Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Yellowstone National Park boasts an unparalleled display of natural wonders. From majestic geysers and bubbling hot springs to roaming wildlife, every corner of the wilderness begs to be explored.
Of course, this journey isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about experiencing the untamed beauty of Yellowstone from the comfort of your RV. Here, we share tips, tricks, and tales from life on the road. We will help you plan to navigate the park’s winding streets and set up camp beneath the stars,
Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or dreaming of your first adventure, join us as we delve into RVing in Yellowstone.
Yellowstone N.P. Facts
- Yellowstone became the first national park on March 1, 1872
- The National Park encompasses 3,472 square miles, making it larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.
- Yellowstone has more than 10,000 hydrothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.
- Yellowstone is home to the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states, including wild bears and bison.
- There are approximately 1,000 miles of hiking trails
- The park has a total of Eleven visitor centers, museums, and contact stations
- Yellowstone National Park has 12 campgrounds with over 2,000 sites.
Getting to Yellowstone in an RV
So, you’ve decided to embark on a journey to Yellowstone National Park – a fantastic choice! Now, let’s talk about how to get there. Situated in the heart of the American West, Yellowstone’s vast expanse sprawls across parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, making it accessible from various directions.
If you’re traveling by RV, Yellowstone has several entrances, each offering its unique scenic drive. The five main entrances are: North Entrance (Gardiner, Montana), West Entrance (West Yellowstone, Montana), South Entrance (near Jackson, Wyoming), East Entrance (Cody, Wyoming), and Northeast Entrance (near Cooke City, Montana). Be sure to check road conditions and closures, especially during winter months.
Fortunately, Yellowstone is RV-friendly, with campgrounds and RV parks inside and outside. Many travelers rent an RV for their Yellowstone trip, providing transportation and accommodation in one convenient package.
National Park Entrances
1. North Entrance (Gardiner, Montana): Situated at the park’s northern boundary, the North Entrance is the primary gateway for visitors arriving from Montana. From Gardiner, travelers can access iconic attractions like Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley. Don’t miss the historic Roosevelt Arch, symbolizing the park’s grandeur.
2. West Entrance (West Yellowstone, Montana): Located near the town of West Yellowstone, Montana, this entrance is one of the most popular access points to Yellowstone. From here, you can explore famous sights such as Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Upper Geyser Basin. West Yellowstone offers convenient amenities and accommodations for visitors.
3. South Entrance (Near Jackson, Wyoming): The South Entrance near Jackson provides access to Yellowstone’s stunning landscapes for those coming from Wyoming. This entrance leads to attractions like Yellowstone Lake, the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The drive from Jackson offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range.
4. East Entrance (Cody, Wyoming): Travelers approaching from the eastern side of Yellowstone can enter through the East Entrance near Cody, Wyoming. This route offers access to the picturesque Sylvan Pass and leads to attractions such as Yellowstone Lake and the Hayden Valley. Cody is known for its cowboy culture and museums, making it a worthwhile stop.
5. Northeast Entrance (Near Cooke City, Montana): The Northeast Entrance, close to Cooke City, Montana, provides access to the park’s rugged and remote northeastern region. This area is known for its abundant wildlife, scenic drives, and access to the iconic Beartooth Highway, offering breathtaking views of alpine landscapes.
RVing in Yellowstone
Embarking on an RV journey through Yellowstone National Park is a dream come true for any outdoor enthusiast. Here’s a glimpse into what to expect and some tips for making the most of your RV adventure in this iconic wilderness.
Traveling by RV offers the ultimate freedom to explore Yellowstone’s vast landscapes at your own pace. With over 900 miles of roads winding through the park, you can navigate from one breathtaking vista to the next, stopping whenever inspiration strikes.
While RVing offers flexibility, it’s essential to plan, especially during peak season. Campgrounds can fill quickly, so consider making early reservations to secure your spot. Additionally, check road conditions and park alerts to ensure a smooth journey.
RVing in Yellowstone is not just a vacation—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of one of America’s most beloved national parks. So hit the open road, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and prepare for an adventure you’ll never forget.
Fishing Bridge RV Park
Nestled on the northern shores of Yellowstone Lake, Fishing Bridge RV Park offers adventurers a prime location to experience the wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Here’s what you need to know about this iconic RV park:
In the heart of Yellowstone, Fishing Bridge RV Park provides convenient access to the park’s most renowned attractions. Located just east of the Yellowstone River, it’s an ideal base camp for exploring the park’s wonders.
Fishing Bridge RV Park offers full hook-up sites for RVs, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the wilderness. Amenities include water, sewer, electrical hookups, and restroom and laundry facilities. Please note that campfires and tent camping are not permitted at this site due to park regulations.
Due to its popularity and limited availability, Fishing Bridge RV Park reservations are highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season. Be sure to plan and secure your spot for an unforgettable adventure in Yellowstone.
Fishing Bridge General Store
Built in 1931, the Fishing Bridge General Store is more than just a convenience stop—it’s a haven for adventurers seeking supplies, snacks, and a taste of wilderness hospitality. Here’s what you can expect from this essential outpost.
The general store serves as a central hub for visitors exploring the northern region of Yellowstone. Whether camping nearby or passing through on your Yellowstone adventure, the store offers easy access to essential provisions and Yellowstone memorabilia.
Stock up on everything you need for your Yellowstone journey, from camping essentials like firewood, fuel, and propane to groceries, snacks, and beverages. Forgot your sunscreen or insect repellent? No worries—Fishing Bridge General Store has you covered.
Remember to commemorate your Yellowstone experience with a unique souvenir or gift from the store’s selection of Yellowstone-themed merchandise. From t-shirts and hats to postcards and collectibles, you’ll find the perfect souvenir to remember your time in America’s first national park.
The store typically operates seasonally, with hours varying depending on the time of year and park regulations. It’s generally open from morning to evening during the peak summer season, providing ample opportunities to stock up on essentials during your Yellowstone adventure.
Fishing Bridge Visitor Center and Trailside Museum
Situated amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone National Park, the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center and Museum serves as a gateway to the wonders of this iconic wilderness. Located near the historic Fishing Bridge, this visitor center and museum sits at the junction of Yellowstone Lake and the Yellowstone River. Its central location makes it easily accessible to visitors exploring the park’s northern region.
Step inside the visitor center to embark on a journey through Yellowstone’s rich natural and cultural history. Interactive exhibits offer insights into the park’s geothermal features, wildlife habitats, and conservation efforts, providing a deeper understanding of Yellowstone’s unique ecosystem.
Young adventurers can participate in the Junior Ranger program, where they’ll engage in fun and educational activities to earn their Junior Ranger badge. This hands-on program encourages kids to explore, learn, and connect with Yellowstone’s natural wonders.
Friendly park rangers are on hand to provide visitor information, trip planning assistance, and safety tips to help you make the most of your Yellowstone adventure. Whether you’re seeking hiking recommendations, wildlife viewing opportunities, or dining options, Fishing Bridge Visitor Center staff are here to help.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center and Museum invites you to immerse yourself in the natural and cultural heritage of Yellowstone National Park. So stop by, delve into the exhibits, and embark on a journey of discovery in one of America’s most cherished wilderness destinations.
Grant Village Campground
In addition to Fishing Bridge, we had the pleasure of staying at Grant Village Campground during our Yellowstone exploration, and it surpassed our expectations in every way.
Nestled along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, Grant Village Campground offers a picturesque setting that’s hard to beat. Its proximity to iconic attractions like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Old Faithful made it the perfect base camp for our adventures.
The campground offers essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The restroom facilities were clean and well-maintained, and we appreciated the convenience of the nearby picnic tables and fire pits. The availability of potable water and dishwashing stations was also a plus.
The proximity of Grant Village to essential visitor services was a definite bonus. The nearby general store stocked various supplies, and the on-site restaurant offered a welcome respite after a day of exploration. Laundry facilities were also available, which came in handy during our extended stay.
Be sure to make reservations early, as all the campgrounds fill quickly every year.
Our Experience RVing in Yellowstone
Our second cross-country trip took us on a journey through Yellowstone National Park. For us, RVing in Yellowstone was a dream come true.
We could navigate Yellowstone’s winding roads in our RV, which provided endless opportunities for awe-inspiring views and scenic drives. From the lush forests of the Lamar Valley to the geothermal wonders of the Upper Geyser Basin, every twist and turn revealed a new landscape to explore.
Setting up our RV in Yellowstone’s RV-friendly campgrounds allowed us to immerse ourselves in the heart of nature. Whether we were nestled beneath towering pines at Grant Village Campground or setting up camp at Fishing Bridge, each night brought a sense of tranquility and connection to the wilderness.
One of the highlights of RVing in Yellowstone was witnessing the park’s abundant wildlife up close. From herds of bison grazing to elusive wolves roaming through Lamar Valley, every encounter was a reminder of the park’s untamed spirit.
We will forever carry memories of breathtaking landscapes, thrilling wildlife encounters, and unforgettable moments shared with loved ones. RVing in Yellowstone was an adventure, discovery, inspiration, and natural world journey.
We love to hear from our followers. Please leave a comment below.
Have you camped at Yellowstone? Have you visited Yellowstone? Do you have any tips for camping in Yellowstone?
