Established Camping
Shoshone Lake — Yellowstone National Park
Shoshone Lake, near Yellowstone National Park, is a stunning spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This area offers a unique camping experience with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding wilderness, perfect for fishing and kayaking.
The campsites are well-spaced along the trail, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility. Visitors have noted the presence of outdoor toilets and bear hangs, which add to the convenience of your stay. Just be prepared for the mosquitoes; they can be relentless, especially in July, so pack your bug spray!
Getting to Shoshone Lake can be an adventure in itself. The road leading in is rugged, requiring an off-road vehicle for the last stretch, but the effort is worth it for the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. As one camper put it, “It makes you feel like you live in a different time without technology and distractions.”
For those traveling with pets, the area is dog-friendly, and many campers have enjoyed watching their dogs swim in the lake. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer retreat, Shoshone Lake offers a beautiful backdrop for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Description
National Park Service
Yellowstone National Park
Hikers and non-motorized boats are allowed access to Shoshone Lake. Permits for those traveling by boat are only available at the South Entrance, Grant Village, or the Bridge Bay backcountry offices. Advanced reservations for all Shoshone Lake campsites cannot be made before June 15. Sites 8Q6, 8Q7, 8T3, and 8T5 may not be reserved before July 15.
Note that there are NO WOOD FIRES in this region. Campers must use either propane or white gas stoves.
Because this area is so popular, and to help maintain sanitation, primitive toilets have been installed at all of the backcountry campsites around Shoshone Lake.
Reservation Info
PERMIT REQUIRED for back country camping.
Location
Shoshone Lake — Yellowstone National Park is located in Wyoming
Directions
Hikers and non-motorized boats are allowed access to Shoshone Lake. Permits for those traveling by boat are only available at the South Entrance, Grant Village, or the Bridge Bay backcountry offices. Advanced reservations for all Shoshone Lake campsites cannot be made before June 15. Sites 8Q6, 8Q7, 8T3, and 8T5 may not be reserved before July 15. Traveling to Shoshone Lake by boat means navigating Lewis Lake and the Lewis River channel which connects these two large bodies of water. Both lakes are usually be ice free by the first week in June and motorized boats are allowed on Lewis Lake. For those continuing on to Shoshone Lake, all boat motors must be left at the southern end of Lewis channel. The northern end of Lewis channel for almost a mile is not deep enough to paddle so bring wading shoes or sandals and be prepared to wade this section. Water temps can be very cold water so plan accordingly.
Coordinates
44.37433874 N
111.009821 W
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 16 min from Bozeman
- 2 hrs 20 min from Idaho Falls
- 3 hrs 3 min from Pocatello
- 4 hrs 18 min from Billings
