Jenny Lake Campground – Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Jenny Lake Campground is one of the most sought-after and iconic camping destinations in Grand Teton National Park. Located near the base of the Teton Range and just steps from the shoreline of Jenny Lake, this scenic, tent-only campground offers unmatched access to world-class hiking, boating, photography, and wildlife viewing. Its peaceful forest setting and proximity to some of the park’s most legendary trails make it a dream location for visitors who want an immersive, close-to-the-mountains camping experience.

Location & Setting

Situated on the eastern shore of Jenny Lake at the base of Teewinot Mountain, the campground lies at an elevation of about 6,800 feet and is surrounded by dense lodgepole pine forest and dramatic alpine scenery. The famous Cathedral Group — Teewinot, Mount Owen, and the Grand Teton — rises sharply to the west, giving the campground some of the most photogenic surroundings in the park. Despite its natural seclusion, the campground is just a short drive from Moose, the park’s southern entrance, and the scenic Teton Park Road.

Campground Overview & Facilities

Jenny Lake Campground features approximately 49 tent-only sites, including several hiker/bicyclist sites. RVs and trailers are not permitted, helping maintain a quiet, rustic atmosphere. Each site includes a picnic table, bear box, and fire ring (when fire conditions allow). Restrooms with flush toilets are available, and potable water is provided throughout the campground. While there are no showers on site, campers can find shower facilities at nearby campgrounds or in surrounding communities. Its compact layout, forest shade, and proximity to Jenny Lake make it one of the most peaceful front-country camping experiences in the Tetons.

Amenities

The nearby Jenny Lake Visitor Center area includes a small general store, boat dock, scenic overlook, and shuttle boat service across the lake. Campers can easily access food storage lockers, potable water, and clean restrooms within the campground. Because of high bear activity in the region, strict food storage regulations are enforced, and wildlife encounters — especially with mule deer and smaller mammals — are common. The convenience of having trailheads, water access, and visitor services all within walking distance makes Jenny Lake exceptionally user-friendly despite its rustic design.

Activities & Nearby Recreation

Jenny Lake is one of the busiest hubs for hiking in Grand Teton National Park, offering some of the park’s most famous trails directly from the campground. The Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point trails begin just moments away, with the option to shorten the hike by taking the shuttle boat across the lake. The Jenny Lake Loop, Cascade Canyon, and the rugged climbs toward Paintbrush Divide are also easily accessible. Boating, kayaking, wildlife watching, photography, and stargazing are excellent throughout the area. Dramatic sunrises and sunsets paint the Teton peaks in stunning colors, making this a favorite spot for landscape photographers.

Summary

Jenny Lake Campground offers an unrivaled combination of scenery, location, and access to adventure. Its tent-only setting preserves a peaceful, back-to-nature atmosphere, while its proximity to some of the Tetons’ most legendary trails makes it an outstanding base for hikers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking alpine lakes, rugged canyons, or unforgettable mountain views, Jenny Lake delivers an extraordinary national park experience in the heart of Grand Teton’s iconic landscape.