Mammoth Campground (Yellowstone)
4.43195 reviewsYellowstone National Park, Campgrounds, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone, WY 82190
Mammoth Campground (Yellowstone)
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Nightly rate is $25 per site. Discounts available for Interagency Access and Senior Pass holders (50%). Additional fees apply for reservation changes ($10) and late cancellations.
About this campground
As Yellowstone's sole year-round camping destination, Mammoth Campground offers an unparalleled basecamp for park adventures across all seasons. This 85-site sanctuary provides modern amenities including flush toilets, fresh drinking water, and secure food storage lockers, ensuring comfort while you immerse yourself in the raw beauty of America's first national park.
Mammoth Campground caters to both tent and RV campers. It is a developed campground with paved loops, accessible sites, and designated tent pads.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at this campground, nestled near the storied Fort Yellowstone and the otherworldly Mammoth Hot Springs. Here, military heritage meets natural wonder, where 19th-century cavalry once patrolled to protect the park's treasures. Today, you'll camp amidst a landscape that tells tales of volcanic forces, ancient ecosystems, and the birthplace of the American conservation movement.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum at Mammoth, where summer days bask in pleasant 70-80°F temperatures before cooling to crisp, star-filled nights. Spring and fall bring dramatic transitions with temperatures dancing between 30-60°F, occasionally dusted with surprise snowfall. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with daytime temperatures hovering between 0-20°F and nights plunging below zero—perfect for hardy souls seeking solitude and snow-covered serenity.
ElevationPerched at 6,200 feet where the air grows thin and crisp, Mammoth Campground invites you to breathe deeply and adjust to the mountain rhythm. At this elevation, expect refreshingly cool temperatures year-round and give yourself time to acclimate—the spectacular views are worth every breath as your body adapts to this lofty wilderness perch.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a landscape painted in silver sage and emerald juniper, where towering Douglas firs cast welcome shade across your campsite. This high desert oasis serves as nature's amphitheater, where majestic elk graze mere yards from your tent, bison lumber past with ancient dignity, and mule deer pick their delicate way through the sagebrush. Each dawn brings new wildlife encounters in this living tableau of the American West.
Geological RegionDiscover a geological masterpiece where high sagebrush steppe meets juniper-clad canyons, all within sight of the mesmerizing Mammoth Hot Springs. Watch as mineral-rich waters sculpt ever-changing travertine terraces in real-time, creating ethereal limestone formations that seem almost alien. The nearby Gardner River carves through this hydrothermal wonderland, its waters telling the story of Yellowstone's volcanic heart through every bubble and steam plume that rises from the earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has five accessible campsites and paved routes along the roadway. There is a ramp to the amphitheater, and accessible shower facilities are located in nearby Gardiner, MT. However, paths are compacted gravel/dirt with some gradient, and there are boardwalks in certain areas for easier access.
Sites SizeThe campground has 85 sites, and most are described as spacious and suitable for larger rigs or tents. However, some sites are on uneven terrain, and staking tents can be challenging due to rocky soil.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the open layout of the campground. Sites are close together, and several reviewers commented on the lack of shade and barriers between sites.
Total Campsites85 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the road (e.g., below #35A) due to noise. Tent sites like #74 and #81 offer scenic views.
Best CampsitesSites along the periphery, especially north end sites, offer more privacy and better views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in recommended after 12 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 10 AM.
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 days from July 1 through Labor Day and 30 days the rest of the year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is six people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLoops A and B with tiered sites. Tent sites and pull-through sites available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; reservations required April 15 to October 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations managed through Recreation.gov. On-site staff assist outside reservation windows.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable mid-October to late March on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of one night's fee. Changes within the booking window may incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mammoth Campground offers diverse activities ranging from hiking and fishing to wildlife viewing and skiing in winter. The proximity to Mammoth Hot Springs allows for scenic exploration of hydrothermal terraces, boardwalks, and historic areas like Fort Yellowstone.
Hiking
Numerous trails are accessible near the campground, including the Beaver Ponds trail, a 4-mile round-trip or 5-mile loop offering wildlife viewing opportunities. Trails to Mammoth Hot Springs and beyond are well-trodden and scenic.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Yellowstone National Park, but a Yellowstone National Park Fishing Permit is required for individuals aged 16 and older. The nearby Gardner River is noted for potential fishing spots.Wildlife viewing
Mammoth Campground is an excellent site for observing wildlife, including elk, bison, mule deer, and occasionally bears. Reviewers frequently mentioned elk and bison wandering through the campground. Seasonal variations bring different species to the area.Cultural and Educational Programs
An amphitheater hosts seasonal campfire programs that provide educational insights into the park's natural and cultural history.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing and snowshoeing along the Upper Terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in designated grates. Charcoal and wood permitted; seasonal restrictions may apply.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife including bears and elk. Rocky soil and gusty winds make tent staking difficult. Seasonal snow and road congestion.
Active alertsFishing closures and hydrothermal explosion warnings as of 2025.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 8%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.2 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 Gardiner Ambulance (5 miles) and Livingston HealthCare Hospital (53 miles). Park rangers are stationed at Mammoth Hot Springs.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 to October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection are provided. All garbage must be disposed of in bear-proof trash cans to comply with wildlife safety regulations.
Proximity to water featuresNear Gardner River. Boardwalks above Mammoth Hot Springs offer views of hydrothermal features.
Common complaintsRoad noise due to proximity to highway. Limited privacy between sites. Lack of showers and dishwashing facilities.
HostHosts and rangers are praised for professionalism and friendliness. Some complaints on inconsistent policies.
Campground Map
Yellowstone National Park, Campgrounds, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone, WY 82190
Driving directionsLocated at Mammoth Hot Springs, five miles south of the North Entrance. Visit https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/directions.htm for detailed driving maps.
Accessible year-round via paved roads. Seasonal closures can occur due to snow. Roads are well-maintained but may become congested during peak seasons.Nearby places
Gardiner, MT (5 miles, approx. 15 minutes), Livingston, MT (53 miles, approx. 1 hour), Bozeman, MT (78 miles, approx. 1 hour 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Gardiner, MT (5 miles), which includes groceries, fuel, and camping gear. Mammoth Hot Springs general store offers limited essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.4
195 reviews
Mammoth Campground (Yellowstone) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mammoth Campground is generally well-regarded for its convenient location near Mammoth Hot Springs, ample wildlife viewing opportunities, and clean facilities. However, recurring complaints about road noise, lack of showers, and limited privacy are noted in user reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 195 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praised the clean and warm restrooms, friendly campground hosts, and proximity to Yellowstone attractions. Wildlife sightings, including elk and bison roaming through the campground, were...
Based on 195 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include loud road noise due to the campground's location between roads, lack of showers and dishwashing stations, and uneven or rocky terrain at some campsites. Seasonal construction...
Based on 195 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing earplugs to mitigate road noise and being prepared for wildlife encounters. Early reservations are advised, and visitors recommend selecting sites away from the road for a...
Based on 195 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall see cooler temperatures and frequent wildlife activity, with elk and bison often sighted. Summer brings warmer weather but also more traffic and noise. Winter reviewers appreciated...
Based on 195 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campground was clean, and the bathrooms were excellent. Elk and bison wandered through our campsite, which was amazing." - Gabby H. "Road noise was a problem, but the location and wildlife made...
Based on 195 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites along Loop A tend to experience more road noise. Sites closer to the amphitheater often have better access to amenities. Reviewers suggested avoiding sites below 35A for less traffic...
Based on 195 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites and pathways received mixed reviews, with some noting the terrain's challenges but praising paved routes and the amphitheater ramp.
Based on 195 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Visitors with pets enjoyed the campground but noted the need to keep pets leashed due to frequent wildlife in the area, including elk and bison.
Based on 195 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025