🏕 Campground
Bridge Bay Campground (Yellowstone)
About This Permit
Bridge Bay is Yellowstone's largest campground, on the west shore of Yellowstone Lake — the largest high-altitude lake in North America. At 7,733 feet and 132 square miles, the lake sets the backdrop for campfire evenings with mountain views and frequent grizzly sightings near the lakeshore. Bridge Bay Marina provides boat rentals and guided lake tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bridge Bay campground near geothermal features?
Bridge Bay is on the lake, about 20 miles from Old Faithful via the Grand Loop Road. West Thumb Geyser Basin (hydrothermal features directly on the lake shore) is 20 miles south. Bridge Bay is better positioned for lake activities than geyser viewing.
Can I fish on Yellowstone Lake from Bridge Bay?
Yes — the marina rents motorboats and the lake is open to fishing (cutthroat trout) with a park fishing permit. Lake trout (invasive) must be killed if caught.
How far is Bridge Bay from Old Faithful?
Approximately 17 miles via the Grand Loop Road — about 25–30 minutes by car. Most visitors with a vehicle base at Bridge Bay for lake access and make day trips to geothermal areas.
Key Facts
- State
- WY
- Season
- Mid-May – mid-September (2026 dates: May 15 – Sept 14; limited first-come sites May 15–21)
- Sites
- 432 sites (tent and RV; no hookups)
- Access
- Bridge Bay area, Yellowstone NP, on the shore of Yellowstone Lake via Grand Loop Road
- Reservation Window
- Reservations through Yellowstone National Park Lodges (not recreation.gov); opens 13 months in advance on the 5th of each month
- Difficulty to reserve
- 4/5(Very hard)
Get an SMS the moment a cancellation opens — we scan every 60 seconds.
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