All backcountry
camping requires a permit. Backcountry camping permits are
issued free of charge to walk-ins on a first-come, first-served
basis. Permits can be obtained at the Moose and Colter Bay
visitor centers, and at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station. Permits
involving climbing any of the peaks may be obtained only at
the Jenny Lake Ranger Station.
Requests for
advance reservations are accepted from January 1st to May
15th. Send the request by regular mail, fax, or in person.
Include your name, address, phone number, number of people,
and preferred campsites and dates. Be sure to include alternatives.
Requests are processed in the order received. Requests may
be faxed to (307) 739-3438 or mailed to:
Grand Teton National Park
Backcountry Permits
PO Box 170
Moose, Wyoming 83012
A non-refundable
service fee of $15 will be charged for each reservation (fee
is per trip, not per person). Put credit card information
directly on the fax, or mail a check made payable to the National
Park Service. If no payment is received with your request,
you will be billed. Only one-third of the sites are reserved
in advance, leaving two-thirds available for walk-in reservations.
Some camping
zones fill up early. Be prepared with an alternate plan. Download
the backcountry
camping brochure to review regulations and maps showing
the authorized camping zones. Individual parties consist of
1 to 6 people. Groups of 7-12 people must camp in designated
group sites, which are shown on the map.
Backcountry Regulations
Pets, weapons, bicycles, and vehicles
are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry.
All overnight camping requires a permit.
Carry out all your garbage.
Prevent erosion by hiking on established
trails erosion.
Horses have the right-of-way. Step
off the trail and remain quiet while horses pass.
Observe and photograph wildlife from
a safe distance. Do not approach or feed animals.
Prevent contamination of waterways
by burying feces in a hole 6-8 inches deep at least 200
feet from streams and lakes. Pack out used toilet paper,
tampons, sanitary napkins, and diapers in sealed plastic
bags. Do not bury or burn them.
For your safety
This is bear country. Make bears aware
of your presence and avoid surprising them by making loud
noises like shouting or singing.
Carry drinking water.
Be prepared for rapid weather changes;
bring rain gear and extra clothing.
High elevation may cause breathing
difficulties; pace yourself.
Snow melts gradually, leaving valley
trails by mid-June, canyon trails by late July. Be careful
crossing snowfields and streams.
Tell someone where you are going and
when you expect to return.
Solo hiking and off-trail hiking are
not recommended.
Check with a ranger for current information
on trail conditions.
Avoid Crowds
During July and August trailhead parking areas fill early,
especially at South Jenny Lake, String Lake, Lupine Meadows,
Death Canyon, and Granite Canyon. Parking on natural vegetation
results in permanent damage to plants; violators will be ticketed.
In paved parking lots, parking illegally will also result
in a ticket. An early start will help you avoid parking problems.
