Rex Hale
4.54103 reviews203A YELLOWSTONE AVE
Rex Hale
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees range from $15 to $30 per night, depending on site type. Additional fees apply for extra vehicles and late cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled in the shadow of towering red cliffs along the rushing Shoshone River, Rex Hale Campground serves as your gateway to the wild wonders of Yellowstone country. This peaceful retreat honors the memory of Rex Hale, a brave firefighter who gave his life battling the devastating Blackwater Fire of 1937. Today, campers find solace in this scenic haven where grizzly bears roam ancient forests, golden eagles soar overhead, and massive bison herds thunder across nearby meadows. It's a place where history meets wilderness, offering adventurers an authentic taste of the untamed West.
Rex Hale Campground accommodates tent, RV, and primitive camping, with sites available for both electric and non-electric setups. "Our site was rural as camping should be - no electricity or water. Granted there others that did, there was also a pump for water in the middle of the grounds."
Historical SignificanceStep back through millennia at nearby Mummy Cave, where archaeological treasures reveal 9,000 years of human stories etched into these mountains. From ancient hunters tracking mammoths to Native American tribes calling these valleys home, the area pulses with historical significance. The poignant Blackwater Fire memorials scattered throughout the region serve as sobering reminders of nature's power and the courage of those who protect our wild places.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Rex Hale into a sun-drenched paradise, where warm days invite exploration and cool mountain evenings are perfect for campfire stories. The occasional mountain winds that sweep through camp serve as nature's air conditioning, carrying the scent of pine and sage. When winter arrives, the landscape becomes a crystalline wonderland blanketed in snow, with temperatures that remind you why early pioneers considered this frontier both beautiful and formidable.
ElevationPerched high in the mountain realm where the air grows thin and the views stretch endlessly, Rex Hale Campground offers a true alpine experience. At this lofty elevation, you'll find yourself closer to the clouds, where morning mists dance through towering peaks and the night sky explodes with stars unmarred by city lights. The high-country setting means cooler temperatures and that exhilarating feeling of being on top of the world.
Natural Features and SceneryThe North Fork of the Shoshone River carves a liquid lifeline through this dramatic landscape, its crystal waters reflecting the crimson cliffs that rise like ancient castle walls above camp. Early season visitors might spot bighorn sheep navigating these vertical wonderlands with gravity-defying grace. The surrounding wilderness teems with life—from majestic elk bugling in autumn meadows to elusive moose browsing in willow thickets, while clever foxes dart through the underbrush, completing nature's grand tapestry.
Geological RegionDeep within the embrace of Shoshone National Forest, Rex Hale Campground sits at the intersection of geological wonder and ecological diversity. The striking red cliffs that define the landscape tell a story written in stone, their layers recording millions of years of Earth's history. This remarkable habitat, carved by the persistent North Fork of the Shoshone River, creates the perfect sanctuary for an impressive cast of wildlife characters—from the mighty grizzly bear and iconic bison to the regal bald eagle that patrols the skies above this pristine wilderness kingdom.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetailed accessibility features were not provided in the source material. Campground hosts seem to provide helpful guidance for all campers.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with several reviews highlighting this feature: "Very spacious and quiet! And the view.....just WOW!"
Sites PrivacySome campsites are noted for privacy due to the presence of trees, while others are more open with less shade: "Each campsite has privacy due to the trees," and "The sites are not right on top of each other like at some campgrounds."
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the river are great for scenic views, while electric hookup sites offer convenience. Tent campers should look for shelter due to wind.
Best CampsitesSite 022 is frequently praised for views and proximity to the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts from 11:00 AM
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 16 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates families or groups, with limits varying based on the site.
Groups
Group camping information was not explicitly provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into electric and non-electric sections with spacious sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to September 13. Reservations start June 23 and end September 13.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, but reservations are recommended during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations (after midnight the day before check-in) forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Rex Hale Campground can enjoy hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and cultural landmarks such as memorials for firefighters and historical sites. "Great opportunities for hiking, fishing, scenic driving and wildlife viewing are available around the campground."
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the campground. Forest Service Trail 758 leads to firefighter memorials. "Some people with me climbed the mountain across from the campground. They said it was a nice view, but the loose gravel made it quite tricky."Fishing
Fishing is noted as a popular activity, particularly fly-fishing for rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the North Fork of the Shoshone River: "There's a river down by the campground that makes fishing really nice."Wildlife viewing
The campground provides great opportunities for wildlife viewing. Species noted include grizzly bears, deer, elk, bison, moose, foxes, coyotes, and bald eagles: "We even had a fox wander through next to our trailer to check things out."Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions like Pahaska Tepee offer tours of Buffalo Bill's hunting lodge. "A firefighter memorial is located along the highway, just over a mile west of the campground. Forest Service Trail 758 leads to two additional memorials."Winter Activities
Winter-specific recreational activities were not mentioned in the source materials, but the campground is open during peak summer months.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding were not mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are provided at each site, and gathering firewood is allowed.
- Quiet hours are Nighttime hours are quiet, allowing for peaceful stargazing.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bears are frequently seen in the area, and wind conditions can be extreme, especially for tent campers. Proper food storage is required.
Active alertsCurrent advisories include mandatory food storage due to bear activity.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 14.9 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Closest emergency services are in Cody, WY, approximately 45 minutes away, where hospitals and police stations are available. There is a ranger station within the Shoshone National Forest.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 13, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available. "Trash as well as a bear locker and fire pit were provided." However, recycling facilities were not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated beside the Shoshone River, suitable for fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include strong winds, limited shade, and rocky tent pads. Water service disruptions have also been reported.
HostHosts like Tom and Ed have been described as helpful and personable, adding to the positive experience.
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 located 36 miles from Cody, on the south side of the highway. It is between Newton Campground to the west and Clearwater Campground to the east.
The campground is accessible via the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway, with paved roads leading directly to the entrance. There are no seasonal closures noted, but grizzly bear warnings are in effect, making proper food storage a critical consideration.Nearby places
Cody (36 miles, approximately 45 minutes drive)
Yellowstone National Park East Gate (16 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be found in Cody, WY. The Pahaska Tepee, 18 miles away, offers dining options, a gift shop, and horseback tours.
Camper Reviews
4.5
103 reviews
Rex Hale is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and accessibility of Rex Hale Campground, with multiple mentions of helpful hosts and well-maintained facilities. "The views are spectacular. We want to come back next year and stay longer."
Review Summaries
Based on 103 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, spacious campsites, stunning scenery, proximity to Yellowstone National Park, and friendly campground hosts: "Camp sites are spaced out nicely," "The...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include high winds affecting tents, lack of cell service, and absence of a dump station. "The wind got crazy on our last day, so that could be an issue for tent campers."
Based on 103 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest arriving prepared for high winds, using bear-proof coolers, and booking reservations in advance: "Stake down your tent WELL. We learned the hard way."
Based on 103 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for camping but can be windy and warm. Some reviews mention winter-like conditions early in the season.
Based on 103 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Loved this campground!!! Very spacious and quiet! And the view.....just WOW!" "The campground is super, but we were there during some of the bad weather that is flooding the park now. The restrooms...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific highlights include site #30 as a favorite and site #22 for privacy and river access: "Loved site #30 the best!" "Site 22 suited us just right."
Based on 103 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews on accessibility features for disabled individuals.
Based on 103 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted, with no specific issues or highlights mentioned in reviews.
Based on 103 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025