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Complete Guide to Camping in Grand Teton National Park

By Author Jake Walnut

Posted on  - Last updated:

One of the best outdoor experiences in all of Wyoming is camping in Grand Teton National Park.

Whether you visit for a day or an entire week, there’s plenty to see and do in the national park and the surrounding area. While taking in the stunning peaks of the Teton Range and oft-photographed historic sites like Mormon Row should be on the top of your list, don’t forget to explore nearby Jackson Hole, the surrounding national forests, and especially Yellowstone National Park, just 10 miles to the north.  

Here is our ultimate guide to help you plan the perfect Grand Teton camping trip.

Index

  1. Best Campgrounds
  2. Backcountry Camping
  3. Winter Camping
  4. Other Lodging
  5. Activities & Destinations

Best Campgrounds in Grand Teton National Park

Camping in Grand Teton National Park is my favorite way to explore the breathtaking landscapes of this northwestern Wyoming paradise. 

Pitch a tent or park your RV to experience this outdoor wonderland up close and personal. A wide range of national park campgrounds means there’s a little something for everyone, from the relatively secluded and remote to the more bustling and social.

Here are the best campgrounds in Grand Teton National Park:

Colter Bay Campground

Colter Bay Campground in Grand Teton National Park

Dates Open: Mid-May to Late September

# of Sites: 335

Don’t let the size scare you off – even though it’s the largest campground in Grand Teton National Park, Colter Bay Campground maintains a laidback and relaxed family-friendly vibe.

Just a five-minute walk to Jackson Lake, this Grand Teton campground blends an ideal location and a forested setting with a wide range of campsites, including tent sites, RV sites (some full-hookup sites are available), group campsites, and even tent cabins. Nearby Colter Bay Village has a general store, two restaurants, and a complimentary guest shuttle. It’s also a hub for park activities including canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, and more.

Flush toilets and running water are available. Laundry service is located nearby. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, although the tent cabins are open for advance reservation. An RV dump station is located on-site.

Learn more about Colter Bay Campground.

Gros Ventre Campground

Gros Ventre Campground in Grand Teton National Park

Dates Open: Early May to Mid-October

# of Sites: 318

Notable as the closest Grand Teton campground to the town of Jackson, Gros Ventre Campground makes a convenient home base for exploring the national park.

The campground has over 300 campsites, many of which accommodate RVs and trailers in addition to tents. 36 of these sites have electrical hookups. 5 large group campsites are also available. All of this is set along the gorgeous Gros Ventre River, bordered by cottonwood trees, with peek-a-boo views of the soaring Teton mountains.

Flush toilets and running water are available. Laundry service are located nearby. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. An RV dump station is on-site. 

Learn more about Gros Ventre Campground.

Headwaters Campground and RV Sites at Flagg Ranch

Flagg Ranch in Grand Teton National Park

Dates Open: Early June to Late September

# of Sites: 175

Headwaters Campground is located in the John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway, about halfway between Yellowstone and Grand Teton, making it perfect for exploring both national parks.

This sprawling campground is one of the best places to go RV camping in Grand Teton National Park. In addition to dry RV sites, it has several full-hookup RV sites. Many of these are pull-thru sites that are suitable for large RVs and trailers. Tent camping and primitive cabin rentals are also available.

There are flush toilets, running water, and 24-hour hot showers. Laundry service is available on-site. Cabins and RV sites can be reserved in advance as well as some tent sites.

Learn more about Headwaters Campground and RV Sites at Flagg Ranch.

Jenny Lake Campground

Jenny Lake Campground in Grand Teton National Park

Dates Open:

# of Sites: 49 (Tents Only)

Tent campers rejoice – it’s hard to argue that Jenny Lake Campground is not one of the best, if not the absolute best, tent campground in Grand Teton National park.

Reserved for tent camping only, this 50-site campground boasts some of the best mountain views in the park. Not only that, but it’s just a short walk to Jenny Lake and is located right alongside a bike path. All of this in a forested setting that’s teeming with wildlife. If a quiet, relaxing Grand Teton camping experience is what you’re after, look no farther than Jenny Lake Campground.

Flush toilets and running water are available. On-site showers are not available, although showers facilities are located just a short drive away. No RVs, trailers, or campers are allowed here. All campsites are first-come, first-served but they fill very fast, especially during the peak season of June through September, so arrive early (before 9am) to secure a spot for the night.

Learn more about Jenny Lake Campground.

Lizard Creek Campground

Lizard Creek Campground in Grand Teton National Park

Dates Open: Mid-June to Early September

# of Sites: 60

One of the least developed campgrounds in the Grand Tetons, Lizard Creek Campground is perfect for those that prefer a more primitive camping experience.

The campground, located at the north end of the national park, has 60 first-come, first-served campsites. Although these are ideal for tent camping, most are also suitable for RVs and trailers less than 30’ in length. Note that there are no RV hookups available. The entire campground is heavily wooded and is just a short walk to beautiful Jackson Lake. Its central location makes it perfect for also visiting Yellowstone National Park to the north.

Restrooms with flush toilets are cold running water are available. All of the campsites are first-come, first-served. These typically fill up quickly from June through September (although less quickly than Jenny Lake Campground), so arrive early.

Learn more about Lizard Creek Campground.

Signal Mountain Campground

Signal Mountain Campground in Grand Teton National Park

Dates Open: Mid-May to Mid-October

# of Sites: 81

Another first-come, first-served campground, Signal Mountain Campground has tent camping sites in addition to 24 RV sites with electrical hookups.

Just 9 miles away from Jenny Lake, this Grand Teton campground offers a good mix of solitude and socialization. Set underneath a canopy of trees, many of the individual campsites offer outstanding views of the mountains or of Jackson Lake. A nearby boat launch is ideal for canoeing and kayaking.  

Restrooms with flush toilets and cold running water are available. All of the campsites are first-come, first-served and fill up quickly during the peak season. No showers or laundry are available on-site, although there is an RV dump station.

Learn more about Signal Mountain Campground.

Backcountry Camping in Grand Teton National Park

Backpacking in Grand Teton National Park

Backpacking, or even horseback riding, to a backcountry campsite is another popular way to enjoy camping in Grand Teton National Park.

Although a backcountry permit is necessary (permits are available by reservation and on a first-come, first-served basis) and bear-proof canisters are required, this additional planning is well worth it. The Grand Teton backcountry is incredibly gorgeous and reaching it takes you well off the beaten path away from the majority of other visitors.

Here are the best backcountry campgrounds in grand Teton National Park:

  • Death Canyon – One of the most beautiful backcountry areas in the national park, Death Canyon is home to several campsites, including a horse camp and large group site.
  • Garnet Canyon – This is one of the most popular backcountry campsites in Grand Teton National Park thanks to its proximity to the Teton Range. There are three separate camping areas, each ideal for ascending one of the three main peaks (Grand Teton, Middle Teton, and South Teton). Minimum impact camping is required due to the heavy usage.
  • Granite & Open Canyon – Numerous campsites spread out across several camping zones give backpackers, especially those exploring the Granite Canyon region, a place to stay overnight.
  • Holly Lake – Beautiful views of Mount Woodring and other peaks greet hikers and backpackers at Holly Lake. This backcountry camping zone consists of several tent campsites as well as a larger group campsite.
  • Marion Lake – At the end of a strenuous out-and-back hike, Marion Lake is a popular overnight destination on the 13-mile (one-way) Marion Lake trail. Note that because of historic and current high usage, camping is restricted to certain areas. You must use the provided tent pads at each site.
  • Phelps Lake – Phelps Lake is a popular overnight destination for those hiking the Phelps Lake Trail or the longer Teton Crest Trail. The shockingly clear mountain lake is surrounded by several campsites as well as horse hitches and bear boxes.
  • Upper Paintbrush – This backcountry camping zone is a little different from others in the national park. Namely, it’s an open camping area without designated campsites (although you must be at least 100 feet from trails and water).
  • Surprise Lake – Another Grand Teton backcountry camping area with incredibly high usage during the peak season, it’s important to always pitch your tent only on bare ground areas, never attempt to improve sites, and otherwise practice the 7 leave no trace principles.

Winter Camping in Grand Teton National Park

Winter in Grand Teton National Park

Although winter weather is harsh (expect snow and frigid temperatures), winter camping is allowed in Grand Teton National Park.

Camping in the backcountry is allowed year-round, including winter, but you must first obtain a backcountry permit. None of the designated campgrounds are open in the winter, although the parking lot near the Colter Bay Visitor Center is open for primitive RV and car camping during the winter for $5 per night.

If you’re planning a winter camping trip to Grand Teton, we encourage you to check out our guide to camping in the winter and guide to winter camping gear.

Other Lodging in Grand Teton National Park

Lodging in Grand Teton National Park

Camping isn’t the only way to stay the night in Grand Teton National Park.

Those that prefer a more luxurious overnight experience might opt for a stay in one of the park’s many cabins, guesthouses, or lodges. Staying at a hotel, apartment rental, or cabin in the nearby town of Jackson is another option.

Here is the best lodging in Grand Teton National Park:

  • American Alpine Club Grand Teton Climber’s Ranch – If you’re planning on climbing or mountaineering in the Tetons, this rustic co-ed bunkhouse is likely the most affordable and convenient option until you hit the trail.
  • Colter Bay Cabins – Located on Jackson Lake, just minutes from Colter Bay Campground, the Colter Bay Cabins consist of several rustic cabins (most with shared or private bathrooms) as well as primitive tent cabins.
  • Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch – Conveniently located at the northern end of Grand Teton National Park (perfect for a trip up to Yellowstone), this rustic lodging option consists of the lodge itself, several log cabins, and primitive camping cabins in addition to the nearby tent and RV campsites.
  • Jackson Lake Lodge – For arguably the most luxurious lodging in Grand Teton National Park, look no further than Jackson Lake Lodge. This full-service resort hotel has 37 rooms in the main lodge plus 348 guest cottage rooms. Several dining options, a swimming pool, and a complimentary shuttle are just a few additional amenities. Of course, the absolutely stunning views of Jackson Lake with the Tetons in the distance is the main draw.
  • Jenny Lake Lodge – The historic Jenny Lake Lodge mixes a dash of luxury into an otherwise rustic Grand Teton lodging experience. 37 cabins are tucked away into the surrounding forest offering easy access to Jenny Lake and String Lakes. Gourmet breakfast and a rotating five-course dinner menu are available to all guests.
  • Signal Mountain Lodge – The only resort located on the shores of Jackson Lake, Signal Mountain Lodge is known for its comfortable views, comfortable room rentals, and on-site restaurant/bar. Many of these lakefront apartments and log cabins come with kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and even fireplaces.
  • Triangle X Ranch – The only dude ranch in Grand Teton National Park, Triangle X Ranch offers an authentic Wyoming lodging experience. In addition to spacious and comfortable cabins, this dude ranch offers plenty of additional activities, including “family” dinners featuring home-cooked meals, guided horseback riding tours, western cookouts, float trips, and more. It’s also the only lodging open in the national park during the winter.

Top Activities & Destinations In & Near Grand Teton National Park

Fishing in Grand Teton National Park

Camping is just the tip of the iceberg of everything that Grand Teton National Park has to offer.

Many visitors also enjoy taking a scenic drive through the park, especially in the early morning or late evening when wildlife is most active. Another option is to take a hike, whether it’s a short 0.5-mile loop on a paved trail or a multi-night excursion into the backcountry. Or, if you’re camping with kids, don’t forget to check out the many ranger programs, including Junior Rangers, offered daily during the summer months. 

Here are the top activities and destinations to do and see while camping in Grand Teton National Park:

  • Climbing – Serious climbers and mountaineers enjoy climbing more than 200 peaks in the Teton Range as well as technical climbing in surrounding canyons. In fact, climbing Grand Teton itself is one of the most popular climbs in the park.
  • Fishing – The many lakes and streams of Grand Teton National Park make it a hotspot for fishing, although anglers must follow all Wyoming state regulations. Commercial trips are also available from select area outfitters.
  • Hiking – Don’t visit Grand Teton National Park without going on a hike! The best hikes in the park range from short 1-mile jaunts to strenuous day hikes to multi-night backpacking trips and everything in between. The Forks of Cascade Canyon, String Lake Loop, and the Lake Solitude Trail are a handful of the most popular.
  • Jackson, Wyoming – Just outside the park at the southern end of Jackson Hole, the town of Jackson is a charming place to visit on your Wyoming camping trip. Outdoor activities, including winter skiing at regional mountain resorts, and excellent dining options make Jackson a popular Grand Teton destination.
  • Jenny Lake – A visit to Jenny Lake is one of the highlights of any Grand Teton National Park camping trip. The beautiful mountain lake is a popular destination for boating, hiking, and picnicking. It’s notable as the only lake within the national park that allows the use of motorized boats.
  • Ranger Programs – Grand Teton National Park offers ranger programs year-round (including snowshoe walks in the winter), although the bulk of them are offered during the summer. These programs are perfect for visitors of all ages. They include guided hikes, ranger talks, Junior Ranger programs, and much more.
  • Scenic Drive – Perhaps the most popular activity in the park, a scenic drive through the Grand Tetons is an excellent way to take in the soaring mountains, lush valleys, and verdant forests. You might even see some wildlife along the road!
  • Snowshoeing – In addition to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing is one of the most popular winter activities in the Grand Tetons. Several area businesses offer commercial snowshoe tours. There are also ranger-led guided snowshoe hikes during the winter.
  • Teton Range – The Teton Range, including the titular Grand Teton, is the crown jewel of Grand Teton National Park. They are truly a site to behold and are the primary feature that draws visitors to the park.
  • Wildlife Viewing – Numerous wildlife species call this national park home, including wolves, bears, elk, moose, pronghorn antelope, and so much more. Grand Teton National Park is also notable for its bird watching opportunities.  
  • Yellowstone National Park – Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are just 31 miles apart from each other and are connected by the John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway. The majority of visitors to Grand Teton also visit Yellowstone on their camping trip.

Check Out Our Other Camping Resources!

Boating in Grand Teton National Park

Need more help planning your Grand Teton National Park camping trip?

Then check out these additional camping resources:

Want to try out RV camping in Grand Teton National Park but don’t have an RV or trailer of your own? Our RV rentals tool will help you find affordable RV rentals in your local area:

Interested in our other national park camping guides? Here are a few of our most popular:

As for finding the best camping in each state, our state camping guides are hard to beat. Use the following guides to help plan your next camping trip:

Our camping gear guides and reviews will help you pick out the best camping equipment for your trip, including the best camping stove, best sleeping bag, best cooler, and so much more!

And, like always, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about camping in Grand Teton National Park and beyond!