Yellowstone River Trail
Yellowstone River Trail is part of Yellowstone National Park's designated backcountry camping system, which encompasses 293 campsites throughout the park. Backcountry camping requires advance reservations and permits. Campsites are designated for backpacking and other non-motorized travel methods (stock animals, llamas, boats). Food storage via bear boxes or hanging provisions is required. No vehicle access to backcountry campsites; this is wilderness camping only. (via official site)
- designated campsites
- bear boxes
- food storage
Rates & prices
Prices as published on Yellowstone River Trail’s official website (USD).
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Reservation fee — Non-refundable for lottery applications | USD 10 |
| Recreation fee | USD 5 per person per night |
Key facts
At-a-glance details for Yellowstone River Trail, from its official website.
Booking & season
Pitches & accommodation
Location & access
Rules & policies
Good to know
Opening hours & schedules
Reception, gate and facility hours for Yellowstone River Trail.
Facilities & details
Amenities and on-site features reported for Yellowstone River Trail.
Know before you go
Practical things to prepare for a trip to Yellowstone River Trail.
- Campfires aren't permitted — bring a camping stove for cooking.
- This is a backcountry site — you'll need to carry in your gear and water.
- Reserve ahead — this campground requires a booking.
- Bring cash for fees in case card payment isn't available on site.
Location
Where Yellowstone River Trail sits on the map and how to get there.
Nearby cities & towns
Towns and cities closest to Yellowstone River Trail — browse campsites near each.
What’s nearby
Shops, drinking water, fuel and attractions within reach of the site.
🏞️ Attractions
mountain in Montana, United States of America
mountain in Park County, Montana, United States of America
The Roosevelt Arch is a rusticated gate at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park in Gardiner, Montana, United States. Constructed under the supervision of the US Army at Fort Yellowstone, its cornerstone was laid down by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903. The top of the arch is inscribed with a quote from the Organic Act of 1872, the legislation which created Yellowstone, which reads:
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waterfall in Park County, Wyoming, United States of America
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waterfall in Park County, Wyoming, United States of America
🛒 Amenities & services
🛒 Groceries
- Kremer's C-Store
- Ridley's Family Markets
- Yellowstone General Store
⛽ Fuel
- Cenex
Sinclair
🍽️ Food & drink
- Wonderland Cafe
- Cowboy's Lodge & Grill
- Iron Horse Bar & Grill
➕ Medical
- Mammoth Clinic
🚻 Toilets & showers
- Changing Room/Toilet
- Public toilets
🎾 Sports
- Tennis
- Basketball
- American football
🏧 ATM & bank
- ATM
- First Interstate Bank
Weather
Current conditions and the forecast to help you plan your trip.
Best time to visit
Typical monthly temperature and rainfall at Yellowstone River Trail.
Good to know
Quick answers to common questions about Yellowstone River Trail.
Do I need a permit for backcountry camping?
Yes, backcountry permits are required year-round for overnight stays. Permits are obtained through Recreation.gov via early access lottery, general on-sale, or in-person at a backcountry permit office.
How long can I stay at a backcountry campsite?
You may stay up to 3 consecutive nights at any one campsite unless otherwise noted on the specific site designation.
Can I bring my car to a backcountry campsite?
No. Backcountry campsites are accessible only by foot, stock animals, llamas, or non-motorized/motorized boats depending on the site designation. No vehicle access to campsites.
What are the cancellation terms?
Full refund is available if cancelled three or more days before the start date. Cancellations made within three days of the start date are non-refundable.
Is camping outside designated campsites allowed?
No. Camping outside designated campsites is prohibited. All overnight stays must be at one of the park's 293 designated backcountry campsites.
How much does it cost to camp at Yellowstone River Trail?
Yellowstone River Trail charges a camping fee.
Do I need to book ahead for Yellowstone River Trail?
Yes, a reservation is required. You can check availability on the official website.
Can I bring an RV or caravan to Yellowstone River Trail?
No, caravans and RVs aren't permitted here.
Can I pitch a tent at Yellowstone River Trail?
Yes, tent camping is allowed.
Are campfires allowed at Yellowstone River Trail?
No, campfires are not allowed.
How many sites does Yellowstone River Trail have?
Yellowstone River Trail has around 10 pitches.
Who runs Yellowstone River Trail?
Yellowstone River Trail is operated by National Park Service.
When is Yellowstone River Trail open?
Yellowstone River Trail is open year-round.
What languages are spoken at Yellowstone River Trail?
Staff at Yellowstone River Trail speak English.
Reviews
Ratings, nightly prices and photos from people who’ve camped here.
No reviews yet — be the first!
Other campgrounds nearby
More places to camp close to Yellowstone River Trail.
- Yellowstone River Trail · National Park Service
- Rescue Creek · National Park Service
- Crevice Lake · National Park Service
- Lower Blacktail Creek · National Park Service
- Yellowstone River Bridge · National Park Service
- E of Blacktail Cabin · National Park Service