The Emigrant area sits at approximately 4,900 feet elevation in Paradise Valley, 30 miles north of Yellowstone National Park. The region experiences harsh winters with temperatures often dropping below zero, while summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F. Camping options extend beyond the RV parks in the valley, with several sites offering unique mountain views of the Absaroka Range that rises dramatically to the east.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Yellowstone RV Park, campers can observe diverse wildlife from their sites. "We watched the antelope feed on the cliffs and listened to the peaceful sounds of the river. Sunrises and sunsets were amazing!" notes Ann F., highlighting the natural setting along the Yellowstone River.
Hot springs access: Near Bozeman, about 45 miles northwest of Emigrant, Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV provides mineral pools of varying temperatures. "The indoor and outdoor pools vary in temperature from 106-56 degrees, with most comfortable temps," explains kristin S., making it a perfect recovery option after hiking or exploring.
Mountain hiking: For those seeking elevation gain, Fairy Lake Campground offers trail access to Sacajawea Peak. "The lake has a small trail to walk around. The road to get to the trailhead and campground was slow going and really just a logging route—would recommend something with good clearance and ideally 4WD," advises Anthony B.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many campers prefer sites directly along the Yellowstone River at Yellowstone Edge RV Park. Lauren C. shares, "Sites are fairly wide so there is some privacy. Not all sites have tree coverage, something to keep in mind if you prefer shade." This park provides cooling river access during hot summer days.
Private bathrooms: Clean facilities matter to campers, and several parks maintain excellent standards. "Nice clean and private coed individual bathrooms with showers," reports Scott K. about Osen's RV Park, adding that full hookup sites cost about $15 more per night than basic electric/water sites.
Location convenience: RV sites near Emigrant, Montana provide strategic positioning for regional exploration. "Great location with easy drive south to Yellowstone or dining in Livingston a few miles north," notes Joel R., describing the accessibility of parks in the area.
What you should know
Challenging access roads: Several campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "The road in is a bit bumpy and trees on both sides," warns one reviewer about Osen's. At Fairy Lake, Anthony B. advises, "The road to get to the trailhead and campground was slow going and really just a logging route—would recommend something with good clearance and ideally 4WD."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. According to Ennis RV Village, their season runs "Apr 1 - Nov 1," making it one of the longer-operating facilities in the area, located about 50 miles southwest of Emigrant.
Limited tent camping: Many RV parks restrict tent camping. One reviewer notes, "There is no tent camping allowed here," regarding Osen's RV Park, while others like Yellowstone RV Park do accommodate tent campers with specific sites.
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs entertainment: Yellowstone Holiday Resort offers family-friendly water recreation. One camper shares, "The swimming area is clean, refreshing, and perfect for families. It's just a short 20-minute drive to West Yellowstone, where we grab ice cream, check out museums, eat at some great restaurants."
Playground access: Several campgrounds provide children's play areas. Osen's RV Park features "a large play area with cornhole and ladder golf," according to Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure, giving children dedicated recreation space.
Wildlife education: Many campgrounds experience wildlife visits suitable for teaching children about nature. Jonathan A. reports at Fairy Lake Campground, "Mountain Goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out. They are not scared," creating natural learning opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Full-service sites with sewer connections cost more but eliminate dump station visits. "Full hookups, nice clean bathrooms, game room and little store that has everything," explains Barb N. about Yellowstone Edge RV Park, reflecting the convenience many RVers seek.
Site selection priorities: When booking RV sites near Emigrant, Montana, experienced campers recommend requesting riverside locations where available. "We were the site closest to the Yellowstone River with views of the mountains and river," shares Norma S., highlighting the premium sites at some parks.
Leveling requirements: RVers note varying site grading across regional campgrounds. "The sites are reasonably level," reports one camper about Osen's, while another mentions at Livingston RV Park, "Definitely not a level site," indicating the need for leveling blocks at some facilities.
