Indian Creek Campground (Yellowstone)
4.2778 reviewsYellowstone National Park, Campgrounds, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone, WY 82190
Indian Creek Campground (Yellowstone)
$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
Camping fee is $20 per night per site. Interagency Access and Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount.
About this campground
Tucked away at the base of the majestic Gallatin Mountains, Indian Creek Campground beckons those seeking solitude and authentic wilderness experiences. This hidden gem offers a refreshing escape from Yellowstone's busier areas, where the dramatic silhouette of Electric Peak dominates the horizon and nature's rhythms set the pace. Here, adventurers find themselves immersed in a landscape where elk graze in meadows at dawn, crystal-clear streams invite anglers to test their skills, and hiking trails wind through pristine backcountry that feels untouched by time.
Indian Creek Campground is a limited development campground offering primitive camping experiences. It caters to both tent and RV campers but is not suited for larger RVs due to site restrictions.
Historical SignificanceThe campground serves as a gateway to centuries of human history in Yellowstone. Just a short drive away, the terraced limestone formations of Mammoth Hot Springs tell ancient geological stories while preserving traces of early park development and Native American presence. This proximity to one of Yellowstone's most historically rich areas allows campers to explore layers of cultural heritage, from indigenous traditions to the early days of America's first national park.
Weather and SeasonsIndian Creek's mountain climate creates a dynamic canvas of conditions throughout the year. Summer days unfold with comfortable temperatures between 70-80°F, perfect for exploration, while evenings bring a refreshing mountain chill that makes campfires especially welcoming. Spring and fall paint the landscape in transitional hues, with daytime temperatures dancing between 30-60°F and crisp nights that often dip below freezing. The high elevation means Mother Nature keeps visitors on their toes—snow can dust the peaks any month of the year, adding an element of alpine magic to your stay.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,300 feet above sea level, Indian Creek Campground offers a true high-country experience. This lofty position brings crisp, pine-scented air and temperatures that remind you you're camping in the mountains. Even during summer's warmth, the elevation can surprise visitors with cool mornings that call for an extra layer and occasional snowflakes that drift down like nature's confetti, creating magical moments that lowland campgrounds simply can't match.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's setting reads like a greatest hits of Yellowstone's northern reaches. Electric Peak towers above, its summit often crowned with snow, creating a photographer's dream backdrop. The melodic waters of Obsidian Creek and the Gardner River provide both scenic beauty and prime fishing spots, while the nearby Big Horn Pass Trail promises adventures into wild country. A short drive brings you to the fascinating columnar basalt formations at Sheepeater Cliff picnic area, where geology lessons come alive against the backdrop of the Gardner River canyon.
Geological RegionIndian Creek Campground sits in a geological wonderland where the ancient Gallatin Mountains meet Yellowstone's volcanic landscape. This unique position offers front-row seats to Electric Peak's imposing volcanic remnant while providing easy access to the fascinating geological features that define this region. The nearby Obsidian Creek, named for the volcanic glass found along its banks, and the Gardner River corridor showcase millions of years of geological history, from ancient seafloors to volcanic eruptions, all within a short distance of your campsite.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo accessible campsites are available with adjacent accessible vault toilets. Paths are compacted gravel/dirt with limited gradient change.
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size, accommodating trailers up to 35 feet in about 10 sites, and most other sites handling trailers up to 30 feet.
Sites PrivacySites offer moderate privacy, with some being heavily wooded and secluded while others have less tree cover and are closer to neighboring sites.
Total Campsites70 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid campsites near vault toilets due to odor complaints. Larger RVs may struggle with parking in narrow sites.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highly recommend sites in Loop B, especially #67 for its privacy and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum occupancy is six people per site. Camping is limited to 14 days from July 1 through Labor Day and to 30 days the rest of the year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout70 total campsites spread between two loops (A and B).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 13 to July 13 during the 2025 season, closed January 1 to June 12.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information explicitly provided regarding walk-up or first-come-first-served sites.
Cancellation PolicyVisitors may cancel reservations online or via call center. A $10 fee applies for cancellations prior to arrival. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10 charge.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides access to outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. It is well-situated near the Big Horn Pass trailhead and other natural attractions like Obsidian Creek and Gardner River.
Hiking
The Big Horn Pass trailhead is located on the entrance road, offering hiking opportunities for varying skill levels. Nearby trails also connect to scenic areas like Willow Park and Sheepeater Cliff.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Obsidian Creek and Gardner River. A Yellowstone National Park Fishing Permit is required for individuals 16 years or older.Wildlife viewing
Willow Park is a popular area for wildlife viewing, and guests have reported sightings of deer and other animals near the sites.Cultural and Educational Programs
An amphitheater is available for campfire programs, although details on specific educational topics or schedules are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires must be maintained within provided grates. Restrictions may apply during high fire danger periods.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent during summer. Bear activity necessitates strict food storage policies.
Active alertsFishing closures on select park rivers and streams after 2 p.m. due to low flows and warm temperatures. Biscuit Basin closed due to hydrothermal explosion.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 10%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 include Mammoth Hot Springs ranger station (8 miles, 15 minutes) and Gardiner, MT for hospitals and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 13, 2025 to July 13, 2025
Trash and recyclingSeasonal trash and recycling facilities are available within the campground. Campers must use the bear-proof trash cans provided.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Obsidian Creek and Gardner River, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSite sizes are restrictive for larger RVs and trailers. Vault toilets are near some campsites, causing odor issues. Fire rings are tall, limiting usability.
HostHosts are present seasonally. Reviews of host interactions vary widely; some praise their friendliness while others cite rudeness.
Campground Map
Yellowstone National Park, Campgrounds, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone, WY 82190
Driving directionsIndian Creek Campground is located about eight miles south of Mammoth Hot Springs on the road to Norris, and thirteen miles from the park's North Entrance near Gardiner, MT. Detailed directions can be found on the park's website.
The campground is easily accessible via Grand Loop Road. Roads are paved, but parking and campsite areas are narrow, which may pose challenges for larger RVs and trailers. Seasonal access and closures apply.Nearby places
Gardiner, MT (13 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Mammoth Hot Springs (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Norris (approximately 15 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Gardiner, MT (13 miles away) offers groceries, diesel, and camping supplies. Additional services like showers are available at Mammoth Hot Springs hotel.
Camper Reviews
4.3
78 reviews
Indian Creek Campground (Yellowstone) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Indian Creek Campground is highly regarded for its quiet atmosphere, cleanliness, and location near significant park attractions. However, the absence of showers, small site sizes, and restrictions on larger RVs have been points of concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 78 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the campground for its serene environment, clean vault toilets, and helpful staff. The location was frequently mentioned as ideal for exploring the northern sections of the park.
Based on 78 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of running water for dishwashing, no showers, and campsite dimensions not matching the advertised sizes, which created difficulties for RV users. Some campers also...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray for the mosquitoes, planning ahead for dishwashing as it must be done at the vault toilets, and adhering to the campground's bear safety rules. It's also...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's cool nights, while fall reviewers noted quieter surroundings as the park became less crowded. Mosquito activity was frequently mentioned during the summer...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Lovely campsite full of pine trees." - Michael S. "Vault toilets were the cleanest I've ever seen." - Patricia B. "More mosquitoes than expected." - Leslie B. "Sites are small and tight with tons of...
Based on 78 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #27 received high praise for its cleanliness and well-maintained vault toilets. Site #73 was criticized for its tight backing space and uneven ground. Site #67 was noted to have ample space but...
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Accessibility Features
The accessible campsites received positive feedback for their location near the vault toilets. However, gravel paths were seen as potentially challenging for wheelchairs.
Based on 78 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025