Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, is a nature lover’s paradise, attracting millions of visitors every year. With its geothermal wonders, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, it’s no wonder that people from all over the world flock to this iconic destination. However, with so many visitors comes the challenge of finding the perfect place to stay. After all, you want to be close to the action, yet still have a comfortable and relaxing place to rest your head after a long day of exploring.
Overview of the Best Places to Stay Near Yellowstone Park
When it comes to choosing the best place to stay near Yellowstone, there are many factors to consider. From the park’s five entrances to the surrounding towns and cities, each area offers its unique advantages and disadvantages. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top destinations near Yellowstone, highlighting the best places to stay, eat, and play. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, cozy cabins, or budget-friendly motels, we’ve got you covered.
What to Expect
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the top areas to stay near Yellowstone, including West Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, Cody, and more. We’ll provide you with insider tips on the best accommodations, from camping sites to luxury lodges, as well as recommendations for dining, outdoor activities, and scenic drives. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your dream trip to Yellowstone and make the most of your time in this incredible national park.
Best Places to Stay Near Yellowstone Park
Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, is a nature lover’s paradise. With its geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder that millions of visitors flock to this iconic destination every year. However, finding the right accommodation can be a challenge, especially during peak season. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay near Yellowstone Park, taking into account factors such as proximity, amenities, and budget.
West Yellowstone, Montana
Located just three miles from the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone is a popular choice for visitors. This charming town offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts.
- Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone: These cozy cabins offer comfortable lodging and amenities such as a hot tub and BBQ area.
- The Hibernation Station: This rustic resort features cabins and suites with kitchenettes, as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub.
- Yellowstone Park Hotel: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
Island Park, Idaho
Island Park, Idaho, is a scenic 20-mile drive from the west entrance of Yellowstone. This picturesque town offers a range of accommodations, including vacation rentals and camping sites. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Snowshoe West Virginia)
- Island Park Village Resort: This resort features luxury cabins, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub.
- Henry’s Fork Inn: This cozy inn offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Island Park Campground: For those who prefer to rough it, this campground offers RV and tent sites, as well as amenities such as a general store and laundry facilities.
Cody, Wyoming
Cody, Wyoming, is a charming town located 52 miles from the east entrance of Yellowstone. This cowboy town is known for its rich history and natural beauty.
- The Cody Hotel: This historic hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a saloon.
- Cody Cowboy Village: This resort features luxury cabins, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub.
- Camping in Cody: For those who prefer to camp, Cody has several campgrounds, including the Cody KOA and the Ponderosa Campground.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is a picturesque mountain town located 60 miles from the south entrance of Yellowstone. This upscale town offers a range of luxury accommodations and outdoor activities.
- Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole: This luxury resort features upscale rooms, a spa, and a ski-in/ski-out location.
- The Lodge at Jackson Hole: This rustic-chic lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Camping in Jackson Hole: For those who prefer to camp, Jackson Hole has several campgrounds, including the Jackson Hole Campground and the Curtis Canyon Campground.
Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky, Montana, is a scenic 90-mile drive from the west entrance of Yellowstone. This mountain resort town offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts.
- The Lodge at Big Sky: This rustic-chic lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Big Sky Resort: This luxury resort features upscale rooms, a spa, and a ski-in/ski-out location.
- Camping in Big Sky: For those who prefer to camp, Big Sky has several campgrounds, including the Big Sky Campground and the Gallatin River Campground.
Inside Yellowstone National Park
For those who want to be close to the action, Yellowstone National Park offers several lodges and campgrounds within the park boundaries.
- Old Faithful Inn: This historic inn offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.
- Grant Village: This lakeside lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a general store.
- Canyon Lodge: This lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a general store.
- Camping in Yellowstone: Yellowstone has several campgrounds, including the Grant Village Campground, the Canyon Campground, and the Bridge Bay Campground.
Table of Accommodations
| Town | Accommodation | Amenities | Distance from Yellowstone |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Yellowstone | Explorer Cabins | Hot tub, BBQ area | 3 miles |
| West Yellowstone | The Hibernation Station | Outdoor pool, hot tub | 3 miles |
| Island Park | Island Park Village Resort | Outdoor pool, hot tub | 20 miles |
| Cody | The Cody Hotel | Restaurant, saloon | 52 miles |
| Jackson Hole | Four Seasons Resort | Spa, ski-in/ski-out | 60 miles |
| Big Sky | The Lodge at Big Sky | Restaurant, bar | 90 miles |
| Yellowstone National Park | Old Faithful Inn | Restaurant, lounge | Inside the park |
Recap
In conclusion, there are many great places to stay near Yellowstone National Park, each offering its own unique advantages and amenities. whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly motels, or camping sites, there’s something for everyone. From West Yellowstone to Jackson Hole, and from Island Park to Big Sky, we’ve explored the best places to stay near Yellowstone Park. taking into account factors such as proximity, amenities, and budget. we’ve provided a comprehensive guide to help you plan your next trip to this iconic national park. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Florida For Couples)
Remember to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. And don’t forget to check the park’s website for up-to-date information on camping and lodging within the park. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay Near Yellowstone Park
What are the most popular towns to stay in near Yellowstone National Park?
West Yellowstone, Montana, and Jackson, Wyoming, are two of the most popular towns to stay in near Yellowstone National Park. Both towns offer a range of accommodations, dining options, and activities, and are conveniently located near the park’s west and south entrances, respectively. Other popular options include Cody, Wyoming, and Big Sky, Montana.
Are there any luxury resorts or lodges near Yellowstone?
Yes, there are several luxury resorts and lodges near Yellowstone National Park. The Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole in Wyoming and the Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana, are two examples of high-end resorts that offer luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a range of outdoor activities. The Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins, located within the park, is another option for those looking for a more upscale experience.
Can I stay inside Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, there are several options for staying inside Yellowstone National Park, including campgrounds, cabins, and lodges. The park has 12 campgrounds, with Grant Village and Canyon Campground being two of the most popular options. The Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are just a few of the many lodges and hotels located within the park. Keep in mind that these options tend to fill up quickly, so be sure to book well in advance. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Yorkshire)
What are some budget-friendly options for staying near Yellowstone?
There are several budget-friendly options for staying near Yellowstone National Park. Consider staying in one of the many campgrounds in the surrounding areas, such as the Bozeman KOA in Montana or the Jackson Hole Campground in Wyoming. You can also look into budget-friendly hotels and motels, such as the Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone in West Yellowstone, Montana. Additionally, consider staying in a nearby town or city and taking day trips into the park to save on accommodation costs.
How far in advance should I book my accommodations near Yellowstone?
It’s highly recommended to book your accommodations near Yellowstone National Park as far in advance as possible, especially during peak season (June to August). Many of the popular hotels, lodges, and campgrounds fill up quickly, and availability can be limited. Booking at least 6-12 months in advance is recommended, but it’s not uncommon for popular options to fill up even earlier. Be sure to plan ahead and book your accommodations as soon as possible to ensure availability.