The Ultimate Guide to Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of those places that leaves you a little speechless. The first time I drove through the gates and watched steam rise from a geyser just off the road, I knew I’d stumbled into a world unlike anywhere else. With its bubbling hot springs, towering waterfalls, endless wildlife sightings, and sweeping mountain views, it’s no wonder Yellowstone tops bucket lists all over the world.

But if you’re planning your trip, there’s one big question that can feel overwhelming at first: where should you stay in Yellowstone National Park?

This isn’t just a matter of finding a hotel and calling it a day. Yellowstone is massive, spanning nearly 3,500 square miles across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Staying in the right place can make or break your experience, especially if you want to maximize your time exploring instead of driving for hours.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through every option, from iconic lodges inside the park to rustic cabins, campgrounds, and charming gateway towns just outside its borders. Whether you’re a family of five, a couple seeking romance, or a solo traveler on a budget, I’ll help you figure out the perfect base for your Yellowstone adventure.

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Overview of Accommodation Options

When it comes to Yellowstone, you have two main categories of lodging:

1. Staying inside the park – Think historic lodges, rustic cabins, and scenic campgrounds.
2. Staying outside the park – Hotels, motels, and inns near Yellowstone that offer more amenities and flexibility.

Each option has its perks and drawbacks, so the “best” choice depends on your travel style.

• Families: Might prefer the convenience of family-friendly hotels in West Yellowstone.
• Solo travelers: Campgrounds are affordable, but smaller hotels in gateway towns can be a great fit too.
• Budget travelers: Camping or budget motels outside the park are usually the way to go.
• Luxury seekers: You’ll love Jackson Hole’s resorts or the elegance of Lake Yellowstone Hotel.

Let’s dive into the details.

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Staying Inside Yellowstone National Park

There’s something magical about waking up in the middle of Yellowstone itself. Imagine sipping coffee as bison graze outside your window or walking just a few minutes to see Old Faithful erupt at sunrise before the crowds arrive.

Park Lodges & Hotels

Yellowstone’s lodges aren’t just places to sleep. They’re experiences in themselves. Here are the most famous ones:

• Old Faithful Inn: Built in 1904, this is the park’s crown jewel. Its towering log architecture and stone fireplace feel straight out of a fairytale. Plus, it’s steps away from the most famous geyser in the world.
• Lake Yellowstone Hotel: This elegant, colonial-style hotel overlooks Yellowstone Lake. It’s perfect for those who want a more refined, luxury experience inside the park.
• Canyon Lodge & Cabins: Recently renovated, this is the largest sustainable lodge in the national parks system, conveniently located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
• Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel: Located near the park’s north entrance, this lodge offers easy access to wildlife-rich Lamar Valley.

Pros of Staying in Lodges:

• You’re already inside the park, so less time driving.
• Historic charm and unique atmosphere.
• Easy access to iconic landmarks.

Cons:

• Rooms sell out months (sometimes a year) in advance.
• Limited amenities compared to outside hotels (no TVs, sparse Wi-Fi).
• Higher price points.

Cabins & Basic Accommodations

If you love a rustic vibe, the cabins scattered across Yellowstone are charming and often more affordable than lodge rooms. You’ll find them near Old Faithful, Lake Yellowstone, and Canyon areas. Most cabins are basic. Think simple beds, heating, maybe a bathroom but that’s part of the charm.

For travelers who want to disconnect, cabins strike a sweet balance: more private than a lodge but still right in the heart of Yellowstone.

Campgrounds & RV Sites

For the adventurous (and budget-conscious), Yellowstone’s 12 campgrounds are an incredible option. Some are reservable (like Bridge Bay and Madison), while others are first-come, first-served (like Norris).

RV travelers will also find several sites with hookups, but keep in mind, spots are limited and book up fast.

Camping perks:

• The cheapest way to stay inside the park.
• You’re immersed in nature (I once woke up to elk bugling outside my tent. It doesn’t get more Yellowstone than that).
• Great for stargazing and early starts.

Camping drawbacks:

• Weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
• You’ll need to be bear-aware and store food properly.
• Fewer comforts compared to hotels.

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Staying Near Yellowstone: Gateway Towns

If you can’t score a spot inside the park or prefer more amenities, don’t worry. The gateway towns around Yellowstone are fantastic bases with their own personalities.

West Yellowstone, Montana

West Yellowstone is the most popular gateway, and for good reason: it’s literally right outside the park’s busy west entrance.

• Why stay here: Tons of hotels in West Yellowstone (from budget motels to cozy lodges), plenty of restaurants, gas stations, and tour companies.
• Best for: First-time visitors and families who want convenience.
• Bonus: The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a great stop for kids.

Gardiner, Montana

Gardiner sits at the north entrance, right by Mammoth Hot Springs.

• Why stay here: It’s less crowded than West Yellowstone and offers a more laid-back vibe. Browse places to stay in Gardiner for rustic inns and riverside cabins.
• Best for: Wildlife watchers heading into Lamar Valley (prime wolf and bison country).
• Atmosphere: Rustic and outdoorsy, with great rafting on the Yellowstone River.

Cody, Wyoming

Founded by Buffalo Bill himself, Cody is about an hour from the east entrance.

• Why stay here: Cowboy culture! Rodeos, Western museums, and historic saloons. You’ll find a mix of lodges and hotels in Cody to suit all budgets.
• Best for: Travelers who want a mix of Yellowstone and a taste of the Old West.
• Drawback: Longer drive times into Yellowstone compared to other towns.

Jackson, Wyoming (Jackson Hole)

Jackson is further from the park, but it’s worth mentioning for luxury travelers.

• Why stay here: Upscale resorts, fine dining, and access to Grand Teton National Park as well. For those wanting pampering, check out luxury resorts in Jackson Hole.
• Best for: Those who want adventure by day and pampering by night.
• Bonus: The views of the Tetons are jaw-dropping.

Cooke City & Silver Gate, Montana

These tiny towns near the northeast entrance are hidden gems.

• Why stay here: They’re the closest access to Lamar Valley, Yellowstone’s wildlife haven. Options are limited, so it’s smart to book Cooke City lodging early.
• Best for: Photographers, wolf watchers, and anyone seeking peace and quiet.
• Drawback: Limited dining and lodging options compared to bigger towns.

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Best Areas to Stay Depending on Your Itinerary

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• First-time visitors: West Yellowstone or central park lodges like Canyon Lodge.
• Wildlife enthusiasts: Lamar Valley is unbeatable. Stay in Cooke City, Silver Gate, or Mammoth.
• Luxury seekers: Splurge on Jackson Hole resorts or Lake Yellowstone Hotel.
• Budget travelers & families: Campgrounds or budget motels in West Yellowstone.
• Road trippers: Consider staying in different towns depending on which entrance you’ll use. This helps you cover more ground without backtracking.

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Practical Tips for Booking & Planning

• Book early: Lodges inside the park can sell out a year in advance. You can often still find last-minute deals near Yellowstone.
• Be flexible: If you can’t get your first choice, look at different entrances or mix your stay (e.g., a few nights inside, a few outside).
• Check seasonal closures: Some lodges and entrances close in winter. Always double-check dates.
• Pack smart: Weather changes fast. Layers are essential. And don’t forget bear spray if you’re camping or hiking.
• Budget realistically: Prices inside the park are higher than nearby towns. Factor in gas, food, and possible tours.

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Conclusion

Yellowstone is one of those rare places where every corner feels like a new world waiting to be discovered. Choosing where to stay is less about finding “the best” spot and more about matching your base to your travel style and priorities.

• If you want history and charm, stay in a lodge like Old Faithful Inn.
• If you want flexibility and budget-friendliness, West Yellowstone hotels is your friend.
• If you’re chasing wildlife, head toward Lamar Valley and its quiet gateways.
• If luxury calls your name, Jackson Hole resorts won’t disappoint.

No matter what you choose, the magic of Yellowstone will find you. Just remember to book early, plan your days wisely, and leave room for those spontaneous moments like watching a bison casually block traffic or catching Old Faithful erupt when you least expect it.

Ready to start planning your adventure? Share this post with your travel buddies, start browsing booking options, and check out my other travel guides for more tips. Yellowstone is waiting, and trust me. It’s worth every moment.