Tent camping near West Yellowstone offers access to national forest land at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 7,500 feet, creating cool nighttime temperatures even in summer months. Most dispersed camping areas sit within lodgepole pine forests with occasional meadow openings. Seasonal considerations include snow lingering into late May at higher elevations and early frost possible by mid-September.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: Several creeks around West Yellowstone provide excellent trout fishing spots. At Targhee Creek, campers find easy access to water. "There are two very nice spots at the end of the road right along the creek. Across the bridge from the road closed sign there is also an excellent tent spot right along the creek," notes one visitor who appreciates the convenience.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning offers the best chances to spot wildlife near camp. At Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone, campers regularly see larger mammals. "There are bears and elk so take care to put away any food you may have," warns one reviewer who camped at this location just 20 minutes from Yellowstone's north entrance.
Hiking access: Many sites serve as trailheads or provide close proximity to trails. "Nice 13 mile trail nearby, we saw some wild strawberries!" mentions one camper at Targhee Creek, highlighting the natural treats available on nearby paths during summer months.
What campers like
Mountain views: Many sites offer panoramic vistas not available at developed campgrounds. "Absolutely beautiful and worth it for someone who wants to sleep in a mountain viewing location," shares a camper at Travertine Road Dispersed, emphasizing the scenic value of these remote sites.
Privacy and space: Dispersed sites typically provide more isolation than established campgrounds. One Bootjack Dispersed Camping camper notes, "Plenty of sites for big and small rigs," while another mentions, "Great place to stay if you didn't book a campsite 6 months ago. Very quiet and beautiful wildflowers."
Cell service availability: Surprisingly good connectivity exists at some remote sites. "Excellent Verizon service was a bonus that we don't get at a lot of dispersed sites," reports a Targhee Creek visitor, which proves helpful for checking weather forecasts and planning park visits.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to the best tent camping near West Yellowstone often require careful driving. At Upper Cherry Creek, a camper warns, "Pretty place up a mtn road not far out of West Yellowstone. The road had some pretty bad spots tho. I made it up in an F350 with a Capri camper on it. So not impossible."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly, affecting camping comfort significantly. "We went while it was raining…would not recommend. It was incredibly muddy and had lots of standing water," advises a Targhee Creek camper who experienced challenging conditions.
Insects: Be prepared for seasonal bug activity at most sites. "I wasn't near the creek, but the flies were unbearable despite using spray of all kinds. Night time was enjoyable when they went away but it was hard to enjoy while being attacked in the eyes and face," reports one Targhee Creek visitor who camped during peak insect season.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection timing: Arrive by mid-afternoon to secure the best spots, especially during peak season. One Rumbaugh Ridge Desginated Dispersed camper advises, "The coordinates are a little off - you will drive about 2 miles past Lonehurst Campground, and then take a slight right onto the road labeled with a 'designated camping only' type of sign. There are 3-4 spots that I saw."
Water access considerations: Choose sites near creeks for water filtering and play opportunities. "The water this time of year is too high and too cold for us to swim/wade in but our dogs love it!" mentions a Targhee Creek camper, indicating the seasonal variability of water conditions.
Bear safety preparation: Teach children proper food storage procedures before arrival. At Targhee Creek, some sites include safety features as noted by one camper: "Some locations even provide bear boxes for secure food storage," though this isn't guaranteed at all sites.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping areas near West Yellowstone have natural size restrictions. For Shoshone Lake — Yellowstone National Park, one visitor clarifies, "These are paid sites which do not accommodate RVs. I spoke to someone from Yellowstone on the phone and they confirmed this."
Road clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles fare better on access roads to most sites. "The road is very rough with many potholes though," notes a Targhee Creek reviewer who still managed to reach the camping area.
Supply preparation: Stock up on supplies before heading to camp as options are limited near sites. A Bootjack Dispersed camper advises, "Groceries & Supplies are at tourist prices, come stocked if you don't want to pay them."
