Map showing campground location near Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Camper submitted image from 4D3 - Ice Lake South — Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park - The Complete Guide

Get the guide now

4D3 - Ice Lake South — Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park manages 4D3 - Ice Lake South as a specialized backcountry site designed specifically for campers with mobility needs. Located just 0.3 miles from the trailhead via a wheelchair-accessible dirt path, this hike-in campground sits on the south shore of Ice Lake. The site features an elevated metal fire ring that accommodates wheelchair users, along with a bear-proof food storage locker and designated tent pad.

The accessible trail width allows wheelchair passage, though occasional tree roots may require minor navigation assistance. A pit toilet serves the site, with the cooking area connected by a slightly narrower trail that might need assistance for some users. Reservations are required and restricted to parties with special accessibility needs. For additional backcountry options, 4D1- Ice Lake North - Yellowstone NP Back Country campsite lies 0.2 miles north on the same lake system.

Suggest an Edit

Get the guide now

View Guide

RV Road Trip Guides

Oregon Trail Road Trip

Casper to Pocatello: 3 Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

Location

Public Campground

4D3 - Ice Lake South — Yellowstone National Park is located in Wyoming

Coordinates

44.72010934 N
110.63305136 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Reservable
Toilets
Alcohol
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

2 hrs 20 min from Bozeman, MT
3 hrs 33 min from Helena, MT
3 hrs 59 min from Idaho Falls, ID
4 hrs 23 min from Billings, MT

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Enter to Win

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Dexter I.

Legend

Reviewed Oct. 1, 2021

Wheel chair accessible Back Country camping in Yellowstone NP

Campsite 4D3 is an amazingly nice campsite on the south shore of Ice Lake. This site allows those with special needs to be able to experience back country camping. This is an accessible campsite, reservable in advance by parties with special needs only. The site which is only .3 miles from the trailhead can be accessed with a wheel chair (their might be one or two spots where a tree root might be slightly in the way). The dirt trail has been made wide enough for a wheel chair to access. The campsite is also chair friendly. A taller metal fire pit allows one in a chair to sit next to the fire and enjoy it at a seated level. A bear proof locker is at the site for food storage. The trail from the cooking area is a little narrower and might require some assistance to get down but seem just wide enough. A tent pad is available as well as a pit toilet.

Month of VisitSeptember

(12) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Ice Lake in Yellowstone National Park?

Ice Lake is accessible via a short, relatively easy trail. Campsite 4D3 on the south shore is only 0.3 miles from the trailhead, making it one of the more accessible backcountry destinations in Yellowstone. The trail is designed with accessibility in mind, as this site serves those with special needs. For specific directions to the trailhead, check with the Yellowstone Backcountry Office when making your reservation. They can provide detailed maps and current trail conditions.

Can you camp at Ice Lake in Yellowstone National Park?

Yes, you can camp at Ice Lake in Yellowstone National Park at campsite 4D3, located on the south shore. This is a backcountry site specifically designed and reserved for campers with special needs. It's an accessible campsite that must be reserved in advance by parties with special needs only. This unique site allows those with disabilities to experience backcountry camping in Yellowstone while still having accessible features. Contact Yellowstone National Park's backcountry office for reservation information and specific accessibility details.

What activities can you do at Ice Lake in Yellowstone?

Ice Lake in Yellowstone offers several activities for backcountry campers. The lake itself provides opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing in a peaceful setting away from crowds. Birdwatching is excellent in this area. The accessible nature of campsite 4D3 makes it ideal for those who want to experience nature photography, stargazing, or simply relaxing by the lakeshore. While swimming isn't specifically mentioned, the lake setting offers scenic views and a chance to connect with Yellowstone's natural beauty in a more secluded environment.

When is the best time to visit Ice Lake in Yellowstone?

The best time to visit Ice Lake in Yellowstone is during the summer and early fall months (June through September) when backcountry areas are typically accessible. Weather conditions are most favorable during this period, with warmer temperatures and reduced chance of snow. September and early October can offer beautiful fall colors and fewer crowds while still maintaining reasonable access. Always check with Yellowstone's Backcountry Office before planning your trip, as seasonal conditions can vary and may affect accessibility, especially for a site designed for those with special needs.

Keep Exploring