Pebble Creek Campground
4.7622 reviewsnull
Pebble Creek Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground fee for Pebble Creek Campground is $20 per site per night. Interagency Access and Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount.
About this campground
Tucked away in Yellowstone's remote northeast corner, Pebble Creek Campground serves as a gateway to one of the park's most pristine wilderness experiences. Here, where the road narrows and the crowds thin out, you'll discover the Yellowstone that early explorers encountered—a realm where grizzlies roam freely through wildflower meadows and wolf howls echo across the Lamar Valley at dusk. While this cherished hideaway remains closed indefinitely as restoration efforts continue following the 2022 floods, its legacy as a premier wildlife watching destination endures in the memories of those fortunate enough to have experienced its magic.
Pebble Creek Campground is designed for traditional camping experiences, offering tent and RV camping options in a remote, scenic setting.
Historical SignificanceThe Northern Range surrounding Pebble Creek tells a story millions of years in the making. This landscape serves as the heartbeat of Yellowstone's ecosystem, where massive bison herds follow ancient migration routes their ancestors have traveled for millennia. The dramatic return of wolves to these valleys has restored nature's delicate balance, creating one of the world's most intact temperate ecosystems. Ancient volcanic eruptions and advancing glaciers have left their signatures everywhere—from fossilized forests to scattered granite boulders, each geological feature a chapter in Earth's grand narrative.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather at Pebble Creek keeps you on your toes, creating a dynamic backdrop for your wilderness adventure. Summer days warm to a pleasant 70-80°F, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, though you'll want to pack layers as temperatures can plunge near freezing even in July. Spring and fall bring their own dramatic beauty, with daytime temperatures ranging from 30-60°F and crisp nights that demand a warm sleeping bag. Snow can dust the peaks any month of the year, reminding visitors that this high-country paradise plays by its own rules.
ElevationPerched at 6,900 feet where the air grows thin and the views expand endlessly, Pebble Creek Campground occupies a sweet spot in Yellowstone's vertical landscape. At this elevation, you'll breathe deeply of pine-scented mountain air while enjoying natural air conditioning that provides relief from summer heat. The altitude creates perfect conditions for spotting wildlife in the cooler morning hours and transforms sunsets into spectacular light shows across the surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryRising from the Northern Range at 6,900 feet, Pebble Creek sits cradled by the majestic Absaroka Mountains, where jagged peaks frame every view like nature's own picture windows. This is Yellowstone at its wildest—where massive bison herds thunder across sage-covered hills, wolf packs coordinate their hunts in the early morning mist, and grizzly bears forage for pine nuts on distant slopes. Ancient glaciers have sculpted this landscape into a wonderland of geological treasures, leaving behind ghostly petrified forests and mysterious granite erratics that spark the imagination of every visitor who discovers them.
Geological RegionNestled in the rugged embrace of the Absaroka Mountains near Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance, Pebble Creek occupies a geological crossroads where fire and ice have collaborated over eons. Volcanic forces built these mountains, while patient glaciers carved the valleys and left behind a treasure trove of geological wonders—from hauntingly beautiful petrified trees that once grew in ancient forests to massive boulder erratics transported from distant peaks. This dynamic landscape continues to evolve, providing critical habitat for the park's most iconic wildlife while offering visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing geological drama of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne accessible campsite is available, and the road through the campground is paved. Pathways are compacted gravel/dirt with minimal gradient changes.
Sites SizeSites include various sizes, including pull-through options. Specific dimensions are not stated.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer higher levels of privacy and proximity to Pebble Creek, while others are less secluded. Site #26 is noted for exceptional views.
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 9 near the creek is optimal for creekside relaxation. Site 26 offers exceptional views. Reviewers suggest arriving early for first-come-first-serve sites.
Best CampsitesHighly recommended sites include site 11 (privacy under trees), site 26 (best views), and site 24 (close to trails and excellent scenery).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in policies not explicitly stated
- early arrival recommended for first-come-first-serve sites.
Check-out
10 am.
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 days from July 1 through Labor Day, and 30 days for the rest of the year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsite occupancy is limited to six people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites 1-16 were reservation-only; sites 17-27 were first-come-first-serve prior to closure. Pull-through sites available but limited privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonClosed for the 2025 season due to flood damage recovery work.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov including online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites 17-27 were previously first-come-first-serve, but the campground is closed indefinitely.
Cancellation PolicyRefunds available under certain conditions. Late cancellations incur $10 cancellation fee and loss of first night's fees. No-shows assessed $20 and loss of first night's fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pebble Creek Campground offers an array of outdoor activities, ideal for nature enthusiasts. The location is particularly suited for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and backpacking.
Hiking
The area offers numerous trails suitable for various skill levels. Lamar Valley is a notable destination for wildlife observation and casual hikes.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant in nearby rivers and streams, although visitors should be aware of seasonal closures and regulations.Wildlife viewing
Pebble Creek is a hub for observing bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears, particularly during the summer. The proximity to Lamar Valley further enhances wildlife observation opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not directly addressed in the provided data.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Wood and charcoal fires permitted except during high fire danger periods. Propane stoves normally allowed.
- Quiet hours are No explicit mention, but campers noted a peaceful environment.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent wildlife sightings including bears and bison. Close proximity to streams and variable weather conditions. Flooding caused significant infrastructure damage in 2022.
Active alertsDaily fishing closures on select rivers; Biscuit Basin closed due to hydrothermal explosion; additional non-emergency alerts available.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 8%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Limited information. Closest emergency services likely in Cooke City, MT or Gardiner, MT.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 through Labor Day for 14-day stay limit.
Trash and recyclingSeasonal trash and recycling collection are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresPebble Creek flows along the campground, providing a serene ambiance and easy access to Lamar River.
Common complaintsLimited cell service; certain roads leading to the campground have been closed in previous years, complicating access.
HostCamp hosts praised for friendliness and helpfulness. Notable hosts include Matt and Kimberly as well as volunteers, providing wildlife safety advice.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsPebble Creek Campground is located in the park's Northern Range about 12 miles from the Northeast Entrance near Cooke City, MT. It is located about 40 miles from the North Entrance and Gardiner, MT.
Located on the road between Tower Junction and the Northeast Entrance. Access is challenging due to closures like the Canyon to Tower road being closed in 2021.Nearby places
Cooke City, MT - 12 miles
Gardiner, MT - 40 miles
Nearby supplies
Silver Gate and Cooke City, MT provide access to supplies such as fuel and restaurants. Specific stores or camping supplies locations are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
4.8
22 reviews
Pebble Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently highlight Pebble Creek Campground as a serene and scenic destination within Yellowstone National Park. It is praised for its excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, proximity to Lamar Valley, and friendly camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the peaceful environment, abundant wildlife, and the scenic views offered by specific sites like #26. Hosts and cleanliness of the facilities are frequently mentioned as positive...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaints include difficulty securing a spot due to first-come-first-serve policies for some sites, limited cell phone service, and the lack of amenities like showers and flush...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend arriving early to secure a site, particularly for first-come-first-serve spots. Sites #9 and #26 are highlighted for their views and proximity to Pebble Creek. The campground is...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with visitors enjoying the wildlife and relatively mild weather. Fall reviews highlight the quiet atmosphere as visitor numbers decrease. Winter usability is not...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Pebble Creek is our favorite campground ever. Perfect base for exploring Lamar Valley." - Marchelle Mosley. 2. "Loved hearing the creek at night when all else was silent." - Janice A. 3. "Hosts...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #26 is praised for its outstanding mountain views. Site #9 is noted as clean and near key facilities. Site #24 is described as amazing by campers who valued its location.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
The accessible campsite and the paved roads receive positive remarks for ease of navigation. No specific complaints from disabled visitors were noted.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No detailed reviews about pet policies or experiences are provided.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025