Camping is all about escaping civilization and becoming one with nature. Most of the time with campsites, you still have people close to you, but there’s one place in Wyoming where you can really be alone. Camping on this deserted island in Wyoming is the ultimate camping experience. You read that right: an island. In Wyoming. Elk Island at Jackson Lake is a unique little place you won’t soon forget, so pack up the tent, and let’s go!

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It's all centered around Jackson Lake which is located in northwestern Wyoming in Grand Teton National Park. Jackson Lake is one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the U.S.. The lake itself is 15 miles long, 7 miles wide and 438 feet deep. Right in the middle of the southern section of the lake is a magical place.
TripAdvisor/SUMPS
Within the lake, there are over 15 islands. One of the largest islands in Jackson Lake is Elk Island, which is where this adventure takes place.
TripAdvisor/Charlyn73
There are only two ways to reach this peaceful island. One way is via a Jackson Lake Meal Cruise and the other is by canoe or kayak.

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TripAdvisor/carthy_traveler
Canoes and kayaks can be rented from Dornans at Moose Junction. From there, travel north to Coulter Bay.
TripAdvisor/Artsie A.
Once at Coulter Bay, you will need to go to the visitor center and get a back country permit. This permit is your ticket to an experience of a lifetime. Once you have your permit, you are free to paddle to the island and spend the night on your own private island. It's approximately two miles to the island.
David Adolphson / Google
There are two backcountry campsites on the island. This is a great escape away from the hectic crowds of Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.
Flickr/USFWS Mountain-Prairie
There's not another soul around except for wildlife. Mule deer are a common sight and there are even bears on the island.

Get away from it all and just enjoy the scenery from the base of the Tetons on your own private island! Have you ever gone camping on Elk Island at Jackson Lake? What other campgrounds in Wyoming are you madly in love with? Let us know!

 

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Elk Island Jackson Lake

Tori Jane | April 19, 2023
  1. Where is Elk Island in Wyoming?

Elk Island is the largest island in Wyoming (though you’d be surprised at how many islands there are in this state). It can be found in Jackson Lake, and it has an elevation of 6,873 feet. Interestingly, there are more than 15 islands on Jackson Lake, though Elk Island is the most popular thanks to its size. You can camp on Elk Island, too, which is a very unique experience you won’t find anywhere else in this magical state. Learn more about the fascinating and unique islands in Wyoming!   

  1. What are some other camping options in the Grand Tetons?

The Grand Tetons are one of the most beloved destinations in the United States, and for good reason: they are almost unreasonably beautiful, and it’s hard to find anywhere else quite like them. Some of the best camping options in the Grand Tetons are at campgrounds like: 

  • Jenny Lake Campground – Often hailed as one of the most beautiful campgrounds in the United States, the views at Jenny Lake are absolutely pristine.  
  • Gros Venture Campground – If you’re here for the wildlife viewing, this is probably the campground for you, as you’ll more than likely spot a moose or two around here.  
  • Lizard Creek Campground – Hoping to steal away to Yellowstone National Park? Camp here!  

Learn more about all the best campgrounds at Grand Teton National Park.   

  1. Where are some of the best campgrounds in Wyoming?

The Tetons aside, there are literally hundreds – if not more – of other places to go camping in WY. Among our other favorite campgrounds in Wyoming are places such as:  

  • Hogan and Luce Campground – This beautiful little lakeside paradise is the perfect escape for a weekend or longer.  
  • Golden Currant Campground – This one’s for those who prefer to rough it old-school, as it’s a dark-sky, primitive campground perfect for pitching a tent.  
  • Rim Campground – Looking for mountain views? This is the one for you.  

Learn more about all of these awesome campgrounds in Wyoming, and start planning your adventure ASAP.   

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