Gardiner offers camping options from 4,800 to 7,500 feet elevation where weather patterns shift dramatically between seasons. Summer temperatures reach 85°F during daytime but typically drop below 50°F at night, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature swings. Winter camping remains available at select locations despite snowfall averaging 150 inches annually at higher elevations.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along forest service roads: The areas north of Gardiner provide excellent wildlife spotting opportunities beyond the park boundaries. "We watched the antelope feed on the cliffs and listened to the peaceful sounds of the river. Sunrises and sunsets were amazing!" notes a camper at Yellowstone RV Park.
Hiking to mountain lakes: Trails accessible from dispersed camping areas lead to alpine lakes with minimal crowds. "The trail head for a nice 6 mile round trip to a lake," reports a visitor at Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Bouldering for all skill levels: The rock formations at Canyon Campground create natural climbing opportunities. "The boulders are what really make this campground interesting, many of the campsites are tucked in between these large boulders," explains one visitor about the unique terrain.
River access for anglers: Multiple sites offer direct river access for fishing. "Right on the Yellowstone River in Gardiner. Good location with a great view," notes a camper about their experience at Yellowstone RV Park.
What campers like
Off-season solitude: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides dramatically different experiences. "We are literally the only people up here off this FS road. Strange to see so many dead elk carcasses all around but it's Montana so not surprised. Epic views, peaceful atmosphere and lots of open space," shares a spring visitor at Little Trail Creek Road Dispersed Site.
Strategic location for northern exploration: Campers value proximity to specific park features. "This is a great jumping off point for the north end of Yellowstone National Park, located 16 miles from the north entrance town of Gardiner," explains a visitor at Canyon Campground.
Economical options with basic amenities: Budget-friendly sites provide core needs. "BLM campground right on the Yellowstone River. It has 17 numbered sites plus a tent area. It was free but has now gone to a fee system of $15 a night," explains a camp host at Carbella Rec Site Camping.
Night sky visibility: Light pollution is minimal at dispersed sites. "Very simple campground, very open with little separation of sites. The stars at night are worth the open space, the view is incredible," writes a visitor about their experience.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to remote sites can challenge vehicles. "The road is pretty decent, but gets worse the higher you go. Tons of stunning wildflowers as well," notes a camper about forest service roads.
Bear activity fluctuates seasonally: Bear encounters increase during specific times. "It's less than half a mile from a sign that says 'beware high grizzly activity in area.' I can't imagine it would be comfortable to camp in a tent here," warns a visitor about Little Trail Creek Road.
Early arrival essential during peak season: Campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. "We arrived at 5:30pm on a holiday weekend and all spots were open. It appeared to filled up overnight," reports a camper at Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone.
Limited cellular coverage: Signal strength varies by location and carrier. "Decent cell reception for Verizon and ATT," reports one camper, while another notes, "Good Verizon service, poor AT&T service."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural play features: Rock formations provide built-in entertainment. "Campsites were close to a high way and far away from the rest of the park. The campground hosts were awesome! And so was a wolf ranger talk we went to!" shares a visitor at Mammoth Campground.
Prepare for extreme temperature fluctuations: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "In late May, the snow is still in patches on the ground, and in fact it snowed a little bit overnight the night we stayed there," notes a camper from Canyon Campground in Yellowstone.
Monitor wildlife activity: Regular sightings occur near campsites. "We were there during elk calving season, with elk and their babies wandering through the area... although stay away from those mean mammas! I had one stalk me around the bathrooms during the night," warns a Mammoth visitor.
Bring entertainment for downtime: Limited activities exist after park visits. "Nothing for the kids at night when you get back from Yellowstone tours," mentions a parent about their campground experience.
Tips from RVers
Seek level sites for larger vehicles: Finding flat parking requires planning. "Sites were not leveled. There were Elk droppings in our site. Part of the rustic experience since Elk were everywhere," notes an RVer.
Check road clearance before access: Some roads present challenges for larger rigs. "Don't try to camp here with a camper! This location was almost impossible to get to, my father took his RV up the hill before we took ours up & his almost bottomed out," warns a visitor about Little Trail Creek Road.
Reserve spaces at developed campgrounds: Short supply meets high demand for RV sites. "We managed to snag a site at the last minute and felt very fortunate. Convenient to Gardiner and Yellowstone, yet quiet and peaceful," shares an RVer about their experience.
Full hookups limited but available: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "Full hook ups and cable TV. We would stay there again," reports an RV camper about their site along the river.
