Slough Creek Campground
4.5143 reviewsYellowstone National Park, Campgrounds, PO Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Slough Creek Campground
$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
The campground fee is $20 per night per site. Interagency Access and Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed wilderness of Slough Creek Campground, where rustic charm meets raw natural beauty in one of Yellowstone's most remote corners. Perfect for tent campers and small RV adventurers, this hidden gem rewards those who venture off the beaten path with nights under brilliant starlit skies and the haunting symphony of wolves echoing across the valley. As dawn breaks, you'll find yourself in the heart of Yellowstone's wildlife theater, where massive bison herds graze the meadows and lucky visitors might glimpse wolves on the hunt or bears foraging in the distance.
Slough Creek Campground offers a rustic and primitive camping experience ideal for small RVs and tents. It is generator-free and best suited for visitors seeking a quieter, less crowded alternative to other Yellowstone campgrounds.
Historical SignificanceFollow in the wheel ruts of pioneers as you explore the historic Slough Creek Trail, an ancient wagon route that once carried settlers deep into the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. This storied pathway connects modern adventurers with the intrepid spirits who first dared to traverse these rugged lands, offering a tangible link to the American frontier.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme at Slough Creek, painting each season with dramatic brushstrokes. Summer days warm to a pleasant 70-80°F, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, though mountain nights can surprise you with near-freezing temperatures even in July. Snow may dust the landscape any month of the year, adding an element of adventure to your stay. Spring and fall bring crisp days ranging from 30-60°F, with frost-kissed mornings that transform the grasslands into a glittering wonderland.
ElevationPerched at 6,250 feet above sea level, Slough Creek Campground sits in the thin mountain air where temperatures can plummet dramatically after sunset. This high-altitude haven demands warm sleeping bags and layered clothing, but rewards hardy campers with crystal-clear skies and an intimate connection with the alpine environment.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in Yellowstone's legendary Northern Range adjacent to the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley, Slough Creek Campground is embraced by sweeping grasslands and dramatic cliff faces that create a natural amphitheater for wildlife viewing. This pristine ecosystem serves as a vital sanctuary for roaming bison herds, majestic elk, and the apex predators that follow them. Throughout the seasons, fortunate visitors witness nature's grand spectacle as grizzly bears emerge from hibernation, black bears teach their cubs to forage, and wolf packs coordinate their hunts across the vast meadows.
Geological RegionSet within the spectacular Northern Range of Yellowstone National Park, Slough Creek occupies a unique geological niche where ancient volcanic forces sculpted dramatic cliffs and fertile valleys. The surrounding Lamar Valley grasslands create an ecological crossroads that supports one of North America's most intact ecosystems. This remarkable landscape serves as crucial winter range for thousands of bison and elk, while providing year-round habitat for the wolves and grizzly bears that have made this region famous among wildlife enthusiasts worldwide.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne ADA-accessible campsite is available. Paths and roads are compacted gravel/dirt with minimal gradient changes.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet in length. Sites are compact and may not be level.
Sites PrivacyMany sites offer limited privacy, but some, such as site #2, are noted for being more private and elevated with good views.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the creek for peaceful views and direct access to water-related activities.
Best CampsitesSite #1 and Site #2 are noted for privacy, scenic views, and proximity to Slough Creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 10:00 AM.
Stay Limit
14 days during peak season from July 1 through Labor Day. 30 days during the remainder 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 allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged along a loop road. Most sites are compacted gravel/dirt with picnic tables and fire pits.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 15 to October 13 annually. Closed from October 13 through June 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are exclusively available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability. Reservations are required for all sites.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to arrival online or through the Recreation.gov call center. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night's rate. No-shows are charged a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's rate.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Slough Creek Campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, fishing, and wildlife-viewing opportunities. The nearby Slough Creek Trail offers access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Visitors can enjoy world-class fly fishing, birding, and photography. Wildlife sightings include bison, elk, wolves, and bears.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to the Slough Creek Trail, which features a steep climb followed by meadows. Hikers should be bear-aware and prepared. Additional trails in the area provide varying levels of difficulty and access to wildlife viewing opportunities.Fishing
Fishing in Slough Creek is popular for its high-quality angling opportunities, including fly fishing. Native and non-native fish species are present. A Yellowstone National Park Fishing Permit is required.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in the Lamar Valley, known for some of the best wildlife viewing in North America. Sightings include bison, elk, wolves, grizzly bears, and black bears. Bird species such as peregrine falcons and osprey are also common.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground is only open during summer and early fall.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not supported at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Wood and charcoal fires are permitted only in established fire grates. Propane stoves are typically unaffected by fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent wildlife encounters with bears and bison. Bear spray is strongly recommended. Mosquitoes are abundant at dusk.
Active alertsFishing closures after 2 p.m. on specific park rivers and streams due to low water conditions and warm temperatures.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 10%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.2 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 the ranger station at Tower-Roosevelt Junction, which is approximately 7 miles away. Additional services are located at the North Entrance in Gardiner, MT.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 - Labor Day
Trash and recyclingSeasonal trash and recycling collection is available. Campers are advised to use bear-proof trash cans.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is directly adjacent to Slough Creek, a popular fishing and wildlife viewing site.
Common complaintsLimited campsite availability, no potable water onsite, and issues with reserved sites going unused.
HostHosts are described as friendly and knowledgeable about the area. They assist with cancellations and filling unoccupied sites.
Campground Map
Yellowstone National Park, Campgrounds, PO Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Driving directionsSlough Creek Campground is located about 7 miles from the Tower-Roosevelt junction within the park's Northern Range. It is about 30 miles from the park's North Entrance in Gardiner, MT and about 26 miles from the Northeast Entrance near Cooke City, MT. Located 5.5 miles east of Tower-Roosevelt Junction and accessed via a two-mile dirt road. For more specific information, visit https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/directions.htm.
Accessed via a two-mile dirt road. Road conditions can be challenging with potholes and rough terrain. Vehicles longer than 25 ft are not recommended due to tight turnarounds.Nearby places
Gardiner, MT - 30 miles (approximately 45 minutes)
Cooke City, MT - 26 miles (approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be purchased in Gardiner, MT (30 miles away) or Cooke City, MT (26 miles away). Fuel and grocery stores are available in these locations.
Camper Reviews
4.5
43 reviews
Slough Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Slough Creek Campground receives consistently high praise from visitors for its remote location, abundant wildlife, and serene environment. The absence of crowds, clean facilities, and proximity to the Lamar Valley are commonly highlighted.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the peaceful and secluded nature of the campground, its proximity to excellent wildlife viewing in the Lamar Valley, and the clean vault toilets. Campers appreciate the scenic...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some common complaints include the lack of potable water at certain times, limited privacy at some campsites, and the difficulty in securing reservations. A few reviewers also noted issues with late...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure spots, bringing ample water, and preparing for bear safety. Bear spray and bug repellents are highly recommended. Visitors also suggest taking the Slough...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The summer months are the peak season for wildlife viewing and hiking, with fall offering cooler weather and fewer bugs. Mosquitoes can be an issue during the summer, particularly at dusk.
Based on 43 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Such a peaceful quiet campground! Host was so nice and clearly loves the area and the animals." – Natalie Wiegand
"The campground doesn't seem to get the same amount of pressure as most of the other...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 is noted for its privacy and elevated views. Site #6 offers stunning creek views but has minimal shade. Site #1 is described as one of the nicest campsites by past visitors. Site #8 is...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The ADA-accessible site is appreciated for its compacted gravel paths and limited gradient changes, but some users note that sites may not always be level.
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 43 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025