Overview of Where to Stay Inside Yellowstone
For a good reason, Yellowstone National Park draws many visitors for a long-term stay or a brief road trip. It is one of the most visited national parks in the United States.
If you’re looking for the best places to stay inside of Yellowstone, then keep reading.
Several of the world’s most gorgeous geothermal phenomena and a range of flora and fauna may be seen in the park. The majority of Yellowstone National Park is in Wyoming’s northwest corner, with minor portions extending into Idaho and Montana.
Still, there are a plethora of lodging choices available within Yellowstone National Park, whether you’re seeking to remain close to Old Faithful or want to explore other parts of the park. You might decide to stay somewhere outside the park, such as Jackson Hole, Wyoming, or Cody, Wyoming. There are some fun things to do in Jackson Hole, but the best things are in the park. So don’t even think of driving another mile and stay close to Yellowstone’s main attractions.
I suggest remaining inside the park rather than staying outside if you have a choice. Driving hours each day can be saved by staying somewhere central like Old Faithful or Canyon Village.
Canyon Village is the finest place to stay while inside the park. It’s located in a pretty good area of Yellowstone.
Inside Yellowstone National Park, there are several types of accommodations available to visitors, including:
- Hotels, Cabins, and Lodges: Private restrooms, restaurants, and gift shops are just a few of the amenities available in these hotels. Some popular sleeping accommodations include Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Canyon Lodge and Cabins, and Grant Village.
- Campgrounds: These accommodations offer tent and RV sites and are typically more rustic than hotels in the area. Some popular campgrounds include Madison Campground, Bridge Bay Campground, Fishing Bridge RV Park, Canyon Campground, and Grant Village Campground.
- Backcountry Camping: For those looking for a more remote and primitive experience, backcountry camping is also an option. This type of camping requires a permit and is only allowed in designated backcountry campsites.
- RV Parks: Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only RV Park inside the park that offers full hookups and is open for the summer season.
10 Best Hotels and Cabins Inside Yellowstone
Here are the Hotels & Cabins Inside Of Yellowstone National Park:
Old Faithful Inn
Yellowstone’s Old Faithful Inn is known for its rustic architecture and proximity to the famous Old Faithful, which regularly erupts and can be seen from the hotel. None of the Yellowstone hotels are luxury destinations. Still, the Old Faithful Inn makes up for it in its surrounding beauty.
The inn was built in 1904 and is the largest log structure in the world. It features a grand lobby with a large fireplace and rooms and suites with views of Old Faithful or the surrounding mountains. It offers a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, a gift shop, and guided tours. The inn is a popular destination for visitors to the park.
The Old Faithful Inn features a restaurant called The Old Faithful Inn Dining Room. It is a full-service restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features American cuisine focusing on locally sourced ingredients and traditional dishes. The restaurant has a rustic and historical atmosphere, with high ceilings, large windows, and a fireplace.
Some of the menu items include bison burgers, trout, and huckleberry pie. The restaurant also has a bar area where you can get drinks like beer and wine. It’s a perfect place to dine while enjoying the park’s beauty.
In addition to its regular menu, the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room offers unique dining experiences, such as a Sunday brunch buffet and a multi-course dinner focused on local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant also has outdoor seating areas with views of Old Faithful, which can be a great way to enjoy a meal while also taking in the park’s natural beauty.
The restaurant is popular among visitors to Yellowstone, and it is recommended to make early reservations during peak seasons. The restaurant also has a dress code that requests casual attire. It is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal, and it is a unique experience of dining in one of the most iconic places in the world.
Lake Yellowstone Hotel
The Lake Yellowstone Hotel is a fantastic hotel was built in 1891 and is one of the park’s oldest and most iconic hotels.
The hotel has a grand lobby, fireplace, and beautiful lake view. It has rooms and suites with views of the lake or the surrounding mountains; some have balconies. It features Victorian-era architecture and has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
The hotel also has a restaurant, a gift shop, and a tour desk. It is a great place to stay if you want to explore the park and experience its natural beauty.
The hotel features a restaurant called The Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room. It is a full-service restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The menu features American cuisine, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and traditional dishes. Some of the menu items include bison burgers, trout, and huckleberry pie. The restaurant also has a bar to get drinks like beer and wine.
The restaurant has an elegant and historical atmosphere, with high ceilings, large windows, and a fireplace. The restaurant also has outdoor seating areas with views of the lake, which can be a great way to enjoy a meal while also taking in the park’s natural beauty. It is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal, and it is a unique experience of dining in one of the most iconic places in the world.
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel
If you want to see the geothermal characteristics of Yellowstone National Park, the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is a fantastic location to stay. The hotel is near Mammoth Hot Springs, a vast complex of hot springs, geysers, and other geothermal features. The hotel has been in operation since 1937. The hotel features suites that can hold families or bigger groups and rooms with two beds or a king-sized bed. The hot springs or the surrounding mountains can be seen from the rooms.
Anyone looking for a place to see the magnificence and majesty of Yellowstone National Park will love staying at this hotel. The hotel provides guests a restaurant, a gift store, and various leisure activities in addition to comfortable accommodations. Guided tours of the park, visits to Yellowstone’s natural beauties, and relaxation in the outdoor hot springs are also available for guests.
The hotel, situated in the center of Yellowstone National Park, offers visitors easy access to the park’s numerous attractions. From Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, guests can easily visit the park’s geological marvels, such as the Lower Falls and Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Several hiking paths provide stunning views of the park’s flora and fauna, allowing visitors to view it from afar. Fishing, hiking, and camping are just a few tourist attractions. The hotel features a swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna for those who wish to relax.
Canyon Lodge and Cabins
Canyon Lodge and Cabins is a lodging facility offering a variety of accommodations, including traditional hotel rooms and cabins. The cabins can sleep up to six people and have amenities such as private bathrooms, heating, and electricity. The lodge also features amenities such as a restaurant, gift shop, and a tour desk where guests can book activities and excursions in the park.
Attractions at and around Canyon Lodge include the famous Old Faithful geyser and other geysers, hot springs, and colorful pools. You can also see various wildlife, such as bison, elk, and bears, and hike on the many trails through the park. It’s also an excellent base for exploring other parts of the park, such as the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and the Upper Geyser Basin.
In addition to the natural attractions, Canyon Lodge also offers a variety of recreational activities for guests. These include fishing in the park’s streams and rivers, horseback riding, and skiing in the winter. It’s also conveniently located near the park’s main road, making it easy for guests to explore different park areas.
Canyon Lodge is open seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall, depending on the weather conditions. It is a popular destination, so booking accommodations are recommended well in advance.
Grant Village
Grant Village is a lodging facility located inside Yellowstone National Park. It offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional hotel rooms and cabins. The cabins can sleep up to six people and have amenities such as private bathrooms, heating, and electricity. The village also features amenities such as a restaurant, gift shop, and a tour desk where guests can book activities and excursions in the park.
Grant Village is located on the shores of West Thumb Geyser Basin, one of the park’s most famous geyser basins. The village is also located near other popular park attractions, such as Yellowstone Lake, which offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. Visitors can take a boardwalk tour to see all the attractions and hot springs in the area, including the renowned Frying pan Spring and Fishing Cone.
In addition to the natural attractions, Grant Village also offers a variety of recreational activities for guests to enjoy. These include hiking, biking, and fishing in the park’s streams and rivers.
The village is open seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall, depending on the weather conditions. It is a popular destination, so booking accommodations are recommended well in advance.
Old Faithful Snow Lodge
Old Faithful Snow Lodge is open during the winter season and is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the park during the winter months. It offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional hotel rooms as well as cabins.
The cabins can sleep up to four people and provide amenities such as private bathrooms, heating, and electricity. The lodge also features amenities such as a restaurant, gift shop, and a tour desk where guests can book activities and excursions in the park.
The lodge is near the Old Faithful, one of the park’s most famous and predictable geysers. It is also located near other popular parks attractions such as the Grand Prismatic Spring, the Midway Geyser Basin, and Yellowstone Lake. Visitors can take a short walk from the lodge to see it erupt and other geysers and hot springs.
In addition to the natural attractions, Old Faithful Snow Lodge also offers a variety of recreational activities for guests to enjoy during the winter season. These include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. It also provides guided Snowcoach tours, which take visitors to other parts of the park to see the winter scenery and wildlife.
The lodge is open from December to March, depending on the weather conditions. It is a popular destination, so booking accommodations are recommended well in advance.
Overall, Old Faithful Snow Lodge offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty and wonder of Yellowstone National Park during the winter while enjoying comfortable accommodations and various recreational activities. It is an ideal choice for those looking to explore the park and all it offers during the winter, especially the Old Faithful, the Midway Geyser Basin, and Yellowstone lake.
Roosevelt Lodge
Roosevelt Lodge is one of the oldest operating lodges in the park. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the park’s history and rustic charm. It provides a variety of accommodations, including traditional hotel rooms as well as cabins. The cabins can sleep up to six people and come equipped with amenities such as private bathrooms, heating, and electricity. The lodge also features amenities such as a restaurant, gift shop, and a tour desk where guests can book activities and excursions in the park.
Roosevelt Lodge is located in the Tower-Roosevelt area of the park, which offers a variety of natural attractions for visitors to explore. These include the Tower Fall, a 132-foot waterfall, and the Lamar Valley, known for its wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can also take a scenic drive on Northeast Entrance Road to see the park’s beautiful scenery.
In addition to the natural attractions, Roosevelt Lodge also offers a variety of recreational activities for guests. These include horseback riding, fishing, and hiking. The lodge also offers guided wildlife and fishing tours, which take visitors to different parts of the park to see the wildlife and fish the park’s streams and rivers.
The lodge is open seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall, depending on the weather conditions. It is a popular destination, so booking accommodations are recommended well in advance.
Overall, Roosevelt Lodge offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty and wonder of Yellowstone National Park while enjoying comfortable accommodations and various recreational activities.
The lodge is ideal for those looking to explore the park and all it has to offer, especially the Tower Fall, Lamar Valley, and Northeast Entrance Road. The Lodge also provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the park’s history and rustic charm, as it is one of the oldest operating lodges.
Lake Lodge
Traditional hotel rooms and cabins are available at Lake Lodge, as well as other options. Cabins offer private bathrooms, heating, and electricity and can accommodate up to six people. A restaurant, gift shop, and tour desk are located within the lodge, where guests can book park activities and excursions.
Lake Lodge is located in the Lake area of the park, which offers a variety of natural attractions for visitors to explore. These include the famous Lake Yellowstone, the largest body of water in the park, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The lodge is also located near other popular park attractions, such as the Yellowstone River and West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake, known for its geothermal features.
In addition to the natural attractions, Lake Lodge also offers a variety of recreational activities including horseback riding, hayrides, and a variety of ranger-led programs.
The lodge is open seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall, depending on the weather conditions. It is a popular destination, so booking accommodations are recommended well in advance.
The lodge is ideal for those looking to explore the park and all it has to offer, especially Lake Yellowstone and the West Thumb of Yellowstone lake. The Lodge also provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the park’s history, as it is one of the oldest operating lodges.
The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel
The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional hotel rooms and cabins. The cabins can sleep up to four people and provide amenities such as private bathrooms, heating, and electricity. A restaurant, souvenir shop, and a tour desk are also available at the hotel, where visitors may schedule park activities and tours.
The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is located in the Mammoth Hot Springs area of the park, which is known for its geysers, hot springs, and terraces. Visitors can take a short walk from the hotel to see the famous terraces made of travertine, a type of limestone formed by the hot springs. The hotel is also located near other popular park attractions, such as the Gardiner River and the Lamar Valley, which is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities.
In addition to the natural attractions, The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel also offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. The hotel is near the park’s north entrance, providing easy access to the many trails and roads that lead into the park.
The hotel is open year-round, but some facilities and services may not be available depending on the season. It is a popular destination, so booking accommodations are recommended well in advance.
The hotel is ideal for those looking to explore the park and all it has to offer, especially the Mammoth Hot Springs terraces, Gardiner River, and the Lamar Valley. The Hotel also provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the park’s history, as it is one of the oldest operating lodges.
The Lake Yellowstone Cabins
The Lake Yellowstone Cabins is known for its beautiful location on the shores of Lake Yellowstone and its rustic charm. The hotel offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional hotel rooms and cabins. The cabins can sleep up to four people and provide amenities such as private bathrooms, heating, and electricity. A restaurant, gift store, and tour desk are also available at the hotel, allowing visitors to book park activities and excursions.
The cabins are located in the Lake area of the park, which offers a variety of natural attractions for visitors to explore. These include the famous Lake Yellowstone, the largest body of water in the park, which offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. The hotel is also located near other popular park attractions, such as the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake, known for its geysers and hot springs.
The cabins provide a variety of leisure activities for guests to participate in addition to the natural charms. Among the activities available are hiking, biking, and fishing in the park’s streams and rivers. Visitors may also take guided fishing excursions to different parts of the park to fish in the park’s streams and rivers.
The hotel is open seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall, depending on the weather conditions. It is a popular destination, so booking accommodations are recommended well in advance.
5 Best Campgrounds Inside Yellowstone
Here’s a list of the best campgrounds inside of Yellowstone:
- Madison Campground: Located near the Madison River, this campground offers tent and RV sites and is open from early May to early October. It also provides a nearby visitor center, a general store, and a ranger station. It is an excellent location for fly-fishing and river rafting.
- Bridge Bay Campground: This campground is located near Bridge Bay Marina on the shores of Yellowstone Lake and offers tent and RV sites. It is open from late May to early September. It is one of the largest campgrounds in the park, with over 400 sites. It offers a nearby marina, boat tours, a general store, and a ranger station.
- Fishing Bridge RV Park: This RV-only campground is located near Fishing Bridge and offers full hookup sites. It is open from late May to early September. It is the only RV park with full hookups and an excellent location for fishing. It offers a nearby visitor center, a general store, and a ranger station.
- Canyon Campground: This campground is near the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and offers tent and RV sites. It is open from late May to early September. It is an excellent location for hiking and offers a nearby visitor center, a general store, and a ranger station.
- Grant Village Campground: This campground is located near West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake and offers tent and RV sites. It offers a nearby marina, boat tours, a general store, and a ranger station. It is open from late June to early September.
- Lewis Lake Campground: This campground is near Lewis Lake and offers tent and RV sites. It is open from late May to early September. It is an excellent location for fishing and provides a nearby ranger station.
- Norris Campground: This campground is located near Norris Geyser Basin and offers tent and RV sites. It is open from late May to early September. It is an excellent location for hiking and offers a nearby visitor center, a general store, and a ranger station.
- Pebble Creek Campground: This campground is located near the Lamar Valley and offers tent and RV sites. It is open from late May to early September. It is an excellent location for wildlife watching and provides a nearby ranger station.
- Slough Creek Campground: This campground is located near the Lamar Valley and offers tent and RV sites. It is open from late May to early September. It is an excellent location for fishing and provides a nearby ranger station.
- Tower Fall Campground: This campground is located near Tower Fall and offers tent and RV sites. It is open from late May to early September. It is an excellent location for hiking and offers a nearby visitor center, a general store, and a ranger station.
Please note that some campgrounds may be closed during the winter season and some may have limited facilities. It’s always recommended to check the availability and make reservations before you visit. Also, please note that some of the amenities and services may be limited or closed, so it’s always recommended to check the National Park Service website for the most current information.
FAQ On Best Places To Stay Inside Yellowstone
What part of Yellowstone is best to stay in?
Canyon Village is always one of the best areas to stay in Yellowstone. The geyser basins and the large canyon of the Yellowstone River are all close by, making it a central attraction.
Is it better to stay inside Yellowstone park or outside?
Staying inside the park may offer more amenities and things to do, but it will also be more expensive. You’re located in the middle of nature when you stay inside the park, so if that’s what you’re looking for, it’s the better option. However, staying outside the park may be a more affordable option and still offer great views and access to Yellowstone.
What is the best time of year to visit Yellowstone?
The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park is during the summer months, from June through August. This is when all attractions are open, and most amenities are available. However, winter can also be a beautiful time to explore Yellowstone if you don’t mind some snow and cold weather!
What campground in Yellowstone National Park has the best amenities?
Pebble Creek Campground offers excellent amenities to its guests, including a ranger station, a general store, and wildlife-watching opportunities.
What is the best hotel inside Yellowstone on the West side?
The best hotel on the west side of Yellowstone National Park would have to be the Old Faithful Inn. This historic hotel offers guests a unique experience with its old-fashioned Western charm.
Do any hotels inside Yellowstone allow pets to stay?
Dogs and cats are allowed in these accommodations but on a limited basis:
- Lake Hotel and Cabins
- Lake Lodge Cabins
- Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins
- Canyon Lodge Cabins
- Old Faithful Lodge Cabins
- Old Faithful Snow Lodge Cabins
- Roosevelt Lodge Cabins
In designated cabin units, quiet and housebroken dogs and cats are permitted. No other animals are allowed. Pets are limited to two per pet-friendly room. During their stay, each unit occupied by an animal will be charged a $25 fee per unit.
At all times, pets must be tethered or confined. They must be kept quiet and cannot be left unattended. Pets can’t be left alone in a car. Bowls containing food and water should not be left outside, as they attract park animals.
Final Thoughts on Best Places To Stay Inside Yellowstone
Suppose you’re planning on visiting Yellowstone National Park. In that case, one of the first things you should consider is the lodging option that best suits your needs. The best lodging options in the park include hotels, cabins, campgrounds, and lodging inns.
Several types of accommodations are available inside Yellowstone National Park to suit the needs and preferences of different visitors. Visitors can choose from historic hotels and lodges, rustic campgrounds, backcountry camping, RV Parks, cabins, and cottages.
Hotels and lodges such as Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel offer amenities such as private bathrooms, restaurants, and gift shops. Old Faithful Inn is one of the best hotels to stay in Yellowstone.
Campgrounds like Madison Campground, Bridge Bay Campground, Fishing Bridge RV Park, and Canyon Campground are ideal for those looking for a more rustic experience.
Backcountry camping is an option for those looking for a more remote and primitive experience. Still, it requires a permit and is only allowed in designated backcountry campsites.
Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only RV Park inside the park that offers full hookups and is open for the summer season. Visitors can stay in cabins and cottages at Old Faithful Snow Lodge, Lake Lodge, and The Lake Yellowstone Cabins.
Plan early and book your lodging reservation, as accommodation options fill up quickly during the peak summer season.
So get packing, load up your itinerary, and head to Yellowstone for the best vacation of your life.
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