Threemile Campground
4.4359 reviews203A Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY, 82414, USA
Threemile Campground
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Site nightly rates range from $20 to $40 depending on the season and site type. An additional fee is collected at the campground for extra vehicles.
About this campground
Just three miles from Yellowstone's East Gate, Threemile Campground offers an intimate escape into Wyoming's wild heart. This secluded haven, exclusively for hard-sided RVs and trailers due to the area's active bear population, provides the perfect basecamp for adventurers seeking tranquility without sacrificing convenience. Modern amenities including bear-proof food lockers, vault toilets, and fresh drinking water ensure a comfortable stay while you immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Threemile Campground exclusively accommodates hard-sided RVs and camp trailers due to bear activity in the area. It does not allow tent camping, pack animals, or off-road vehicles.
Historical SignificanceStep into the legendary Wild West at nearby Pahaska Tepee, where Buffalo Bill Cody once welcomed fellow adventurers to his original hunting lodge. Today, this historic treasure invites visitors to explore its storied halls and discover tales of frontier life through captivating tours. A short drive to Cody reveals the renowned Buffalo Bill Historical Center, where five museums under one roof chronicle the rich tapestry of Yellowstone's past, from Native American heritage to the golden age of Western exploration.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Threemile, where warm summer days give way to crisp, star-filled nights that call for campfire stories and cozy sleeping bags. As autumn arrives, golden aspens paint the landscape before winter transforms the region into a crystalline wonderland of snow and ice. The ever-changing sky creates a dynamic backdrop for your adventures, while the possibility of spotting magnificent grizzlies adds an element of wild excitement to every season.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 6,700 feet above sea level, Threemile Campground places you in the heart of the Rocky Mountain high country, where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and every breath connects you to the raw power of the American wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle murmur of the North Fork of the Shoshone River as it winds through your backyard, creating a natural soundtrack for your mountain retreat. Towering lodgepole pines stand sentinel around the campground, their evergreen canopy sheltering a world where grizzly bears roam ancient paths, elk bugle across misty meadows, and bald eagles soar against dramatic mountain peaks. This pristine ecosystem offers front-row seats to nature's daily spectacle, from deer grazing in morning light to the haunting calls of wildlife echoing through twilight shadows.
Geological RegionDiscover the rugged splendor of northwestern Wyoming at Threemile Campground, where the North Fork of the Shoshone River has carved its path through the majestic Shoshone National Forest. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through soaring mountain peaks, dense forests of lodgepole pines, and the dramatic terrain that has captivated explorers for generations. Here, in America's first national forest, ancient volcanic forces and millennia of erosion have sculpted a landscape that serves as both playground and sanctuary for those seeking authentic wilderness experiences.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible potable water spigots and is designed for hard-sided trailers and RVs to minimize bear interactions.
Sites SizeSites are noted as being large enough for rigs up to 32 feet, according to user Doug Gheen. Site-specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of campsites varies—some are heavily forested while others have limited tree cover. Reviewer Julie H observed, "Sites were roomy and decently spaced," but others like Patrick noted that not all sites have shade.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the river for scenic views and shade. Avoid sites like #3 during summer months due to lack of shade.
Best CampsitesSite #17 is highly rated for proximity to the river and accessibility. Sites #12 and #15 are praised for their riverside location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available starting at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out must be completed by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates standard RV guest capacity.
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops with pull-through and back-in sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 16th to September 20th annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by calling their contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground does not offer walk-up availability and operates on a reservation-only basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made prior to the arrival date, incurring a $10 fee plus forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellations subtract the first night’s fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Threemile Campground can enjoy hiking, fly fishing, scenic driving, wildlife viewing, and exploring historic sites. The North Fork of the Shoshone River is a popular spot for rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout fishing. "We did fly fish the North Fork of the Shoshone with some success," shared Julie K. Wildlife spotting opportunities include grizzly bears, elk, deer, and bald eagles.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, including access to the nearby Pahaska Trail leading into the North Absaroka Wilderness Area. Reviewer Randall J recommended hiking the Sunlight Trail.Fishing
Fishing is available in the North Fork of the Shoshone River, with opportunities to catch rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout. "Loved being on the river so we could go fishing," commented Jennifer S.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with chances to see grizzly bears, elk, bison, bald eagles, and moose. Michael Bullock shared, "We did see a Grizzly Bear sow and her two cubs across the river from the campground."Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby Pahaska Tepee offers cultural and historical tours of Buffalo Bill's original hunting lodge, built in 1904, along with guided horseback rides and a museum.Winter Activities
Winter camping is not permitted as the campground is closed during winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings. Firewood collection is allowed near the campground.
- Quiet hours are enforced during the night, exact hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is common; visitors are advised to carry bear spray and use food lockers. Steep roads may pose challenges for larger RVs.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 13.4 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 hospital and emergency services are in Cody, WY, approximately 49 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 20, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe North Fork of the Shoshone River runs adjacent to the campground, offering fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsFrequent mentions include lack of cell service, steep roads, and occasional road noise.
HostCampground hosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, providing clean facilities and Smokey the Bear materials for children.
Campground Map
203A Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY, 82414, USA
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 almost 49 miles west of Cody, on the south side of U.S. Highway 14/16/20, next to the Shoshone River.
The campground is accessible via paved roads along the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway. Some reviews noted the road down to the campground is steep.Nearby places
Cody (49 miles, approximately 1 hour drive), Yellowstone National Park East Entrance (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Grocery store and basic supplies are available at Pahaska Tepee, approximately 1 mile west. Nearest gas station is 28 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
59 reviews
Threemile Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Threemile Campground is frequently praised for its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, cleanliness, and quiet atmosphere. "Beautiful, secluded, and quiet at night," noted Lori Carney. Only hard-sided camping is permitted due to the presence of bears.
Review Summaries
Based on 59 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the cleanliness of the facilities, the campground’s scenic location by the river, and its convenient access to Yellowstone. "Clean, beautiful campground," remarked Linda...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of cell service and Wi-Fi, road noise during peak hours, as well as narrow campsites that may not accommodate RVs with slide-outs.
Based on 59 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bear spray due to frequent bear sightings, as noted by George Spettigue: "Bear spray is a must for any outdoor activity." Arrive early as sites can fill up quickly.
Based on 59 reviewsSeasonal Insights
In summer, the campground is described as busy but well-maintained, with access to fishing and hiking. Fall reviews mention occasional bear sightings and cooler temperatures.
Based on 59 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We stayed here prior to our visit to Yellowstone. A wildfire took hold nearby...but we were able to access the campground and enjoyed hiking along the adjacent river," shared Teresa R. "Bear boxes...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #17 is highly praised for its proximity to the river and easy accessibility. "Site #17, east, was perfect! Nice long, straight driveway, easy in, right across from river access," shared Linda...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as bear-resistant food lockers and accessible water spigots are noted by users, but there are no reviews from individuals with disabilities specifically addressing their...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Threemile Campground does not explicitly mention pet policies. Users did not provide reviews related to pet experiences.
Based on 59 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025