Yellowstone National Park
There’s nothing ordinary about it. It’s at once otherworldly in its dramatic, violent nature (it’s a supervolcano, after all) and as raw and pure and earthly as earth can be—a contrast that has attracted curious travelers (officially) since 1872. This high plateau of geothermal features like geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, mudpots, and travertine terraces is not just a sight to behold, but an opportunity to experience the solace and beauty of one of the planet’s wildest places—Yellowstone National Park. It’s synonymous with Old Faithful, but that icon overshadows the rest of its bubbling earth and full-spectrum hot pools, its ragged Grand Canyon, the wildlife-laden Lamar Valley, crashing waterfalls, dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests and stately timbered lodges. It's also a refuge for hundreds of animal species that are revered and honored here.
Yellowstone’s geology, diversity of ecosystems and experiences unique to each season, make it one of the country’s (and the world’s) most popular and fascinating vacation destinations. You might even call it The Great American Vacation. It’s that, and so much more. So when you’re ready, come find us. Getting here is easy. Leaving is another story.
In these pages you’ll find all the park information and resources you need for an unforgettable trip. From when to visit and what to pack to basecamps, lodging and dining...you’re on your way.
Get tips here on how to #RecreateResponsibly while in Yellowstone Country.
Plan ahead
- Read the Top Things to Know.
- Know where you will spend the night. Reserve space in a campground or hotel - these facilities fill far in advance. Camping in the park is only allowed in designated sites within designated campgrounds. Camping is not permitted along roadsides, at overlooks, pullouts, trailheads or other parking areas.
- Reduce wait times at park entrances. Buy your pass online ahead of time.
- Check current park conditions for information on road construction, temporary road closures and the backcountry situation report.
- Expect limited access to cellular phone service and WiFi.
- Download Yellowstone's app before you arrive.
Recreate responsibly: Protect yourself and the park
- Stay at least 100 yards (91 meters) from bears or wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 meters) from all other wildlife (practice safe selfies).
- Stay on boardwalks and trails in thermal areas.
- Be bear aware. Carry bear spray. Know how to use it. Be alert. Make noise. Hike in groups. Do not run from a bear.
- Stash your trash. Recycle what you can and put the rest in bear-resistant trash cans so animals can't get it. If a can is full, find another.
- Leave what you find. Don't take antlers, artifacts, rocks, plants or other objects from the park.
- If you see someone, in person or online, whose behavior might hurt them, others, or the park, tell a ranger or dial 911.
The park works with partners to safely provide visitor services such as camping, lodging, dining, retail and activities, educational programs, fuel and automotive repair shops and urgent care clinics.
Check locally or visit www.nps.gov/yell for current information.
