When planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With over 3,500 square miles of geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife, finding the perfect accommodation can make all the difference in your Yellowstone experience. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay at Yellowstone, taking into account factors such as proximity to attractions, amenities, and budget.
Overview
Yellowstone is a vast and remote national park, spanning across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. With limited options for accommodations within the park, visitors often opt for nearby towns and cities that offer a range of lodging options. From rustic cabins to luxury resorts, we’ll delve into the top picks for places to stay at Yellowstone, including:
In-Park Accommodations
For those who want to be in the heart of the action, we’ll explore the limited but unique options for staying within Yellowstone National Park itself.
Gateway Towns
We’ll also examine the charming gateway towns that surround the park, offering a range of accommodations from budget-friendly motels to upscale lodges.
Regional Hotspots
Finally, we’ll highlight some regional hotspots that offer a more relaxed atmosphere and a range of outdoor activities, perfect for those looking to explore beyond Yellowstone’s boundaries.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family on a road trip, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, this guide will help you find the perfect place to stay at Yellowstone, ensuring a memorable and comfortable trip.
Best Places to Stay at Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is a vast and wondrous destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. With its geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder that people flock to this natural wonder. However, with so many options for accommodations, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay at Yellowstone, including lodges, campgrounds, and nearby towns.
Inside the Park: Yellowstone’s National Park Lodges
Staying inside the park can be a convenient and immersive experience. Yellowstone has nine lodges to choose from, each with its own unique character and amenities. Here are a few of the most popular options: (See Also: Best Places To Stay Near Hoh Rainforest)
- Old Faithful Inn: This iconic lodge is located near the famous Old Faithful geyser and offers comfortable rooms and suites. It’s a popular choice, so be sure to book early.
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel: This elegant hotel is situated on the shores of Yellowstone Lake and offers stunning views and luxurious amenities.
: Located on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, Grant Village offers comfortable rooms and cabins, as well as a general store and restaurants.
Keep in mind that these lodges are operated by Xanterra Parks & Resorts and can be booked through their website. Be sure to book early, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Camping in Yellowstone
If you prefer to rough it, Yellowstone has 12 campgrounds to choose from, ranging from primitive sites to full-hookup RV campsites. Here are a few popular options:
- Fishing Bridge RV Park: This campground is located near the shores of Yellowstone Lake and offers full-hookup RV sites, as well as amenities like a general store and laundry facilities.
- Bridge Bay Campground: This campground is located near the shores of Yellowstone Lake and offers tent and RV sites, as well as amenities like a general store and picnic tables.
- Canyon Campground: This campground is located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River and offers tent and RV sites, as well as amenities like a general store and laundry facilities.
Keep in mind that campgrounds can be reserved through recreation.gov and tend to fill up quickly during peak season.
Nearby Towns and Cities
If you prefer to stay outside of the park, there are several nearby towns and cities that offer a range of accommodations and amenities. Here are a few popular options:
- West Yellowstone, Montana: This charming town is located just outside the west entrance of the park and offers a range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
- Jackson, Wyoming: This picturesque town is located about an hour’s drive from the south entrance of the park and offers a range of luxury resorts, hotels, and vacation rentals.
- Cody, Wyoming: This cowboy town is located about an hour’s drive from the east entrance of the park and offers a range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
These towns offer a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and outdoor gear rentals. They can be a great option if you want to experience the local culture and have more flexibility in your accommodations.
Other Accommodation Options
In addition to lodges, campgrounds, and nearby towns, there are several other accommodation options to consider:
- Vacation Rentals: Websites like VRBO and Airbnb offer a range of vacation rentals, from cozy cabins to luxury homes.
- Glamping: If you want to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort, consider glamping options like luxury tents or yurts.
- Backcountry Camping: For the more adventurous, Yellowstone offers backcountry camping permits, which allow you to camp in the park’s wilderness areas.
These options can offer more flexibility and comfort than traditional camping, and can be a great way to experience the park in a unique way. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Outside Of Barcelona)
Tips and Tricks for Booking Accommodations
Booking accommodations at Yellowstone can be competitive, especially during peak season. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Book Early: Accommodations at Yellowstone tend to fill up quickly, so be sure to book early to ensure availability.
- Be Flexible: Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for better rates and availability.
- Check for Deals: Keep an eye on the park’s website and social media accounts for special deals and discounts.
- Consider a Package Deal: Many lodges and resorts offer package deals that include accommodations, meals, and activities.
By following these tips, you can find the perfect accommodations for your Yellowstone adventure.
Recap
In this article, we explored the best places to stay at Yellowstone, including lodges, campgrounds, and nearby towns. We also discussed other accommodation options, such as vacation rentals and glamping, and provided tips and tricks for booking accommodations. Whether you prefer to stay inside the park or in a nearby town, there’s something for everyone at Yellowstone.
Remember to book early, be flexible, and check for deals to ensure that you find the perfect accommodations for your Yellowstone adventure.
| Lodge | Location | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Old Faithful Inn | Near Old Faithful Geyser | Comfortable rooms and suites, restaurants, gift shop |
| Lake Yellowstone Hotel | On the shores of Yellowstone Lake | Luxurious rooms and suites, restaurants, gift shop, boat tours |
| Grant Village | On the shores of Yellowstone Lake | Comfortable rooms and cabins, general store, restaurants, laundry facilities |
This table provides a summary of some of the most popular lodges at Yellowstone, including their location, amenities, and activities.
We hope this article has been helpful in planning your Yellowstone adventure. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay at Yellowstone
What are the best towns to stay in near Yellowstone National Park?
There are several great towns to stay in near Yellowstone National Park, depending on your preferences and the time of year you visit. Some popular options include West Yellowstone, Montana; Jackson, Wyoming; Cody, Wyoming; and Island Park, Idaho. Each of these towns offers a range of accommodations, dining options, and activities, and they’re all within a reasonable driving distance to the park’s entrances. (See Also: What Are The Best Places To Stay In London)
Are there any lodging options inside Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, there are several lodging options inside Yellowstone National Park, including campgrounds, cabins, and hotels. Some popular options include the Old Faithful Inn, the Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and the Grant Village Lodge. Keep in mind that these options tend to fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to book your stay well in advance. You can make reservations through the park’s website or by calling (307) 344-7311.
What’s the best way to get around Yellowstone National Park if I don’t want to stay inside the park?
If you’re staying in a nearby town and don’t want to stay inside the park, there are still plenty of ways to get around Yellowstone. You can drive your own vehicle, take a guided tour, or use the park’s free shuttle service. The shuttle service runs on a regular schedule and can take you to many of the park’s most popular attractions. You can find more information on the park’s website or at one of the visitor centers.
Are there any pet-friendly lodging options near Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, there are several pet-friendly lodging options near Yellowstone National Park. Many of the hotels, motels, and vacation rentals in the surrounding towns allow pets, although some may have breed or size restrictions. It’s always a good idea to check with the lodging provider before booking your stay to make sure they can accommodate your furry friend.
What’s the best time of year to visit Yellowstone National Park?
The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park depends on your preferences and what you want to do. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and long days, but it can also be very crowded. Spring and fall are great times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and see the park’s wildlife, including bears, bison, and elk. Winter is a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports, such as skiing or snowshoeing, or if you want to see the park’s geysers and hot springs in a peaceful, snow-covered setting.