Little Cottonwood Group
4.426 reviewsBRIDGER-TETON NF, SNAKE RIVER CANYON, WY, USA
Little Cottonwood Group
$100.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group standard nonelectric sites are charged $100 per night during the peak season (May 23 - September 6). Fees do not include additional reservation service charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Snake River Canyon, Little Cottonwood Group Campground offers an intimate wilderness retreat perfect for bringing together family reunions, scout troops, or outdoor enthusiasts. This exclusive group camping haven accommodates up to 40 guests in a single, spacious site where memories are made around the communal campfire circle. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with nature here—sturdy picnic tables await your feast preparations, secure food storage lockers keep wildlife at bay, and clean vault toilets and fresh potable water ensure comfort without compromising the authentic outdoor experience. Towering pines and quaking aspens create a natural cathedral overhead, their dappled shade providing welcome relief from summer sun while framing the starlit skies that emerge each evening.
Little Cottonwood Group Campground is exclusively designed for group camping, accommodating up to 40 people per site. It features basic amenities suitable for group activities.
Weather and SeasonsAt 5,700 feet, Little Cottonwood delivers the perfect mountain climate for summer adventures—warm, golden days ideal for exploration give way to crisp evenings that call for cozy campfire gatherings and stargazing. Pack layers, as mountain nights can surprise with their refreshing coolness even in July and August. When winter transforms the canyon into a snow-laden wonderland, the campground becomes a serene, frosted landscape where access becomes challenging but the beauty reaches new heights. Smart campers plan their visits between late spring and early fall to fully embrace all the recreational opportunities this high-country gem provides.
ElevationPerched at 5,700 feet above sea level, Little Cottonwood sits in that sweet spot where mountain air invigorates without overwhelming. This elevation gifts visitors with naturally air-conditioned summers and spectacular views, though flatlanders should take it easy their first day as bodies adjust to the thinner air. The altitude also means weather can change quickly—afternoon thunderstorms may roll through with little warning, adding drama to the mountain experience.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering ponderosa pines mingle with shimmering aspens, their leaves dancing in the mountain breeze. This forest sanctuary bursts with color when summer wildflowers carpet the understory—Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mountain asters create a natural garden that changes weekly throughout the season. Below, the legendary Snake River carves its ancient path through the canyon, its rushing waters providing both a soothing soundtrack and endless recreation opportunities. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching a kayak for afternoon adventures, or simply watching the river's endless flow from your campsite, the water becomes a central character in your outdoor story.
Geological RegionLittle Cottonwood claims its place in the dramatic Snake River Canyon of western Wyoming, where millions of years of geological artistry have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts. Here, the mighty Snake River has carved through ancient rock, creating a canyon ecosystem where pine-scented ridges drop to verdant river valleys. The surrounding hills roll like frozen waves, clothed in evergreen forests broken by aspen groves that turn liquid gold each autumn. This diverse terrain offers endless exploration opportunities—from riverside rambles to ridge-top hikes where Wyoming spreads before you in all its untamed glory.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the official description or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe group campsite can accommodate up to 40 people, with sufficient space for tents, hammocks, and vehicles according to user reviews.
Sites PrivacyThe campground provides a sense of privacy, particularly with the gate at the entrance. One review highlights that closing the gate makes it "very private," allowing children to play freely without concern for oncoming traffic.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTo minimize noise, choose camping spots further away from the highway. Steep trails may require caution for access to the river.
Best CampsitesThe group site is the primary option, accommodating up to 40 individuals. Provides privacy when the gate is closed.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights allowed per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 40 people per site, with an additional fee of $1 per person after 30.
Groups
The group campsite can accommodate up to 40 people. Amenities include picnic tables, a campfire circle, food storage lockers, and vault toilets.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle campsite layout with a dirt parking area and facilities clustered around the central group area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 23 to September 6 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, the mobile app, or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability as this is a group site requiring advanced reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with reservation service fees and additional penalties for late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival). Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is well-suited for recreational activities, especially water-based and fishing activities on the Snake River. Fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, and kayaking are popular at the adjacent Snake River. There is a nearby boat ramp for easy access to the river.
Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at the campground, with the Snake River offering opportunities for catching cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout.Boating
The campground provides easy access to boating activities with a nearby boat ramp, enabling whitewater rafting and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a potential highlight, as indicated by a user who observed a bald eagle and osprey near the river.Winter Activities
No winter activities are mentioned, as the campground is operational only during the summer months.Water Sports
Water sports like whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular and well-supported by the Snake River access.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted only in designated fire rings. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters, including bears. Food must be stored securely in provided bear boxes. Steep trails to the Snake River could pose a hazard for children or individuals with mobility challenges.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Jackson, WY, approximately 25 miles away, including police and hospitals.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 6 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided as part of the campground's facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Snake River, which is accessible via a steep trail.
Common complaintsNoise from the nearby highway may disrupt the otherwise secluded atmosphere. Limited cell coverage within the campground.
HostCampground hosts are not consistently available according to user reviews, but when present, visitors praised their helpfulness and meticulous upkeep.
Campground Map
BRIDGER-TETON NF, SNAKE RIVER CANYON, WY, USA
Driving directionsFrom Jackson, travel south on Highway 191/89/26 for about 13 miles, to Hoback Junction. Turn right on Highway 26/89 and continue along Snake River Canyon for 17 miles. The campground is on the south side of the road.
Accessible year-round via paved highways. Easy access from Highway 26/89 near Snake River Canyon. Dirt parking area within the campground.Nearby places
Jackson (25 miles, approx. 30 min), Grand Teton National Park (40 miles, approx. 50 min)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Jackson, WY, 25 miles north, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
6 reviews
Little Cottonwood Group is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Little Cottonwood Group Campground are generally positive. Common themes include the cleanliness of the facilities, the natural beauty of the area, and the spacious layout of the group campsite.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained vault toilets; spacious group site with room for tents, vehicles, and hammocks; proximity to the Snake River; and a private, gated setup.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from passing traffic and litter left by previous visitors.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Keep the gate closed for privacy and safety; walk to the entrance for limited cell service; and be prepared for road noise.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground operates during summer months, with reviews highlighting the abundance of wildflowers and access to water-based activities. Noise from road traffic is consistent across seasons.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms were cleaner than my house!" "A short steep hike down to the river gave us great views of rafts coming down the river, a bald eagle and osprey." "Like all Alpine Canyon campgrounds,...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 is frequently mentioned in reviews. Comments include its spacious layout, cleanliness, and amenities like bear boxes. Some users noted litter left by previous occupants.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025