Clearwater Campground
4.7142 reviews203A Yellowstone Ave
Clearwater Campground
$15.00 - $90.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$30.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$90.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates for individual sites range from $15 to $30 per night, and group sites are available for $90 per night. Fees may not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the rugged mountains of northwestern Wyoming, Clearwater Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience just 32 miles west of historic Cody. This intimate riverside retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits—cast a line into pristine waters, explore winding mountain trails, or simply settle in to watch the abundant wildlife that calls this corner of the Greater Yellowstone home. With Yellowstone National Park's wonders just 20 miles to the west, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned along the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway for the ultimate Wyoming adventure.
Clearwater Campground is designed for primitive and tent camping with no utility hookups. Single-family campsites and one reservable group area are offered.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and walk in the footsteps of the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody himself. Just down the road, his original hunting lodge at Pahaska Tepee stands as a testament to the Old West, welcoming visitors for fascinating tours that bring frontier history to life. For those hungry for more stories of the American West, the world-renowned Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody houses treasures that capture the spirit of the Greater Yellowstone region, from natural history exhibits to authentic western memorabilia that will transport you to the days of cowboys and pioneers.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here tells its own dramatic story, with winter temperatures dancing between crisp highs of 28.83°F and bracing lows near 12.96°F. Snow dusts the higher peaks like nature's confetti, while winds sweep through at 6.41 mph on average, occasionally gusting up to an exhilarating 37.32 mph. Wise travelers plan their visits during the glorious summer months, when azure skies stretch endlessly overhead and gentle warmth transforms the landscape into an outdoor paradise perfect for camping under the stars.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 6,000 feet above sea level, Clearwater Campground offers more than just a place to pitch your tent—it's a high-altitude haven where every breath of crystalline mountain air reminds you how far you've climbed from the everyday world below. From this lofty vantage point, panoramic views unfold in every direction, painting a canvas of wilderness that changes with each passing hour.
Natural Features and SceneryThe North Fork of the Shoshone River sings its ancient song as it flows past your campsite, creating a natural soundtrack for your mountain escape at 6,000 feet. Towering Douglas firs and gnarled juniper giants stand sentinel, their branches offering welcome shade and framing breathtaking mountain vistas that seem to stretch forever. This is nature's grand theater, where grizzly bears amble through meadows, elk bugle at dawn, and bald eagles soar overhead. Keep your camera ready—you might spot deer grazing at twilight, catch a glimpse of a elusive moose, or watch as clever foxes and coyotes go about their daily routines in this wild sanctuary.
Geological RegionClearwater Campground rests like a precious gem along the banks of the North Fork of the Shoshone River, cradled by the ancient mountains of northwestern Wyoming. Here, where Douglas fir forests meet juniper groves, you'll discover yourself immersed in the legendary Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem—one of the last intact temperate ecosystems on Earth. This geological wonderland tells a story millions of years in the making, where mountain peaks pierce the sky and river valleys carve their patient paths through landscapes that have captivated explorers for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not explicitly mentioned in the source material or reviews.
Sites SizeSites are spacious and provide ample room for camping. "Sites that have a lot of space and privacy," according to a review by Brian Kurth.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are noted for their privacy, with Claire Nolan describing them as "spacious and private from the other camps around it." User LGN also highlighted good privacy for a public camping area.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor tent camping and scenic views, choose sites near the river, such as 3, 4, and 6. Sites with trees are suitable for hammocks.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites 3, 4, and 6 as particularly desirable due to proximity to the river and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Official check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
The group camping area includes private parking, three large picnic tables, two food storage lockers, and a campfire circle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe layout includes one reservable group camping area and 11 single-family sites, some with riverfront views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025, through September 6, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, contact center, or mobile app.
Walk-in Availability11 single-family campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-up availability is common but not guaranteed, particularly during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made more than 1 day before check-in incur a $10 cancellation fee, and late cancellations forfeit the first night’s fees. Modifications within the original reservation dates are free unless completely changing the dates.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, scenic driving, and wildlife viewing. According to the authoritative source, "Great opportunities for hiking, fishing, scenic driving and wildlife viewing are available around the campground. The North Fork of the Shoshone River is a popular fly-fishing location for rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout."
Hiking
Hiking is actively supported in the area with trails available near the campground. Difficulty levels and trail lengths are not specified.Fishing
Fishing is a major activity at Clearwater Campground. The North Fork of the Shoshone River is popular for fly-fishing, targeting species like rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout. User reviews such as Linda B state, "Close to river for fishing or exploring."Wildlife viewing
Excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing exist in the area. Visitors often glimpse grizzly bears, deer, elk, bison, moose, fox, coyotes, and bald eagles. User Rebecca M noted, "Be careful and vigilant because you will run into wildlife."Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Pahaska Tepee offers guided tours of Buffalo Bill's original hunting lodge, as well as horseback rides, a gift shop, restaurant, and lodging. Tours are available daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, but the campground is accessible during colder seasons.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood may be gathered from the area.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bears are a significant hazard; proper food storage is mandatory. Other wildlife such as bison may also pose risks.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services include facilities in Cody, WY, which is approximately 32 miles away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and other essential services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 6, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided, and food storage lockers are available at each site. Proper trash and food management is critical due to the presence of wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is located on the banks of the North Fork of the Shoshone River.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of drinking water and utility hookups, as well as issues with group site reservations.
HostCamp hosts are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and diligent, particularly with bear warnings and cleanliness. The host named 'Walt' received praise in reviews.
Campground Map
203A Yellowstone Ave
Driving directionsFrom Cody, Wyo., follow Sheridan Avenue west through Cody until the road leaves town, and becomes the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway (U.S. Highway 14/16/20). The campground is 32 miles west of Cody, on the south side of the highway and next to the river.
The campground is located along the paved Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway and is accessible via well-maintained roads. Seasonal closures or restrictions are not mentioned.Nearby places
Cody (32 miles, approximately 40-minute drive), Yellowstone National Park East Entrance (25 miles, approximately 30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Cody, WY, approximately 32 miles east of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
42 reviews
Clearwater Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise Clearwater Campground for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and excellent camp host. Grizzly bear warnings and proper food storage practices are frequently noted. Users expressed appreciation for the privacy of campsites, proximity to the river, and general peacefulness of the area.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, spacious sites, great privacy, and outstanding views. Hosts were often described as knowledgeable and helpful, with Walt highlighted as particularly...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of drinking water and cell service, as well as isolated incidents of host demeanor being perceived as less friendly than expected. One user reported confusion over group...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water due to the absence of potable water on-site. Utilize food storage lockers effectively to mitigate wildlife risks. Tent campers should select sites with tree coverage for wind...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping at Clearwater Campground, with users appreciating the proximity to Yellowstone and wildlife viewing opportunities during this time. Winter reviews are...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: "Camp host was great, very respectful and full of knowledge with bear safety" - Marty Vanmiddelkoop. "The campsite itself was very well maintained and beautiful!" - Brenna...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews indicate sites 4 and 6 are particularly desirable for their privacy and proximity to the river. User Scott G stated, "We stayed on site #6 and it worked great for the 2 tents we...
Based on 42 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are absent or not explicitly detailed in user feedback.
Based on 42 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies were not directly mentioned in user reviews or authoritative sources.
Based on 42 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025