Camping at Mammoth Campground

Basic Information About Camping in Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872 as America's first national park, is home to a vast array of wildlife, geothermal features like geysers and hot springs, and some of the most unique natural landscapes in the world. Camping in Yellowstone is one of the best ways to experience the park's beauty up close. Here's what you need to know:

Camping Options

Developed Campgrounds: Yellowstone has 12 campgrounds with over 2,000 sites. These campgrounds offer amenities such as running water, restrooms, and some have utility hookups for RVs.

Backcountry Camping: For those seeking a more remote experience, backcountry camping is available by permit. There are hundreds of backcountry campsites scattered throughout the park for backpackers.

Campground Reservations

Most campsites in Yellowstone are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations can and should be made for some of the more popular campgrounds. Reservations are available through the park's official concessionaire and can typically be made up to a year in advance.

Campground Seasons and Availability

The camping season at Yellowstone varies by campground. Some sites are open year-round, but many are seasonal and may only be accessible during the summer months. Snow and cold weather can impact campground accessibility, so it’s crucial to check the status of campgrounds before your trip.

Camping Fees

Camping fees depend on the facilities and campground. Fees generally range from around $15 to $30 per night. Discounts may be available for senior citizens and holders of Access Passes.

Campground Amenities

Amenities differ from one campground to another. Basic amenities include:

• Potable water
• Restrooms (flush toilets in some campgrounds, vault toilets in others)
• Fire pit and/or grate
• Picnic table

Some campgrounds will also have:

• Laundry facilities
• Dump stations
• Showers
• Food storage lockers

Camping Rules and Regulations

When camping in Yellowstone, you must follow specific park rules to protect the natural environment:

• Campfires are only allowed in designated fire pits.
• Store food in bear-proof containers or vehicles.
• Do not feed wildlife.
• Observe quiet hours typically from 10 pm to 6 am.
• Check the length of stay limit for each campsite (it's often 14 days).

Campground Safety

Staying safe in Yellowstone is vital, especially with the presence of wild animals and harsh weather conditions:

• Maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
• Store food properly to avoid attracting bears.
• Be prepared for sudden weather changes.
• Bring appropriate gear for cold temperatures, even in summer.

Backcountry Camping

If you plan to camp in the backcountry, you must get a backcountry permit, understand wilderness safety, and follow Leave No Trace principles:

• Backcountry permits can be obtained at park visitor centers up to 48 hours in advance.
• Familiarize yourself with bear safety procedures.
• Pack out all trash and reduce your impact on the environment.

Conclusion

Camping in Yellowstone is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the beauty of one of America's most iconic natural landscapes. Ensure you plan, understand the rules and regulations, and are prepared to safely enjoy your camping experience. Happy camping!