Fishing enthusiasts will find Hunter Peak Campground positioned along a forested corridor within Shoshone National Forest, where the South Fork runs nearby and vault toilets stay consistently clean according to multiple visitors. The Forest Service facility operates from late May through early September at 6,500 feet elevation, accommodating RVs up to 56 feet though one reviewer warns that "sites are not as big as the US Forest Service site says they are as rigs over 28 feet will have trouble fitting."
The campground sits slightly downhill from the main road, creating a buffer where campers can hear passing traffic without seeing it directly. Sites provide ample space but limited privacy between neighbors, and mosquitoes can be particularly active during summer months. A camp host stays on-site near the entrance. Most sites clear out during the day as visitors explore nearby attractions, leaving the area relatively quiet for those who remain.
Water comes from a hand pump that functions reliably, though one experienced camper advises to boil it before drinking. The location serves as a practical base for day trips to campgrounds near Cooke City and the Beartooth Highway corridor. No cell service reaches the area, and pets are not permitted under current Forest Service regulations.
Hunter Peak works well for RV travelers seeking a maintained campground with basic amenities and fishing access, particularly those planning to spend days exploring the surrounding high country rather than staying in camp.
Description
Overview
Hunter Peak Campground is located on the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway/State Highway 296, approximately four miles south of the junction with scenic Beartooth Highway/U.S. Highway 12. The campground is about 60 miles northeast of Cody, in northwestern Wyoming.
Recreation
The Clarks Fork offers outstanding fishing opportunities for rainbow and cutthroat trout. Many hiking trails are located in the area, including the Clarks Fork Trailhead, which is across the highway from the campground.
Facilities
This small campground contains single-family campsites, each equipped with a table and campfire ring. Vault toilets, hand-pumped water, and trash collection are provided. A host is on-site. Firewood may be gathered in the area. Fuel and sundries are available in the nearby community of Crandall. Sites 5, 6, 7, and 8 are available for reservation. Please click on the "Check Availability" button for more information.
Natural Features
The campground sits on the banks of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River, at an elevation of 6,500 feet. A mixed conifer forest covers the campground. A variety of wildlife, including grizzly bear, deer and elk makes its home in the area.
Nearby Attractions
The Beartooth Highway was deemed "the most beautiful drive in America," by the late Charles Kuralt. It snakes across the rugged Beartooth Mountains from Red Lodge to Cooke City, Mont., and is the highest elevation highway in the Northern Rockies. Along the way, visitors are treated to sweeping views and plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities. Yellowstone National Park's northeast entrance is approximately 24 miles from the campground via the Beartooth Highway. The park offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities, as well as breathtaking scenery and unique geological features.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
NOTICE: At this time, we are not accepting reservations for the listed campgrounds, but rather are available first-come/first-served. NOTE: The Clearwater Group site and the Sunlight Rangers Cabin continue to accept reservations.Please continue to monitor Recreation.gov to see if reservation status changes.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHunter Peak is located in Wyoming near Cooke City
Directions
From Cody, Wyo., travel north on State Highway 120 to Highway 296. Enjoy your drive along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway as the campground is approximately 60 miles from Cody, and located on the left side of the highway. From the northeast entrance of Yellowstone Park or Red Lodge, MT, travel on U.S. Highway 212, which is part of the All-American Road - Beartooth Scenic Byway to the junction with State Highway 296. Take Highway 296 approximately 5 miles to the campground, which is on the right side of the highway.
Address
203A YELLOWSTONE AVE
Cody, WY 82414
Coordinates
44.8847222 N
109.6544444 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 17 min from Billings, MT
- 3 hrs 33 min from Bozeman, MT
- 4 hrs 56 min from Helena, MT
- 6 hrs 46 min from Idaho Falls, ID
