RV camping near Yellowstone National Park offers a variety of options ranging from 20 to 30 miles from park entrances. Island Park and West Yellowstone serve as popular gateway communities with campgrounds at elevations between 6,500-7,000 feet. Summer nighttime temperatures often drop into the 40s even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along nearby rivers: Red Rock RV Park provides easy access to local wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw moose and elk while staying at this location. Beautiful and close to Yellowstone!" reports Mickey D. The journey to this campground "feels like you're approaching a special place. It's isolated and quiet yet still so close to the action of Yellowstone NP & West Yellowstone," according to Kristin S.
Fishing at Hebgen Lake: Yellowstone Holiday Resort sits directly on Hebgen Lake with fishing access. "The swimming area is clean, refreshing, and perfect for families. It's just a short 20-minute drive to West Yellowstone," notes Brian C. The campground offers fishing licenses and boat rentals on-site.
Visit local museums and theaters: Valley View RV Park offers convenient access to local entertainment. Kenneth H. mentions "There's a little dinner and live theater place across the road that seemed sold out days in advance." From Pony Express Motel & RV Park, Brenda L. reports, "We went to a community play at the Playmill theater and were able to walk. We enjoyed the play also."
What campers like
River views: Yellowstone RV Park offers sites along the Yellowstone River. Ann F. reports, "Our level gravel site backed up to the Yellowstone River where we watched the antelope feed on the cliffs and listened to the peaceful sounds of the river. Sunrises and sunsets were amazing!" Another camper noted, "The best part was being on the river and watching the Pronghorns on the other side."
Mountain scenery: Red Rock RV Park provides mountain views that many campers appreciate. "These views are breathtaking," states Beth R., while another review mentions, "The surroundings were scenic and there are lots of places to explore outside of Yellowstone. We stayed 4 nights and could have easily stayed longer."
Clean facilities: Yellowstone Edge RV Park maintains well-kept facilities according to campers. "Such a great RV park. The restrooms, laundry, and all of the grounds are spotless. The owners are so helpful and friendly and the location and views are fantastic," shares Meghan T.
What you should know
Campground size variations: Campgrounds range from small in-town facilities to larger rural properties. Fox Den RV Campground is described as "a small and quiet rv site" by Shawn G., while Red Rock RV Park contains 157 sites with varying sizes.
Weather preparedness: Temperatures can change rapidly, with snow possible even in September. At Red Rock RV Park, Tonya B. experienced unexpected conditions: "It did rain, snow, and hail during our trip, which everyone says was not expected for this time of year but not shocking considering it's late September."
Wi-Fi limitations: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. Valley View RV Park campers report, "They advertise that their wifi is about to get an upgrade to fiber, but without that upgrade, the wifi is worthless. Less than 1 mbps on average." At Yellowstone Holiday Resort, a camper mentioned "Don't count on WiFi which was pretty much nonexistent."
Booking timeline: During peak months, reservations may need to be made up to a year in advance. One camper at Fox Den RV Campground advised, "Pricing was expensive and availability was limited, call in advanced if you need a spot!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Red Rock RV Park offers playground facilities for children. "It has a huge playground area for the kids," reports Daniel C. The campground layout allows for easy access, with Beth R. noting, "Love our site, right by playground & these views!"
Swimming options: While not all RV parks have pools, some offer lake access. At Yellowstone Holiday Resort, a camper reported the "swimming area is clean, refreshing, and perfect for families."
Wildlife encounters from campground: Children can observe wildlife without lengthy hikes. Chip K. noted at Sun Outdoors Yellowstone North, "Elk and deer roam the park." Similarly, Donna H. shared, "Elk roam the campground and that's super cool!"
Campfire alternatives: At Fishing Bridge RV Park, campfires and propane fire pits are not allowed due to bear safety regulations. Christina F. explains, "You can have either propane grills or charcoal grills, but they have to be kept within the RV/trailer or tow vehicle at night. Nothing should be left outside at night due to the possibility of curious bears that come looking for food."
Tips from RVers
Power fluctuations: Electrical stability varies depending on campground load. At Fishing Bridge RV Park, Christina F. observed, "Even though there were signs that said the park was full, I always saw empty spaces, at least in loop E."
Site spacing considerations: Space between RVs varies considerably by campground. At Fox Den RV Park, Nathan B. cautions, "This was the smallest campground we have ever stayed at. All hookups worked but your neighbors are truly only 4 feet away." For better spacing, Red Rock RV Park offers "plenty of space between neighbors" according to Tonya B.
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds near Yellowstone have restrictions on generator use, requiring self-sufficient power options like solar. Water pressure can also vary, with Tara A. advising Fishing Bridge RV Park visitors, "You will need a water pressure regulator."
