Yellowstone was the nation's--and the world's--first national park. Created in 1872 to protect the largest collection of thermal features, hot springs and geysers in the world, Yellowstone is now also home to animal species rarely found elsewhere in the continental U.S. Camping in Yellowstone is a good way to connect with the natural beauty in the park, save money, and stay close to hiking, biking and fishing opportunities in the park.
What to Do
Active campers will want to enjoy the outdoors for more than just a night under the stars. The park has more than 1,100 miles of trails for hikers and horseback riders, while bikers can use park roads as well as some gravel paths. Fishing, kayaking and canoeing are available in Yellowstone Lake and some other waterways with a permit. In the winter you can cross-country ski or take a tour in a snow coach. Getting outside, even for a scenic drive, is also a good way to see the park's abundant wildlife, like bears, moose, elk and bison.
When to Camp
Summer is the most popular time to visit Yellowstone, when daily highs reach the 70s and snow is uncommon even at high elevations. However, even during the summer areas of the park can dip below freezing at night, so always come prepared for cool and changeable weather.
Spring and fall are less crowded, but cooler. Coming in the spring will give you a chance to see wildflowers and newborn animals while in the fall, moose, elk, and deer will have their majestic antlers. Only one campground, Mammoth, stays open year-round, and winter campers must be prepared for snow and sub-zero temperatures at night..
Tent Camping
Camping with a tent is certainly the easiest way to camp in Yellowstone, as there are more spaces available for tents in campgrounds, and you can also hike with one into the backcountry. Choose your campground by what activities you want to do: For example, if you want to hike certain trails or canoe on the lake, choose a site near these.
There are a dozen developed campgrounds in the park, and all but one--Fishing Bridge--have tent sties. You can only make reservations at five campgrounds, and if you plan to stay at one of the first-come, first-served sites, arrive early in the morning during the summer months, as these fill up quickly.
Backcountry Camping
If you don't want to deal with the crowds, a good way to experience the solitude of Yellowstone's wilderness is backcountry camping. Backcountry camping requires you hike or horseback ride to a designated campsite, some of which can be reserved in advance. This option is better for more experienced campers, who don't mind hiking or riding a distance to their camp.
RV Campnig
Camping with an RV will allow you to bring some of the comforts of home to the park, as well as equipment for sports like horseback riding or fishing. However, it's best to bring as small an RV or trailer as possible, as roads can be narrow and there are fewer RV spots than tent sites. If you are bringing an RV over 30 feet, you should make reservations in advance at one of the five campgrounds that takes them.
Camping and Bears
Yellowstone is home to both black and grizzly bears. Although bear attacks are rare, you must take care to store all food safely, at least 100 feet from your tent, whether you camp in the backcountry or a crowded campground. Never keep food in your tent overnight. Also never camp anywhere that shows obvious signs that bears frequent the area, such as scat.
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