The best camping near Yellowstone National Park

Q: Can you camp anywhere in Yellowstone National Park?

No, you cannot camp anywhere in Yellowstone National Park . Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds and backcountry campsites. There are 12 campgrounds within the park, including Mammoth Hot Springs Campground and Grant Village Campground. Some campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others require reservations. For those seeking a more remote experience, Yellowstone has a system of backcountry campsites that require a permit. You must obtain a backcountry permit before camping in these designated sites. Keep in mind that backcountry camping in Yellowstone requires proper planning, knowledge of park regulations, and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. For more information on camping options in Yellowstone, visit the Yellowstone National Park camping page.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Yellowstone National Park adventure.

94% (339 reviews)

Enjoy incredible vistas, hydrothermal wonders, and diverse wildlife in America’s favorite park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Yellowstone National Park

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Yellowstone National Park

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(8)

Fishing Bridge RV Park Campground

340 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

100%

(24)

Mammoth Hot Springs Campground

85 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

Typical layout of the campsites in loop H. (Tent only loop)

95%

(32)

Madison Campground

273 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

97%

(15)

Norris Campground

100 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

100%

(3)

Tower Fall Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

Gorgeous upper Yellowstone falls nearby attraction

75%

(14)

Canyon Campground

270 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

Light shining over the mountains surrounding Pebble Creek Campground. Lamar Valley.

96%

(28)

Pebble Creek Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

Bison graze in the first snow of the season

93%

(90)

Grant Village Campground

400 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

89%

(18)

Bridge Bay Campground

404 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

99%

(40)

Indian Creek Campground

70 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

98%

(28)

Slough Creek Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

94%

(39)

Lewis Lake Campground

170 sites · RVs, Tents In Yellowstone National Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Yellowstone National Park

96%

(178)

Camp Steelhead

3 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Island Park, ID

CLOSE TO YELLOWSTONE NP! This is a great spot with easy access to all the outdoor recreation that Island Park offers. A convenient 30-minute drive to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. A quick 10-minute drive to enjoy the beautiful day hikes of Harriman State Park. You can also hike directly from Camp Steelhead on the old historic rail grade and enjoy the views of the majestic Buffalo River. Enjoy a quiet camping area with the convenience of power hookups for your RV (30 amp) or just plug in your phone to the 110 outlets if you are tent camping. Close proximity to Highway 20 and easy access to services and dining. One RV/Trailer per campsite. Camp Steelhead is located within the beautiful Yellowstone Ecosystem. While we have not had any problems with wildlife. We ask that campers store food properly to avoid any issues. Yellowstone does not have a fence around it. Animals wander all through the area.

Booked 20 times

Yellowstone Holiday

51 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · West Yellowstone, MT

Located on the north shore of beautiful Hebgen Lake Montana, Yellowstone Holiday RV Campground & Marina has all of the ingredients to create a spectacular summer vacation. Open early May through the end of September (weather permitting), visitors can stay in a cozy cabin, or park their RV at one of our 36 sites. Only 15 minutes from the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, Yellowstone Holiday is the perfect base camp to explore some of the most incredible sights in the world. We welcome you and your family to come play, and relax, in one of the most beautiful corners of the Great Outdoors. Whether you want a comfortable bed and a private bathroom, or just a beautiful setting to park your RV, Yellowstone Holiday has accommodations to suit your needs. Our resort includes a campground with 36 big-rig RV sites and 16 cozy cabins. All of the accommodations are within walking distance of the lakeshore and have fantastic views of the mountains and Hebgen Lake. Wherever you choose to stay, we want your vacation to be a pleasant one. Please feel free to discuss your needs with our friendly staff. Settle in and make Yellowstone Holiday a comfortable home-away-from-home as you explore this beautiful country. Each of our 36 RV sites is full hookups (electric 20/30/50 amp, water, sewer). Because of the resort’s smaller size, you will enjoy privacy and a relaxed pace during your stay.

95%

(78)

Yellowstone's Home-Base Hookups

4 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Cameron, MT

Our family purchased this 21 acre property in the middle of 2021 with the hopes of making some lasting memories and allowing others to do the same. Since it's so close to Yellowstone (30 min drive), Henry's Lake (10 min drive), Ennis (45 mins drive) & Bozeman (2 hours), we knew it would be a perfect "home base" for us to explore everything Montana has to offer. Learn more about this land: 21 acres near Cliff and Wade Lakes is set up for an RVs. * 2 - 50 amp power service w/ hookup * Drilled a 190'/20 gpm well w/ hookup * Installed a septic system - not hookup. Only for dumping. * RV corral to park in There are two pads (Site 1 & Site 2), which are rented out separately, however if you would like to grab both, please shoot me a message. Both sites have water & power hookup's. PLEASE NOTE: There are NOT a sewer/septic hookup's. We do have a dump station onsite for you to use. We also do not have trash service, so we kindly ask you pack-in and pack-out. The views are outstanding and you are minutes from fishing, hiking, hunting and exploring in Yellowstone National Park (30 min drive), Hebgen Lake (10 mins drive), Henry's Lake (10 min drive), the Madison River and Island Park. If you would like more suggestions on what to do while staying at our home base hookups, we would love to share our favorite spots! Once booked, there is a link in the "arrival instructions" with recommendations on places to go, see, eat and explore. I hope you find it helpful! Find us on Face-Book under "Yellowstone's Home-base Hookups" or https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094546607334

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(49)

Sportsman's Retreat RV Sites

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Gardiner, MT

We are located right in the middle of Gardiner MT. Less than a 1/4 mile from Yellowstone Parks North entrance. There are only 2 RV sites on the property and located in a quiet neighborhood. Beautiful views of the mountains. Wildlife such as deer and elk frequent the property. Walking distance to everything Gardiner has to offer. Such as food, laundry mat and the historical Roosevelt arch.

92%

(6)

Starlight Retreat Yellowstone

29 sites · Lodging40 acres · Island Park, ID

Starlight Retreat sits on 40 stunning acres only 19 minutes from Yellowstone and 2 minutes off hwy 20 with meadows, aspen groves, and a pine forest to explore with miles of trails connecting directly the property, perfect for hiking or mountain biking. Henry's fork is a crystal clear world class fishing river a short walk down the road. Henry's lake, only a few minute drive, is a world famous fishing lake. In every direction you'll find world class hunting and fishing. Crystal clear rivers leading to stunning waterfalls. You are in the heart of what's become known as "sportsman's paradise".

99%

(68)

North Fork Cabin

5 sites · Lodging45 acres · Gardiner, MT

This property was occupied and homesteaded in 1932 by Lloyd's Dad, Vern who began the outfitting business and raised his family here

94%

(55)

Angell Creek Campground

6 sites · RVs3 acres · Island Park, ID

Angell Creek Campground is located in beautiful Island Park Idaho. It has been in our family for over 50 years. We are surrounded by pine trees, and it is a quiet place to escape the noise of the world. It is a place to recharge and enjoy the outdoors. Our campsite is close to West Yellowstone and only 30 mi. from Yellowstone National Park. Island Park has a lot to offer including: boating, waterskiing, fishing, canoeing, swimming, hiking, trail riding and much more. All of these activities are within a few minutes away. We are in close proximity to highway 20 and easy access to services and dining. We have a very large parking area where you can park trailers and vehicles. We have about 3 acres and have 5 RV spots. We have a central sheltered picnic area and a big fire pit. Each pad is rented at $40 a night with provided 50 and 20 amp service with an adapter provided for 30 amp service. No water or sewer is provided. There is a porta potty on location from June 4th-Aug. 30th 2024. Must pack out all of your trash or be a accessed a cleaning fee per lot. Although wanting to keep this campground in a primitive state, we will be adding a few updates in coming years. Pets allowed on a leash only.

80%

(22)

Peaceful Pines

1 site · RV2 acres · Island Park, ID

This is a beautiful peaceful place where I like to go to spend time away from the noise of the world and recharge and enjoy all the things of nature, float and fish the river and lakes walk through the trees and wild flowers. It is close to West Yellowstone and Yellowstone National Park. This land has been in my family for nearly 50 years and my parents wanted to keep it in a primitive state but we will be adding a few updates in the coming yearsLearn more about this land:(#1)From Ashton Idaho follow Highway 20 about 30 miles to Yale-Kilgore Rd,(#2)From W.Yellowstone it is about 26 miles to Elk Creek #1 take a left turn and #2 a right turn follow this road until you cross McRae bridge then continue to a right turn onto Yale Creek Road then left at the split in the road onto Hotel Creek then right on S. Beaver Springs Rd. then a right on Glen tree Road continue along Glen tree and take a left on Wooded Ln, up this lane approximately 2 to 3 blocks the property is on the right marked with orange fence posts, it is a primitive camp site horse shoe around a fire pit. Please don’t burn garbage or cut down any trees. The road is very bumpy please take it slow. 4166 Wooded Ln.

88%

(4)

Mountain Runner Retreat

1 site · RV1 acre · Gardiner, MT

This little gem is 5 miles from the North entrance of Yellowstone Park. It is up a dirt road (can be very bumpy at times) that gets you up and away from the crowds where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of nature. The site sits has private access to Bear Creek, a pristine stream with minimal access locations. When you are down by our creek, you are in a forest oasis. The RV/Trailer site is a back-in only site with trees, picnic table, electric, water and sewer hook ups. Nearby is our turn of the century barn with chickens doing "chicken things". Jardine itself is a historic mining town, with several trail-heads nearby. Mountain biking can be enjoyed on the many dirty roads above Jardine.

The best camping near Yellowstone National Park guide

Overview

About

This land of bubbling hot pots, shooting geysers, carved canyons, and wildlife-filled meadows barely needs an introduction. Yellowstone National Park was America's first national park and constantly ranks among the most visited for good reason. With thousands of hydrothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful, miles of hiking trails, and abundant wildlife viewing, Yellowstone will wow even the most seasoned campers. To make the most of your visit, stay inside the park at one of many campgrounds, get a permit for one of hundreds of backcountry camping spots for those interested in backpacking Yellowstone, or opt for a private campsite right outside the park with easy access to kayaking and horseback riding. Most of the park is in Wyoming, while some access points are in Montana and Idaho.

Notable campgrounds

Best for families: Grant Village Campground offers Yellowstone Lake views and ranger programming, and bathroom facilities. (Madison Campground has group sites too).
Best for RVs: Fishing Bridge RV Park features pull-through RV sites with full hookups, dump station access, and laundry facilities.
Best for classic park views: Pebble Creek Campground offers just 27 sites with vault toilets near the Northeast Entrance and the Lamar Valley.
Best for access to amenities: Bridge Bay Campground's 400+ sites are set near Yellowstone Lake and a general store.
Best for a central location: Canyon Campground sits in a Canyon Village lodgepole pine forest near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Yellowstone National Park campsite reservations are notoriously difficult to score, with sites often filling a year in advance. Book as soon as you know your travel dates—advance reservations are required.
Check the NPS and Yellowstone National Park Lodges reservation systems often for cancellations, or try searching the system for the next available dates. It’s best to be flexible with your dates.
Yellowstone is huge, so book a campground near the attractions you most want to see. This may mean staying in more than one campground during your trip to Yellowstone.
Nine lodges are spread throughout the park, often booking up a year in advance for the peak summer season.

When to go

Yellowstone National Park is open year-round, but access is limited in the winter months. July and August are the most popular and busiest times for Yellowstone camping. September and October, when summer crowds have gone home and daytime temperatures are still pleasant, are among the best times to go. Most Yellowstone campgrounds are only open from May through September, while the lodges typically stay open later in fall. Mammoth Campground is the only campground open year-round and set near the North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana, the only entrance open all year.

Know before you go

Amenities vary at Yellowstone National Park campgrounds, but many include picnic tables, fire pits, flush toilets, and access to paid showers. The Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only Yellowstone campground with full hookups.
Yellowstone can get chilly at night even in summer. Come prepared with warm sleeping bags and extra layers.
All Yellowstone National Park campgrounds have strict grizzly bear safety rules. Don’t leave food unattended, and store all food, toiletry items, and garbage in your vehicle or bear-proof storage lockers when not in use.
Pets are allowed in campgrounds but are not to be left unattended at any time. Pets are not allowed on park trails, boardwalks, or in backcountry areas.
The West Entrance, set in West Yellowstone, Montana, is the most popular way to access the park, while the South Entrance is only about a 30-minute drive from Colter Bay Village in the Grand Tetons for those who want to see both parks in one trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to camp in Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone camping fees vary depending on the campground and the type of site you choose. Most campgrounds within Yellowstone National Park charge between $15 and $47 per night for a basic tent site or RV site. Some campgrounds also offer group sites, which can cost up to $60 per night. Additionally, there are a few campgrounds outside of the park that may have different pricing structures. You can explore various camping options in and around Yellowstone at Hipcamp.

Is it hard to get a campsite in Yellowstone National Park?

It can be challenging to get a campsite in Yellowstone National Park, especially during the peak season (June through September). The park has 12 campgrounds, and seven of them accept reservations. The other five campgrounds are first-come, first-served, which can fill up quickly during peak times. To increase your chances of securing a campsite, consider the following tips:

Make a reservation as early as possible for campgrounds that accept reservations. You can make reservations through Yellowstone National Park Lodges.
For first-come, first-served campgrounds, arrive early in the morning to increase your chances of getting a site.
Consider camping during the shoulder seasons (May and October), when the park is less crowded and campsites are easier to find.
Explore camping options outside of the park, such as in nearby national forests or private campgrounds. Some options include Montana Glamping at Yellowstone Park and Idaho Yellowstone Wander Camp.

Can you camp anywhere in Yellowstone National Park?

No, you cannot camp anywhere in Yellowstone National Park. Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds and backcountry campsites. There are 12 campgrounds within the park, including Mammoth Hot Springs Campground and Grant Village Campground. Some campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others require reservations. For those seeking a more remote experience, Yellowstone has a system of backcountry campsites that require a permit. You must obtain a backcountry permit before camping in these designated sites. Keep in mind that backcountry camping in Yellowstone requires proper planning, knowledge of park regulations, and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. For more information on camping options in Yellowstone, visit the Yellowstone National Park camping page.

What is the best month to camp in Yellowstone National Park?

The best months to camp in Yellowstone National Park are from June to September, when the weather is mild and most park facilities and campgrounds are open. July and August are the peak months for visiting the park, with pleasant daytime temperatures averaging 70-80°F (21-27°C). However, these months also see the highest influx of visitors, which can result in crowded campgrounds and attractions. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting in June or September, but be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at night. Keep in mind that some campgrounds and facilities may close after Labor Day in September.

How do I get a campsite reservation at Yellowstone National Park?

Securing a Yellowstone National Park campsite reservation is usually a challenge due to the park's popularity. Camping trips typically need to be planned months in advance and even then, available campsites can book up within minutes. The good news is that you have other options for last-minute Yellowstone National Park campsite reservations. Try snagging one by setting up a free Hipcamp alert for any Yellowstone campground. We'll monitor campground availability, and you'll get instantly notified of any openings that come up for your dates so you can jump on it to reserve the newly open site. Set up an alert.

When should I reserve camping in Yellowstone National Park?

Most Yellowstone National Park campsite reservations open up months in advance. However, it's notoriously difficult to secure a Yellowstone reservation even if you plan ahead, as campsites are often booked up within minutes. To increase your chances of snagging a campsite, set up a free Hipcamp alert for any Yellowstone campground. We'll monitor campground availability, and you'll get instantly notified of any openings that come up for your dates so you can jump on it to reserve the newly open site. Set up an alert.