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Best Dispersed Camping near Teton Village, WY

506 Reviews

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.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Teton Village, Wyoming (95)

    1. Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    83 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. Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping

    33 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."

    "Maybe they just liked my bug spray, I'm not sure. But with the current fire ban, I spent most of my time at these sites indoors."

    3. Upper Teton View Dispersed

    60 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."

    4. Spread Creek Dispersed Campground

    56 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. Forest Road 30442

    6 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"

    9. 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."

    10. Shadow Mountain Campground

    9 Reviews
    Kelly, WY
    15 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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Teton Village, WY

449 Photos of 95 Teton Village Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Teton Village, WY

506 Reviews of 95 Teton Village Campgrounds

  • Natalie B.
    Aug. 14, 2017

    Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Awesome view!

    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. There is a camping area at the base of the mountain but if you continue on up the mountain there are many, many dispersed camping pullouts. Beautiful views of the Tetons and excellent wildflowers. There are sites that have some shade and trees but several are pretty exposed. This is a very popular place on the weekends so make sure you get there early to set up camp (or avoid it if you like quite on a Saturday night). No water, no toilets, just a free place to camp with established fire rings! Dogs are welcome.

  • Nicki S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Darby Canyon Dispersed

    Darby

    I have not personally spent the night camping here, but I do work for the Forest Service and wanted to give more information about the Darby Canyon dispersed camping sites. I also had a friend stay here for three nights last September and they had a good time. There are about 10~ sites (I will check and edit when I can) all along the canyon road, some are just right off road and others require a short drive down beaten paths to find the sites. All of these sites (except 2 or so very close to the road) are past the cattle guard. Depending on the time of year, many of these sites may not be accessible. Snow typically stays in the canyon until mid-June and starts collecting in October. The area may also be buggy at the height of the summer (July 2024 had been atrocious). There is limited cell service down most of the road and it completely disappears the closer to the Wind Cave trailhead you get. This area has a 14 day stay limit, meaning that once 14 days (13 nights) have been reached you must move at least 5 miles away to continue camping on forest service land and cannot return to this canyon to camp for 30 days. This is in a bear food storage enforced area and any bear attractants (food, pet food, soaps, sunscreen, etc.) are required to be stored properly in a locked hard sided vehicle or other bear resistant containers. Fires are allowed but must be put out dead (cold to the touch) before leaving a campsite. This canyon is regularly patrolled by Forest Service staff and ranger law enforcement officers, especially on the weekends, to keep up with the food storage and fires out dead orders. Hope this helps weary travelers that are deterred by low-rated reviews.

  • Katherine B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2018

    Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping

    Solitude but close to town

    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. Town of Jackson is fairly close.

    Same great views you'd expect anywhere near the Tetons; trailhead to Goodwin Lake is close by. Full Teton view is better at the trailhead, but its not far. Dispersed sites are spread out with plenty of space; although no one stayed in the site next to us on this rainy evening in June.

    To get there, continue past the Curtis Canyon campground in Bridger-Teton National Forest (behind the Elk refuge) as if you were heading to the trail head. You'll start to see marked sites along the extremely rutted forest road. I would not attempt very muddy conditions.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2024

    Upper Teton View Dispersed

    Awesome view

    We spent one night mid May here on the way to Yellowstone. The view was awesome. 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. Not sure when the road will open up to the main dispersed site. Be aware that there is only enough room for about 20 campers / vans in the lower area. There is room for about another 15 cars and tent camping. Arrive early! Plenty of hiking and well worth it if you get a spot!

  • Sydney C.
    Jul. 26, 2022

    Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Rough road, but worth it

    We stayed here 3 nights and absolutely loved it. 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. It’s quiet and super close to the Moose entrance for the NP. We were higher up (#10) and had great Verizon service. Bathroom all the way at the bottom also. Can only camp in designated spots. Definitely recommend

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Gros Ventre Road Dispersed

    Beautiful riverside camping

    We camped here in a 4x4 Sprinter van in early July and it was one of the best dispersed sites we’ve ever experienced. It took about 45min driving East from Antelope Flats Road to reach the site. The service road out to the turnoff is very easy, a 2WD crossover could make it in clear conditions. I wouldn’t be comfortable taking the turnoff itself down to the river without high clearance and 4WD as it’s steep and uneven.

    There were two clearly defined camping spots with primitive fire rings, each directly on the banks of the river with views of the cliff side opposite the river.

    Zero service and amenities but a wonderful experience. We got there at about 6pm on a Friday and the other site was filled.

  • Austin R.
    Aug. 31, 2017

    Bridger-Teton National Forest

    Ranger Review: Klymit Insulated Static V in Bridger-Teton National Forest

    Campground Review

    Alright. I was planning on staying in Grand Teton National Park, but since it was the Thursday before the 2017 Solar Eclipse the Park was full. And I am glad it was. 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. The site I picked out was around 8 miles (20 min) from the main paved road into the park and around 50 min from the Visitor Center. Since it is in bear country you need to make sure you have a bear proof cooler or store everything in your car. While I was there the NFS had placed a fire ban due to the sheer number of campers in the area for the eclipse, I believe that fires are allowed otherwise.

    Product Review

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time - over the summer I tested the Insulated Static V from Klymit.

    I put this pad through the ringer for sure. I used it no less than once per week during June, July, and the first half of August. It still looks good as new. This pad is incredibly comfortable for all types of sleeping positions. At an R-value of 4.4, it packs down to just slightly bigger than a Nalgene water bottle and weighs only 25 oz. The bag that it comes with is slightly oversized, which means that you can actually get it back in the bag with little issues every time even if your roll is slightly sloppy. It also comes with a patch kit so you can fix it in the field should an issue arise, not that I have ever needed it.

    I can also attest to Klymit's customer service as well. Prior to getting the Insulated Static V, I owned one of the original Static V pads. That pad survived from 2012-2016 until the valve developed a slight leak. I contacted Klymit to check out their warranty. They told me pads are covered under a lifetime warranty and after shipping it back to them I received a brand new pad within 2-3 weeks if I'm remembering correctly. So not only are the products great, but they stand behind them too!

  • Scott V.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2023

    Shadow Mountain Designated Campsite 1

    Awesome Views

    The dirt road in is rough steep and narrow. Recommend high clearance as the road has ruts. They will close the road to snow and move the barrier up as it melts. Sites are spread out and numbered. The views are amazing. Spot 1 is in the aspen trees.

  • UnnamedAdventures The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 25, 2019

    Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful Spot! Rough Road.

    If your wanting a place that overlooks the Grand Teton National Park this is your place. The views from campsites 1-15 are absolutely unreal and overlook Antelope Flats followed by the Grand Teton's. Some of the other campsites at Shadow Mountain are harder to navigate. Around Shadow Mountain there is about 8 miles worth of 4 wheeler trails that you can bike or walk where the other campsite locations are located. 

    Shadow Mountain is part of the Bridger-Teton National Forest and from May 1- Labor Day you can stay a maximum of 5 days, the other dates you can stay up to 16 days. The camp ambassador has more detailed maps of the camping areas. This part of the national forest allows for FREE dispersed camping but only at assigned campsites. There is a camp ambassador on-site near sites 1-15 to help enforce the rules(this is a busier campsite in the summer as its very close to Jackson and lots of locals come out- kind of a party spot). There is a porta-potty on site on campsites 1-15 but no water or other amenities near other campsites. 

    The road to get this location can be difficult but maneuverable as there are some large ruts in spots and larger river rock makes slower travel. It can be navigated by pretty much any car type or truck with trailer. If you have an RV it may be difficult to get to this location. 

    Overall we highly recommend you check out this spot as the view is absolutely gorgeous. There is animal activity in the area Moose, Elk, Grizzly so use proper animal safety,"be bear aware." The camp ambassador mentioned a few weeks prior to our stay a grizzly attached a mom and her baby Moose near campsite 14! 

    Check out our video review: https://youtu.be/8mVj1dxL5t4

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.

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