While most visitors flock to Yellowstone's famous geysers, you'll find that nearly 75% of the park's most scenic camping spots are tucked away in less-traveled areas that many tourists never uncover. Whether you're planning your first expedition into America's oldest national park or you're a seasoned camper seeking new territory, understanding the distinct characteristics of Yellowstone's 11 campgrounds can transform your wilderness adventure. From the year-round accessibility of Mammoth Campground to the secluded backcountry sites near Slough Creek, each location provides its own unique blend of natural wonders and practical amenities that you'll want to take into account before making your choice.
Key Takeaways
- Yellowstone offers 11 diverse campgrounds across the park, ranging from basic backcountry sites to full-service RV areas like Bridge Bay.
- Reservations can be made 13 months ahead through Yellowstone National Park Lodges or 6 months ahead via Recreation.gov.
- All campgrounds provide essential amenities including flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-resistant storage boxes.
- Bridge Bay is the largest campground with 432 sites, while Mammoth Campground remains open year-round with 82 sites.
- Campers must follow strict wildlife safety protocols, including proper food storage and maintaining safe distances from bears and wolves.
Overview of Yellowstone Camping Options
Explorers planning a Yellowstone camping trip have access to 11 diverse campgrounds spread throughout the park.
You'll find sites scattered across the Upper Loop, Lower Loop, and central areas, each presenting unique views and proximity to different attractions.
While most campgrounds operate seasonally, Mammoth Campground remains open year-round with 82 available sites.
You can choose from a range of camping adventures, from basic backcountry sites to full-service RV areas like Bridge Bay.
Most campgrounds provide restrooms, and many feature amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, and dump stations.
You'll need to check specific RV length restrictions for each location.
Key services are often nearby, including grocery stores, visitor centers, and fuel stations.
If you're planning to camp between October and April, you'll want to head to Mammoth, as it's the only year-round option.
Making Your Camping Reservations
Planning a Yellowstone camping trip requires understanding two main reservation systems: Yellowstone National Park Lodges and Recreation.gov.
If you're booking through Yellowstone National Park Lodges, you can reserve 13 months in advance starting on the 5th of each month. For Recreation.gov campgrounds, you'll need to book six months ahead.
You can make reservations online or by phone. Within the U.S., call 866-439-7375; international visitors should dial 307-344-7311. The reservation office operates daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mountain Time.
For same-day bookings when you're in the park, use 307-344-7901.
Keep in mind that some campgrounds offer first-come, first-served sites, and group camping is available at Madison, Grant, and Bridge Bay campgrounds. Last-minute cancellations may create unexpected availability.
Essential Camping Amenities
Comfort and safety form the foundation of a successful Yellowstone camping expedition. You'll find essential amenities at most campgrounds, including flush toilets, picnic tables, and designated fire rings.
For your protection, bear boxes are provided at each site to store food and scented items safely. Your tent should have a full-length rain fly, and you'll need a sleeping bag rated for 32°F along with an insulated sleeping pad with an R-value of at least 2.5.
Don't forget headlamps for nighttime navigation. When cooking, use propane stoves and keep your campsite clean by washing dishes immediately.
Some campgrounds, like Canyon and Fishing Bridge RV Park, offer additional comforts such as showers and laundry facilities. Cell phone reception is limited but available at select locations like Canyon Village.
Popular Central Region Campgrounds
The central region of Yellowstone provides four major campgrounds that will present you within easy reach of the park's most iconic attractions.
At Madison Campground, you'll find yourself near the Madison River, with access to basic amenities like flush toilets and potable water.
Canyon Campground provides more comfort with hot showers and laundry facilities, plus it's close to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
Grant Village, situated on Yellowstone Lake's southwest shore, provides similar amenities to Canyon and puts you near West Thumb Geyser Basin.
Bridge Bay, the largest of the four with 432 sites, sits along Yellowstone Lake with views of the Absaroka range.
All four campgrounds can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet and feature seasonal dump stations and bear-safe storage.
Northern Yellowstone Camping Areas
Adventurous campers looking to explore Yellowstone's northern region will find several prime camping locations near both the North and West entrances.
At the North Entrance, you'll find Eagle Creek Campground along the Yellowstone River, which accommodates hard-sided campers on a first-come basis. The Mammoth Campground presents first-come, first-served sites during winter months, making it ideal for off-season visits.
Near the West Entrance, you can choose between Rainbow Point and Lonesomehurst campgrounds, both situated on Hebgen Lake about 20 minutes from the park.
If you're seeking more amenities, the KOA Campground, just 6 miles from the entrance, provides mini golf, hot tubs, and Wi-Fi. The Rocky Mountain RV Camp offers full amenities and frequent wildlife sightings, particularly elk and bison.
Wildlife Safety While Camping
Staying safe around wildlife requires careful preparation and constant vigilance while camping in Yellowstone.
You'll need to store all food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or hang them 10 feet high and 4 feet from tree trunks. Never keep food or toiletries in your tent or sleeping bag.
When camping, you should carry bear spray and know how to use it – it's over 90% effective against aggressive bears. If you encounter a bear, don't run. Keep your group together, back away slowly, and use bear spray if the bear approaches within 60 feet.
Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other wildlife. Remember that all of Yellowstone is bear habitat, so make noise while hiking and travel in groups of three or more to avoid surprising bears.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Hammock for Camping in Yellowstone's Campgrounds?
You can't attach hammocks to trees in developed campgrounds, but you're allowed to use self-standing hammocks. If you want to hang a hammock between trees, you'll need a backcountry permit instead.
What Happens if There's a Wildfire Near My Reserved Campsite?
Like a bolt of lightning, you'll need to act fast. If there's a wildfire near your site, you'll evacuate immediately, following ranger instructions. You'll get a refund for unused nights through Recreation.gov.
Are Portable Solar Panels Allowed at Yellowstone Campgrounds?
Yes, you can bring portable solar panels to Yellowstone campgrounds. They're not prohibited by park regulations, and you can use them as long as you follow general campsite rules for equipment setup.
Can I Reserve Multiple Adjacent Campsites for a Large Group?
Like connecting pieces of a puzzle, you can reserve multiple adjacent sites for your group at Madison, Grant, and Bridge Bay campgrounds. Contact the Group Reservations Sales Office for coordinating multiple site bookings.
Are Campfires Permitted During Thunderstorms in Yellowstone?
You shouldn't start or maintain campfires during thunderstorms, as lightning poses significant fire risks. While it's not explicitly forbidden, it's dangerous since 78% of Yellowstone's fires are caused by lightning strikes.
