Oxbow Bend
Moran, WY
Mount Moran reflected in a still bend of the Snake River. Moose and otters show up at dawn.
Oxbow Bend is a calm stretch of the Snake River in Grand Teton National Park. About 1.6 km (1 mile) east of Jackson Lake Junction, or 5 km (3 miles) from Moran Junction, a roadside pullout looks across the water, where Mount Moran is reflected on still days. The bend is a favorite with photographers; many birds gather on the water, and moose show up here too.
The light is best at sunrise and sunset, with sunrise especially popular. About 15 minutes is enough for a stop, longer if you are waiting for wildlife. The parking area is small; when it is full, people park along the road, and moose sightings cause traffic jams. Keep your distance: at least about 90 m (100 yards) from bears and 23 m (25 yards) from other wildlife. The viewpoint is accessible year-round. Mosquitoes are plentiful in summer, so bring repellent.
- Nearest town
- Moran, WY
- Category
- Scenic viewpoints
- GPS
- 43.8656, -110.5484
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually June–August. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and September. Cold, short days in November–March. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Signal Mountain CampgroundCampsite4 mi from Oxbow BendTentsCaravansElectricityShowersToilets
- Colter Bay Tent VillageCampsite5 mi from Oxbow Bend
- Colter Bay RV ParkMotorhome stopover6 mi from Oxbow BendMotorhomesElectricityWaste disposal
- Colter Bay CampgroundCampsite6 mi from Oxbow BendTentsCaravansDrinking waterShowersToilets
- Headwaters CampgroundCampsite18 mi from Oxbow BendTentsCaravansDrinking waterShowersToiletsDogs allowed
- Gros Ventre CampgroundCampsite18 mi from Oxbow BendToilets
All campsites in Wyoming · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Oxbow Bend?
Oxbow Bend is in Moran, WY, at GPS 43.8656, -110.5484. It is about 24 mi from Teton Village.
Can you camp near Oxbow Bend?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Signal Mountain Campground, about 4 mi away; within 25 mi there are 37 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Oxbow Bend?
Oxbow Bend is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Grand Teton, Yellowstone and the Beartooth Highway and Wind River country: Togwotee Pass to South Pass.
What is there to see near Oxbow Bend?
Places worth a stop nearby: Signal Mountain Summit (2 mi), Snake River Overlook (10 mi), Jenny Lake (12 mi) and Schwabacher Landing (12 mi).
When is the best time to visit Oxbow Bend?
The most pleasant months are usually June–August. Still fine, with some compromises, in May and September. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)