Where to Stay in Yellowstone: Your Complete Lodging Guide for 2024
Where you stay in Yellowstone can make or break your trip. With over 2.2 million acres to explore, choosing the wrong spot can leave you spending hours driving instead of experiencing the park’s iconic sights.
I’ve learned firsthand that the right lodge or campground can save you time, help you avoid crowds, and give you the best chance to see Yellowstone’s famous wildlife. That’s why I’ve put together this guide.
In this post, I’ll help you find the best places to stay in Yellowstone based on my own experiences visiting the park. Whether you’re looking for convenience, budget-friendly options, or unique lodges, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Yellowstone.
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Quick Overview of the Best Places to Stay in Yellowstone
Finding the perfect place to stay can make or break your Yellowstone trip. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide based on what’s most important for your visit.
- Best for First-Time Visitors: Canyon Lodge & Cabins – Central, modern, and ideal for covering all the main attractions without long drives.
- Best for Budget Travelers: Stage Coach Inn – Budget-friendly and just outside the park’s West Entrance.
- Best for Booking Within 6 Months: Kelly Inn, West Yellowstone – Close to the West Entrance with more availability than lodges inside the park
- Best for 4+ Day Stays: Canyon Lodge & Cabins + The Roosevelt Hotel, Gardiner – Split your stay between the southern and northern parts to cut down on driving time.
- Best for Families: Kelly Inn, West Yellowstone – Spacious rooms, indoor pool, and family-friendly amenities near the West Entrance.
- Best for Luxury Travelers: Old Faithful Inn or Lake Yellowstone Hotel – Stay at Yellowstone’s most iconic lodges with stunning views, formal dining rooms, and historic charm.
- Best for Campers: Canyon Campground – Central location with great amenities like showers and laundry
- Best for Repeat Visitors: Roosevelt Lodge Cabins – A quieter, rustic experience near Lamar Valley, ideal for wildlife watchers and fewer crowds.
Best Places to Stay Inside Yellowstone National Park
Staying inside Yellowstone can make your trip so much more convenient, especially if you want to cut down on driving and be closer to the park’s top attractions. Here’s my take on the best lodges and campgrounds based on location, amenities, and my personal experiences.
Ranking of Lodges Inside Yellowstone National Park
- Canyon Lodge & Cabins (Julia’s Pick): Canyon Lodge is my top pick for anyone wanting a central location that makes it easy to explore both the northern and southern parts of the park. I love how modern and comfortable it is, plus it’s close to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Hayden Valley. If you’re trying to avoid long drives, this is the best choice.
- Old Faithful Inn (Julia’s Pick): Old Faithful Inn is Yellowstone’s most iconic lodge, and staying here feels like you’ve stepped back in time. I love the historic charm and how close it is to Old Faithful. It’s a bit pricier, but the ambiance and being just steps away from the geyser make it worth the splurge.
- Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins (Julia’s Pick): If you want the convenience of staying near Old Faithful but are looking for something a bit more modern, the Old Faithful Snow Lodge is a great alternative. It doesn’t have the same historic vibe as Old Faithful Inn, but it’s a little more affordable while still offering easy access to the geyser.
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cottages: This hotel has a more elegant feel and stunning views of Yellowstone Lake. I recommend it for couples or anyone looking for a quieter, more relaxed stay. Just keep in mind, it’s less central, so you’ll be driving further to reach most of the park’s main attractions.
- Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins: Located near the northern entrance, Mammoth Hotel is not as central as other options, but it’s perfect for those planning to spend time around Mammoth Hot Springs or Lamar Valley. I find it to be a good value option, but I don’t recommend staying here for your whole trip. Instead, split time between another lodge to cut down on long drives to the main attractions.
- Old Faithful Lodge & Cabins: If you’re looking to stay near Old Faithful without spending a fortune, Old Faithful Lodge Cabins are a good budget-friendly option. The cabins are pretty basic, but the location makes it easy to see the geyser without breaking the bank.
- Roosevelt Lodge & Cabins: Roosevelt Lodge is perfect if you want a more rustic, off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s near Lamar Valley, which is great for wildlife viewing, and it feels a lot quieter than the more touristy areas of the park. Just know that you’ll be further away from the park’s main sights.
- Lake Lodge Cabins: These budget-friendly cabins are right by Yellowstone Lake and offer a simple, rustic experience. If you’re looking for an affordable option with beautiful lake views, this is a solid choice.
- Grant Village Lodge: Grant Village is convenient if you’re entering the park from the south, but it doesn’t have the same charm as some of the other lodges. It’s a basic spot for a quick overnight stay if you’re just passing through.
Easily Plan Your Perfect Yellowstone Trip with My 87-Page Guide
Join hundreds of travelers who’ve used this guide to plan a stress-free, unforgettable trip.
- Detailed, hour-by-hour itineraries for all must-see sights.
- Insider tips to help you skip the crowds and find hidden gems.
- Easy-to-follow maps and regional guides.
- Trusted advice from my years of exploring the national parks.
Ranking of Campgrounds Inside Yellowstone National Park
- Canyon Campground (Julia’s Pick): Canyon Campground is my favorite for its central location, which makes it easy to explore all parts of the park. The campground is large and can get busy, but it has great amenities like showers and laundry, which I find super helpful after a long day of hiking.
- Norris Campground: If Canyon Campground is full, Norris Campground is a great alternative. It’s still pretty central and close to Norris Geyser Basin, but it’s a bit more basic in terms of amenities
- Fishing Bridge RV Park: If you’re traveling in an RV, Fishing Bridge is the only campground in Yellowstone with full hookups. It’s more like an RV park than a traditional campground, so you won’t get as much privacy, but it’s super convenient for RV travelers.
- Madison Campground: Madison Campground is great if you want to be close to dining options in West Yellowstone and still stay inside the park. It’s a convenient spot for seeing Old Faithful and the geysers, and the basic amenities like flush toilets and a dump station make it a comfortable option for short stays.
This list is just the highlights. Check out my full guide to camping in Yellowstone, where I break down all 12 campgrounds based on amenities, location, and my personal tips.
Best Places to Stay Outside Yellowstone National Park
If you can’t find availability inside Yellowstone or prefer more amenities and flexibility, staying just outside the park is a great option. I’ve broken down the top places to stay near each entrance to help you pick the best spot based on your needs.
If you’re looking for current availability, this interactive map can help you search all the available hotels and rental properties near Yellowstone National Park! Simply scroll and click the map below to see what is available!
West Entrance (West Yellowstone, MT)
West Yellowstone is the most popular town for staying outside the park, and for good reason. It’s just minutes from the West Entrance, so you can easily access main attractions like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Plus, there are plenty of dining options, outdoor activities, and a variety of accommodations to fit any budget.
- Kelly Inn (Julia’s Pick): This is a solid choice for families and first-time visitors. It’s close to the entrance, offers spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. It’s great value for money with the rustic lodge vibe I love.
- Explorer Cabins: These cozy, cabin-style accommodations are perfect for families or groups who want extra space. The kitchenettes are a bonus if you prefer to cook, and the location, just a short walk from town, is super convenient.
- Stage Coach Inn: If you’re on a budget, Stage Coach Inn is a simple, Western-style hotel that won’t break the bank. It’s no-frills but has everything you need for a comfortable stay near the park.
- Under Canvas: For a unique glamping experience, Under Canvas has safari-style tents just outside of West Yellowstone. It’s a great choice for those looking to combine nature with a bit of luxury, perfect for adventurous couples.
Not sure how to get here? Learn about the closest airports and best routes to get to Yellowstone with ease.
North Entrance (Gardiner, MT)
Gardiner, right outside the park’s North Entrance, is much quieter than West Yellowstone. It’s a good base if you’re exploring Mammoth Hot Springs or want to avoid the crowds. Plus, it’s the only entrance open year-round.
- Roosevelt Hotel (Julia’s Pick): This hotel is ideal for couples or small groups looking for comfort and easy access to the park. I love the spacious rooms and mountain views, and it’s reasonably priced for the area.
- Yellowstone Gateway Inn: Perfect for families or groups, this spot offers apartment-style suites with kitchenettes, giving you more space and flexibility for longer stays. It’s a good value option for those who like to have extra room.
- Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel: If you’re up for something different, staying in a luxury tipi with the stars overhead is a unique way to enjoy the Yellowstone area. It’s best for couples looking for a special experience, though it’s pricier than standard lodging.
Northeast Entrance (Cooke City-Silver Gate, MT)
Cooke City and Silver Gate are small towns near the Northeast Entrance. There are fewer amenities and dining options here, but the location is good for those spending most of their time looking for wildlife in Lamar Valley.
- Elk Horn Lodge: This cozy, family-run lodge has simple rooms close to Lamar Valley. If you’re like me and plan to spend most of your time looking for wildlife, this is a great value option.
- Silver Gate Lodging: Rustic cabins near the entrance that are great for families or couples wanting peace and quiet. The location is unbeatable for access to Lamar Valley, but the isolation means fewer amenities.
East Entrance (Cody, WY)
Cody is about an hour from the East Entrance, so it’s not the closest option, but it’s a fun place to stay if you’re into Western history, rodeos, or want to explore the outdoors. There’s a range of accommodations here, from budget to upscale.
- The Cody Hotel: This modern hotel is great for families or couples who want comfort. It’s further from the park, but the indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and cozy rooms make it worth considering.
- Chamberlain Inn Cody: A charming, historic hotel in downtown Cody, perfect for couples who want a bit of character and history. It’s further from the park, but the ambiance makes up for it.
Timing your trip can make all the difference. Discover the best time of year to visit Yellowstone based on weather, crowd levels, and wildlife activity.
South Entrance (Grand Teton National Park)
If you’re planning to explore both Yellowstone and Grand Teton, the South Entrance is a great base. Accommodations here are limited but convenient for visiting both parks.
- Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch: This is my top choice if you want easy access to both parks. The rustic cabins and lodge rooms are basic, but the location is unbeatable for splitting time between Yellowstone and Grand Teton.
Insider Tips for Booking Yellowstone Lodging
- Book Early for In-Park Lodging: If you want to stay inside the park, you’ll need to book as early as possible—sometimes a year in advance! I’ve found that Old Faithful and Canyon Lodge tend to be the first to book up. However, you may have success grabbing last-minute cancellations by regularly checking Xanterra’s website or calling them directly at 307-344-7311 about 30 to 60 days before your trip.
- Split Your Stay to Minimize Driving: If you’re spending more than three days in the park, I recommend splitting your stay between two locations. For example, staying a couple of nights at Canyon Lodge to explore the central and southern areas, then moving to Mammoth or Gardiner for easier access to the northern parts of the park. This cuts down on driving time.
- Stay Outside the Park for Last-Minute Trips: If you’re planning a trip within three months, you’ll have better luck finding lodging in West Yellowstone or Gardiner. These towns have a wider range of last-minute availability, and from my experience, West Yellowstone is the best for access to the park’s key attractions without feeling too far away.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Stay in Yellowstone
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Yellowstone
Choosing the right place to stay is one of the biggest factors in having a smooth Yellowstone trip. Whether you’re staying inside the park for convenience or just outside for more affordable options, remember to book early, plan based on your itinerary, and think about how much driving you want to do each day.
More Yellowstone Guides to Help Plan Your Trip:
Easily Plan Your Perfect Yellowstone Trip with My 87-Page Guide
Join hundreds of travelers who’ve used this guide to plan a stress-free, unforgettable trip.
- Detailed, hour-by-hour itineraries for all must-see sights.
- Insider tips to help you skip the crowds and find hidden gems.
- Easy-to-follow maps and regional guides.
- Trusted advice from my years of exploring the national parks.
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