping is limited to 5 days from May through Labor Day and up to 14-16 days during off-season periods. Bear-safe food storage is required throughout the region. Designated sites are enforced in popular areas like Shadow Mountain, where camping is only permitted in numbered spots.

These primitive areas provide exceptional views and wildlife viewing opportunities. "A bit of a drive and a rough road, but totally worth it," noted one visitor about Shadow Mountain, which offers panoramic Teton vistas. Upper Teton View campers report similar scenic rewards. Sites fill quickly during peak season, with visitors advising early arrival. "We stayed at site 16, and it provided an incredible view of the Grand Teton mountain range with tons of flowers and trees surrounding the area," shared another camper. Forest Service staff regularly patrol popular areas to enforce regulations. Mosquitoes can be problematic in summer months, particularly near water sources like Spread Creek, where campers recommend bringing ample bug spray.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Teton Village, Wyoming (95)

    1. Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    82 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    13 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

    58 Reviews
    Moran, WY
    19 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

    31 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    12 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

    42 Reviews
    Queens, WY
    22 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. Phillips Bench Trailhead

    5 Reviews
    Wilson, WY
    7 miles

    "Easy to find with coordinates no other signage seen. Open space for parking. There are two other vehicles here with us and we are not on top of each other."

    "Steep 3 miles up highway outside Jackson. Pull off on RIGHT small area with a beautiful waterfall fed pond !"

    6. Shadow Mountain - Dispersed Campsite #10

    10 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    15 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. Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Jackson, WY
    11 miles

    "When driving up the gravel road you first come to the Curtis Canyon campground ($10/nightly) but if you continue on the road you will come to the Curtis Canyon dispersed campsites (free)."

    "Date 7/1/2025 Tuesday Arrival time:4:45P Sites available 3/10 Camp full by 5:30P Total days allowed to camp: 5 Items to bring: Bear spray, fishing license Road conditions: gravel road easy to access"

    8. Moose Creek Trailhead Dispersed Area

    5 Reviews
    Victor, ID
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 354-2312

    "No amenities, just peace and nature."

    "Trailhead draws a lot of visitors during the day. No toilets, dumping, hookups or water. Just the stars and roaring creek. Beautiful back there."

    9. Taylor Ranch Road Dispersed Camping

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

    "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."

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

    10. Forest Road 30442

    5 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    11 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 Teton Village, WY

487 Reviews of 95 Teton Village Campgrounds



Guide to Teton Village

Dispersed camping near Teton Village, Wyoming, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying stunning views of the Teton Range. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Teton Village, Wyoming

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping, where sites fill up quickly by mid-morning.
  • Be prepared for varying road conditions; some areas, such as Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping, require high-clearance vehicles due to rough terrain.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to maintain the natural beauty of sites like Upper Teton View Dispersed, ensuring future campers can enjoy the area just as you did.

Scenic views for dispersed campers

Dispersed campers should check out Curtis Canyon

  • Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning mountain views, making it a favorite among campers seeking solitude.
  • This area features well-spaced sites, allowing for a more private camping experience while still being close to the action of the nearby national parks.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife; campers have reported sightings of deer and other animals in the vicinity of Curtis Canyon, enhancing the outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free camping available near Teton Village and Grand Teton National Park?

Yes, free camping is available near Teton Village and Grand Teton National Park throughout Bridger-Teton National Forest. Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping offers spectacular views of the Tetons and is located off Antelope Flats Road, about 30 minutes from Teton Village. Spread Creek Dispersed Campground provides nice grassy level areas with creek access. These free sites are typically first-come, first-served with a 14-day maximum stay. While free, these areas lack amenities like running water or garbage service, so come prepared with supplies and plan to pack out all trash.

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping near Teton Village?

No permits are required for dispersed camping in Bridger-Teton National Forest near Teton Village. However, you should be aware of specific regulations including the 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period. Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping and Darby Canyon Dispersed are popular permit-free options, though some locations have designated numbered sites. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, camp in previously disturbed areas at least 200 feet from water sources, and check for seasonal closures or fire restrictions before your trip, especially during peak summer months or hunting season.

What areas in Bridger-Teton National Forest allow dispersed camping?

Bridger-Teton National Forest offers extensive dispersed camping opportunities across its 3.4 million acres. Bridger-Teton National Forest has numerous Forest Service roads that provide access to dispersed sites, such as FS 30165, offering valley camping with stunning mountain views. Shadow Mountain Designated Campsite 1 represents one of many numbered sites available in designated dispersed areas. Buffalo Valley, Curtis Canyon, and areas along Gros Ventre Road also permit dispersed camping. Most locations require camping in previously disturbed sites, staying at least 200 feet from water sources, and following the 14-day stay limit. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many of these areas.

Where are the best spots for dispersed camping near Grand Teton National Park?

Upper Teton View Dispersed is highly recommended for its incredible panoramas of the Tetons, though note that road access to the main camping area may be closed seasonally. Gros Ventre Road Dispersed offers some of the best dispersed camping experiences about 45 minutes east of Antelope Flats Road, accessible via a 2WD-friendly service road in clear conditions. For those seeking spots closer to the park entrance, locations along Forest Service roads east of the park boundary provide excellent options. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most areas, as many access roads have ruts and rough sections.