13 Best Areas & Places

What are the best Yellowstone National Park lodging options? If you are traveling to this awesome place, accommodation shouldn’t be among your worries. Here is a comprehensive list of the best places to lay your head.

Are you planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park? Well, one of the most important choices you’ll have to make is where to stay. And with so many great places and areas to choose from, you need a place that matches your schedule and your tour plan.

For instance, you should pick a hotel that makes it easy to visit your favorite spots in the area or that allows you to experience some of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

The good thing here is that the Yellowstone area offers more than enough awesome accommodation choices for you. Whether you are a solo traveler or have tagged along with your friends or family, you can always find an excellent place to stay.

Our list today explores some of the most popular accommodation spots in the area to help make your choice easier. Also, we will give you some tips on how to make that crucial decision.

Let’s get started and see some of the best options you have for lodging by Yellowstone National Park.

But first;

Yellowstone National Park Overview

Yellowstone is the nation’s second-largest national park and offers a vast choice of incredible features and tourist attractions. From the Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful to the stunning Yellowstone Lake, this 2-million acres worth of park has something for everyone.

And that’s not all. The area also boasts several other national parks around it, most notably Grand Teton National Park. Grand Teton National Park is just 16 miles south of Yellowstone National Park, meaning you can have more adventure beyond Yellowstone. You can even take a combined tour of the two national parks to get a full experience!

The best time to visit Yellowstone Park would be during the summer. This is when most of the features are accessible, the weather is most fair, and you can make the most of your trip.

However, if you don’t mind braving the cold weather, winter can also offer a unique experience with its snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes. Also, winter provides incredible opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter games.

The national park is located across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Most tourists prefer to stay in the Wyoming section as it is closest to the park’s main attractions.

So, where do you want to stay during your visit? Check out some of the best Yellowstone National Park lodging choices below.

Overview of Where to Stay at Yellowstone National Park

There are a number of different places where you can stay in the park, but our top picks are resorts and lodges. They offer a range of services such as restaurants, bars, and activities that are perfect for exploring the park. If you’re looking for something quieter, then you can also choose to stay in rustic cabins or go camping.

Whatever you choose, ensure you book your accommodation well in advance because some spots go quickly, especially during the peak seasons!

Here’s a brief overview of the different types of lodging available in the park:

• Camping: There are several camping grounds located throughout the park that offer a variety of facilities, including toilets and showers. You can also reserve campsites in advance online.
• Cabins and Lodges: There are several cabins and lodges located in the park that offer both affordable rates and great amenities, such as hot showers, kitchens with stovetops and dishware, and cable TV. Some lodges even have restaurants on site.
• RV Parks: If you’re traveling with your RV, there are several RV parks near the park, offering a wide range of amenities, from full hookups to pull-throughs.
• Resorts: There are several Yellowstone resorts you can try out – Mammoth Hot Springs Resort and Old Faithful Inn being some of the best.

But before we can figure out where to stay in Yellowstone National Park, do you know how you can get there?

How to Get to Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, within Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Getting to the park is not too much of a hassle. You can get to the park by car or plane relatively easily.

Yellowstone Airport is the closest airport to the park, located in West Yellowstone, Montana. However, while the airport is a mere 3 miles from the west entrance of Yellowstone Park, it’s smaller, seasonal (May to October), and flight costs are pretty high. From here, you can either take a taxi or rent a car to get to the park. RentalCars.com is an excellent site to visit if you want to hire a rental car.

But, Bozeman International Airport wins the day if you are looking for the best all-around airport, especially when on a budget. BZN is located in Bozeman, Montana, just one and a half hours from Yellowstone Park’s northern entrance.

You can also use your car or RV from home if you are looking to experience a great road trip!

See Related: Best Things to do in Gardiner, Montana

Best Places to Stay in Yellowstone National Park

There are a ton of different places to stay for a few nights in this neck of the woods. Whether you’re looking for Yellowstone hotels, campsites near your preferred park entrance, or a rustic lodge with a wood-burning stove, there’s something to fit every Yellowstone itinerary.

1. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins is one of the best hotels near Yellowstone National Park! Since it’s located just outside the park, it’s easy to get there by car or bus. And once you’re there, you can spend quality time in some of the best thermal springs in the world.

The hotel also offers a range of activities that will let you explore the park from a different perspective. You can hike, bike, horseback ride, or take luxury ATV tours. In addition, the hotel boasts a number of luxurious cabins that are perfect for relaxing and soaking up the natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park.

This luxury resort offers great amenities such as an on-site spa, ski lodge, and golf course. Plus, its location in the heart of the park means that you’ll be able to access all the amazing attractions that it has to offer easily.

If you are visiting Yellowstone in winter, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins is the best place to stay. From the hotel, you can book and enjoy some of the most popular guided tours, including;

These tours allow you to explore amazing in-park spots such as the Old Faithful, Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon, and the Lamar Valley. As for the snowshoeing and skiing enthusiasts, the Bear Den ski shop allows you to rent the necessary equipment.

2. Kelly Inn West Yellowstone

Located just a few minutes from the park’s entrance, Kelly Inn is another of the best Yellowstone National Park lodges. Besides offering spacious air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, and private bathrooms, the hotel also has an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a communal sauna. Now, those are incredible features that ensure a comfortable stay for every guest.

The hotel is in West Yellowstone, Montana, and offers some of the best accommodations. As for the attractions near Kelly Inn West Yellowstone, you can explore the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, which is a mere 3-minute walk from here. So, if you’ve chosen to tour the western part of the park, check out Kelly Inn.

As mentioned, the hotel is quite close to the park’s entrance. In fact, it’s among the closest hotels to the park. And it’s also pretty convenient when you want to visit local restaurants or do some shopping here.

If you are looking for the best West Yellowstone lodging deals, try Kelly Inn. To top it up, you can book a tour starting nearby the hotel, such as the Yellowstone River Whitewater Rafting & Lunch or the Lower Loop Active Van Tour.

3. Old Faithful Inn

As they say, old is gold! And Old Faithful Inn is a clear indication of this. This resort not only offers affordable accommodation but gives you value for your money.

The property offers comfortable and spacious rooms, a restaurant, bar, and conference room, plus a pool and a spa. In addition, it’s close to several major attractions in the park, so you’ll be able to get around easily no matter where you’re going.

And did we say that Old Faithful Inn is a national historic landmark? Yes, it is!

The property was built between 1903 and 1904 from local logs and stone, making it one of the most stunning properties here. In fact, it’s the most booked Yellowstone National Park lodge. It has great features, including a huge stone fireplace, a towering lobby, and a hand-crafted clock.

As for nearby attractions, Old Faithful Inn boasts several top spots, including;

• Giant Geyser
• Old Faithful
• Old Faithful Visitor Education Center
• Grand Prismatic Spring
• Upper Geyser Basin
• Great Fountain Geyser
• Midway Geyser Basin

With these attractions being quite close to the Inn, you can be sure to have the trip of your lifetime. Even better, there are some incredible guided tours you can book from Old Faithful Inn. These include the Picture Perfect Photo Safari, Bicycle Rentals, and Firehole Basin Adventure. For the best Yellowstone lodging in the park, try out Old Faithful Inn.

4. 1872 Inn

For travelers seeking romantic expeditions, the 1872 Inn is perfect for this purpose. It is located in historic Old Faithful Village, making exploring all the park has to offer easy. Moreover, the Inn has been voted the best romantic Inn in Yellowstone for three consecutive years, so you can be sure that you’ll have a wonderful stay!

This Inn has been offering luxurious accommodation in Yellowstone National Park since 1872, and it remains one of the most popular choices today. It offers charming rooms with all the modern amenities, plus delicious food and refreshing drinks.

The rooms here are distinctively Montana-styled. If you wish to experience the true Montana spirit, the decor and comfort in these rooms offer just that. And to top it up, this boutique hotel is located in just the right spot to allow for a comprehensive Yellowstone Park exploration.

Other facilities that make the property an excellent option among Yellowstone National Park lodges include

• A fitness center
• A small business center
• Continental breakfast

The area is great for breathtaking sightseeing and awesome activities, including horse riding, canoeing, and fishing.

See Related: Best Things to do in Livingston, Montana

5. Canyon Lodge & Cabins

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Yellowstone National Park, the Canyon Lodge is a perfect choice! This luxury hotel is situated in one of the most scenic parts of the park, right near the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. It also lies just a few minutes from other attractions like:

• Lower Yellowstone Falls
• Canyon Visitor Education Center
• Inspiration Point
• Artist Point

Canyon Lodge offers over 500 spacious and comfortable rooms and cabins with all the amenities you could possibly need. Plus, the food here is just delicious, and drinks are abundant. In addition, they offer an excellent range of activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding, to make your days here blissful.

The lodge has a variety of facilities that will make your visit to Yellowstone worthwhile, including an on-site restaurant, a spa, and a pool.

Plus, it’s conveniently located, meaning you won’t have to worry about extra hassle when traveling to and from the lodge. So if you’re looking for somewhere convenient and comfortable to stay while visiting Yellowstone National Park this year, Canyon Lodge is undoubtedly worth checking out!

6. Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins

When searching for nice places to stay in Yellowstone National Park, Lake Yellowstone Park Hotel and Cabins will undoubtedly pop up. These properties are located on the banks of the beautiful Lamar River and offer breathtaking views of the valley and Mount Washburn.

The hotel features 296 rooms and 12 cabins that can accommodate up to 16 guests each. The cabins come with all the amenities you would expect, including TVs, bathrooms with hot showers, and private decks overlooking the river. You can also enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, or birdwatching while in the park.

The property is a historic landmark and one of the best historic hotels in the country. Also, it received the Green Seal Lodging Certification, acknowledging its sustainable operations.

So, for environmentally conscious travelers, this hotel offers a great choice. And if you have your pet, several select cabins allow pets.

See Related: Best Things to do in Billings, Montana

7. Lake Lodge Cabins

For the best views of Yellowstone lake, choose Lake Lodge Cabins. Tourists and visitors to this Yellowstone national park area love these cabins for a good reason. For starters, the cabins are top-notch!

Each of the 186 cabins comes with almost everything you might need to help you enjoy your stay. From a comfortable bed to a kitchen with all the modern amenities, there’s nothing we couldn’t find on this list! In addition, they’re split into two categories: Standard and deluxe.

The deluxe cabins come with luxurious features like gas fireplaces and private baths, while Standard cabins are perfect for budget-minded travelers.

Choose Lake Lodge for a hassle-free trip to one of America’s most iconic destinations. They offer a variety of accommodation options that include single, double, and triple bedrooms, as well as family rooms.

Even better, the cabins are located next to the lake and have views of the park and the surrounding mountains. They also have a barbecue area, a playground, and a pool. All of the cabins come with satellite TV, air conditioning, and WiFi access.

Besides Yellowstone lake, other attractions near the cabins include;

• Pelican Creek
• Union Falls
• Mammoth Hot Springs
• Natural Bridge Trail
• Bridge Bay

And if you want to book some tours from this place, there are several great ones, including;

• Guided Fishing/Sightseeing Charter Boats
• Rental Boat tours

This way, you can enjoy the are to the fullest.

8. Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins

If you want to be close to the park’s geysers, hot springs, and other hydrothermal features, then this Yellowstone lodge is a great choice. It is also perfect for winter visits, as it is located near the ski and other winter activity areas. So, while it’s still operational in summer, it’s most active in winter as more visitors tour the area.

The lodge has a rustic yet cozy feel, making it perfect for those who want to escape the city life’s hustle and bustle. And they have several cabins on-site that offer more privacy if needed.

These Old Faithful Lodge cabins offer all the essential amenities that ensure you connect to nature and still feel comfortable.

Also, booking accommodation here allows you to access some amazing tours to explore some of the most amazing features of the park. You can book a tour to various parts of Yellowstone National Park, including;

• The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
• The Lone Star Geyser trail
• Firehole Canyon
• Mammoth Hot Springs

Even better, you can do your skiing just outside the hotel. Faithful Snow Lodge is among the best Yellowstone National Park lodges for winter travelers.

9. Grant Village

If luxury is what you seek, Grant Village is the perfect place to stay in Yellowstone National Park. The village is located strategically in the park and offers access to some of the best attractions Yellowstone offers.

It features beautiful cottages that have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And there’s an on-site restaurant that serves top-notch food and several bars and lounges where you can relax after a day of exploring the park.

Grant Village offers lodging, camping, and several other visitor services. It sits on the southwest side of Yellowstone Lake, just about 2 miles south of the famous West Thumb Geyser Basin.

Whether you are looking for a tent, ADA, or an RV site, Grant village is a fantastic spot. For example, there are over 400 regular campsites and around 8 sites for those traveling as a group. As for RVs, the back-in and pull-through sites can accommodate RVs even up to 50 feet long.

10. Madison Campground

This is every camper’s dream come true for those visiting Yellowstone National Park! And, it’s not without some good reasons.

For starters, Madison Campground is situated on the banks of the Madison River and offers stunning views of the park. Also, its location is ideal for fishing enthusiasts and offers access to several trails, which are perfect for hikers.

The campground also boasts over 270 campsites, with all the necessary amenities to make your stay here memorable. And if you are coming with your RV, some of these campsites are RV-friendly.

Other features that make this an excellent campsite include:

• Proximity to the park’s entrance
• Proximity to all the Geyser Basins (Upper, Lower, and Midway)
• Restroom facilities with running water
• It’s near the Madison River
• It’s near West Yellowstone town, where you can access camping gear and equipment if needed.

Madison Campground is perfect for those visiting the area during spring or summer. This way, you can get a view of all the stunning attractions and enjoy the numerous activities. However, reservations fill up quite quickly, so you need to make your early.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in the US

11. Best Western Desert Inn

Best Western Desert Inn offers an excellent accommodation opportunity if you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park with your family or a group. For starters, it’s located just 1 km from the Yellowstone National Park West Entrance and around 17 km from the Paddle On Adventures.

Other popular attractions that make the Best Western Desert Inn a strategic point include:

• National Geographic IMAX Theater
• Yellowstone Historic Center Museum
• Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

The Desert Inn also offers a wide range of amenities. These include access to a pool, hot tub, and fitness center. It also has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious food at reasonable prices. And if you need any help during your stay, the staff is available 24/7.

Additionally, for families and groups, Desert Inn has all the facilities to make your stay comfortable. From large family rooms with free WiFi to ample parking and a pet tolerance policy, this is an excellent place for you. Plus, if you need some extra space, virtual guest rooms are available that let you spend time online without having to leave your room.

Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay during your Yellowstone National Park visit, then the Best Western Desert Inn is the place.

12. Lone Mountain Ranch

The Lone Mountain Ranch is an excellent choice when you want something good for your family. This ranch is situated on a sprawling 148-acres property that offers stunning views of Emigrant Peak and amazing valleys.

Here, you can also take part in various activities such as horseback riding, fly-fishing, guided hiking, canoeing, and paddling. The over 50 miles of skiing trails and the 53 miles of hiking trails are something you wouldn’t want to miss.

The place offers unique packages and opportunities for family vacations. For instance, you can choose the summer discovery or holiday discovery, which allow families to enjoy all Yellowstone National Park offers and beyond. Children can always enjoy some games on the facility’s extensive playground.

When spring and fall seasons come, adults can enjoy the various experiences by booking several packages such as;

• Winter Discovery
• Field Trip Adult Week
• Big Sky, Big Love Elopement Package

As for meals, their fine casual dining is designed to ensure your body is ready for the thrilling activities that await. Plus, their accommodation meets all the standards of a high-end property. This means that you are certainly getting back value for your money.

Lone Mountain Ranch is also an excellent spot for photographers and videographers. This is because it has plenty of stunning locations from which to capture your memories. As such, whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away or an adventure-packed getaway, Lone Mountain Ranch is perfect for you!

While the ranch is not near the entrance or inside the park, its comfort and amenities compensate for the distance.

See Related: Must-Know Vacation Tips to Maximize Your Trip Experience

13. Al’s Westward Ho Motel

Sometimes, you just need something nice that’s within your budget. If that’s you, you might want to consider staying in one of AI’s Westward Ho Motels!

This motel is just a walking distance from West Yellowstone National Park’s entrance and offers great accommodation. It has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and free parking, and it’s quite near popular Yellowstone Park attractions. For instance, the Yellowstone Giant Screen and the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center are some great attractions you can enjoy from here.

Al’s Westward Ho Motel in West Yellowstone also offers access to numerous scenic walking, horseback riding, and biking trails. And if you want something a bit further from the hotel, you can explore the Upper Geyser Basin. Also, if you love fishing, this motel offers just the perfect access to incredible fishing sites.

Even better, the motel is family-friendly. This way, whether you are visiting Yellowstone with your young kids or teenagers, the motel is ideal.

The only drawback here is that the property is seasonal, opening its doors between mid-May and mid-October. So, you can certainly check the place out if you are here within that period.

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