Wild Wanderers Almanac

Camping at Yellowstone National Park

Camping at Yellowstone National Park: Into the Heart of the Wild

There are few places that stir the spirit quite like camping at Yellowstone National Park. Stretching across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it’s the oldest national park in the world—and arguably the wildest. From its geyser-spouting grounds to its wolf-haunted forests, Yellowstone is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to be. And there is no better way to be in it than by camping beneath its wide, star-salted skies.

Whether you’re a backcountry minimalist or a family of campers looking for geyser-side coziness, Yellowstone offers a wide range of camping experiences. Here’s your guide to some of the park’s best front country campgrounds, with detailed insights to help you find your perfect basecamp.

Why Camp in Yellowstone?

Camping in Yellowstone connects you to its natural rhythm. You’ll wake to the call of sandhill cranes, breathe in steam from distant thermal vents, and maybe even hear wolves howling across Lamar Valley. While hotels offer convenience, camping offers immersion—into the wild, the weather, and the wonder.

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Top Campgrounds in Yellowstone

There are twelve campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park, offering more than 2,000 campsites. Below are a few of the most beloved, along with their number of sites and standout features.

Madison Campground (278 sites)

Location: Near the Madison River, 14 miles from Old Faithful
Open: Late May to mid-October
Reservations: Required (via recreation.gov)

Why Stay Here: Madison is a favorite for its central location, which makes it perfect for first-timers wanting to explore key attractions like Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and Norris Geyser Basin. The nearby Madison River is also a dream for fly-fishers and elk-watchers alike.

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Grant Village Campground (430 sites)

Location: Southern Yellowstone, near Yellowstone Lake
Open: Mid-June to mid-September
Reservations: Required

Why Stay Here: Ideal for those who want lake views and easy access to boating or kayaking, Grant Village also offers amenities like flush toilets, dishwashing stations, and even showers. It’s a great option for families or campers looking for a little more comfort.

Canyon Campground (273 sites)

Location: Near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Open: Mid-June to mid-September
Reservations: Required

Why Stay Here: This one’s all about the views. Canyon Campground places you within walking distance of the iconic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, complete with its roaring waterfalls and deep, golden-hued cliffs. It’s also surrounded by lodgepole pine forest, giving it that quintessential camping vibe.

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LifeStraw Water Filter

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Slough Creek Campground (16 sites)

Location: Lamar Valley, northeastern Yellowstone
Open: Late May to October (weather dependent)
Reservations: Required

Why Stay Here: With only 16 sites, this remote campground is beloved by wildlife watchers and solitude-seekers. Nestled deep in the Lamar Valley—the “Serengeti of North America”—it offers unrivaled opportunities to see wolves, bears, bison, and birds. No frills, all magic.

Mammoth Campground (85 sites)

Location: Near the park’s north entrance
Open: Year-round
Reservations: Required in summer; first-come, first-served in winter

Why Stay Here: It’s the only campground open all year, making it an option for winter camping (yes, some people do it). Mammoth also sits near the park’s historic district and hot springs. Elk frequently wander through camp, and you’re close to the town of Gardiner if you need supplies or a hot meal.

Tips for Camping in Yellowstone

Reserve Early

Most of Yellowstone’s popular campgrounds fill up months in advance during summer. Make your reservations as early as possible through recreation.gov.

Be Bear Aware

Yellowstone is prime bear country. Every site comes with a bear-proof storage locker—use it. Never leave food, coolers, or scented items in your tent. Check in with rangers or visitor centers for the latest wildlife safety tips.

Water Wisdom

Potable water is available at all frontcountry campgrounds, but always bring a backup purification method. If you’re venturing into backcountry territory, reliable filtration is essential.

Layer Up

Even in summer, nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing. Bring a warm sleeping bag (rated at least 20°F), a sleeping pad, and plenty of layers for those crisp Yellowstone mornings.

What to Do Near Your Campground

From Madison: Explore geyser basins, visit Old Faithful, or take a scenic drive along Firehole Canyon.
From Canyon: Hike the South Rim Trail or Artist Point for breathtaking views of the canyon.
From Slough Creek: Wake up early and stake out a spot with binoculars for a chance to spot wolves.
From Grant Village: Rent a boat, hike to Storm Point, or take in a lakefront sunset.

Final Thoughts

Camping in Yellowstone isn’t just a trip—it’s an immersion into something ancient, wild, and soul-expanding. Whether you’re watching steam curl from thermal pools or trading stories by firelight, there’s a sense that you’re part of something bigger here. The land speaks, the animals move freely, and time, finally, slows down.

So pack your tent, your sense of wonder, and maybe an extra pair of socks—and go.

The wild is waiting.

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