Complete Guide to Camping in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone offers 11 campgrounds with over 2,000 campsites spread across the first national park in America. From riverside spots at Madison to lakeside sites at Bridge Bay, the park presents camping options for tents, RVs, and everything in between. Beyond park boundaries, hundreds of additional camping choices await in the surrounding national forests and gateway towns. The park's vast landscape means each camping area provides different experiences: geysers near Old Faithful, wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley, or fishing access along the Madison River. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning, booking, and enjoying a Yellowstone camping trip, with practical advice from campers who've been there.
Yellowstone National Park Camping at a Glance
All Yellowstone campgrounds now require reservations during peak season, with the reservation window opening 6 months in advance. Campgrounds like Madison, Canyon, and Slough Creek often fill within minutes of availability opening. For 2025, Indian Creek Campground (north of Norris) remains closed due to road improvements on the Mammoth-Norris route. Pebble Creek Campground in the northeast is also closed for 2025 for ongoing repairs from the 2022 floods.
Sites range from $25 to $35 per night for standard campgrounds, while Fishing Bridge RV Park (the only in-park option with full hookups) ranges from $50-85 depending on services and season. Most campgrounds open between mid-May and early June, closing in September or October, with Mammoth as the only year-round option. Summer nights drop into the 30s°F even in July, so pack warm sleeping gear regardless of when you visit.
Yellowstone National Park Campground Quick Facts
Quick Facts | Details |
---|---|
Number of Campgrounds | 11 campgrounds with over 2,000 total campsites across different regions of the park |
Total Campsites | Over 2,000 sites total. Bridge Bay: 432, Grant Village: 430, Canyon: 273, Madison: 278 |
Campsite Costs | $25-$35 per night standard campgrounds; $50-$85 per night Fishing Bridge RV Park |
Reservation Platforms | Recreation.gov or Yellowstone National Park Lodges (6-month rolling window) |
Camping Seasons | Most open mid-May to September/October; Mammoth year-round only |
Temperature Ranges | Summer: Days 70-80°F, Nights 30-40°F Spring/Fall: Days 50-60°F, Nights 20-30°F |
2025 Updates | Indian Creek Campground closed for road improvements Pebble Creek closed for flood repairs |
Yellowstone Campgrounds: Complete Guide
Northern Yellowstone Campgrounds

Mammoth Campground — Yellowstone National Park
Mammoth Campground sits near the North Entrance and Mammoth Hot Springs, staying open year-round. Its 85 sites sit at a lower elevation (6,200 feet), making it warmer than other park campgrounds. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, with nearby flush toilets and running water available when temperatures allow. Bison often wander through the campground, and elk are common visitors during fall rut season. The surrounding sage-dotted landscape offers less privacy between sites compared to forested campgrounds.

Slough Creek Campground — Yellowstone National Park
Slough Creek Campground sits tucked in Lamar Valley's northeast corner, offering 16 sites that rank as the highest-rated in the park according to reviews on The Dyrt. The remote location provides unmatched wildlife viewing opportunities. wolves, bears, and bison are frequently spotted. The campground sits along Slough Creek, offering excellent fishing for native cutthroat trout. Sites are primitive with vault toilets and no running water or hookups. The 2-mile unpaved access road limits RV size to 30 feet or less.

Tower Fall Campground — Yellowstone National Park
Tower Fall Campground sits near the dramatic Tower Fall waterfall, offering 31 sites at 6,600 feet elevation. The campground typically opens in late May (weather permitting) and offers an excellent central location for exploring both the Lamar Valley and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Sites here are smaller, better suited for tents and smaller RVs under 30 feet. Limited shade makes summer afternoons warm, but mornings and evenings can still be chilly due to the elevation.
Central Yellowstone Campgrounds

Canyon Campground — Yellowstone National Park
Canyon Campground sits near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering 273 sites divided into several loops. The central location makes it ideal for access to both the Upper and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone, as well as day trips to Hayden Valley for wildlife viewing. Canyon Village nearby provides a visitor center, dining options, general store, and shower facilities (for a fee). Sites can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet, and the campground sits in a lodgepole pine forest at 7,900 feet elevation.

Norris Campground — Yellowstone National Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Norris Campground (currently closed but expected to reopen in future seasons) offers 111 sites near the geothermal features of Norris Geyser Basin. The campground sits along the Gibbon River, with some sites offering river views. When operational, Norris typically opens by late May and closes in late September. The campground's central location provides good access to both the geyser basins to the south and Mammoth Hot Springs to the north.
Western Yellowstone Campgrounds

Madison Campground — Yellowstone National Park
Madison Campground offers 278 sites where the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers meet to form the Madison River. The location provides excellent access to Old Faithful and the geyser basins (16 miles south) while also being just 14 miles east of the West Entrance. Madison's A Loop offers the most spacious and private sites, some backing up to the meadow where elk often graze at dawn and dusk. The campground sits at 6,800 feet elevation surrounded by lodgepole pine forest.
Southern Yellowstone Campgrounds

Bridge Bay Campground — Yellowstone National Park
Bridge Bay Campground offers 432 sites as the largest campground in Yellowstone, located on the shore of Yellowstone Lake. The campground has seven loops, with A and B loops closest to the water. Sites include picnic tables and fire grates, with access to flush toilets and running water. The nearby marina offers boat rentals and guided fishing trips on Yellowstone Lake. The campground can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet.
Grant Village Campground — Yellowstone National Park
Grant Village Campground sits near the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake, offering 430 sites with convenient access to the South Entrance (22 miles) and Grand Teton National Park. The campground sits at 7,800 feet in a lodgepole pine forest, offering moderate privacy between sites. Grant Village provides nearby amenities including a restaurant, general store, visitor center, and shower facilities (for a fee). Sites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet.
Lewis Lake Campground
Lewis Lake Campground offers 85 sites in a quieter setting just 8 miles from the South Entrance. The campground sits directly on Lewis Lake, providing swimming and boating access. Sites are more rustic, with vault toilets and no running water. Lewis Lake operates on the Recreation.gov reservation system and generally fills later than other campgrounds, making it a good backup option. Maximum vehicle length is 25 feet, making this best for small RVs, campervans, and tents.
Eastern Yellowstone Campgrounds

Fishing Bridge RV Park--Yellowstone National Park
Fishing Bridge RV Park provides the only campground in Yellowstone with full hookups (water, sewer, 50-amp electric), catering exclusively to hard-sided RVs due to its location in prime grizzly habitat. The park features 310 sites arranged in a rather dense configuration with limited privacy, but the convenience of hookups makes it popular with larger RVs. The location on the north shore of Yellowstone Lake provides good access to both lake activities and the wildlife-rich Hayden Valley.
Campground Comparison Table
Campground | Location & Sites | Cost & Reservations |
---|---|---|
Mammoth | North Entrance 85 sites | $25-30 Recreation.gov |
Slough Creek | Lamar Valley 16 sites | $25-30 Recreation.gov |
Tower Fall | Northeast 31 sites | $25-30 Recreation.gov |
Canyon | Central 273 sites | $30-35 Yellowstone Lodges |
Madison | West 278 sites | $30-35 Yellowstone Lodges |
Bridge Bay | Yellowstone Lake 432 sites | $30-35 Yellowstone Lodges |
Grant Village | West Thumb 430 sites | $30-35 Yellowstone Lodges |
Lewis Lake | South 85 sites | $25-30 Recreation.gov |
Fishing Bridge RV Park | Yellowstone Lake 310 sites | $50-85 Yellowstone Lodges |
Campground Amenities and Best Uses
Northern Campgrounds: Mammoth offers year-round accessibility and proximity to hot springs, making it ideal for winter camping and wildlife viewing. Slough Creek provides unmatched wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley with excellent fishing access. Tower Fall offers central access to both Lamar Valley and Grand Canyon areas.
Central and Western Options: Canyon provides central access to waterfalls and Hayden Valley wildlife viewing with nearby amenities. Madison excels for geyser basin access and river fishing, with spacious sites in A Loop backing up to elk grazing meadows.
Southern Campgrounds: Bridge Bay offers lakeside camping with marina access and boat rentals. Grant Village provides convenient access to Grand Teton National Park. Lewis Lake offers a quieter experience with direct lake access for swimming and boating.
RV Options: Fishing Bridge RV Park provides the only full hookups in the park but caters exclusively to hard-sided RVs due to bear regulations. Be sure to check out many other Yellowstone RV parks and resorts for additional motorhome and RV camping options.
Planning Your Yellowstone Camping Trip 
When to Visit Yellowstone
Season | Temperatures | Camping Conditions |
---|---|---|
Spring (April-May) | Days: 50s°F Nights: Freezing | Mammoth and Madison open first (late April/early May) Higher elevation sites wait until late May/June |
Summer (June-August) | Days: 70-80°F Nights: 30s-40s°F | All campgrounds open Extremely high demand, reservations essential |
Fall (September-October) | Days: Crisp weather Nights: Often below freezing | Most campgrounds close by late September Mammoth remains open until mid-October |
Winter (November-March) | Days: Variable Nights: Regularly below 0°F | Mammoth only (first-come, first-served) Most park roads closed to vehicles |
Spring (April-May):
Early spring brings quiet but cold camping. Roads begin reopening by mid-April, and lower-elevation campgrounds start opening in May. Daytime temperatures hover in the 50s°F with freezing nights. Mammoth and Madison campgrounds open first (late April/early May), while higher elevation sites like Canyon or Lewis Lake wait until late May or June. Wildlife viewing excels as animals emerge with their young, including bear cubs and bison calves. Be prepared for snow on the ground and occasional late snowstorms. Crowds remain light until Memorial Day weekend.
Summer (June-August):
Peak season sees all campgrounds open and extremely high demand. Reservations are essential well in advance. Days warm to 70-80°F with cool nights (30s-40s°F). July brings the driest, sunniest conditions. You'll have full access to trails, visitor centers, and activities, but expect crowds at popular areas and campgrounds at capacity. Start days early to beat traffic and consider less-visited areas like the Northeast for more solitude. Afternoon thunderstorms frequently roll through in July and August, so pack rain gear.
Fall (September-October):
September offers thinner crowds and crisp weather while keeping most services open. Nights often drop below freezing by late September. Fall colors peak mid-September, with aspens turning golden, especially in northern ranges. The elk rut brings bugling near Mammoth and Madison. Most campgrounds close by late September, except Mammoth which typically remains open until mid-October. By October, snow dusts higher elevations, and only Mammoth and some lower-elevation forest campgrounds outside the park remain open. Dress in layers for the considerable temperature swings.
Winter (November-March):
Winter camping inside Yellowstone is limited but possible for hardy campers. Mammoth Campground stays open year-round but switches to first-come, first-served in winter. Temperatures regularly drop below 0°F (-18°C). Most park roads close to vehicles in early November and reopen in late April. Oversnow travel (snowmobile or snowcoach) provides the only access to interior locations. Some lower-elevation private RV parks near gateway towns remain open year-round. Winter brings a magical landscape of steaming geysers against snow, with wildlife concentrated in the Lamar Valley.
Yellowstone Reservation Systems Explained
Securing a campsite in Yellowstone requires understanding two separate reservation systems:
NPS-Managed Campgrounds (Recreation.gov) include Lewis Lake, Mammoth, Slough Creek, Pebble Creek (when open), Tower Fall, and Indian Creek (when open). Book these through Recreation.gov, where reservations open on a 6-month rolling window. Create your Recreation.gov account before the booking window opens, and be ready at exactly 8:00 AM Mountain Time on opening day. Popular sites like Slough Creek fill within minutes of release.
Concessionaire-Managed Campgrounds (Yellowstone National Park Lodges) include Bridge Bay, Canyon, Madison, Grant Village, and Fishing Bridge RV Park. Book through the concessionaire website or call their reservation line. The booking window typically opens May 1 for the following summer season. The reservation system works differently than Recreation.gov, so read the guidelines carefully before the booking window opens.
For both systems, cancellations occasionally become available. If your desired dates show full, check back regularly for openings, especially 7-14 days before your planned visit when final payment deadlines pass.
Campground Costs and Budgeting
Campground Type | Nightly Cost | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Basic Campgrounds | $25-30 | Mammoth, Lewis Lake - basic amenities, vault or flush toilets |
Larger Campgrounds | $30-35 | Canyon, Madison, Bridge Bay - flush toilets, visitor services nearby |
Fishing Bridge RV Park | $50-85 | Full hookups (water, sewer, 50-amp electric), hard-sided RVs only |
Additional Costs and Budget Tips
Park and Entry Fees: Park entrance fee costs $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days) or $70 for an annual Yellowstone pass. The America the Beautiful Pass at $80 annually covers all national parks.
Facility and Service Fees: Shower facilities cost $4-5 per shower at Canyon, Grant Village, and Lake Village. Firewood costs $8-10 per bundle at campground stores. Ice costs $3-5 per bag at general stores. Laundry runs approximately $3-4 per load (wash and dry).
Budget-Friendly Alternatives: National Forest Campgrounds cost $8-20 per night just outside park boundaries. Dispersed camping around Yellowstone is free in surrounding national forests (Gallatin, Shoshone, etc.). Low season visits in spring and fall offer lower rates at some facilities.
Essential Gear for Yellowstone Camping
Pack prepared for Yellowstone's variable weather and remote setting:
Sleeping Gear:
- Warm sleeping bag rated for at least 20°F (even in summer)
- Sleeping pad with good insulation (R-value of 3+)
- Extra blankets for cold nights
Kitchen Setup:
- Bear-proof food storage containers (required in many areas)
- Camping stove and fuel (firewood availability varies)
- Water containers (some campgrounds have limited water sources)
Clothing:
- Layering system for temperatures ranging from 30s to 80s°F
- Rain jacket and pants (afternoon storms are common)
- Warm hat and gloves (even for summer nights)
- Hiking boots and camp shoes
Wildlife Safety:
- Bear spray (available for purchase in park stores)
- Headlamp or flashlight for nighttime restroom visits
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing from a safe distance
Other Essentials:
- First aid kit with basic medications
- Insect repellent (mosquitoes are abundant in early summer)
- Sun protection (the high elevation intensifies UV exposure)
- Offline maps (cell service is extremely limited in the park)
Photo by Tom Reichner
Wildlife Safety and Park Regulations 
Bear Safety in Yellowstone
Yellowstone is home to both black and grizzly bears, making proper food storage and bear awareness essential:
Food Storage Requirements:
All food, trash, cooking equipment, toiletries, pet food, and scented items must be secured when not in use. Use the bear-proof storage boxes provided at each campsite, or lock items in hard-sided vehicles or RVs. Coolers, cooking items, and anything with an odor cannot be left unattended, even for a short time. Rangers actively patrol campgrounds and issue citations for improper storage.
Cooking and Eating:
Cook at least 100 feet from your tent when possible. Never eat inside your tent or store food or toiletries there. After cooking, store all food preparation items in bear boxes or vehicles. Change clothes if food was spilled on them, storing soiled clothing with food items.
Bear Encounters:
Carry bear spray and know how to use it when hiking or away from developed areas. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife (100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals). If you encounter a bear, do not run. Back away slowly while facing the animal.
Park Regulations and Etiquette
Regulation Category | Specific Rules | Penalties |
---|---|---|
Campfires | Permitted only in designated fire rings Never leave unattended Completely extinguish before leaving | Citations and fines Possible campground eviction |
Quiet Hours | 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM Generator hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (varies by campground) | Warnings and possible eviction |
Wildlife | Feeding prohibited 100 yards from bears/wolves 25 yards from other animals | Significant fines and citations |
Additional Park Regulations
Waste Disposal: Pack out all trash and recyclables to proper receptacles. Greywater must be disposed of in utility sinks, not on the ground. Use restroom facilities for all human waste—catholes are not permitted in frontcountry areas.
Backcountry Permits: Overnight trips into Yellowstone's backcountry require permits, available at visitor centers or in advance through Recreation.gov. The backcountry permit system opens on March 1 each year for the upcoming season.
Photo by Kevin Cass
Beyond the Campground: Activities and Exploration 
Day Trips from Yellowstone Campgrounds
From Madison Campground:
The central location makes Madison ideal for exploring the geyser basins. Old Faithful sits just 16 miles south (about 30 minutes), while the Grand Prismatic Spring in Midway Geyser Basin is 9 miles away. The Firehole River swimming area (open in summer when water conditions permit) provides a rare swimming opportunity in the park, just a short drive south on Firehole Canyon Drive. For a less-visited gem, morning or evening fishing along the Madison River often yields solitude and wildlife sightings.
From Bridge Bay/Fishing Bridge Area:
The Lake area provides easy access to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (25 minutes north) and Hayden Valley wildlife viewing (15 minutes north). The thermal features of West Thumb Geyser Basin sit directly on Yellowstone Lake's shore, just 17 miles west. Boating and fishing options abound right from the marina, with guided fishing trips and boat rentals available. The Lake Lodge area offers dining options and a peaceful place to watch sunset over the lake.
From Mammoth Campground:
The travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs sit walking distance from the campground. The scenic drive to Lamar Valley (about 30 miles east) offers the park's best wildlife viewing, particularly at dawn and dusk. The Boiling River swimming area (when open) provides a unique hot spring soaking experience just 2 miles north of Mammoth. For an uncrowded hike, the Beaver Ponds Loop starts near the campground and often features beaver activity and wildlife sightings.
From Slough Creek/Northeast Area:
The remote northeast section offers unparalleled wildlife watching in Lamar Valley, right outside your tent flap. Trout Lake provides an easy 1.2-mile round-trip hike with fishing access and occasional river otter sightings. The stunning Beartooth Highway (open summer only) starts near Cooke City just outside the Northeast Entrance, climbing to nearly 11,000 feet with remarkable alpine views. The historic mining town of Cooke City offers dining options and a glimpse of Montana mountain town life.
Top Hiking Trails Near Campgrounds
Trail Name | Difficulty & Distance | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Fairy Falls/Grand Prismatic Overlook | Moderate 5.4 miles RT | 197-ft waterfall, birds-eye view of Grand Prismatic Spring, relatively flat trail |
Mount Washburn | Moderate/Strenuous 6 miles RT | 10,243 ft summit, panoramic views, bighorn sheep, wildflowers in July |
Trout Lake | Easy 1.2 miles RT | Perfect morning/evening walk, river otters, moose, waterfowl, fishing access |
Storm Point | Easy 2.3 miles RT | Yellowstone Lake shoreline, forest and meadows, marmots, bison viewing |
Beaver Ponds Loop | Moderate 5 miles RT | Less crowded, beaver activity, diverse wildlife, views of Mammoth area |
Trail Access and Starting Points
From Madison Area: Fairy Falls/Grand Prismatic Overlook starts at Midway Geyser Basin, 16 miles from Madison Campground. This popular trail provides access to one of Yellowstone's tallest waterfalls and includes a side spur to an overlook of Grand Prismatic Spring.
From Canyon Area: Mount Washburn begins at Dunraven Pass, 15 minutes from Canyon Campground. This classic Yellowstone hike climbs steadily to Mount Washburn's summit with panoramic views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Hayden Valley.
From Northeast Areas: Trout Lake trail starts on Northeast Entrance Road, 15 minutes from Slough Creek. This short but rewarding hike loops around scenic Trout Lake with excellent opportunities to spot river otters and waterfowl.
Fishing, Boating, and Water Activities
Yellowstone offers exceptional fishing and limited but memorable water recreation opportunities:
Fishing Regulations and Licenses:
Yellowstone fishing requires a park fishing permit ($25 for 7 days, $40 for season, free for youth under 15), available at visitor centers and fishing shops. The fishing season typically runs late May through early November. Regulations emphasize conservation of native species—only artificial flies and lures with barbless hooks are permitted in many areas.
Top Fishing Locations:
- Madison River: Known for brown and rainbow trout, especially in fall
- Yellowstone Lake: Home to native cutthroat trout and invasive lake trout
- Lamar River: Blue-ribbon fly fishing for cutthroat in a stunning valley setting
- Slough Creek: Technical fishing with large cutthroat in meadow sections
- Lewis Lake: Brown trout, lake trout, and splake in a less-crowded setting
Boating Options:
Boating in Yellowstone is limited to specific lakes. Yellowstone Lake offers the most options, with motorized and non-motorized boating permitted. The Bridge Bay Marina rents boats and offers guided fishing trips. All watercraft require a Yellowstone boat permit and aquatic invasive species inspection before launching.
Swimming Areas:
- Firehole Swimming Area: Located on Firehole Canyon Drive, this river swimming hole offers cool refreshment in summer
- Boiling River: Near Mammoth, where hot springs mix with the Gardner River creating soaking spots (check current status; occasionally closed)
- Yellowstone Lake: Swimming is permitted but rarely comfortable due to cold water temperatures, rarely exceeding 50°F even in summer
The Dyrt Community Insights 
Ranger Recommendations
The Dyrt Rangers offer these insider tips from experienced campers who extensively explore parks nationwide:
Madison Campground — Best Sites:
"Try to reserve sites in Loop A along the river." Rangers note that Madison's A-Loop sites back up to a meadow where the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers meet to form the Madison River. These sites provide quick access to the water for evening fishing, and elk herds often graze in the meadow at dusk. The outer loops (C/D) sit closer to the road and entrance, so A and B loops offer a more peaceful experience deeper in the campground.
Hidden Gem Campground:
"Lewis Lake Campground doesn't get enough love," according to one The Dyrt Ranger. Tucked away south of Yellowstone Lake along the road toward the South Entrance, Lewis Lake is relatively small and often one of the last in-park campgrounds to fill each day. There are no frills (vault toilets, no generators allowed), but it sits right by a beautiful mountain lake that many park visitors bypass.
Free Camping Favorite:
Rangers agree with the community that the Gardiner dispersed camping area (Travertine Road / Custer Gallatin NF) provides an excellent base for experienced campers. It's rare to have a free camping zone so close to a national park entrance. One Ranger notes: "If you get a spot here, you're literally 5 minutes from Mammoth Hot Springs while camping for $0—hard to beat!"
Top-Rated Sites from The Dyrt Community
Category | Top Pick & Rating | Key Highlights |
---|---|---|
Highest-Rated In-Park | Slough Creek 4.8/5 stars | Peaceful riverside sites, unmatched wildlife viewing, remote Lamar Valley location |
Most Recommended Private | Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park 4.7/5 stars | Clean facilities, friendly service, full hookups, blocks from West Entrance |
Best for Photography | Bridge Bay (lakeside sites) 4.5/5 stars | Mirror-like sunrise reflections, dramatic weather photography, alpenglow on peaks |
Most Family-Friendly | West Yellowstone KOA 4.5/5 stars | Kid-friendly amenities, playground, pool, ice cream socials, pancake breakfasts |
Community Insights and Recommendations
Slough Creek Praise: Campers consistently praise its peaceful riverside sites and unmatched wildlife viewing opportunities. The remote location in Lamar Valley creates a peaceful setting rarely found in popular national parks.
Private Campground Value: Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park in West Yellowstone tops charts for clean facilities and friendly service, offering full hookups and reliable Wi-Fi just blocks from the West Entrance.
Photography Opportunities: Bridge Bay's lakeside sites earn praise from photographers for early morning reflections and dramatic weather photography as storms move across Yellowstone Lake.
Photo by Dexter I
Responsible Camping Practices 
Leave No Trace in Yellowstone
Camping in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem comes with responsibility to protect this fragile environment:
Pack It In, Pack It Out:
Take out everything you bring in, including all trash, food scraps, and belongings. Even micro-bits of food can harm wildlife. Use the bear-proof trash cans and recycling bins at campgrounds, or pack your garbage securely until you find proper disposal. Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it to maintain the natural habitat for animals and keep sites pleasant for the next camper.
Use Established Campsites:
When dispersed camping on national forest or BLM land around Yellowstone, stick to areas that have obviously been used before (bare ground, existing fire ring). Do not create new campsites or fire rings. Driving off-road or clearing vegetation for a new site causes long-lasting damage in these delicate ecosystems.
Fire Safety:
Follow all fire regulations—if there are fire bans or restrictions (common by late summer), obey them strictly. Where fires are allowed, keep them small and only in provided fire rings or your own fire pan. Never leave a fire unattended. When extinguishing, drown the fire with water, stir the ashes, and drown again until cold to the touch. Many campers carry an extra water jug specifically for fire duty. Never burn trash in your campfire.
Wildlife Respect and Safety:
Never feed animals and maintain safe distances—100 yards from bears or wolves, 25 yards from bison, elk, and other animals. If wildlife wanders through your campsite, give it plenty of space. At night, store toiletries and even clothes with cooking odors in bear boxes or locked vehicles. By respecting wildlife, you ensure these creatures don't become threats or casualties. Remember: "A fed bear is a dead bear."
Keep Waterways Clean:
Prevent soaps, food waste, or contaminants from entering lakes and streams. Use biodegradable soap sparingly and wash dishes at least 200 feet from any water source (and scatter strained dishwater). If you're at a campground with utility sinks or designated dish stations, use them. Human waste should be disposed of in restrooms. These practices protect the watershed that supports both wildlife and human communities downstream.
Frequently Asked Questions 
When do Yellowstone campgrounds open and close? Opening dates vary by campground and weather conditions. Mammoth Campground stays open year-round. Madison, Bridge Bay, and Canyon typically open in May and close in mid-to-late September. Grant Village and Fishing Bridge RV Park usually open in early June and close in mid-September. Higher elevation campgrounds like Lewis Lake generally open last (late June) and close first (early September). Check the NPS website or Yellowstone Lodges for exact dates, which can shift based on conditions.
Can I just show up and find a campsite in Yellowstone? During peak season (June-August), all in-park campgrounds now require advance reservations. Spontaneous visitors should look for cancellations (check Recreation.gov or Yellowstone Lodges websites) or try campgrounds in nearby national forests, which sometimes have first-come, first-served sites available. In April, May, September, and October, your chances improve slightly, but reservations remain recommended. Winter camping at Mammoth (November-April) operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
How much does it cost to camp in Yellowstone? Standard campgrounds (Mammoth, Lewis Lake, Slough Creek, etc.) cost $25-30 per night. Larger campgrounds with more amenities (Madison, Canyon, Bridge Bay) run $30-35 per night. Fishing Bridge RV Park with full hookups costs $50-85 per night depending on the type of site and season. These fees come on top of the park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass or $70 for an annual Yellowstone pass).
Are RV hookups available in Yellowstone? Fishing Bridge RV Park provides the only in-park sites with full hookups (water, sewer, and electrical). All other campgrounds in Yellowstone require dry camping, though most have water spigots and dump stations available. Generator use is permitted at most campgrounds during specified hours (typically 8 AM to 8 PM). For full-service RV camping, consider private RV parks in gateway communities like West Yellowstone, Gardiner, or Cody.
What's the best campground in Yellowstone? The "best" campground depends on your priorities. For wildlife viewing, Slough Creek in the Lamar Valley ranks highest among The Dyrt reviewers. For geyser basin access, Madison's location makes it ideal. For lakefront camping, Bridge Bay offers sites with water views. Canyon provides central access to many attractions. Mammoth works best for year-round camping and amenities. If hookups are essential, Fishing Bridge RV Park is your only in-park option.
Are campfires allowed in Yellowstone? Campfires are permitted only in designated metal fire rings provided at established campgrounds. Fire restrictions frequently occur during dry periods, particularly in late summer and fall, so check current regulations upon arrival. When allowed, fires must be attended at all times and completely extinguished before leaving your site or sleeping. Gathering firewood is prohibited in most areas—purchase firewood at campground stores instead.
Do I need bear spray when camping in Yellowstone? Yes, bear spray is strongly recommended when camping in Yellowstone. While bear attacks are rare, both black and grizzly bears inhabit the park. Carry bear spray when hiking and keep it readily accessible (not in your backpack). Know how to use it before you need it—rangers offer demonstrations during summer. Even at developed campgrounds, bears occasionally pass through. While bear spray isn't typically needed inside your tent at night, proper food storage is crucial.
Planning Resources
Essential Yellowstone Links
- Yellowstone National Park Official Website - Current conditions, alerts, and regulations
- Recreation.gov - Booking platform for NPS-managed campgrounds
- Yellowstone National Park Lodges - Booking for concessionaire-managed campgrounds
- Yellowstone Road Status - Current road openings and closures
- Yellowstone Weather - Seasonal forecasts and climate information
- The Dyrt Campground Finder - Reviews and availability for campgrounds in and around Yellowstone
Reservation Timeline
Time Period | Reservation Task | Platform/Details |
---|---|---|
6 Months Before Trip | Book NPS-managed campgrounds | Recreation.gov (Mammoth, Slough Creek, Lewis Lake, Tower Fall) Set calendar reminder for exact opening date |
May 1 (Year Before) | Book concessionaire campgrounds | Yellowstone Lodges (Madison, Bridge Bay, Canyon, Grant Village, Fishing Bridge) |
1-2 Months Before | Check for cancellations and openings | Monitor both reservation systems regularly Check for newly released sites |
2 Weeks Before | Final chance for cancellations | Many reservations have 14-day cancellation policy Check booking sites daily |
Day Before Arrival | Check road conditions and weather | NPS road status and weather pages Confirm campground accessibility |
Yellowstone Camping Checklist
Reservations and Permits:
- Campground reservation confirmation
- National Park entrance pass
- Fishing license (if planning to fish)
- Backcountry permit (if applicable)
Camping Gear:
- Tent with rainfly and footprint
- Sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures
- Sleeping pads with good insulation
- Extra blankets
- Headlamps and flashlights
- Camp chairs
- Camp table (if not provided)
- Lantern
Kitchen Items:
- Bear-resistant food storage (if not using campground bear boxes)
- Camp stove and fuel
- Lighter/matches in waterproof container
- Cooler with ice
- Water containers
- Dish washing supplies
- Coffee maker or kettle
- Cooking utensils
- Eating utensils, plates, and cups
Clothing:
- Warm layers (even for summer)
- Rain gear
- Hiking boots
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sunglasses and sun hat
- Swimwear (for approved swimming areas)
Safety and First Aid:
- Bear spray (one per person)
- First aid kit
- Prescription medications
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Hand sanitizer
- Basic tools and repair kit
Navigation and Communication:
- Printed reservations and maps (cell service is limited)
- Offline maps downloaded to phone
- Guidebook or trail information
- Compass
- Portable phone charger or power bank
- Two-way radios for group communication
By planning carefully, respecting wildlife and park regulations, and embracing the unpredictable nature of outdoor adventure, your Yellowstone camping trip will create lasting memories. Whether you're watching Old Faithful erupt as the sun sets, spotting wolves across Lamar Valley from your campsite, or simply enjoying the starry sky above your tent, camping in Yellowstone offers experiences that connect you directly to America's first national park.