Campgrounds Near Yellowstone National Park Old Faithful
Yellowstone National Park is America's first national park and one of the world's greatest wildlife sanctuaries. With over 10,000 geothermal features including Old Faithful, dramatic canyons, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. RV camping near Yellowstone provides the perfect base for exploring this iconic destination.
From rustic national park campgrounds along the Grand Loop Road to full-service RV resorts in gateway communities like West Yellowstone, Gardiner, and Cody, Yellowstone area campgrounds cater to every camping style. Whether you're planning a week-long adventure through the park's five distinct regions or a weekend getaway to see Old Faithful, discover the perfect RV campground for your Yellowstone vacation.
Ready to explore Yellowstone National Park by RV? Browse available rentals to start your adventure and secure the perfect vehicle for your camping trip.
Best Campgrounds Near Yellowstone National Park
We've curated 12 outstanding campgrounds near Yellowstone National Park, ranging from scenic national park sites along the Grand Loop Road to full-service RV resorts in nearby gateway communities. Each campground offers unique access to America's first national park.
Madison Campground - Yellowstone National Park
These featured campgrounds near Yellowstone National Park have been selected for excellent facilities, convenient locations, and exceptional access to the park's geothermal wonders and wildlife.
Madison Campground - Yellowstone National Park
Riverside camping near Old Faithful
Madison Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park with 278 sites along the Madison River. Located at the junction of the West Entrance Road and the Grand Loop, it offers quick access to both Old Faithful and Norris Geyser Basin.
The campground features flush toilets, dump station, firewood sales, and ranger programs. Sites accommodate RVs up to 30 feet on most loops. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts as elk and bison frequently graze in the nearby meadows.
14 miles east of West Entrance, near Madison River
Bridge Bay Campground - Yellowstone National Park
Lakeside camping on Yellowstone Lake
Bridge Bay Campground offers 432 sites on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Located near the Bridge Bay Marina, this campground provides excellent access to fishing, boating, and lake activities.
Amenities include flush toilets, dump station nearby, and firewood sales. The campground accommodates larger RVs and offers spectacular lake views. Perfect for anglers and nature lovers seeking a lakeside Yellowstone experience.
On Yellowstone Lake with marina access
Fishing Bridge RV Park - Yellowstone National Park
Full hookups in Yellowstone's bear country
Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only campground in Yellowstone National Park offering full hookups including water, sewer, and electrical connections. Located near the historic Fishing Bridge on Yellowstone Lake, this park requires hard-sided camping units only due to high bear activity.
Amenities include showers, laundry facilities, dump station, and a general store nearby. The 310 sites accommodate RVs and provide modern comfort in the heart of Yellowstone. Ideal for RV travelers seeking full services within the park.
Full hookups on Yellowstone Lake, hard-sided only
Grant Village Campground - Yellowstone National Park
Modern amenities on West Thumb Bay
Grant Village Campground provides 430 sites on the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake. This modern campground offers pull-through sites suitable for larger RVs up to 40 feet and features convenient access to West Thumb Geyser Basin.
Amenities include flush toilets, showers, laundry, dump station, and firewood. The nearby Grant Village offers restaurants, a general store, and visitor center. Perfect for families seeking accessible park camping with modern conveniences.
Near West Thumb Geyser Basin with showers
Indian Creek Campground - Yellowstone National Park
Secluded forest camping in the north
Indian Creek Campground offers 70 sites in a peaceful forest setting between Mammoth Hot Springs and Norris Geyser Basin. This first-come, first-served campground provides a more rustic experience with vault toilets and no hookups.
Sites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet. The location offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities with frequent elk and bison sightings. Ideal for campers seeking a quieter, more natural Yellowstone experience away from busier areas.
Between Mammoth and Norris, peaceful setting
Tower Fall Campground - Yellowstone National Park
Near Lamar Valley wildlife watching
Tower Fall Campground provides 31 sites near the spectacular 132-foot Tower Fall and the famous Lamar Valley. This small, first-come, first-served campground offers intimate camping with vault toilets.
Sites accommodate RVs up to 30 feet. The location provides excellent access to the Lamar Valley, known as America's Serengeti for its abundant wildlife including wolves, bears, and bison. Perfect for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Near Tower Fall and Lamar Valley
Pebble Creek Campground - Yellowstone National Park
Remote wilderness near Northeast Entrance
Pebble Creek Campground offers 27 sites in a remote setting near the Northeast Entrance and the scenic Beartooth Highway. This first-come, first-served campground provides a true wilderness experience with vault toilets.
Sites accommodate RVs up to 25 feet. The remote location offers excellent wildlife viewing and hiking access. Perfect for experienced campers seeking solitude and authentic wilderness camping in Yellowstone's least-visited region.
Remote wilderness near Northeast Entrance
Colter Bay Campground - Grand Teton National Park
Teton views south of Yellowstone
Colter Bay Campground in Grand Teton National Park provides 335 sites with stunning views of the Teton Range. Located just 10 miles south of Yellowstone's South Entrance, this campground offers an excellent combination destination.
Amenities include showers, laundry, dump station, marina, and visitor center nearby. The campground is big rig friendly with pull-through sites. Perfect for travelers wanting to experience both Yellowstone and Grand Teton in one trip.
10 miles south of Yellowstone in Grand Teton
Yellowstone Park / West Gate KOA Holiday
Full-service KOA near West Entrance
Yellowstone Park / West Gate KOA Holiday is a premium RV resort located just 6 miles west of Yellowstone's West Entrance. Features full hookups with 50/30/20 amp service, pull-through sites, and big rig friendly access.
Extensive amenities include heated pool, hot tub, playground, WiFi, laundry, general store, and propane. The West Yellowstone location provides easy access to Old Faithful and the park's western attractions. Ideal for families seeking full amenities near Yellowstone.
6 miles from West Entrance with pool
Cody KOA Holiday
Gateway to Yellowstone's East Entrance
Cody KOA Holiday provides premium RV camping 52 miles east of Yellowstone's East Entrance via the scenic Wapiti Valley. Features full hookups with 50/30/20 amp service, pull-through sites, and big rig friendly access.
Amenities include heated pool, playground, WiFi, laundry, propane, and dump station. The historic town of Cody offers the Buffalo Bill Center of the West museum and nightly rodeos in summer. Perfect for travelers exploring both Yellowstone and Western heritage.
52 miles from East Entrance in historic Cody
Livingston / Paradise Valley KOA Holiday
Montana gateway with mountain views
Livingston / Paradise Valley KOA Holiday offers premium camping 53 miles north of Yellowstone's North Entrance. Features full hookups with 50/30/20 amp service, pull-through sites, and big rig friendly access.
Amenities include heated pool, playground, WiFi, laundry, propane, and stunning mountain views. The Paradise Valley location provides scenic access to Yellowstone via the Yellowstone River corridor. Ideal for travelers seeking Montana hospitality with Yellowstone access.
53 miles from North Entrance in Paradise Valley
Yellowstone Holiday RV Campground & Marina
Lakeside resort with marina access
Yellowstone Holiday RV Campground & Marina provides premium camping on Hebgen Lake, 20 miles west of Yellowstone. Features full hookups with 50/30/20 amp service, pull-through sites, and waterfront camping options.
Extensive amenities include marina with boat rentals, beach access, fishing, general store, WiFi, laundry, and propane. The lakeside setting offers a resort atmosphere with convenient Yellowstone access. Perfect for water enthusiasts combining lake recreation with park exploration.
On Hebgen Lake with marina and beach
RV-Friendly Campgrounds Near Yellowstone National Park
These featured RV parks offer premium amenities for comfortable extended stays, with full hookups and modern facilities specifically designed for RV travelers. Perfect for families and long-term visitors seeking maximum comfort while exploring Yellowstone.
Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park
These premium RV parks offer exceptional amenities for comfortable extended stays, featuring full hookups, spacious pull-throughs, and modern facilities designed specifically for large RVs and long-term camping.
Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park
Premier RV resort in West Yellowstone
Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park is a premier RV resort just 3 blocks from Yellowstone's West Entrance. Features 237 sites with full hookups including 50/30/20 amp service, and 80-foot premium pull-through sites for the largest rigs.
Amenities include WiFi, cable TV, laundry, playground, general store, and dump station. The West Yellowstone location provides walking access to restaurants, shops, and the IMAX theater. Ideal for big rig travelers seeking premium facilities minutes from the park.
3 blocks from West Entrance with 80-ft sites
Yellowstone's Edge RV Park
Full hookups in Paradise Valley
Yellowstone's Edge RV Park provides premium camping 53 miles north of Yellowstone's North Entrance in scenic Paradise Valley. Features full hookups with 50/30/20 amp service, pull-through sites, and big rig friendly access.
Amenities include fishing access, general store, laundry, showers, propane, dump station, WiFi, and firewood. The Yellowstone River setting provides excellent fishing and stunning mountain scenery. Perfect for anglers and nature lovers seeking a quieter Yellowstone gateway.
On Yellowstone River with fishing and full hookups
Yellowstone RV Park (Gardiner)
Full hookups at the North Entrance
Yellowstone RV Park in Gardiner offers premium camping just 5 miles north of Yellowstone's historic North Entrance. Features full hookups with 50/30/20 amp service, pull-through sites, cable TV, and big rig friendly access.
Amenities include WiFi, laundry, playground, and showers. The Gardiner location provides the only year-round entrance to Yellowstone and access to the famous Roosevelt Arch. Ideal for travelers wanting to explore the park's northern attractions including Mammoth Hot Springs.
5 miles from North Entrance at Roosevelt Arch
Yellowstone Valley Inn and RV Park
Resort amenities in scenic Wapiti Valley
Yellowstone Valley Inn and RV Park provides resort-style camping 32 miles east of Yellowstone's East Entrance in the scenic Wapiti Valley. Features full hookups with 50/30/20 amp service, pull-through sites, and big rig friendly access.
Extensive amenities include pool, playground, WiFi, laundry, propane, dump station, restaurant, and lounge. The valley setting offers stunning views of the Absaroka Mountains and Shoshone National Forest. Perfect for families seeking resort comfort with park access.
32 miles from East Entrance with pool
Sun Outdoors Yellowstone North
Premium resort near Gardiner
Sun Outdoors Yellowstone North is a premium RV resort approximately 5 miles north of Yellowstone's North Entrance near Gardiner. Features full hookups with premium amenities and spacious sites designed for modern RVs.
Amenities include heated indoor amenities, laundry facilities, WiFi, and pet-friendly accommodations. The location provides easy access to Mammoth Hot Springs and the park's northern wildlife corridors. Ideal for travelers seeking premium facilities with convenient park access.
5 miles from North Entrance with premium amenities
Yellowstone Hot Springs RV and Campground
Natural hot springs near Gardiner
Yellowstone Hot Springs RV and Campground offers a unique camping experience 30 miles north of Yellowstone's North Entrance near Corwin Springs. Features water hookups, big rig friendly sites, and access to natural hot springs pools.
The geothermal hot springs are the main attraction, offering relaxing soaks after a day exploring Yellowstone. Additional amenities include showers, picnic tables, and grills. Perfect for travelers seeking a unique hot springs experience combined with Yellowstone access.
Natural hot springs with camping, 30 miles north
How Far Are Campgrounds From Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone area campgrounds range from inside the park to approximately 60 miles away in gateway communities. Campgrounds within Yellowstone National Park are located throughout the park's five regions along the Grand Loop Road, providing 5-30 minute drives to major attractions depending on your starting point.
Private RV parks with full hookups are primarily located in gateway communities: West Yellowstone (western entrance, 0-20 miles), Gardiner (northern entrance, 0-10 miles), Cody (eastern entrance, 50-60 miles), and the Paradise Valley corridor north of Gardiner (30-60 miles). These towns offer more amenities and services than in-park campgrounds.
Summer traffic in Yellowstone can significantly impact drive times. Expect 30-60 minute drives between major attractions during peak season (June-August). Wildlife jams, construction, and entrance station lines add additional time. Shoulder seasons (May, September-October) offer quieter driving conditions.
Why Yellowstone National Park Is a Popular Camping Destination
Yellowstone National Park encompasses 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, featuring the world's largest concentration of geothermal features. The park contains over 10,000 thermal features including geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and fumaroles. Old Faithful remains the most famous attraction, erupting approximately every 90 minutes.
Wildlife viewing opportunities are exceptional with healthy populations of bison, elk, grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, and pronghorn. The Lamar Valley is often called the American Serengeti for its abundant wildlife. The park also features dramatic landscapes including the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its 308-foot Lower Falls.
RV camping near Yellowstone enables flexible, budget-friendly exploration of these natural wonders. The park's size requires multiple days to experience properly, making camping an ideal choice. From geothermal wonders to wildlife watching to scenic drives, Yellowstone offers unmatched diversity for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Time of Year to Camp Near Yellowstone National Park
Peak season (June-August) offers the warmest weather and full access to all park roads and facilities. Expect busy campgrounds, crowded attractions, and heavy traffic during this period. Temperatures range from 40-80 degrees Fahrenheit with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Book campground reservations 6 months in advance.
Shoulder seasons (May and September-October) provide excellent camping with smaller crowds and pleasant weather. Some roads and campgrounds may have limited access in early May and late October due to snow. These periods offer the best balance of accessibility, wildlife viewing, and solitude. Fall colors peak in late September.
Winter camping (November-April) is limited as most park roads and campgrounds close. Only the North Entrance at Gardiner remains open year-round with access to Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley. Winter offers unique experiences including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wolf watching, but requires preparation for harsh conditions.
RV Camping Tips for Visiting Yellowstone National Park
Reservations & Booking
- Book in-park campgrounds 6 months in advance when reservations open
- Private RV parks in gateway communities often have more last-minute availability
- Consider shoulder seasons (May, September) for easier booking and smaller crowds
What to Pack
- Pack warm layers as temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer
- Bring bear spray and know how to use it - required for hiking
- Pack binoculars and camera with zoom lens for wildlife viewing
Road Safety & Navigation
- Download offline maps as cellular coverage is limited throughout the park
- Watch for wildlife on roads especially at dawn and dusk
- Allow extra time for wildlife jams - never approach or feed animals
RV-Specific Considerations
- Many in-park campgrounds have RV length restrictions (25-40 feet maximum)
- Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only in-park option with full hookups
- Propane and dump stations available at several locations throughout the park
Campgrounds vs RV Parks Near Yellowstone: What's the Difference?
National Park Campgrounds
- Located within Yellowstone with immediate access to geothermal features
- Limited or no hookups, rustic facilities focused on nature immersion
- Moderate cost with National Park Service fees and reservation system
- Ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking authentic wilderness camping
Private RV Parks
- Located in gateway communities (West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Cody)
- Full hookups with 30/50 amp, water, sewer, and modern amenities
- Higher cost but includes WiFi, pools, laundry, and other conveniences
- Perfect for families and extended-stay travelers seeking comfort
Using an RV as a Basecamp Near Yellowstone National Park
RV camping near Yellowstone enables a basecamp exploration strategy where you establish a comfortable home base and take daily excursions into the park. This approach reduces setup/breakdown time and provides a familiar space to return to after long days of adventure. Many travelers find this more relaxing than constantly moving between campgrounds.
From West Yellowstone, enjoy easy access to Old Faithful (30 miles), Madison Junction (14 miles), and the park's western geothermal features. From Gardiner, quickly reach Mammoth Hot Springs (5 miles), Lamar Valley (35 miles), and Tower-Roosevelt area (18 miles). Eastern campgrounds near Cody access Yellowstone Lake and Canyon Village.
Plan 5-7 day stays to fully experience Yellowstone's highlights including all five park regions, major geothermal features, and wildlife watching. Multi-week trips allow combining Yellowstone with Grand Teton National Park and exploring surrounding national forests for a comprehensive Greater Yellowstone adventure.
Nearby Areas Worth Camping Instead
Grand Teton National Park, located 10 miles south of Yellowstone via the scenic John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, offers spectacular camping with dramatic views of the Teton Range. Jenny Lake and Colter Bay campgrounds provide excellent alternatives with arguably more dramatic mountain scenery and fewer crowds than Yellowstone.
Custer Gallatin National Forest surrounding Yellowstone offers dispersed camping and developed campgrounds with beautiful mountain scenery. The Beartooth Highway (US-212) connecting the Northeast Entrance to Red Lodge, Montana features stunning alpine scenery and several forest service campgrounds. The Shoshone National Forest east of the park offers similar opportunities with fewer crowds.
FAQ: Camping Near Yellowstone National Park
- When should I book my campground reservation near Yellowstone?
National Park Service campgrounds in Yellowstone open for reservation approximately 6 months in advance, with popular sites filling within hours. For peak season camping (June-August), book as soon as reservations open. Private RV parks in gateway communities typically have more availability and accept bookings year-round with shorter lead times.
- What are the best campgrounds for large RVs near Yellowstone?
Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only in-park campground with full hookups and can accommodate larger RVs. Outside the park, Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park in West Yellowstone offers 80-foot pull-through sites. KOA Holiday campgrounds near all entrances are certified big rig friendly with 50 amp service and spacious sites accommodating RVs over 40 feet.
- Do I need a park pass for camping in Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, all visitors to Yellowstone National Park require a valid park pass. Seven-day passes cost $35 per vehicle, or you can purchase an $80 annual America the Beautiful Pass covering all national parks. Campground fees are separate from park entry fees. Private campgrounds outside the park do not require a national park pass.
- What amenities are available at Yellowstone campgrounds?
In-park campgrounds range from primitive sites with vault toilets to developed sites with flush toilets and nearby services. Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only in-park campground with full hookups including water, sewer, and electricity. Private RV parks outside the park provide full hookups, WiFi, pools, laundry, and additional services.
- Is it safe to camp with bears in Yellowstone?
Camping with bears is safe when proper precautions are followed. Store all food in bear-proof containers or hard-sided vehicles. Never leave food or coolers unattended. Use bear-proof food storage lockers where provided. Carry bear spray when hiking and know how to use it. Fishing Bridge RV Park requires hard-sided camping units only due to high bear activity.
- Which entrance should I use to access Yellowstone for camping?
Choose your entrance based on your camping location. West Entrance (West Yellowstone) provides the quickest access to Old Faithful and Madison Campground. North Entrance (Gardiner) is the only year-round entrance with access to Mammoth. East Entrance (Cody) accesses Yellowstone Lake campgrounds. South Entrance connects to Grand Teton National Park.
- Can I camp anywhere in Yellowstone National Park?
No, camping is only permitted in designated campgrounds within Yellowstone. Backcountry camping requires permits obtained from a visitor center. RV camping is restricted to established campgrounds. Roadside camping and overnight parking in pullouts is prohibited. The surrounding national forests do allow dispersed camping outside park boundaries.
- How far in advance should I plan my Yellowstone camping trip?
For summer peak season, begin planning 6-9 months in advance and book campgrounds as soon as reservations open. Shoulder season trips (May, September-October) can be planned with shorter lead times. Factor in at least 3-5 days to experience Yellowstone's major attractions and plan multiple days for proper exploration.
Ready to start your Yellowstone National Park RV adventure? Browse our selection of RV rentals today and find the perfect vehicle for exploring America's first national park and experiencing world-class camping near Yellowstone.