The West Yellowstone area serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park at an elevation of approximately 6,600 feet. Many camping sites near West Yellowstone, Montana remain accessible from mid-May through September, with nighttime temperatures often dropping into the 30s even during summer months. The surrounding Gallatin National Forest provides numerous dispersed camping opportunities within 30 minutes of the park entrance.
What to do
Fishing access: Hebgen Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities within a short drive from West Yellowstone. At Lonesomehurst Campground, campers can fish directly from shore or launch boats from the campground. "The lake was peaceful for a single night stay and because we did not get to explore very much it just made us want to come back again someday!" notes one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The Madison River confluence near Madison Campground provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "There was a beautiful spot to watch wildlife at the intersection of Madison and Gibbons rivers which was directly behind the campground. Every night was a beautiful sunset and lots of wildlife to watch," reports Jennifer O.
Hiking trails: Many campgrounds connect to trail systems offering day hiking opportunities. "There are hiking trails nearby," mentions a camper at Lonesomehurst Campground, while another visitor to Targhee Creek notes, "There is a nice 13 mile trail nearby, we saw some wild strawberries!"
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean restrooms and showers. "This campground has the nicest restrooms and showers I have EVER seen for a campground. Clean, warm, and with great water pressure," remarks Brett S. about Henrys Lake State Park.
Direct water access: Lakefront camping sites rank high among visitor preferences. At Rainbow Point Campground, "There is a nearby short walk to a beach on a beautiful lake. It is quiet and tranquil," shares Lynn.
Proximity to Yellowstone: Most campers value quick access to Yellowstone's west entrance. "Only about a 20 min drive to the west entrance, well maintained road, easy to find. Would totally stay here again!" reports a visitor to Lonesomehurst Campground, highlighting its convenience despite limited availability.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear activity is common throughout the region. "Rangers circle to make sure camps are clean and that campers are not leaving things out that attract wildlife. There is a bear box at every campsite in the tent only section," notes Zoey O. about Madison Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At Rainbow Point, one camper reports, "T-Mobile home internet worked well here, as did our AT&T hotspot and Xfinity phones—strong coverage for all three providers, which was a huge plus for working remotely."
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations can be extreme even in summer. "It hailed on us in late May and rained pretty consistently but the campground was great!" shares Taylor H. about camping near West Yellowstone.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some private campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park provides "a playground" according to reviews, though parents should note that "kids are not often supervised by adults so be very careful when driving."
Water recreation: Several campgrounds offer water activities that appeal to families. At Madison Arm Resort, "The boys enjoyed the kayak rentals," though Don R. mentions "it would have been nice if someone helped launch them and putting them away."
Bear box usage: Teaching children proper food storage is essential. "Bear boxes, fire pits and picnic tables at each spot," notes a camper at Targhee Creek, providing a practical way to secure food while teaching wildlife safety.
Tips from RVers
Site length accuracy: Verify actual site dimensions before booking. At Rainbow Point Campground, a camper with a large fifth wheel notes, "Site lengths are strictly enforced—there are concrete barriers at the back of each pad, so no overhang is possible. If we had a dually, our truck would not have fit in the site with us."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. "The road is very rough with many potholes," warns a Targhee Creek visitor, while another notes about Bakers Hole Campground, "Get here early afternoon!" for first-come, first-served sites.
Hookup options: Electric sites can be limited but are available at select campgrounds. "They have fresh water fill but no dump station. I would recommend trying to make a reservation it was busy but we got a first come first serve site," advises Salvy F. about Bakers Hole.
