Camping

"Camping in Yellowstone" has that "great American summer vacation" ring to it—packing the car or the RV, cruising open-highway stretches and setting your sights on the perfect campsite. When you sleep out under the stars, you can be lulled off to dreamland by the call of a great horned owl or the song of a trickling creek. Plus, we all know the best memories are made around the campfire.

Set up your tent, camper or motorhome, or pack in to some of our wildest backcountry destinations to explore the beauty of the raw and untouched wilderness. Unplugging and unwinding is always a good idea, and there's no better place for it than Montana's Yellowstone Country.

Yellowstone National Park is an obvious go-to for campers, with over 12 campgrounds and 2,000 campsites. These highly sought-after campsites tend to book up fast (especially in July and August), so reserve ahead of time at the campgrounds that allow it, or show up as early as possible to first-come, first-served campsites. If you're interested in exploring deeper into the wild, Yellowstone has over 300 primitive backcountry campsites—just remember your backcountry permit, and be bear-aware. Same-day reservations can be made by calling 307.344.7901; future reservations can be made by calling 1.866.GEYSERLAND (439.7375) or visiting the Yellowstone National Park Lodges website.

In addition to the many camping options in Yellowstone National Park, there are plenty of camping opportunities (and reasons to visit) throughout Yellowstone Country, from the park's gateway towns to the intriguing and unique small towns that make the region so extraordinary. National forests and state parks have campsites and facilities, and most take reservations. Both public and private campgrounds offer amenities like picnic tables, bathrooms and water pumps to make life easier. Keep in mind that temperature and weather changes can be quite dramatic, so be sure to pack adequate clothing and shelter. Montana summer days are hot, but nights are cool—that's where the campfire comes in!