Tent camping near Teton Village ranges from primitive backcountry sites to more developed campgrounds, with elevations between 6,800 and 7,500 feet. Summer temperatures fluctuate dramatically, often dropping below 40°F at night even when daytime highs reach the 80s. Most camping areas sit on rocky or sandy soil requiring sturdy tent stakes and insulated sleeping pads for comfort.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Taylor Ranch Road Dispersed Camping offers direct river access with good trout fishing. "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," notes one camper at Taylor Ranch Road Dispersed Camping.
Hiking Open Canyon: For backpackers seeking solitude, the Open Canyon trail provides access to backcountry camping. "Roughly 3/4 up the Open Canyon trail the trees open up to a good spot to grab water. Just further up the trail this camp site was a 50-75ft hike down to this great open spot for setting up your tent," reports a backpacker at Open Canyon.
Wildlife viewing: Dusk and dawn offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities from many campsites. At Curtis Canyon, campers appreciate the wildlife management: "The park ranger on site was very helpful and alerted us when there were bears in the area," says one visitor at Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping.
What campers like
Sunrise views: Many campers position their tents for morning views of the Tetons catching first light. "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. We went as far as site #17 before we turned around," shares a camper at Shadow Mountain Dispersed Campsite #10.
Privacy between sites: Despite popularity, some areas maintain good separation between campsites. "Lovely views with a bear box and campfire ring. The sites were also spread out enough that it never felt crowded," notes a visitor at Curtis Canyon Dispersed Camping.
River sounds: Falling asleep to flowing water ranks high among camper preferences. "We stayed in the larger spot next to the river. There are 2-3 good spots for tents and a couple of hammock-worthy trees. There's also a large rock next to the lower fire pit that served as a great kitchen table," describes a visitor at Taylor Ranch Road.
What you should know
Early arrival essential: During peak season (June-August), securing a tent site requires early morning arrival. "We snagged this as the last spot at ~330 on a Tuesday!" reports a visitor about Shadow Mountain.
Bear safety requirements: All camping areas enforce strict food storage protocols. At Death Canyon, "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," explains a backpacker at Death Canyon Camping Zone.
Insect conditions: Mosquitoes and flies can be problematic, especially in early summer. "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. Truly could not make it out of my tent and car. SWARMS," warns a Curtis Canyon visitor in July.
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "We wanted to stay for 2 nights but it ended up raining the entire night and was forecasted to rain the entire next day so we moved on. Beware! If it rains, that dirt/rocky road turns into pure mud," cautions a Shadow Mountain camper.
Tips for camping with families
Select established campgrounds: For families with young children, established campgrounds provide important amenities. "Great access to the park and trails along the lake," notes a visitor about Colter Bay Tent Village.
Pack for temperature swings: Children often need extra layers as temperatures drop dramatically after sunset. "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," advises a camper about Jenny Lake Campground.
Choose sites near facilities: With children, proximity to restrooms matters. "The sites are closer together than we would usually prefer, but not as close as some other campgrounds in National Parks we've been too! Plus there are lots of trees & bushes to split up the sites," reports a Colter Bay visitor.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: High-clearance vehicles navigate dispersed camping areas better than low-clearance RVs. "Road is rough. Recommend high clearance vehicles. Space for 2-3. Right on the river," warns a Taylor Ranch Road visitor.
Limited dispersed options: Most dispersed camping areas have restrictions on RV length and access. "We just happened to get lucky on a Saturday morning to find this spot open. Absolutely beautiful!" shares a visitor at Antelope Springs Designated Dispersed Camping.
Designated site selection: For the best tent camping near Teton Village with RVs, arrive early to secure prime locations. "There are only 16 spots at this site. Several of them are only accessible if you have a 4WD with high clearance. The rest of the sites were more accessible but all taken," explains a Curtis Canyon visitor.
