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Destination Guides

Grand Teton Camping

Discover the best camping experiences in Grand Teton National Park, from popular frontcountry campgrounds like Colter Bay to remote backcountry sites. Whether you're an RV enthusiast or a dispersed camping adventurer, find your perfect spot amidst the park's breathtaking landscapes.

Lerunchik

• 4 min read
Logs burning with smoke rising from a campfire at a peaceful campsite surrounded by trees in Grand Teton National Park.
Campfire with logs burning and smoke rising at a serene campsite in Grand Teton National Park.

Introduction

Grand Teton National Park, with its iconic mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, offers some of the best camping experiences in the United States. Whether you prefer the convenience of frontcountry campgrounds, the adventure of backcountry camping, the comfort of RV sites, or the solitude of dispersed camping, Grand Teton has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore the various camping options available in the park, providing you with all the information you need to plan your perfect outdoor adventure.

Types of Camping

Frontcountry Camping

Frontcountry camping in Grand Teton NP provides easy access to amenities and stunning views. Popular campgrounds include:

  • Colter Bay Campground: The largest campground in the park, Colter Bay offers 324 standard sites, 10 hiker/biker sites, 10 group sites, and 13 sites with electric hookups. Located near Jackson Lake, it provides access to a general store, restaurants, and laundry facilities​. There are showers available at the launderette for an additional fee.

Enjoying the serene beauty and amenities of Colter Bay Campground in Grand Teton National Park, perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

  • Gros Ventre Campground: Situated along the Gros Ventre River, this campground has 322 sites, including 39 with electric-only hookups. It's a great base for exploring the southern part of the park and nearby Jackson. The maximum stat allowed at this campground is 14nights.
Tents at a serene Gros Ventre campground in Grand Teton National Park, perfect for a peaceful retreat in nature.
  • Jenny Lake Campground: Known for its breathtaking scenery, Jenny Lake offers 49 sites exclusively for tents. This campground fills up quickly due to its proximity to popular hiking trails and the scenic Jenny Lake​​.

Entrance and early registration procedures and rules at Jenny Lake Campground, with a stunning view of the Teton mountains at sunrise.

Backcountry Camping

For those seeking a more rugged and secluded experience, backcountry camping zones offer a unique adventure:

  • Death Canyon Shelf: Accessible via a challenging hike, this camping zone provides 16 dispersed sites with stunning views of Death Canyon. Permits are required and can be obtained online​.

Captivating views from Phelps Lake Overlook along the Death Canyon Shelf Trail in Grand Teton National Park.

  • Paintbrush Canyon: Split into lower and upper zones, this area offers idyllic alpine environments for backpackers. Permits are necessary, and no amenities are provided, so campers must be fully self-sufficient​.

Climbing and day hiking don’t require permits unless involving overnight stays. Walk-up permits, comprising two-thirds of all permits, are available at specific park locations on a first-come, first-served basis during peak season, and cannot be issued by phone or online.

RV Camping

Grand Teton NP accommodates RV enthusiasts with several well-equipped campgrounds:

  • Colter Bay RV Park: This RV-specific area has 102 pull-through sites with full hookups and is within walking distance of Jackson Lake and Colter Bay Village amenities​. Advanced reservations required at Recreation.gov
  • Gros Ventre Campground: Offers 39 sites with electric hookups suitable for RVs up to 45 feet in length. It's conveniently located near the park entrance and Jackson​ town​.

Dispersed Camping

For those looking to escape the crowds, dispersed camping outside the park boundaries offers solitude and flexibility:

  • Bridger-Teton National Forest: Provides numerous dispersed camping sites with fewer regulations and the chance to connect deeply with nature. Always follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the wilderness experience​.

General Tips for Campers

  • Plan Ahead: Reserve your campsite early (up to 6 months in advance), especially during peak season. Reserve the campsite on https://www.recreation.gov/. Keep in mind that the maximum cumulative stay between all Grand Teton NP campgrounds is 30 nights, verify the maximum number of nights allowed at each campsite.
  • Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and minimize your impact on the environment.
  • Bear Safety: Store food in bear-proof containers and be aware of bear activity in the area.
  • Prepare for Weather: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so bring appropriate gear.

Conclusion

Camping in Grand Teton National Park is an unforgettable experience, offering diverse options for every type of camper. Whether you choose a frontcountry site with convenient amenities, a remote backcountry zone for a rugged adventure, an RV park with full hookups, or a dispersed campsite for ultimate solitude, you'll be surrounded by the park's stunning beauty. Plan your trip, secure your permits, and prepare for an amazing outdoor adventure in one of America's most breathtaking national parks. Happy camping!