Camping in Yellowstone, WY
50 campgrounds · 3 areas · Best June through September
Yellowstone is America's first national park and one of its most iconic camping destinations. From steaming geysers and bubbling hot springs to vast meadows teeming with bison and elk, camping here puts you at the heart of an unparalleled geothermal wonderland. With 12 campgrounds and over 2,000 sites, there are options for every style from backcountry solitude to full-hookup RV camping.
Why Camp in Yellowstone
- ✓Camp within walking distance of Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin
- ✓12 campgrounds with over 2,000 individual campsites across the park
- ✓World-class wildlife viewing — bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears
- ✓Backcountry camping permits available for 300+ remote sites
Where to Camp in Yellowstone
Madison Campground
River valley, open meadowsCentrally located between Old Faithful and Mammoth Hot Springs. Sits along the Madison River with excellent fly fishing and wildlife viewing. Popular base camp for exploring the park's western attractions.
Canyon Village Area
Forested plateauNear the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and its dramatic waterfalls. The Canyon Campground offers 250+ sites in a forested setting with full amenities including showers and laundry.
Lamar Valley Backcountry
Mountain valley, grasslandsKnown as America's Serengeti, the Lamar Valley offers remote backcountry camping with the best wildlife viewing in the park. Wolf packs, bison herds, and grizzlies are frequently spotted at dawn and dusk.
Top Campgrounds
Colter Bay Campground
Wyoming · 36.1 mi
Lizard Creek Campground
Wyoming · 29.7 mi
Big Springs Warming Hut
Idaho · 35.3 mi
Colter Bay Tent Village
Wyoming · 36.3 mi
Flat Rock (Idaho)
Idaho · 37.4 mi
Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch
Wyoming · 22.5 mi
Big Springs Grp. Area - Island Park
Idaho · 33.2 mi
Buffalo (Idaho)
Idaho · 38.5 mi
Local Tips for Yellowstone
- 1.Reservations open on Recreation.gov and fill extremely fast — book 6 months ahead for summer dates.
- 2.Bear canisters or food storage lockers are required at all campsites. Never store food in your tent.
- 3.Summer days are warm but nights drop to near freezing even in July. Bring layers and a cold-rated sleeping bag.
- 4.The park has five entrances; traffic jams from wildlife sightings are common. Plan extra travel time between campgrounds and trailheads.
- 5.Cell service is extremely limited throughout the park. Download offline maps before arriving.
Activities
Experience Levels
Gear for Yellowstone
Make sure you have the right equipment for camping in Yellowstone.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Yellowstone campgrounds open?
Most campgrounds open between late May and mid-June and close in September or October. Mammoth Campground is open year-round. Check the NPS website for exact dates as they vary each year based on weather.
Can I camp without a reservation in Yellowstone?
Some campgrounds are first-come, first-served, but they fill very early in the day during summer. Arriving before 8 AM gives you the best chance. For guaranteed spots, make reservations on Recreation.gov.
Is RV camping available in Yellowstone?
Yes. Several campgrounds accommodate RVs, with Fishing Bridge being the only one with full hookups. Canyon, Grant Village, and Madison accept larger RVs but without hookups. Generator hours are limited.
Are campfires allowed at Yellowstone campgrounds?
Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings at most developed campgrounds. Firewood gathering is prohibited — you must purchase or bring your own firewood. Check current fire restrictions as they change based on conditions.
