Yellowstone National Park offers seven first come, first served campgrounds, providing a unique camping experience for visitors. These campgrounds, scattered throughout the park, offer varying amenities and proximity to popular attractions. From the year-round Mammoth Campground to the secluded Slough Creek Campground, each site presents its own charm and challenges. Understanding the features, policies, and best practices for these campgrounds is crucial for a successful Yellowstone camping adventure.
What Are the First Come First Served Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park boasts seven campgrounds that operate on a first come, first served basis:
- Indian Creek Campground
- Lewis Lake Campground
- Mammoth Campground
- Norris Campground
- Pebble Creek Campground (Note: Closed in 2024)
- Slough Creek Campground
- Tower Fall Campground
Let’s explore each of these campgrounds in detail:
Indian Creek Campground
- Number of Sites: 75
- Amenities: Vault toilets, no showers or laundry, no dump station, no utility hookups
- Proximity: Northwest part of the park, close to Mammoth Hot Springs
- Open Dates: Early June to mid-September
Lewis Lake Campground
- Number of Sites: 85
- Amenities: Vault toilets, no showers or laundry, no dump station, no utility hookups
- RV Capacity: Up to 25 feet
- Proximity: South side of Lewis Lake, near the south entrance
- Open Dates: Mid-June to early November
Mammoth Campground
- Number of Sites: 85
- Amenities: Flush toilets, no showers or laundry, no dump station, generators permitted
- RV Capacity: Up to 75 feet (most sites are pull-throughs)
- Proximity: Northwest corner of the park, close to Mammoth Hot Springs
- Open Dates: Year-round (first come, first served during winter)
Norris Campground
- Number of Sites: 100
- Amenities: Flush toilets, no showers or laundry, no dump station, generators permitted
- RV Capacity: Some sites can accommodate RVs over 30 feet
- Proximity: Norris Geyser Basin area
- Open Dates: Mid-May to late September
Pebble Creek Campground
- Note: Closed in 2024
- Number of Sites: 27
- Amenities: Vault toilets, no showers or laundry, no dump station, no generator use
- RV Capacity: Up to 30 feet for some sites
- Proximity: Near Northeast Entrance and Lamar Valley
- Open Dates: Typically mid-June to late September
Slough Creek Campground
- Number of Sites: 29
- Amenities: Vault toilets, no showers or laundry, no dump station
- RV Capacity: Up to 30 feet
- Proximity: Lamar Valley, known for wildlife sightings
- Open Dates: Mid-June to early October
Tower Fall Campground
- Number of Sites: 30
- Amenities: Vault toilets, no showers or laundry, no dump station
- RV Capacity: All sites 30 feet or less
- Proximity: Near Tower Fall area
- Open Dates: Late May to late September
What Are the Reservation Policies and Rules for First Come First Served Sites?
Understanding the policies and rules for first come, first served campgrounds is crucial for a smooth camping experience:
Peak Season Availability
- First come, first served campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season (early July to late August)
- Arrive early in the morning to secure a site
Check-in/Check-out Times
- Check-out time for all campgrounds: 10:00 AM
Length of Stay
- Camping limited to 14 days between June 15 and September 15
- 30-day limit for the rest of the year
- No limit at Fishing Bridge RV Park (not applicable to first come, first served campgrounds)
Quiet Hours and Generator Use
- Quiet hours: 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM (may vary at specific campgrounds)
- Generators permitted only in certain campgrounds during specific hours
Which Are the Best First Come First Served Camping Spots?
While all Yellowstone campgrounds offer unique experiences, some stand out for their features and locations:
Mammoth Campground
- Unique Features:
- Open year-round
- Good cell phone service
- Potable water and flush toilets
- Proximity to Mammoth Hot Springs hikes
- Scenic Views: Close to Mammoth Hot Springs area, offering scenic views and access to hot springs trails
Slough Creek Campground
- Unique Features:
- Located in the Lamar Valley
- Excellent wildlife sightings (grizzly bears, wolves, elk)
- Scenic Views: Panoramic views of Lamar Valley and surrounding mountains
Norris Campground
- Unique Features:
- Situated in the Norris Geyser Basin
- One of the park’s most unique and dynamic geothermal areas
- Scenic Views: Close to Norris Geyser Basin, offering unique geothermal features
What Are the Accessibility Features of First Come First Served Campgrounds?
Accessibility is an important consideration for many campers. Here’s what you need to know:
Parking Availability
- Each campground has designated parking areas
- Limited availability, especially during peak season
Trail Conditions
- Vary in difficulty and accessibility
- Mammoth Campground: Close to several hiking trails
- Slough Creek Campground: Access to Lamar Valley trails
Facilities for Individuals with Disabilities
- Park service strives for accessibility, but primitive nature of some campgrounds may present challenges
- Contact park service in advance for specific accommodations
Associated Costs or Fees
- Nightly fee for camping (varies by campground)
- Golden Age and Golden Access permit holders receive approximately 50% discounts (except at Fishing Bridge RV Park)
What Should You Pack for a First Come First Served Campground Stay?
Proper packing is essential for a comfortable stay at Yellowstone’s first come, first served campgrounds:
- Tent or RV (depending on your camping style)
- Sleeping bags and sleeping pads
- Camping chairs and table
- Cooking equipment (stove, fuel, pots, pans, utensils)
- Food and water (including water storage containers)
- Bear-proof food storage container
- First aid kit
- Flashlights or headlamps
- Warm clothing (even in summer, nights can be cold)
- Rain gear
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Map and compass (or GPS device)
- Firewood (if campfires are permitted)
- Trash bags (practice Leave No Trace principles)
How Can You Maximize Your Chances of Getting a First Come First Served Campsite?
Securing a first come, first served campsite in Yellowstone requires strategy and flexibility:
- Arrive Early: Most successful campers arrive at the campground by 7:00 AM or earlier.
- Have a Backup Plan: Be prepared with alternative campgrounds or lodging options.
- Visit During Shoulder Season: Try camping in late spring or early fall when crowds are smaller.
- Be Flexible with Your Campground Choice: If your first choice is full, be willing to try other campgrounds.
- Monitor the Yellowstone National Park Website: Check for updates on campground status and closures.
- Consider Weekdays: Campgrounds tend to be less crowded during the week.
- Be Prepared to Self-Register: Many first come, first served campgrounds use self-registration systems.
By following these tips and understanding the unique features of each campground, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable camping experience in Yellowstone National Park’s first come, first served campgrounds.