Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve offers families an exceptional introduction to Grand Teton's natural beauty through well-maintained, accessible trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along pristine Phelps Lake. The preserve's thoughtfully designed visitor center features interactive exhibits and a stunning meditation room with floor-to-ceiling windows, making it perfect for families seeking both adventure and moments of peaceful connection with nature.

• ✓Phelps Lake swimming beach with crystal-clear water and stunning mountain backdrop
• ✓Interactive sensory room at the visitor center where kids can touch natural materials and reflect quietly
• ✓Easy Woodland Trail with interpretive signs teaching kids about local ecosystems
• ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including moose, deer, and numerous bird species
• ✓Wooden platforms and benches throughout for rest stops and nature observation

1. 1.Arrive early (before 9am) as the small parking lot fills quickly during summer and you may face hour-long waits later in the day
2. 2.Stop inside the visitor center first to let kids explore the sensory exhibits and pick up the Junior Ranger activity guide
3. 3.Bring water shoes and towels for Phelps Lake - there's a beautiful sandy beach area about 0.9 miles in where kids love to swim and skip rocks
4. 4.Download trail maps before arriving as cell service is limited, and stick to the Woodland Trail Loop (3 miles) for the most family-friendly experience
5. 5.Pack bear spray and make noise on trails - this is active wildlife habitat, and teaching kids proper bear country etiquette is part of the experience

Visit on weekday mornings in June or September for smaller crowds and pleasant temperatures. Summer (July-August) offers warmest lake swimming but brings peak crowds. Early morning visits any time of year provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities and guaranteed parking.

Entry is free with no reservations required, but parking is extremely limited (only 50 spaces). The preserve is located about 4 miles south of Moose Junction on the Moose-Wilson Road. Restrooms are available at the visitor center but not along trails, and there are no food services, so pack snacks and plenty of water.

The preserve is open year-round, but the Moose-Wilson Road typically closes from November through mid-May due to snow. Winter visits require snowshoes or cross-country skis. Late June through August offers the best weather for lake swimming. Fall (September-October) brings stunning foliage and fewer crowds, though water is too cold for swimming.

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the preserve's designated areas, then head to Dornan's Chuckwagon (8 miles north) for family-friendly outdoor dining with mountain views, or stop at Pearl Street Bagels in Jackson (12 miles) for quick, kid-approved breakfast or lunch options.