John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway

John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway is a scenic byway nestled in the wilderness of northwest Wyoming. It stretches between Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, offering breathtaking views of majestic landscapes.

This parkway is named after John D. Rockefeller Jr., who played a significant role in conserving the natural beauty of this region. Recognizing the growing threats to the area's pristine environment, he purchased and donated over 30,000 acres of land to establish Jackson Hole National Monument in 1943. Later, in 1972, the monument was incorporated into Grand Teton National Park, further increasing its protected area.

This national parkway not only serves as a vital connection between two iconic national parks but also as a testament to Rockefeller’s dedication to preserving America's natural landscapes. It covers a distance of approximately 24 miles, following the route of the 19th-century John D. Rockefeller Jr. Highway.

Traveling along the parkway, visitors can marvel at stunning views of the Teton Range, the Snake River, and the picturesque landscapes in between. The parkway is renowned for its abundant wildlife sightings, including elk, moose, bison, and various bird species. It provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.

One of the main attractions along the John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway is the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. This 1,106-acre nature reserve was established in 2008 and showcases the diverse ecosystems of the region. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails, view scenic waterfalls, and even spot rare plant species.

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Visitor Center is another point of interest, providing valuable information about the parkway and its rich natural history. From here, visitors can embark on guided nature walks or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Nearby, visitors can access iconic destinations such as Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. Yellowstone, known for its geothermal wonders, offers visitors the chance to witness bubbling hot springs, erupting geysers, and vibrant geothermal pools. Grand Teton National Park impresses with its stunning mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

In conclusion, the John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway in Wyoming offers a scenic journey between Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. With its rich historical background, breathtaking views, and abundant wildlife, it is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway is situated in the breathtaking state of Wyoming, encompassing a diverse range of geographical features. Spanning over 24,000 acres, this national parkway lies in the northwestern part of the state, bordering the world-renowned Yellowstone National Park to the north and the stunning Grand Teton National Park to the south. The parkway meanders through spectacular landscapes filled with towering mountain ranges, including the majestic Teton Range and the magnificent Absaroka Mountains. As it winds its way through this picturesque region, the parkway offers visitors unparalleled views of shimmering lakes, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife. The remarkable geographical location of John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway ensures it serves as a gateway to some of the most extraordinary natural wonders Wyoming has to offer.

Address & Contact

103 Headquarters Loop
Moose, WY 83012
Driving Directions
Phone: 307-739-3399
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway would be during the months of May and June. During these months, the average maximum temperature ranges from 56°F to 67°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average visitor counts also tend to be high during these months. It is important to note that July and August also have favorable temperatures, but they experience a higher average visitor count, which may result in larger crowds. Therefore, May and June strike a balance by offering good weather and a slightly lower number of visitors, making them the ideal time to visit the National Parkway.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway are: Food Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Arts and Culture Biking Road Biking Camping Backcountry Camping Car or Front Country Camping Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use) Climbing Rock Climbing Hiking Front-Country Hiking Boating Motorized Boating Canoe or Kayak Camping Fishing Backcountry Hiking Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Skiing Cross-Country Skiing Snowmobiling Auto and ATV Scenic Driving Horse Trekking Horseback Riding Snow Play Snowshoeing Self-Guided Tours - Auto Boat Tour Group Camping RV Camping Freshwater Fishing Fly Fishing Dining Mountain Climbing Cultural Demonstrations Sailing Horse Camping (see also camping) Stand Up Paddleboarding Water Skiing Off-Trail Permitted Hiking Ice Climbing

Topics

Learn about these topics at John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway: Animals Geology Architecture and Building Native American Heritage Westward Expansion Fire Unique Species Wilderness Explorers and Expeditions Wolves Climate Change Forests and Woodlands Glaciers Lakes Mountains Scenic Views Bison Elk Endangered Ranches Homesteading Farming and Agriculture

Campsites within or near John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway

Colter Bay Campground

This large campground is in a lodgepole pine forest near Colter Bay Village. While not on the shores of Jackson Lake, a short stroll leads to a spectacular view of Mount Moran and the northern Teton Range. Colter Bay Village has many facilities including a visitor center, restaurants, stores, cabins, and marina. Shower and laundry services are available for additional fee. Departing from the nearby Hermitage Point Trailhead, hikers traverse forests and sagebrush meadows enjoying the Teton landscape.
Fees (US$): 59.00 (Campsite with vehicle), 80.00 (Campsite with electric hookup), 16.00 (Group Campsite per person(10 person minimum)), 13.00 (Hiker-Bicyclist Sites)
Total Campsites: 324
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Coin-Operated - Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - year round

Colter Bay RV Park

This RV Park provides full hookups for campers in the park. It is in a lodgepole pine forest near Colter Bay Village. While not on the shores of Jackson Lake, a short stroll leads to a spectacular view of Mount Moran and the northern Teton Range. Colter Bay Village has many facilities including a visitor center, restaurants, stores, cabins, a marina. Shower and laundry services are available for additional fee.
Fees (US$): 117.00 (Pull-Through Site (45ft RV or smaller)), 112.00 (Back-In Sites (30ft RV or smaller))
Total Campsites: 112
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Coin-Operated - Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Colter Bay Tent Village

The Colter Bay Tent Village at Colter Bay Village is set amidst towering lodgepole pines just a short, picturesque stroll away from Jackson Lake. The Tent Village includes 66 tent cabins, and is open from mid-May to early-September. As with all campgrounds in the park, the Colter Bay Tent Village is very popular and tends to fill up quickly. Visitors are strongly encouraged to plan and book early.
Fees (US$): 104.00 (Tent Cabin)
Total Campsites: 66
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Coin-Operated - Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Gros Ventre Campground

The park's largest campground is in the southeast part of the park, closest to the town of Jackson. Sagebrush and grasses cover the campground as cottonwoods and blue spruce rise above. The Gros Ventre River is a short stroll away. Some sites offer views of the Grand Teton and Blacktail Butte. Wildlife including bison, moose and mule deer frequent the area.
Fees (US$): 57.00 (Campsite with vehicle), 77.00 (Campsite with electric hookup), 16.00 (Group Campsite per person (10 person minimum))
Total Campsites: 279
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Headwaters Campground

This campground has facilities for both tent campers and RVs. Located within the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, Flagg Ranch is only two miles south of Yellowstone and five miles north of Grand Teton. Wilderness surrounds the Headwaters development. The upper reaches of the Snake River flow through meadows mixed with open conifer forest. The campground offers 34 tent sites, 97 full-hookup and pull-through RV sites, and 40 Camper Cabins.
Fees (US$): 59.00 (Campsite with vehicle), 117.00 (Pull-Through Site - Full Hook Up (45ft RV or smaller)), 102.00 (Camper Cabins)
Total Campsites: 171
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Hot - Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Jenny Lake Campground

This small campground is a few hundred yards from the east shore of Jenny Lake. The campground straddles a glacial moraine covered with an open forest of lodgepole pine, subalpine fir and Douglas fir. Across the lake, Teewinot Mountain, Cascade Canyon and Mount St. John dominate the landscape. No trailers, campers, or generators are allowed. Vehicles cannot be over 8 feet high or 14 feet long. Maximum per site is two tents, one vehicle, and six guests for up to 7 nights.
Fees (US$): 56.00 (Campsite (Tent Only)), 13.00 (Hiker-Bicyclist Sites)
Total Campsites: 61
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Coin-Operated - Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Lizard Creek Campground

This rustic campground is in a remote part of Grand Teton National Park. The campground is 11 miles south of Yellowstone and eight miles north of Colter Bay Village providing easy access to both parks. The campsites are in a spruce and fir forest on the shores of Jackson Lake. One mile across the lake is the northern portion of the Teton Range including Webb Canyon, Owl and Ranger peaks. Looking south, the expanse of the Teton Range towers over Jackson Lake.
Fees (US$): 49.00 (Campsite with vehicle)
Total Campsites: 60
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: None
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Signal Mountain Campground

This campground is in an open lodgepole pine forest near the Signal Mountain Lodge. Some sites lie just above Jackson Lake, and other sites are a short walk from the lake. Enjoy spectacular views of Mount Moran and the northern Teton Range. The campground accepts both tents and smaller RVs (up to 30 feet total length). The developed area offers a wide variety of services and amenities including lodging, restaurants, showers, laundry, and marina. Maximum stay is 14 nights.
Fees (US$): 55.00 (Campsite with vehicle), 79.00 (Campsite with electric hookup)
Total Campsites: 81
Toilets: Flush Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Coin-Operated - Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Hotels within or near John D. Rockefeller Jr. National Parkway

Jackson Lake Lodge

Located in Moran, Jackson Lake Lodge is in the historical district, within a 10-minute drive of Oxbow Bend and Grand View Point. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Moran? This resort has facilities measuring 17000 square feet (1579 square meters), including a conference center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 101 Jackson Lake Lodge Road, Moran, Wyoming 83013
Web: Link

Grant Village - Inside the Park

Located in Yellowstone National Park (West Thumb), Grant Village - Inside the Park is within a 15-minute walk of Grant Village Visitor Center and Grant Village Campground. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 24 Rainbow Loop, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190
Web: Link

Buffalo Valley Ranch

With a stay at Buffalo Valley Ranch in Moran, you'll be 2.7 mi (4.4 km) from Grand Teton National Park and 22.1 mi (35.6 km) from Jenny Lake. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 16885 Buffalo Valley Road, Moran, Wyoming 83013
Web: Link