Top 12 Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park

Apr 6
22:55

2024

Cathy Taylor

Cathy Taylor

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Yellowstone National Park is not only a treasure trove of geothermal wonders, but it also offers a variety of camping experiences for nature enthusiasts. As the first national park in the United States, established on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone has a rich history, including being a favored camping destination of President Theodore Roosevelt. The park's 12 campgrounds provide an economical and pristine setting for visitors. With seven operated by the National Park Service, these campgrounds offer consistent amenities and regulations. Camping is the quintessential way to immerse oneself in Yellowstone's wilderness, and it's a more budget-friendly option compared to hotels. However, it's crucial to reserve your spot in advance, as the park does not offer overflow camping. If you find yourself without a reservation, there are additional campgrounds just outside the park's boundaries. Remember, camping outside designated campgrounds, including in vehicles or picnic areas, is strictly prohibited.

Yellowstone's Campground Highlights

Fishing Bridge RV Park

Location: Near Yellowstone Lake Features: Full RV hook-ups; no stay limit; hard-sided campers only

Madison Campground

Location: Central Yellowstone Features: No utility hookups; nearby showers; sanitary dump station

Canyon Campground

Location: Near the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone Features: No utility hook-ups; pay showers; coin laundry; campground store; restaurant; sanitary dump station

Bridge Bay Campground

Location: Close to Bridge Bay Marina and boat launch Features: Ideal for boaters; 30 miles from East entrance

Grant Village Campground

Location: Southwestern edge of Yellowstone Lake Features: Woodsy setting; group sites; coin laundry; pay showers; sanitary dump stations within half a mile

Mammoth Campground

Location: Below Mammoth Hot Springs Village Features: Less wooded; toilets available; no laundry or dump station

Norris Campground

Location: Walking distance to Norris Geyser Basin Features: Wooded; overlooks a meadow frequented by wildlife; open late May to late September; 116 sites

Indian Creek Campground

Location: Check with rangers due to bear activity Features: 75 sites; no dump stations,Top 12 Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park Articles laundry, or showers

Lewis Lake Campground

Location: Between Grant Village and South entrance Features: On Lewis Lake; open mid-June to early November; 85 sites

Pebble Creek Campground

Location: Western end of Lamar Valley Features: Primitive; favored by hikers and fishermen; open early June to late September

Slough Creek Campground

Location: In Lamar Valley Features: Small; ideal for wildlife watching; open late May to October; 29 sites

Tower Fall Campground

Location: Across from Tower General Store; near Roosevelt Junction Features: Views of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone; open late May to late September; no utility hook-ups, showers, or dump stations

For more detailed information on each campground, including reservation guidelines and seasonal availability, visit the Yellowstone National Park Lodges website or the National Park Service's official Yellowstone camping page.

Unique Aspects of Yellowstone Camping

Yellowstone's campgrounds are not just places to sleep; they are gateways to exploring the park's over 2 million acres. According to the National Park Service, Yellowstone hosts millions of visitors each year, with a significant number choosing to camp. In 2019, before the pandemic, the park recorded over 4 million recreational visits, and camping numbers typically reflect a strong interest in the park's natural beauty.

One interesting statistic that is often overlooked is the role of campgrounds in wildlife conservation. Campgrounds like Slough Creek and Pebble Creek are situated in areas known for high levels of wildlife activity, including wolf and bear sightings. These campgrounds have special regulations to ensure both visitor safety and wildlife protection.

When planning your camping trip to Yellowstone, consider the seasonal variations. For instance, Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only campground with full RV hook-ups and is open to hard-sided campers only, making it a unique year-round option for RV enthusiasts.

For more information on planning your visit and making the most of Yellowstone's campgrounds, check out the official Yellowstone National Park website.