Map showing campground location near Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Camper submitted image from 2H1 Yellowstone National Park Backcountry — Yellowstone National Park

2H1 Yellowstone National Park Backcountry — Yellowstone National Park

Within Yellowstone National Park's backcountry system, site 2H1 sits at the confluence of Hell Roaring Creek and the Yellowstone River, accessible via a 3-mile hike from Hell Roaring trailhead plus an additional 1.1-mile side trail. This National Park Service backcountry site requires advance reservations and offers complete isolation from main trail traffic due to its distance from the primary Yellowstone River Trail.

The site divides into three distinct areas: a tent zone around a large fir tree with soft ground for easy stake placement, a lower cooking area with flat rocks for camp stoves, and water access at the creek-river junction. No campfires are permitted, and campers must pack out all trash with no outhouses available. The reviewer noted elk antlers scattered around the site marker and frequent yellow-belly marmot sightings within 20 feet of camp. Cutthroat trout fishing proves productive at the water confluence, while large trees provide rain shelter during meals.

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2H1 Yellowstone National Park Backcountry — Yellowstone National Park is located in Wyoming

Coordinates

44.97460826 N
110.47512497 W

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Access

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Park in a lot, walk to your site.
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Drive Time

1 hr 45 min from Bozeman, MT
3 hrs 4 min from Billings, MT
3 hrs 8 min from Helena, MT
4 hrs 59 min from Idaho Falls, ID

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1 Review

Dexter I.

Legend

Reviewed Jul. 15, 2019

2H1 - Y.N.P. Back Country camp site - camp in solitude

Site 2H1 is a five star back country site, 100% privacy and quiet due to the distance from the main trail and the proximity of Hell Roaring Creek and the Yellowstone River. The first thing we noticed on arriving to the site was the large collection of Elk antlers surrounding the campsite sign. The camping area is broken into three sections. The first is the area for you tents, located around a huge fir tree with plenty of flat ground to choose from. Setting up our tents were a breeze as the ground was soft and the stakes went in with out a problem, no pounding with a rock was needed. Down below the tent area is the cooking and eating area. The cooking area has several flat rock for placing your stove on and rocks and dead trees to sit on. No campfire are allowed at this location. To the left is the location to hang your food and a path to access the junction of Hell Roaring Creek and Yellowstone River to filter your water or give fishing a try(caught a huge cutthroat trout in a matter of minutes. This location is just beautiful. Rain wasn't a problem during out stay, there are plenty of large trees that shielded us from the rain while we ate our dinner. If you sit quietly you will notice a few visitors, several Yellow-belly Marmots live in the area, and will vent as close to 20 feet away from you. The marmots are fun to watch as they go along eating the vegetation in the area. Remember, this is a back country campsite, no outhouses and you need to pack out your trash.

Yellowstone National Park back country campsite 2H1 is located along the Yellowstone River Trail. Yellowstone River Trail can be reached from the Hell Roaring(2K8) trail head or Black-tail(1N5) trail head. Closest trail head is the Hell Roaring trail head. Back country campsite is located about 3 miles from the trail head if the ford across Hell Roaring Creek is possible. If the ford crossing is not possible due to high water then you will need to hike to the Hell Roaring Creek bridge adding 3.7 miles to the hike to the campsite. Campsite 2H1 is located 1.1 miles down a side trail from the Yellowstone River Trail. Being 1.1 miles from the trail means you will not have any visitors to your site as only one group is allowing in a campsite per night. It is a flat hike from the Yellowstone River Trail to site 2H1. The site is located at the confluence of Hell Roaring Creek and the Yellowstone river so you can't hike past it.

Site2H1

Month of VisitJuly

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best season for backcountry camping in Yellowstone?

Mid-summer to early fall (July through September) offers the most reliable conditions for Yellowstone backcountry camping. By July, most high-elevation snow has melted, streams are more crossable, and trails are generally accessible. Late August and September bring fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, though nights grow colder. The Hell Roaring Creek area where site 2H1 is located typically becomes accessible by early summer. Early season campers should prepare for muddy conditions and high water crossings, while late season visitors need to be ready for potential early snow. Always check trail conditions before departing regardless of season.

What wildlife safety precautions should I take when backcountry camping in Yellowstone?

Store all food, cooking equipment, and scented items in bear-resistant containers or hang them properly at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from any vertical support. Cook and eat at least 100 feet from your sleeping area. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife. Keep clean camp practices by properly disposing of dishwater and trash. Never approach or feed wildlife, including seemingly docile animals like elk (evidenced by the antler collection at site 2H1). Travel in groups when possible and be especially vigilant at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.

What are the best backcountry camping locations in Yellowstone National Park?

Site 2H1 is among Yellowstone's premier backcountry camping spots, offering complete privacy and tranquility due to its distance from main trails and proximity to both Hell Roaring Creek and the Yellowstone River. Other excellent backcountry sites include those near Shoshone Lake for pristine views, Slough Creek for fishing opportunities, Bechler region for its waterfalls, and Heart Lake for thermal features. The best sites typically balance scenic beauty, access to water, distance from crowded areas, and natural features that make each location unique.

How do I obtain permits for Yellowstone backcountry camping?

Permits for Yellowstone backcountry camping are required and must be obtained through the National Park Service. You can apply for advanced reservations starting March 1st or try for walk-up permits (limited availability) 48 hours before your trip at any backcountry office in the park. A non-refundable reservation fee applies, and you'll need to specify your desired site (like 2H1) and dates. During the permit process, rangers will provide important safety information and current trail conditions. Some popular areas fill quickly, so advance planning is essential, especially during peak summer months.

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