Yellowstone National Park offers a diverse range of accommodation options for visitors. From historic lodges and rustic cabins to modern hotels and campgrounds, there’s something for every preference and budget. This guide covers in-park lodging, nearby hotels, campgrounds, and vacation rentals, providing essential information to help plan your stay in America’s first national park.
Where Can I Find Lodging Inside Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park boasts several iconic lodges and cabin complexes, each offering a unique experience:
- Old Faithful Inn
- Location: Near Old Faithful Geyser
- Style: Historic log hotel
- Amenities: On-site dining, lounge
-
Note: No Wi-Fi in rooms
-
Lake Yellowstone Hotel
- Location: Yellowstone Lake shore
- Style: Colonial Revival
- Features: Live music, lake views
-
Amenities: Wi-Fi available
-
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel
- Location: Near Mammoth Hot Springs
- Style: Classic park lodge
- Nearby: Fort Yellowstone, Albright Visitor Center
-
Amenities: Wi-Fi available
-
Canyon Lodge and Cabins
- Location: Near Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
- Accommodation: Over 500 rooms and cabins
- Activities: Walking and biking trails
-
Amenities: Dining, shopping, Wi-Fi
-
Roosevelt Lodge Cabins
- Location: Tower-Roosevelt area
- Style: Rustic cabins
- Activities: Horseback riding tours
- Amenities: Dining room, lounge
What Are the Best Hotels Near Yellowstone National Park?
For those preferring to stay outside the park, several excellent options are available:
West Yellowstone Area
- Holiday Inn® West Yellowstone
- Distance: Minutes from West Entrance
- Rate: $200-$300 per night
-
Features: On-site dining, pet-friendly
-
Yellowstone Park Hotel
- Location: Three blocks from West Entrance
- Rate: $200-$300 per night
-
Style: Boutique hotel
-
Gray Wolf Inn and Suites
- Proximity: Near West Entrance
- Rate: $150-$250 per night
- Nearby: Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
Gardiner Area
- The Ridgeline Hotel® at Yellowstone
- Location: Gardiner, MT (North Entrance)
- Rate: $150-$250 per night
- Rooms: 86
- Nearby: Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower-Roosevelt
How Can I Camp in Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone offers 12 campgrounds for those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience:
- Reservation: Highly recommended, especially in peak season
- Season: Most open late spring through fall
- Year-round option: Mammoth Campground
- Largest campgrounds:
- Grant Village (430 sites)
- Canyon (273 sites)
- Amenities: Restrooms, fire pits (some with flush toilets and showers)
- Restrictions: RV size limits, specific tent camping rules
What Vacation Rental Options Are Available Near Yellowstone?
For those seeking a home-away-from-home experience:
- Platforms: Airbnb, VRBO
- Cost range: $100 to $500 per night
- Locations: West Yellowstone, Gardiner, nearby towns
- Benefits:
- Full kitchen facilities
- Wi-Fi often included
- Ideal for families or groups
- Special offers: Some include guided tours or shuttle services
Which Lodging Option Is Best for Different Types of Visitors?
| Visitor Type | Recommended Lodging | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Families | Vacation Rentals | Space, kitchen facilities |
| Couples | Old Faithful Inn | Romantic, historic setting |
| Budget Travelers | Campgrounds | Cost-effective, immersive |
| Luxury Seekers | Lake Yellowstone Hotel | Upscale amenities, views |
| Adventure Enthusiasts | Roosevelt Lodge Cabins | Proximity to activities |
How Early Should I Book My Yellowstone Accommodation?
Booking well in advance is crucial for Yellowstone accommodations:
- In-park lodges: 12-18 months ahead
- Campgrounds: 6-12 months ahead
- Nearby hotels: 3-6 months ahead
- Peak season (June-August): Book even earlier
- Off-season: More flexibility, but still book ahead
Remember, Yellowstone attracts millions of visitors annually, making early reservations essential for securing your preferred lodging option.
What Should I Consider When Choosing Yellowstone Accommodation?
- Location: Proximity to desired attractions
- Budget: In-park lodges often pricier than outside options
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, dining options, pet-friendly policies
- Season: Some accommodations close in winter
- Group size: Cabins or vacation rentals for larger groups
- Experience: Rustic vs. modern, immersive vs. comfortable
By considering these factors, you can select the perfect place to stay for your Yellowstone adventure.
References:
1. Yellowstone National Park Lodging – Hotels and Cabins
2. Hotels and Cabins Inside Yellowstone National Park
3. Stay – Yellowstone National Park Lodges