Yellowstone National Park, a majestic wilderness spanning three states in the United States, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, geothermal features, and diverse wildlife. As one of the most popular national parks in the country, it offers an array of lodging options that cater to the needs and preferences of its visitors.
Whether you seek the rustic charm of on-site lodges, the simplicity of campgrounds, or the convenience of nearby accommodations, Yellowstone lodging options has something for everyone. In this guide, we will explore the various accommodations available, highlighting their unique features and considerations to help you make the most informed choice for an unforgettable stay in Yellowstone National Park.
Can You Stay in Yellowstone National Park?
Yes! Yellowstone is an expansive national park. There are plenty of options for you to immerse yourself in the park’s natural wonders by staying in on-site lodging options. These accommodations provide convenient access to the park’s iconic attractions and offer a unique blend of comfort and rustic charm.
From historic lodges nestled amidst towering trees to cozy cabins surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, the on-site lodging options at Yellowstone National Park ensure an authentic and unforgettable experience. In this section, we will explore the distinct features of on-site lodges and cabins, allowing you to find the perfect retreat within the heart of this remarkable national park.
Lodging Accommodations Inside Yellowstone NP
These on-site lodging options within Yellowstone National Park provide a range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets. This ensures you can fully embrace the park’s awe-inspiring landscapes and remarkable natural features throughout your stay. Here are six great options:
- Old Faithful Inn: As an iconic symbol of Yellowstone, the Old Faithful Inn is a remarkable lodge that offers a blend of rustic elegance and historical charm. Located near the famous Old Faithful geyser, this grand log-built lodge features a towering lobby with a massive stone fireplace and an impressive selection of rooms. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth the visit. The lobby is amazing! And you can get some ice cream and enjoy it on the large deck looking out over the park landscape. Hence, it is quite costly to stay here, and rooms book up way in advance.
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel: Situated on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, the Lake Yellowstone Hotel is known for its stunning lake views and classic architecture. This historic hotel provides a serene and elegant atmosphere with its comfortable rooms, charming dining options, and a delightful sunroom where you can relax while enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake.
- Canyon Lodge: Nestled in the picturesque Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the Canyon Lodge offers a range of accommodation options, including cozy cabins and newer lodge rooms. If you stay here, you’ll have easy access to the park’s magnificent waterfalls and breathtaking canyon views. The lodge features various amenities, including dining options, a general store, and nearby hiking trails.
- Roosevelt Lodge Cabins: Located in the quieter northeastern part of the park, the Roosevelt Lodge Cabins offer a rustic and immersive experience in Yellowstone. These historic cabins provide a peaceful retreat with their simplicity and proximity to wildlife-rich areas. Here, you’ll enjoy horseback riding, chuckwagon dinners, and the tranquil ambiance of the Lamar Valley.
- Grant Village Cabins: Situated near the Yellowstone Lake, Grant Village Cabins provide a comfortable and convenient lodging option. The cabins feature modern amenities and are an ideal choice for families or groups. The location offers easy access to fishing, boating, and the natural beauty of the lake.
- Mammoth Hot Springs Cabins: Positioned in the northern part of the park near the famous Mammoth Hot Springs terraces, these cabins offer a unique lodging experience. You can explore the geothermal wonders of the area while enjoying comfortable accommodations. Mammoth Hot Springs Cabins also provide easy access to the historic Fort Yellowstone and the delightful town of Gardiner, Montana, just outside the park’s boundaries.
Interested in a Cabin or Cottage?
Cabins and cottages offer a cozy and immersive retreat if you’re seeking a more rustic and intimate experience within Yellowstone National Park. Nestled amidst the park’s spectacular landscapes, these accommodations provide a unique blend of comfort and proximity to nature.
From the historic Roosevelt Lodge Cabins in the wildlife-filled northeastern region to the lovely Mammoth Hot Springs Cabins near the fascinating thermal features, Yellowstone’s cabins and cottages offer a tranquil haven for nature enthusiasts. Let’s take a look at why these accommodations are so charming:
Roosevelt Lodge Cabins: Located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park, the Roosevelt Lodge Cabins offer a rustic and authentic experience. These historic cabins provide an appealing retreat with their simplicity and proximity to wildlife-rich areas. You can unwind in cozy accommodations, enjoy scenic views, and participate in activities such as horseback riding and old-fashioned Western cookouts.
Grant Village Cabins: Situated near the picturesque Yellowstone Lake, Grant Village Cabins provide comfortable and convenient lodging options. These modern cabins are perfect for families or groups, offering various amenities and a serene atmosphere. You can explore the lake’s beauty, engage in fishing or boating activities, and enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings.
Mammoth Hot Springs Cabins: Positioned in the northern part of the park near the renowned Mammoth Hot Springs terraces, these cabins offer a unique and captivating lodging experience. Here, you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the park’s geothermal features while enjoying comfortable accommodations. The Mammoth Hot Springs Cabins also provide easy access to the historic Fort Yellowstone and the cute town of Gardiner, located just outside the park’s boundaries.
Campgrounds Inside the Park
For nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, Yellowstone offers a range of campgrounds that provide an immersive experience in the heart of its pristine wilderness. Camping in Yellowstone National Park allows you to fully embrace the rugged beauty and serenity of your surroundings.
From the picturesque Bridge Bay Campground near Yellowstone Lake to the tranquil Madison Campground along the Madison River, these campgrounds offer a chance to connect with nature, enjoy starlit nights, and awaken to the sounds of wildlife. Let’s explore the campgrounds offered here and take a look at their locations, amenities, and the opportunity to experience the park’s natural wonders up close while camping.
Bridge Bay Campground
Situated near the scenic Yellowstone Lake, Bridge Bay Campground offers a picturesque setting for camping enthusiasts. It provides a range of campsites, including both RV and tent sites, and offers amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits. Its proximity to the lake allows for various water-based activities, including fishing and boating.
- Number of Campsites: Approximately 432.
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, access to water, and dump stations (for RVs). No showers or hookups are available.
- Reservation Information: Bridge Bay Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted, and campsites are typically filled quickly during the peak summer season. It is recommended you arrive early in the day to secure a campsite.
Madison Campground
Nestled along the picturesque Madison River, Madison Campground offers a serene and relaxed camping experience. The campground provides a mix of tent and RV sites and features basic amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables. Its location near the park’s west entrance and the famous Firehole and Gibbon rivers makes it a convenient base for exploring Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders.
- Number of Campsites: Approximately 278.
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, access to water, and dump stations (for RVs). No showers or hookups are available.
- Reservation Information: Madison Campground offers a mix of first-come, first-served sites and reservable sites. Reservations can be made through the official Yellowstone National Park website or by calling the reservation hotline. It is advisable to make reservations well in advance, especially during the peak season (typically from June to September).
Norris Campground
Positioned near the Norris Geyser Basin, Norris Campground provides easy access to the park’s geothermal marvels. This campground offers both tent and RV sites and provides amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Its central location within the park makes it a convenient starting point for exploring Yellowstone’s diverse attractions and hiking trails.
- Number of Campsites: Approximately 100.
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, access to water, and dump stations (for RVs). No showers or hookups are available.
- Reservation Information: Norris Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not available, and campsite availability can vary throughout the year. It is recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a campsite, especially during the busy summer months.
Note: Campground amenities and availability are subject to change, so it is recommended to check the official Yellowstone National Park website or contact the park for the most up-to-date information before planning your camping trip.
Glamping at Yellowstone: You’re in for a Treat!
Some great glamping options are also available in and near Yellowstone National Park. Glamping, which combines the words “glamorous” and “camping,” offers a more luxurious and comfortable camping experience. While traditional camping in Yellowstone typically involves pitching tents and using basic camping equipment, glamping provides amenities and accommodations more comparable to a hotel or resort.
Inside Yellowstone National Park, there are several options for glamping. Under Canvas operates a glamping site just a few minutes from the park’s West Entrance. They offer luxury tents equipped with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, wood-burning stoves, and other amenities. So, if you’re looking for a fabulous upgraded camping experience, glamping is a perfect option!
Lodging Options Outside the Park Boundaries
West Yellowstone, Montana
Located just outside the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone offers a range of lodging options. You’ll find hotels, motels, cabins, and vacation rentals in this bustling gateway town. West Yellowstone provides convenient access to the west side of the park (i.e., Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, etc.) and amenities such as restaurants, shops, and tour operators.
Gardiner, Montana
Situated near the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, Gardiner is another popular town offering various accommodations. Here, you can choose from hotels, motels, lodges, cabins, and vacation rentals. Gardiner provides easy access to the iconic Roosevelt Arch and the famous Lamar Valley, known for its wildlife sightings.
Cody, Wyoming
Located east of Yellowstone National Park, Cody serves as a gateway town with several lodging options available. You can find hotels, motels, resorts, and guest ranches in Cody. This vibrant town is known for its rich Western heritage, museums, rodeos, and proximity to the park’s eastern entrance (i.e. the side of the park with abundant wildlife: Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, Yellowstone Lake).
Hotels, Motels, and Vacation Rentals
In addition to the gateway towns mentioned above, various hotels, motels, and vacation rentals can be found in and around the park. These accommodations cater to different budgets and preferences, offering amenities such as comfortable rooms, dining options, and recreational facilities. Making reservations in advance, especially during the peak season, is advisable to secure the desired lodging option.
Final Thoughts
Yellowstone National Park offers a wide range of lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. From the charming on-site lodges and cozy cabins within the park to the various accommodations available in nearby gateway towns, you’ll have ample choices to ensure a comfortable stay while exploring the park’s natural wonders.
It is crucial to plan and book early. Due to the park’s popularity, accommodations can fill up quickly, especially during the peak season. Early planning gives you peace of mind and allows you to make the most of your time in Yellowstone.
Remember to consider factors such as location, amenities, price range, and proximity to the park’s attractions when selecting your lodging. Each option provides a unique experience, whether it’s the convenience of on-site lodges, the rustic charm of cabins, or the amenities offered in nearby accommodations.
Planning ahead early and securing your lodging allows you to set off on a remarkable journey to this extraordinary park. So don’t wait! Explore Yellowstone’s awe-inspiring landscapes, captivating wildlife, and geothermal wonders, all while enjoying a comfortable and memorable stay.
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