Lily Lake Camping Area
00 reviewLily Lake Camping Area
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Overnight Use: Single Site: $10/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to Single Campsites ONLY.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Wyoming's wilderness, Lily Lake Campground is undergoing an exciting transformation. This evolving outdoor destination is expanding its footprint with enhanced camping sites and additional spaces for adventurers seeking pristine mountain experiences. Bear-proof food storage lockers stand ready at each site—a testament to the wild residents who occasionally wander through these ancient forests. As a pack-in, pack-out facility, visitors become stewards of this untouched landscape, leaving only footprints in their wake.
Lily Lake Campground supports a mix of camping styles, including dispersed camping. It is undergoing construction to enhance facilities for RVs and introduce new camping spots.
Historical SignificanceBorn from a vision to connect modern adventurers with Wyoming's untamed wilderness, Lily Lake Campground opened its gates in 2023. This newest addition to the Shoshone National Forest's camping destinations represents a thoughtful balance between accessibility and preservation, offering visitors a chance to experience the same awe-inspiring landscapes that have captivated explorers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of all four seasons at Lily Lake, where the campground welcomes visitors year-round. Summer brings warm days perfect for lakeside adventures, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, though deep snowfall may challenge access for all but the most determined winter camping enthusiasts. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and the return of migrating birds to the lake's shores.
ElevationPerched at a mountain elevation where the air carries the crisp essence of alpine wilderness, Lily Lake Campground offers that thin-air experience unique to high-country camping. While specific elevation data awaits official survey completion, visitors will notice the characteristic mountain environment—cooler temperatures, brilliant star-filled nights, and that distinctive feeling of being closer to the sky.
Natural Features and SceneryThe crown jewel of this campground is undoubtedly Lily Lake itself, where a convenient boat launch invites paddlers to explore mirror-like waters reflecting towering peaks and endless sky. The lake serves as a natural amphitheater, surrounded by dense coniferous forests that shelter diverse wildlife. Morning mists dance across the water's surface while eagles soar overhead, and the setting sun transforms the lake into liquid gold—a photographer's paradise and nature lover's dream.
Geological RegionSet within the legendary Shoshone National Forest—America's first national forest—this campground occupies sacred ground in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Here, ancient volcanic forces shaped dramatic peaks and valleys over millions of years, creating a landscape where geothermal features, pristine lakes, and rugged mountains converge. The Shoshone's 2.4 million acres of wilderness provide an epic backdrop for camping adventures, where every trail leads to discovery and every sunrise reveals nature's grand theater.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeNo specific size information is provided for the campsites, but upgrades are planned to make them RV-compatible.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels for individual sites are not described.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid the sites near the ranger station for noisy mornings.
Best Campsites"For best views take the site closest to the boat launch."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
14
Check-out
12
Stay Limit
16
Guests Allowed Per Site
Currently 7 sites are available
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout7 sites
Open and Closed SeasonOpen all year although snow may limit accessibility.
Reservation PlatformsUSGS
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst come first serve availability
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Lily Lake Campground provides opportunities for both land and water-based recreational activities. Visitors can engage in day hikes, backpacking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and scenic appreciation. Boating is supported, with facilities accommodating both motorized and non-motorized crafts.
Hiking
The campground offers day hiking and backpacking opportunities, but specific trail details, such as length and difficulty, are not provided.Boating
Boating activities are supported, with facilities accommodating both motorized and non-motorized boats. However, docking details are not described.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can engage in wildlife viewing, though specific species or viewing locations are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed, but the campground is open year-round with access potentially limited by snow.Water Sports
Boating activities, both motorized and non-motorized, are the main water-based recreation options.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No metal fire rings or grates.
- Quiet hours are 22:00 hours to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBear sightings
Active alertsConstruction is underway.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 14.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
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
Greybull Hospital 34 Miles away
Good to know
Peak season datesMay-August.
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage collection at this campground. Campers must 'pack it in, pack it out.'
Proximity to water featuresBoat launch is available.
Common complaints"No garbage disposal, pack it in pack it out."
HostClarks Fork, Greybull, and Wapiti Ranger Districts
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Cody, take State Highway 120 north for 16 miles. Turn left onto State Highway 296, the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway and proceed about 46 miles to the junction with U.S. Highway 212, the Beartooth All-American Road. Turn right onto Highway 212 and travel about 0.75 mile to Forest Road 128. Turn left onto Forest Road 128 for about 1 mile to the campground.
"During construction, the campground's accessibility may be compromised." Roads may be impacted due to snow."Nearby places
Cody - Approx. 16 miles and Greybull.
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery store and fuel is 16 miles away in Cody.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lily Lake Camping Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
There are no user reviews provided. The campground's features and limitations are described in the authoritative content.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The campground's scenic setting and opportunities for various recreational activities are its main highlights. It offers a picturesque lake and boating access.
Common Concerns
The absence of potable water, garbage collection, and cell phone service may inconvenience campers. Additionally, the lack of fire rings and ongoing construction could be drawbacks.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring their own water and prepare for 'pack it in, pack it out' trash handling. Proper food storage in bear boxes is required.
Seasonal Insights
No user-provided seasonal trends are described, but the campground is open year-round. Access may be limited during the winter due to snow.
Accessibility Features
The site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments.
Last updated August 10, 2025