The best free campsite EVER. All the campgrounds in the Tetons and Yellowstone were full and we found the gem to top them all. Site #12 was totally private, nestled in the woods, with Snake River at the end of the driveway. No amenities, but an easy drive to Buffalo Ranch Cafe, where the food was a tasty splurge and we felt like we could afford the luxury, given our free campsite. Things to know:

Most sites are large and can accommodate more than one — so expect visitors. Especially site #1 and the couple others that sit right off the main road or right on the river.

A drive in will reward you with greater odds of privacy but also greater risks of vehicle damage. I scratched the hell out of my new car. There are horrific potholes. We bottomed out and feared worse damage multiple times. It’s a dodgy dirt road that can change radically with inclement weather.

The road is narrow and can only accommodate 1 vehicle. If you encounter another, good luck. If you’re towing a short wheel base trailer (like us) and backing up is impossible, hail Mary!

The mosquitoes are terrible and worse closer to the water.

The ranger WILL check in daily and send anyone claiming an unmarked spot packing.

The sites along the road that attract the most people can be a little noisy.

Despite the challenges, we FAR preferred the beauty, quiet, and privacy of this site to any other option in the parks. We biked and rafted and had a blast. We encountered horses meandering through and a gorgeous fox. If the roads were maintained, they could easily call these group sites and charge over $100./night.