rv trip from california to yellowstone

WE'RE THE RUSSOS

Live Free and Explore! Blog about RV Living and Travel.

5 Day Yellowstone RV Trip Itinerary – The Best Way to Explore America’s 1st National Park

Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means we will earn a commission on the products or services you purchase using the links. There is no additional cost to you and the earnings help keep this website running. Read the Affiliate Disclaimer for more information.

One of the best ways to see America’s first national park is in an RV. Joe and I spent four days exploring Yellowstone National Park in a Class B RV with Charley the yellow lab. In this post, I share our five day Yellowstone RV trip itinerary including places to visit, where to camp and tips for planning your RV road trip.

Watch the videos below to see what it’s like to explore Yellowstone in an RV and some of the camping options inside and outside the national park.

5 Day Yellowstone RV Trip Itinerary

Before we dive in, I want to mention that driving a Class B RV through Yellowstone is much easier than driving a small Class C RV or even something bigger. You will encounter narrow roads, tight parking lots and short narrow pull-outs for wildlife viewing and hiking trails.

Whether you’re taking your own RV to the park or taking a rental RV , the smaller the RV the better.

>>Use this link to Browse Yellowstone RV Rentals<<

Let’s get started planning your Yellowstone RV Trip Itinerary!

Table of Contents

Day 1: Cody, WY

Cody, Wyoming is a great place to start your Yellowstone RV road trip.

Plan to spend the day at Buffalo Bill’s Center of the West where you can fuel up on chuck wagon coffee, biscuits and beans before even stepping foot inside the center. There are five museums at the center including the Cody Firearms Museum and the Draper Natural History Museum which has exhibits on all the wildlife found in Yellowstone National Park. There is designated RV parking at the center.

Tip: Cody is also a good place to stock up on bear spray before you get to Yellowstone National Park. If you have the time to buy online, it will be less expensive than at a local outfitter or inside the national park. Bears aren’t the only concern as bison and elk can also be dangerous.

Night 1 Camping Options

You can choose from a handful of RV parks in Cody, Wyoming or spend the night at Walmart like we did.

Learn more about Overnight RV Parking at Walmart

Day 2: Cody, WY to Yellowstone

Drive Beartooth Pass to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The views on highway 120, 296 and 212 are worth it especially of Granite Peak and Castle Mountain. We spotted a moose in Silver Gate, a two mile drive from the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone.

Depending on the time of year, check the road conditions for closures. There is limited to no cell coverage on parts of this drive so check before you leave. While we were in Cody, the North entrance was closed due to snow, but opened the next day.

Northeast Entrance has an oversized vehicle lane on the right for RVs and buses. Past the entrance is a sign with the status of every campground inside the park. If you do not have reservations, this is one place to check campground availability. Given the size of the park, by the time you arrive at the campground, it may be full.

Pets are allowed inside Yellowstone National Park in developed areas. You will not be able to bring your pet on any of the trails or boardwalks. Read the full pet policy on the park’s website .

Make your way to Mammoth Hot Springs via Tower Rosevelt. The earlier you start your day, the more time you’ll have to experience everything on this drive.

Barronette Peak overlook is a good spot to scan for Mountain Goats. We spotted several goats with babies on the hillside. They were difficult to see with the naked eyes, but we got to see them through a spotting scope.

Lamar Valley is a popular spot for wolf sightings. We saw a pack of wolves near Slough Creek. This area is also filled with bison and pronhorn.

Tip: There is Verizon LTE coverage in the Slough Creek area.

Trout Lake Trail is a short and easy 1.2 mile loop natural trail with beautiful views . The trailhead parking area is around 1.5 miles south of Pebble Creek Campground. Although it’s a short trail, it’s worth taking your time to enjoy the wildlife and the views. By the time we finished the trail, the sun was starting to set and we wanted to get to our dispersed camping spot before dark.

Night 2 Camping Options

There are several campgrounds between the Northeast Entrance and North Entrance of Yellowstone. Check the NPS website for availability and status. Many of the campgrounds were closed during our visit.

Tip: For the best shot at a first come, first served campsite, arrive early in the morning. You can check online for status and availability or inquire at the park entrance.

If you cannot find accommodations in Mammoth Hot Spring, Grainer has a few RV park options. We found a great dispersed camping spot on NF 3243 using Allstays .

Tip: rent or bring a good pair of binoculars with you.

• You can rent a Canon 10×42 at Yellowstone Forever in Gardiner. Rental rates start at $15 for 24 hours and the binoculars have to be returned to the same location.
• You can also rent or buy Swarovski binoculars and spotting scopes through Optics Yellowstone in Gardiner by giving them a call 406-224-5277.

Day 3: Mammoth Hot Springs & Tower-Roosevelt

Start your day at the Albright Visitor Center. It’s a great place to get information from rangers and volunteers as well as drop off your recycling and fill up your water bottles.

Parking in the Mammoth Hot Springs can fill up quickly especially if you are in a large RV. Arrive early to grab a spot and plan to keep your RV parked there until you’re done exploring the area. One of the benefits of taking a small RV to Yellowstone is more parking options.

See the Mammoth Hot Springs. The well maintained boardwalk offers great viewpoints of the various springs in the area. We spotted a bull snake and an elk on our walk.

Beaver Ponds Trail is a popular 5 mile loop that starts near Liberty Cap. Give yourself 2 to 3 hours to complete the trail through the forest to Beaver Pond. Unfortunately, the park rangers closed the trail when we arrived due to grizzly bears in the area.

Drive to Tower-Roosevelt to see Undine Falls and Wraith Falls. Undine Falls is a pull over area where you can walk a few steps down to see the falls. Wraith Falls is a short and easy trail to a beautiful waterfall. On the drive to Wraith Falls we saw a coyote after the car in front of us slammed on their brakes.

Tip: cars are more dangerous than wildlife. We had many close calls with cars coming to a sudden stop in front of us or crossing over the center line. Be extra careful when you’re driving an RV through Yellowstone.

Bear jams are a real thing. We experienced several on the drive to Tower-Roosevelt. Luckily, when Joe decided to pull over to make a cup of coffee the black bear and cubs came to us. What followed was a massive jam of bear proportions. We even came across an abandoned car in the middle of the road with all the doors open because the occupants ran outside to look at bears on the hillside.

Tip: give yourself more time than you think you need. From bear jams to construction inside the park, you will likely need more time to get from point a to point b.

Petrified Tree is on the way to Tower-Roosevelt area. Since we have been to Petrified Forest National Park , we decided to skip it and head to Tower Fall Trail.

Tip: there is decent Verizon cell coverage at Tower General Store. The speed is slow, but it’s good enough to check email. If you’re wondering why I am including cell coverage throughout this post, one of the main reasons is because we run our business on the road and need to have internet access .

Night 3 Camping Options

Camp at Tower, Mammoth Hot Springs or drive back to Gardiner. Since Tower Campground and Mammoth Hot Springs were both full during our visit, we drove back out to the dispersed camping spot in Gardiner.

Day 4: Norris & Canyon Village

Drive to Norris Campground as early as you can for a first come, first served campsite. While it’s great to enjoy dispersed camping in the national forest , Joe and I both wanted to maximize our time inside the park. Of course, if you are able to book a campsite in advance, you won’t need to wake up early like we did.

There is plenty of wildlife viewing between Mammoth Hot Springs and Norris Geyser Basin. We spotted elks, cranes, swans, and goose on the drive to the campground. Many credible sources said grizzlies are in this area, but we did not see any during our visit.

See Yellowstone’s Tallest Active Geyser. Norris Geyser Basin is home to Steamboat Geyser and when it erupts, it can be four times the height of Old Faithful. Plan your time around a daily ranger talk at this geyser to learn more about it and when you an expect to see the next eruption.

Tip: there is limited RV parking at Norris with cars taking up some of the RV spots when the lot is full. Arrive early to save yourself the headache of trying to find a parking spot. Smaller RVs like vans can fit in the standard parking lot.

Explore the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone . There are several trails in the area where you can take in the views of the canyon.

• Lookout Point for a view of the waterfall.
• Grand View offers amazing views of the canyon.
• Red Rock Trail offers a better view of the waterfall.
• Brink of the Falls will get you up close and personal with the falls. If you only have time for one trail, I would recommend Brink of the Falls. It is a short and steep 3/8 mile trail out and back with an elevation change of 600 feet.

Mud Volcano is worth it. If you have the time, take the easy 2/3 mile trail to see Sour Lake, Churning Caldron, Grizzly Fumarole.

Look for Wolves in Hayden Valley. On the drive back to Canyon Village we saw a black wolf and bald eagle on the other side of Yellowstone River.

Refresh at Canyon Village. It’s day four and if you’re like us, you’re ready for a real shower (not an RV shower) with unlimited hot water. For less than $5 per person, you can get a real shower at Canyon Village and do your laundry. You can also stock up on essential items and get Verizon LTE service in this area.

Tip: If you are staying at Canyon Campground, your reservation comes with a voucher good for two showers per day.  

Night 4 Camping Options

Camp at Norris, Madison or drive outside of the park to West Yellowstone, Montana. We really enjoyed Norris Campground and would highly recommend it if you are able to reserve a site there. Joe and I joked that we paid $20 for a parking spot since we didn’t spend anytime at the campground, but it was well worth it.

Tip: you can extend your first come, first served campsite at Norris by going to the campground office. The next morning, there was a long line of people waiting for a campsite to open up. Another reminder to arrive early if you do not have a reservation.

Day 5: Grand Prismatic Spring & Old Faithful

See the Grand Prismatic Spring. This is the largest hot spring in Yellowstone with vibrant colors as a result of bacteria and algae in the water. As Joe said in the video above “seeing the array of colors and the steam rising from the spring was awe-inspiring.” Keep in mind, the colors vary depending on the time of the year.

Tip: the parking lot for Grand Prismatic Spring is quite small. There are pull outs past the parking area where you can leave your RV and take the walking path to the spring.

Finally Make Your Way to Old Faithful. The most well known geyer is worth seeing on your road trip through Yellowstone. Check the visitor center or ranger stations for estimated time of the next eruption.

Beehive is the Best Geyser in Upper Basin. While you’re waiting for the predictable Old Faithful to erupt, hang out at Beehive to see if you can catch an eruption. It’s our favorite geyser in the Upper Basin.

Tip: Verizon cell service is extremely slow in the Old Faithful area. The best cell signal we found inside Yellowstone is at Mammoth Hot Springs and Slough Creek.

Depending on what you want to do and see, you can always add more days to your Yellowstone RV Trip Itinerary. An event in Idaho cut our trip short, but we could have easily stayed for another two or three days.

Thanks for reading!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

6 thoughts on “5 day yellowstone rv trip itinerary – the best way to explore america’s 1st national park”.

Great tips. We spent 3 season working in Yellowstone and had our Roadtrek also. I would add more days as there are a couple of more geyser basins that should bee seen. Also I think visiting the visitor centers at Old Faithful and Canyon and Mammoth. Wealth of info to obtained. Also if overnighting in the park, there are several great Ranger talks to take in. It is just so huge. we worked 18 months and only scratched the surface. Enjoy what ever your time in YNP. It is truly WONDERLAND.

Thank you for sharing your Yellowstone recommendations.

Great post and great video! I was wondering what month of the year it was? That is exactly the type of landscape I am hoping for – snow on the mountains, but sunny days. Thank you!

We were there early June, good weather and not too crowded.

I have wanted to visit Yellowstone for a long time and this itinerary looks perfect – cheers for sharing!

Great tips on touring Yellowstone! Summer season has become overwhelming there so we time our visits in September. It’s still very busy but not as bad as the summer months.

There are great camping areas outside the west entrance in the Island Park areas just 25 miles into Idaho. The Henry’s Fork of the Snake river flows from its source at Big Springs and the area has abundant wildlife, elk, moose, antelope and an occasional bear or two. Lots of other off the beaten path things to do…explore the lava tubes, mine for opals or visit historical towns like Virginia City just over the border into Montana all a very short drive from Island Park and from West Yellowstone.

Keep those great travel tips coming and safe travels!

• New RVers Guide
• Travel Guide
• Campgrounds
• Boondocking
• National Parks
• Free Camping
• Essential Gear
• Cost of RVing
• One-on-One Coaching

Hey, we're Liz and Dennis!

• How We Make Money While Traveling in an RV Full Time
• Work With Us
• National Parks
• RV Mexico travel guide
• Baja road trip travel guide
• Iceland travel guide
• Gear + Travel Resources
• RVing in Mexico
• Digital Nomad Life

See , National Parks , USA · May 10, 2023

An RV Travel Guide for Visiting Yellowstone National Park

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our Disclosure Policy for details.

Visiting Yellowstone National Park is a bucket list experience for most RVers. Founded in 1872, Yellowstone Park was our country’s first National Park. More than 200 years later, Yellowstone still stands as an icon of American wilderness and rugged beauty.

This 2.21 million acre park is located on a geothermal hot spot and one of the most diverse landscapes in our country. Visitors can marvel at the brightly colored yellow rocks in Yellowstone Canyon, watch the Old Faithful geyser erupt, or observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

We visited Yellowstone in our first year as RVers. We were so excited about visiting this iconic park but quickly became overwhelmed by its size and all there was to see and do. Which is why we created this guide.

To help you make the most of your trip we’ve created a guide to visiting Yellowstone in an RV. It will give you the lay of the land, including where to camp, and how to get around. As well as share some of the top things to do in Yellowstone. Let’s dive in!

Quick facts about Yellowstone National Park

Ancestral Lands : Newe Sogobia (Eastern Shoshone), Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla, Tséstho’e (Cheyenne), and Shoshone-Bannock tribes.

Closest towns : Gardiner, Montana, and West Yellowstone, Montana

Established : 1872

Size : 3,472 sq. miles or 2,221,766 acres

Annual Visitors : 3.1 million in 2022

Visitor Centers : There are ten in total. Below are the largest and most popular:

• Albright Visitor Center (open year-round)
• Canyon Visitor Education Center

Mammoth Hot Springs

• Old Faithful Visitor Center
• West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center

Entrance Fee (as of 2023) : $35 per vehicle per day or $80 for America the Beautiful Pass (annual parks pass)

Drive time through the park : 5 to 7 hours (with brief stops)

Getting around Yellowstone in an RV

Yellowstone National Park is massive. It’s as large as Deleware and Rhode Island combined.

We had no idea how large of a park it truly was until we arrived. With that being said, visitors should carefully plan where they are camping based on what they want to do in the park, and what is open for the season.

Yellowstone is broken up into four sections:

• North (wildlife and geothermal activity)
• East (wildlife and canyon)
• South (Yellowstone Lake)
• West (geothermal activity)

There are several “big destinations” in each of the areas. But we’ll talk more about those in a bit.

Few campgrounds are directly next to the big attractions directly. Meaning you’ll need to drive your RV from spot to spot or have a tow car for exploring.

Driving in Yellowstone can be a slow process. The entire loop in the park takes around five to seven hours to drive with infrequent stops. Road closures for repairs from June through September can cause delays in getting from point A to point B. In addition, you will likely have slowdowns from animal sightings and bison traffic jams (yes, bison traffic jams are 100% a thing).

Assume it will take longer than expected to get to your destination and don’t expect to drive the whole park in a day.

How long do I need for an RV trip to Yellowstone?

Because of its size, we do not recommend visiting Yellowstone if you only have a day or two. You can see the highlights in that short period, but you will not be able to enjoy it fully. We recommend staying at Yellowstone for at least three days if not more. However, five to seven days would be ideal especially if it’s your first time.

When to visit Yellowstone in an RV

Summer (June through September) is the best time for visiting Yellowstone in an RV.  July and August bring the warmest weather making these months the most popular time for visitors. June and September can be very cold after dark, with some snow lingering in early June. Bring layers with you if they plan to explore the park in the early mornings or evenings during these months.

If you want to camp in Yellowstone during peak summer season we highly recommend making a reservation in advance. You can make reservations up to six months in advance and these spots will go quickly. If you aren’t able to snag a reservation right away. Consider signing up for Arvie . This service will automatically search for cancelations for you and book your spot based on your desired dates and RV’s needs.

RV campgrounds in Yellowstone

There are twelve RV campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park boundaries. All of these are reservable up to six months in advance either through the National Park Lodges system or Recreation.gov. The only campground that offers first-come-first-serve camping is Mammoth Campground which is limited to vehicles under 30 feet.

The size of your RV will greatly determine where you can camp. If you have a big rig, like a class A or fifth wheel, you will need to park at one of the newer resorts in the park. These campgrounds will have more amenities but are often farther away from some of the top destinations.

A lot of RV campgrounds in Yellowstone prohibit the use of generators. This could force you to structure your trip around recharging your batteries if you don’t have an RV solar setup . Additionally, many campgrounds close down for renovations in the summer which can limit your camping options. Check the National Park website for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

If you aren’t able to snag a camping reservation and are relying on a first-come-first-serve camping spot at Mammoth. Get there before the sun rises to snag a spot in line. There is no guarantee you’ll get a spot, but the earlier you arrive the better your chances are.

There are alternative options if you are unable to get a reservation or you get a first come first serve spot at Mammoth. The north, east, west, and south entrances of the park have campgrounds to accommodate overflow from Yellowstone.

Most have electricity or water on site and are cheaper than the dry camping spots within the park. The negative is that you are outside of the park. Even though we were only 10 miles from the West Entrance at our campground, Rainbow Point Campground . It took us nearly an hour to reach Madison Campground (the most western campground in the park) each day.

Campendium has an extensive list of paid and free camping options outside of the park boundaries.

What to bring

You need to pay to enter Yellowstone National Park whether you are camping in the park or not. A National Parks pass will gain you entry or you can pay for the number of days you are visiting. If you plan to stay 3 days or more it’s normally more cost-effective to buy the annual pass , which is $80 at the time of this writing. You can buy your pass before your trip or if preferred you can buy it at the entrance of the park.

Since you are visiting Yellowstone in an RV, it’s a good idea to provision before arriving. This includes stocking up on groceries for your trip. The biggest town is near the park in West Yellowstone which is near the western entrance. Here you can find several restaurants, smaller grocery stores, and other shopping.

There are camp stores within the park where you can purchase basic food and pantry items if you need something. The seasonal camp stores can be found at Canyon Village, Grant Village, Fishing Bridge, and Tower Falls.

Hiking is a popular activity in Yellowstone National Park. We highly recommend having your favorite hiking gear with you. We personally never hike without a quality backpack that can carry water like this Camelback . We also love these Merino wool socks , hiking boots , and this hat from REI .

Yellowstone National Park has high bear activity and requires you to carry Bear Spray with you at all times on the trails. Don’t forget to grab yours before arriving!

The weather can change quickly in Yellowstone. No matter where you’re going, you should have a light jacket with you and a poncho in the event of rain. The nights will get cool even in peak summer months. So, bring a heavier jacket and pants to keep warm in the evenings and early mornings.

Wildlife is another huge draw of visiting Yellowstone National Park. You’ll want to have a good pair of binoculars to see the wildlife from afar. Of course, if you have a good camera you’ll want a proper long lens to capture the animals you’ll see. We saw the most insane camera setups at the park. Some were owned, but many were rented specifically for this trip.

You can rent professional camera equipment including lenses from Lensrentals. Prices are super affordable and they have a wide range of inventory to choose from.

Safety in Yellowstone

Before we begin, it’s important to emphasize that you are in the wild when visiting Yellowstone. You are responsible for your safety and well-being. Including bringing the right gear with you on hikes and staying safe outdoors.

Do not feed or touch wild animals. Always keep a safe distance from animals, geothermal areas, and cliffs. Stay on all boardwalks, sidewalks, and paths. The landscape here is delicate and the geothermal areas are extremely dangerous.

Around 50 people die visiting Yellowstone each year. Most deaths are from touching, attempting to swim, or accidentally falling into the geothermal springs.

What to do in Yellowstone

Our travel guide to visiting Yellowstone in an RV is broken up by the geographical area. We feel it’s much easier to plan your trip this way. If you are camping or staying within the park, you have the advantage of being much closer to each destination and reducing some drive time.

If you have the chance, break up your trip into different campgrounds. This means you’ll be driving less distances each day while still enjoying the diversity of the park.

West Yellowstone

The west side of Yellowstone is where most geothermal features can be found. The park itself has over 10,000 formations ranging from geysers to mud pots, hot springs, and fumaroles. Accounting for around half of the world’s geothermal activity.

If you only have a short time at the park, I’d recommend spending it here. After all, it’s not often you get to see geothermal features like these. The list below is going from southwest to northwest of the park.

Old Faithful

Old Faithful is by far the most popular and well-known feature in Yellowstone National Park. This geyser was named Old Faithful because its eruption pattern is super reliable. At least for now. Since 2000 Old Faithful erupts every 45 – 120 minutes, shooting water as high as 185 feet into the air. It’s not the largest geyser in the park, that title goes to Steamboat Geyser, but it’s still impressive to see.

Seeing Old Faithful erupt was the highlight of our trip. We loved it so much that we stayed for two eruptions. Old Faithful is located in the southwestern part of the park and is a huge hub. There is a hotel/lodge, restaurant, gas station, post office, visitor center, and gift shop.

That means it has a lot of people and a lot going on. Visit in the morning so you have time to hang around if you missed the eruption after you arrived. The visitor center has some useful information and a video on Yellowstone that’s worth a listen.

The National Park Service has a page for predicted eruption times for Old Faithful, so plan accordingly. You can also call Yellowstone (307) 344-7381 and push the correct extension to hear the next predicted time of eruption as well.

Upper Geyser Basin

The Upper Geyser Basin is the area that surrounds Old Faithful. Most people park their cars, watch Old Faithful erupt, then leave abruptly and call it a success. But there is a lot more to experience here.

If you have some extra time or want to take full advantage of Upper Geyser Basin take a nice walk along the Lone Star Trail. It’s 5.3 miles roundtrip and is nearly completely flat the entire trail, with over half of the trail being paved cement or wooden walkways. If you have more than a day or two this is definitely worth your time.

Biscuit and Black Basin

This will be a quick stop along our western route through Yellowstone. If you’re super short on time you can skip these, but if you’re dedicating a full day to the West side of the park definitely stop here and take in the area.

Midway Geyser Basin

Midway Geyser Basin was one of our favorite parts of Yellowstone. Specifically, Grand Prismatic Spring. You’ve probably seen a photo from National Geographic of a geyser bursting with colors. This is where you’ll find it.

Grand Prismatic Spring is home to a range of bacteria and thermophiles. This heat-loving algae displays a different color based on the temperature of the water coming from the spring. The colors are so vivid. As the steam rises it carries the colors with it making a rainbow in the mist. It really is something special.

There are a ton of other geothermal formations here as well. Like hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. But Grand Prismatic is the main attraction by far. We also really enjoyed watching the geothermal water cascade into the Firehole River down below. This place gets busy. So come early or come late, but no matter when you come – you don’t want to miss it.

Lower Geyser Basin

Lower Geyser Basin was our first stop when visiting Yellowstone. After visiting Midway Geyser, Upper Geyser Basin, and Norris Geyser we realized how small the Lower Geyser Basin really is. If you’re short on time you can skip this. But we absolutely loved our walk through here. And were in awe of how beautiful the springs were.

Artist paint pots

Artist paint pots can be a quick stop on your trip. The hike to see the paint pots is only a one-mile round trip. There are stairs and a somewhat steep hill, so make sure you can make it to the top. Here you can find a great example of Liz’s favorite type of geothermal activity, mud pots.

• Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin is a massive geothermal area with a wide range of formations to admire. We walked around the boardwalks for nearly three hours. We loved learning about the different geysers and how this area of Yellowstone is constantly changing.

This is also where you will find Steamboat Geyser . Steamboat geyser is the largest geyser in all of Yellowstone. Since 2018 the geyser has erupted unpredictably after a 3.5-year dormancy. It has minor eruptions with water spewing as high as 6 feet and major ones which can shoot up to 300 feet high. We were there just 4 days after its first eruption in 2018 which had a lot of people talking.

East Yellowstone

The east side of Yellowstone National Park has much less geothermal activity. Although there is evidence if you look closely. This part of the park is more of the traditional forest and mountain experience you would expect from northern national parks. On the east side, you can enjoy beautiful mountains, grassy meadows, canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and rivers.

This is the second most popular area of Yellowstone. And in our opinion, it is a must-see. Even if you’re only there for a short trip. The list below is going from southeast to northeast on the east side of the park.

Hayden Valley

Hayden Valley is a passage from the southern part of the park headed toward Canyon Village. The valley is known for its abundant wildlife. If you’re looking to see Bison in their natural habitat this is a great place to stop.

Yellowstone Canyon

If you do this drive at sunrise or sunset your likelihood of seeing other animals will increase. Wolves, elk, and pronghorn deer can also be sighted here. But you are guaranteed to see a bison (or several hundred) when visiting Yellowstone.

Located in Canyon Village, this iconic canyon is aptly named for the yellow stone that can only be found in this area of the park. We’ve seen canyons all over the world now, but Yellowstone Canyon is truly amazing! The waterfall creates a permanent rainbow as the sun shines through. It turns what is already a beautiful scene into a killer one.

There are two drives you can make, the North Rim and South Rim which offer several vistas and overlooks. Stop at every overlook you can. The view changes so much from each vista point. However, if you’re tight on time, Artist Point, Lookout Point, and Inspiration Point are the highlights.

The South Rim Drive was under construction when we were there so we missed out on Uncle Tom’s Trail which we heard has pretty epic views.

There are several hikes down into the canyon to give you up-close views of the waterfalls. Yes, waterfalls are plural, as there are several. The hikes are often short but steep. If you prefer to enjoy the beautiful canyon from one of the vistas, there is no hiking or steep walks involved and plenty of overlooks for you to enjoy it from.

If you’re physically able or have the extra time, we suggest going the extra mile (or two or three) and getting to see Yellowstone Canyon from every possible view. That’s how we got that incredible photo with the waterfall. Plan to spend a decent amount of time here. It could easily take up an entire day if you really wanted it to.

Yellowstone River

If you’ve never gone on a white water rafting trip , Yellowstone River is the place to try it out. Since we were tight on time and focused on doing a majority of free activities. We opted to skip the river trip. When we visit again this will 100% be on our list. You can also relax near the Lamar River and do some fly fishing.

Mammoth Hot Springs is located on the northwest side of the park. It’s the only major geothermal area outside of the Yellowstone caldera previously discussed on the west side of the park. Mammoth hot springs geothermal formations are not only unique because of their location, but also because of how they are formed.

Unlike the geysers, fumaroles, and mud pots you’ll find in the caldera. Mammoth Hot Springs is mostly made up of terraces, specifically travertine terraces. Travertine terraces look like a geothermal set of stairs with water gently trickling down. The travertine is a brilliant white with steam gently rolling off into the air.

There is an upper terrace that you can drive through. And a lower terrace that is made up of boardwalks weaving through the hot springs. Most of the lower terrace has stairs, so if you are not physically able just do the upper terrace. Although you will only see a fraction of the geothermal features at Mammoth. Mammoth hot springs have limited parking so we suggest you come early or late.

Tower Roosevelt & Roosevelt Falls

Tower Roosevelt and Roosevelt Falls are one of the lesser-visited attractions in Yellowstone. It’s known mostly for its beautiful waterfall. But the area also has several hikes, picnic tables, and lodging. Since there is simply so much to do in Yellowstone, this is an area that is often explored if people have more than 4 or 5 days. Or are returning for a second, third, or fourth time to Yellowstone.

Lamar Valley

This wide-open prairie is located in the northeast area of the park. This is where we opted to view wildlife and saw lots of bison, elk, and pronghorn sheep. We unfortunately didn’t see any of the more elusive animals like a wolf, fox, and grizzly but we did get some pretty epic views of wildflowers, mountains, and endless green hills with buffalo sprinkled throughout.

South Yellowstone

The south side of Yellowstone National Park is home to Yellowstone Lake. This tranquil and forested area has some areas of geothermal activity. Many people skip over this area when visiting Yellowstone, but it’s a beautiful stop that should be considered depending on how much time you have.

The list below is going from southwest to southeast .

West Thumb Geyser Basin and Grant Village

If you’re driving into Yellowstone from Grand Teton National Park this is a great place to make a quick stop. Walk around the boardwalks of West Thumb Geyser Basin and enjoy the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake.

It’s one of the only areas of the park where you can enjoy a beautiful lake view in addition to geothermal formations. If you are short on time, just make a quick stop here on your way to Yellowstone Lake or as you enter the park from Grand Teton.

Yellowstone Lake

At a whopping 136 square miles of lake, Yellowstone Lake is the largest body of water in Yellowstone National Park. You can find beautiful lake views, a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of the park, and fun recreational activities for the whole family.

Boats, kayaks, and canoes are permitted on this lake. We would have loved to spend a day on the gorgeous water taking in the views and seeing this park from a different perspective. Swimming is not recommended, as it stays around 41 degrees even in the summer.

If you’re lucky you might see a beaver or a moose here. Shoshone Lake (also on the south side of the park) is supposedly a great place to see Moose in the early morning.

Top things to do in Yellowstone if you are short on time

If you’re visiting Yellowstone in an RV you should dedicate the proper amount of time to see and do as much as possible. However, if you absolutely don’t have the time, then these would be our top things to do in Yellowstone.

• Grand Prismatic Springs (Midway Geyser Basin)
• Old Faithful (Upper Geyser Basin)
• Mammoth Hot Springs OR Yellowstone Canyon (your choice because both are breathtakingly beautiful and unique)
• If your main goal in coming to Yellowstone is to see animals, then do Hayden Valley early in the morning.

If you want to see animals

A lot of people come to Yellowstone to experience the wildlife that is rarely seen outside of these park boundaries. There are hundreds of bison throughout the park in addition to black bears, grizzly bears, wolves, marmots, bighorn sheep, elk, pronghorn, moose, bald eagles, and fox to name a few. There are two main areas to view wildlife, although most parts of the park have some animal or another throughout.

• Lamar Valley (Northeastern Part of Yellowstone)
• Hayden Valley (Eastern Part of Yellowstone)

If we could only choose 3 geyser basins

It’s such a shame not to be able to see all of the geyser basins when visiting Yellowstone. Every single formation is unique and beautiful in its own way. This is definitely not a “see it once, don’t need to see it again” kind of thing.

If you’re short on time and simply don’t have the ability to see all the geyser basins these are our top 3.

Visiting Yellowstone National Park is sure to be a trip you’ll remember for years to come. While many revisit the park to explore it more intimately. This guide should help you plan your first RV trip to our country’s first national park.

Get on the List

About Liz Brumer-Smith

One-half of the Eat See RV team. I'm the face you'll find in most videos and the main author of our blog. If I'm not vlogging or writing you can probably find me reading a good book, hanging with friends and family, relaxing near water, eating something tasty, or savoring kitty cuddles.

You’ll Also Love

May 12, 2023 at 2:12 pm

This guide is so thorough and helpful! We are going back to Yellowstone on sunday (it will be my third time) but I’ll definitely reference your post for all of the best tips!!

May 12, 2023 at 2:51 pm

So glad it was helpful for you. Hope you have the most amazing trip to Yellowstone!! I know there’s some epic hiking. Looking forward to seeing what you do.

How to Find Free RV Camping in Florida (+ 5 Amazing Free Spots)

Trending now.

🌮 Food, culture + outdoor travel ✈️ Exploring by plane, train, + RV 🚐 🏡 Based in St. Pete, FL 🔜 PR 🇵🇷 🌎 Eat, see + travel more🔻

Looking for more?

Here are some additional links to help you find exactly what you're looking for.

• Contact Eat See RV
• Privacy Policy and Disclosures

On the blog

• Digital Nomad

Destinations

Copyright © 2024 Eat See RV · Theme by 17th Avenue

Stickers Now Available! Check out our new Shop! ? Dismiss

Planning the perfect RV trip to Yellowstone National Park

Once upon a time in a thirty-four foot Fleetwood RV I traveled to Yellowstone National Park with my boyfriend, his eleven-year-old daughter, his seventy-seven-year-old Anglo-Indian mother and our two mutt rescue dogs who hate each other. This ramshackle group of characters had a few fights and a lot of fun as we drove, hiked and cooked up some amazing Anglo-Indian cuisine in the tiny kitchen of our 1999 Fleetwood Storm. It was a one-month long summertime journey on the highways of America where we saw all the beauty that the west coast has to offer, encountered a lot of bison and had some crazy outdoor adventures to last a lifetime. Looking back at our journey to our eventual destination, Yellowstone National Park, we learned a lot of things about RV travel and Yellowstone National Park in general. We learned that RV travel takes so many more hours then car travel when everything from gassing up takes three times longer to things constantly break and always need to be repaired in a town with a population of 50. We also learned that there are so many awe-inspiring things to see just off the highways of this grand country of ours.

Yellowstone RV Trip

When traversing the wild and wonderful bison filled world of Yellowstone National Park you may be overwhelmed especially in the planning stages of your trip, and especially if you are new to RV travel like we were. Traveling across country in a brand new, yet gently used 1999 RV and driving over 3,000 miles in one summer is a big endeavor for first time RVer’s but when the final destination is a place as enchantingly gorgeous as awe-inspiring Yellowstone National Park, well the bumps in the road are well worth the journey. One thing you need to know about planning an RV trip to Yellowstone National Park; It’s never to early to start planning! Especially when RV campgrounds book out a year in advance! If you are journeying to the wildlands of Montana, Wyoming and Yellowstone National Park like we did in a 35 foot RV, you may be exceptionally overwhelmed when planning such a big endeavor and driving cross country into an unknown and moose studded wilderness. Let me offer some well-researched advice on how to have an amazing RV outdoor adventure filled vacation.

In late June of 2017, we drove 1,000 miles to Yellowstone National Park. We took the long way from our home in alpine Big Bear Lake, California to the mountains of Montana and Wyoming. We met up with friends in awe-inspiring Telluride, Colorado along the way, Dispersed camped near simply gorgeous Jacob Lake at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, and swam in Lake Powell on a 110 degree summers day. We had so many outdoor adventures in our month on the road and made memories to last a lifetime in the great outdoors of America. And then, eventually, we made it to gorgeous Yellowstone National Park, our summer fun destination!

I’m going to Yellowstone! What do I need to know?

• Make your reservations at Yellowstone National Park a year in advance.
• Always account for drives to take about two hours longer then you expect it to if traveling in an RV.
• There is always road work everywhere in the summer months and this will make drives take longer.
• Driving more than 6 hours in one day in an RV is just exhausting.
• Pack a ladder and every tool you may need, and even the ones you may not need if driving an RV cross-country.
• You can never pack too much duct tape.
• Staying inside the park is recommended.
• Get out on the roads of Yellowstone National Park as early as possible, even mid-morning the traffic is terrible.
• All food and beverage located inside the park is terrible and overpriced. Bring your own.

Plan your road trip to Yellowstone with our simple but effective Road Trip Planning strategy!

Home is Where You Park It

Where to hang your hat.

Our goal for this trip was to stay inside Yellowstone National Park, but I tried booking a campsite in February for our June trip, and all the sites that would fit our needs were already booked. This is why I recommend booking your campsite a year in advance. There are not many campsites available inside the park, and these fill up quickly. That being said, we camped at Rainbow Point Campground in West Yellowstone. This campground was great, right on Hebgen Lake but staying outside the park was not ideal. It was just a pain to have to drive to the park to see all the things each day. If we were to stay again in an RV, I would book at either Bridge Bay Campground or Fishing Bridge RV Park. Both of these campsites look pretty and are centrally located in the park.

Pebble Creek Campground is located in scenic Lamar Valley where all the wildlife viewing for bison and wolves is located. This would be my first choice for campsites, but all these sites are first come, first serve. I’m not keen on the idea of driving 1,000 miles to a campground without having a reserved spot. There are two campsites near Yellowstone Lake that both take reservations and our next trip I will be looking into booking one of them for sure. Bridge Bay Campground sits just below the snow peaked Absaroka Range rising above the eastern shore of Yellowstone Lake. This is a great location, close to the lake and very convenient to all kinds of attractions, general store, etc. in YNP.

Fishing Bridge RV park was our first choice when booking our trip, but booking only eight months in advance, we could not get a site that fit our needs. This site offers full hookups that are great for RV use. It’s a good thing we choose not to book here anyway as we had friends staying with us camping in a tent and this site is only for hard-sided RVs. This site is in a densely Grizzly bear populated area, and that is why there is no tent camping here. Grizzlies are the crazies of the bear family and not to be taken lightly. There are so many fun things to do inside Yellowstone National Park and staying outside the park makes it a lot harder and more time consuming to get to all the fun!

• Fly fishing on the Yellowstone River (or learning how to. You can easily get a guide in the park)
• Hiking Black Tail Deer Creek Trail.
• Hiking at Lava Creek Trail.
• Biking the ten-mile Fairy falls bike trail
• Check out geysers like West Thumb, Old Faithful, and the Grand Prismatic.
• Fishing at Yellowstone Lake.
• Soak and relax in natural hot springs in the area.

Driving the roads of Yellowstone National Park

The best advice I can give you for going for a scenic drive in Yellowstone National Park is to hit the roads as early as possible and be patient. Daybreak is the best time to start out. Obviously, the main reason for this is you will see way more animals at dawn. The problem with this being that when you see an animal, there will usually be gridlock traffic as everyone gets out of their cars to photograph the animal. People see a bison, and they just lose their mind and their will to think logically. We had to stop multiple times on our journey through Yellowstone National Park to let bison pass in and around our car or RV. Whatever you do when travelling through beautiful Yellowstone National Park, pay attention to the warnings about wildlife and stay the proper amount away from the animals. When we had to stop for twenty minutes because a herd of about a hundred bison were passing right in front of our RV, we watched so many tourists getting out of their cars with their kids and approaching the bison, getting right in their path just to grab a few photos. Ridiculous. Don’t be that tourist. One week after we left Yellowstone National Park some dumb dumbs were attacked by a bison and had to be airlifted to the hospital. Don’t be that person on the news.

The other big reason to start your day early is anytime after 9:30 AM there is so much traffic everywhere you go in the park. Not only are there a lot of tourists checking out the sights but there are constant traffic delays for animal sightings. Our first full day at the park we left camp in West Yellowstone at 9:30, then got stuck in a bison traffic jam for half an hour and followed so much traffic all over the park, plus every lot for parking was full of cars and packed with tourists.

This brings me to a good point. Days in Yellowstone National Park can be long, congested, scenic and sometimes frustrating. If you go out driving and hiking and doing all the scenic things in Yosemite National Park;

DO NOT BUY COFFEE IN THE PARK!

Let’s face it, any time you buy anything concessional at a national park, a Dodger game or Disneyland it’s beyond expensive and terrible. Yellowstone National Park was the worst example of this ever! Thanks, Yellowstone National Park for giving me the experience of having the worst coffee I have ever had in my entire life! Our second day at the park, we had driven into the town of West Yellowstone at 7 Am bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and ready for a day of fun in Yellowstone National Park. Okay, not exactly bright-eyed and bushy tailed. We arose from our warm bed inside the RV at 5 AM and were leaving West Yellowstone for the park right after sunrise. We were ready to see some animals, and we could use a cup of Joe. Unfortunately for us the coffee stop advertising espresso and cappuccino was still closed as the hour approached six AM and most of these coffee stops in West Yellowstone don’t open until 8 or 9 a.m. As we drove through the park, I was drowsy and running on fumes as we approached Canyon Village and their awesome general store. Awesome if you don’t order a cappuccino or regular cup of coffee! The latte tasted like a cup of sugar milk water with a teaspoon of coffee drizzled in, and the French roast tasted like hot water with a coffee flavor. I’ve never in my life had coffee quite this bad. It was a waste of twelve dollars. Yes, twelve dollars. Food and drink in the park is expensive and not great although they do have some authentic Montana snack items like huckleberry elk jerky. ($15) That was delicious but pricey.

Take my advice; When you travel into the park for the day pack a picnic lunch and bring your own homemade coffee in a thermos. Everyone could go for a hot Starbucks latte on a cold and windy thunderstormy day in Yellowstone National Park, but you won’t find that in YNP. Come out for an early morning drive well prepared for a day of fun with snacks and drinks to keep your body fueled for fun.

Family fun in West Yellowstone National Park

It’s late afternoon or early evening, and you have escaped the crowded roads and the congested parking lots of Yellowstone National Park. It’s early afternoon, and you are craving a bison burger and maybe looking for a delightful family-friendly thing to do that is very outdoorsy. Did you get to see any wolves while exploring the Lamar Valley? Well if you didn’t, then never fear because West Yellowstone has the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center !

The rates for the Discovery center are very low ($13 a day for adults and $8 for kids) This discovery center is non-profit, and all the animals you are seeing in captivity cannot survive in the wilds. The eight Grizzlies who live here were orphaned as cubs and could not survive in the wild. The six wolves that live at the park live in three different packs and were all born in captivity and are not able to live in the wild. This discovery center is a great way to see some of the animals you may not get to see while hiking through the park. (Okay let’s face it, these are the animals you do not want to see while on a hike!) The discovery center also hosts two remarkably interesting birds of prey/ raptors.

So, what do you do in the evenings in a cowboy town? Have you ever had a fun night out at the rodeo? It’s so Montana!  The Yellowstone Rodeo is held every late July in West Yellowstone. Rain or shine this is a terrific way to spend an evening in West Yellowstone! Take your family and kids to see a true wild west show; Calve roping, bucking broncos and steer roping all take center stage on sweltering summer nights in West Yellowstone. This is a great family-friendly thing to do that so many people can only experience in cowboy country like Montana or Wyoming.

Check out the areas surrounding the park

When leaving through the south entrance, you drive directly into the Grand Tetons, and this is such a gorgeous drive, Even if a fire a few years ago burned through the first few miles of this scenic drive. You cruise by beautiful Jackson Lake and fields of wildflowers on your way to the crazy high Grand Tetons jutting into the blue Wyoming skyline.

At the very end of the Tetons is Jenny Lake; An awesome lake to check out but extremely crazy crowded anytime in the summer months. The best way to spend a day in the Tetons is to start a bike ride near the town of Jackson, Wyoming, and bike into the Tetons and Jenny Lake. There is a great paved cycling trail that parallels the main road into the Grand Tetons. You can even do this bike ride in the early springtime as soon as the snow melts and have the park all to yourself! It’s pretty much the only way to get a secluded trip to Jenny Lake. After the bike ride, stay at the awesome RV Park in Jackson, walking distance to downtown and the world-famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Is it a museum or a great watering hole? You decide. The Cowboy Bar has some great western memorabilia and is located in the town square, the happening downtown of Jackson.

Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding areas are chock full of family-friendly fun things to do that don’t have to break the bank! Grizzly bears, geysers, and ginormous cowboy hats all await you this summer whether you are in the part of the park that lies in Wyoming or Montana!

What advice do you have for the Perfect RV Trip to Yellowstone National Park ?

• Road Trip Planning – The art of the perfect road trip.
• Horseshoe Lake Denali – Explore Horseshow Lake in Denali National Park.
• Carlsbad Caverns Family Vacation – a Family Road trip to Carlsbad Caverns
• Great Sand Dunes NP – Great Sand Dunes NP Day Trip Guide
• White Sands NM – Family vacation wonderland – beautiful road trip!

About The Author

Amber_Woodyard

Related posts.

White Sands New Mexico is a geological marvel of the desert. Gypsum sand dunes rising from the valley floor for miles, windswept and white as…

Read More »

Interested in a getaway in Texas that offers hill country views and a meandering lake? Look no further than Texas’s very own Possum Kingdom State…

6 thoughts on “Planning the perfect RV trip to Yellowstone National Park”

Love this! I also found out about the coffee situation the hard way :/

We are also new to RVing – we have a 27 ft camper and are planning on visiting Yellowstone in the fall of 2020. I will check out Bridge Bay and Fishing Bridge campgrounds – your thoughts on the KOA’s at west Yellowstone?

My son and I stayed at Red Rock RV Park during late May/early June this year. It’s in Idaho near Henry’s Lake, less than half an hour from the west gate. Great people running the place and they almost doubled the number of sites this year. Great facilities and they even had UTV’s for rent. We had no problem getting a reservation less than a month beforehand. (but that was very early in the season) I would totally recommend this place.

Thank you, This was very helpful. We are planning our first trip to Yellowstone this summer in an RV and cannot figure out if we will need to rent a car or just drive the RV from place to place during the days? Thoughts? Did you have a separate vehicle or will be able to find parking and be able to move throughout the traffic each day in the RV and then head back to our spot each evening?

Hi Anna, I’m just wondering if you found out the answer to this question? I’m planning for next summer now and wondering exactly the same thing!

I see there was a question about renting a car to see the park and leaving the RV parked at the campground. Is this a good idea and who would you use for this rental?

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Yellowstone RV Trip Tips: How To Plan

We loved our trip to Yellowstone National Park and wanted to share our Yellowstone RV trip tips. There is so much to plan before your trip to Yellowstone. We’ll share the best time to go, where to park, planning your itinerary and how to prepare for your trip. This park is so popular it requires a lot of advance planning. We are here to help you get your trip started off on the right foot.

When To Visit

One of the best Yellowstone RV trip tips is knowing when to go to Yellowstone. You can encounter a lot of inclement weather in Montana/Wyoming area. The summers can be miserable hot and very busy but the winters bring road closures and extremely cold temperatures. We found September to be the best month to visit the park. Nearly 4 million people visit the park each year, most of them visit between June and August. Yellowstone recommends April, May September and October. September only gets about 16% of the average of annual visits. We were there in September and it was so nice to easily find parking, crowd free hikes and viewpoints. This is certainly a Yellowstone RV trip tip to take into account when planning your trip.

Where To Park

There are 12 campgrounds inside the park but only 5 of these can be reserved. Some of these campgrounds don’t even open until mid June and close as early as mid September. The rates for these range from $15 to $47. You can also grab a spot outside the park. There are many RV parks within 10 miles of the park entrances. We chose to stay at the West Gate KOA. It was just 6 miles from the west entrance . This KOA had everything we needed and more. It was nice to be this close to the park without having to camp in the park. As I mentioned before the park is extremely popular and even though there are lots of RV parks and campgrounds, they go fast. Make your reservation as soon as you know you are going to Yellowstone. You will also find RV parking in almost all attraction lots making it easier for you to get in and out. This should be the top Yellowstone RV trip tip on our list.

Plan Your Route

One of the things we didn’t expect was all the mountain passes and difficult roads we would be traversing in Yellowstone. This is an important Yellowstone RV trip tip so you don’t get stuck in a difficult spot in your RV or camper van. You will certainly want to avoid Bighorn Mountains east of Cody, Wyoming as well as Beartooth Highway between the Northeast entrance and Red Mountain Lodge, Montana if the weather is bad. We stayed mainly in the west side of the park with the exception of our drive to Lamar Valley to see the wildlife at sunset.

Prepare For Sudden Weather Changes

The weather in Montana and Wyoming can be extreme with many changes happening during the night. Most of the park is situated at an elevation of at least 6,000 ft. The weather can be very unpredictable. It can rain, snow, be hot or cold in any month of the year. Be sure to bring layers to sleep at night too as the temps can change a lot at night. We were there in September and experienced highs in the 70’s and lows in the 30’s and it even snowed a couple nights.

Yellowstone RV Trip Tips

These are so many things to take into account when planning your trip to Yellowstone National Park. It’s important to take into account these Yellowstone RV trip tips as you make your plans. If you have a pet, you should not bring them on this trip. There are very strict pet laws in Yellowstone to protect your furry friend. Yellowstone is bear country as well as many other wild animals who should not come in contact with your pets. Be prepared to be patient. Yellowstone is crowded and traffic jams are harder to maneuver in an RV/camper van. There are so many great photo opportunities at this park, so bring your equipment. Be aware that there is minimal to no cell service in the park. This is a great time to unplug and enjoy life to the fullest.

Allie Marmion

You might also like.

12 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Badlands National Park

Guide To Driving Through and Around Zion National Park

Zion National Park Vs. Arches National Park

Visiting zion national park in march.

Zion National Park Vs. Bryce Canyon National Park

Best Month To Visit Zion National Park

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

California to West Yellowstone drive in an RV

Rv campgrounds from california to west yellowstone.

Here's a sample itinerary for a camping drive from California to West Yellowstone in your RV. If you're planning a road trip to West Yellowstone, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best RV parks, campgrounds, hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members and AllStays. Scroll down to see all the RV campgrounds along the way.

8:00 am  start at California drive for about 22.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 22.5 hours

10:00 am  leave from Luning (Nevada) drive for about 2 hours

11:54 am   Austin stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:54 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:17 pm   Battle Mountain stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:17 pm drive for about 1 hour

day 2 driving ≈ 4.5 hours

10:00 am  leave from Super 8 Elko drive for about 2.5 hours

12:37 pm   Twin Falls eat at Dunken's Microbrewery stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:37 pm drive for about 2 hours

3:23 pm   Pocatello stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:23 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

6:49 pm  arrive in West Yellowstone eat at Kiwi' Takeaway Restaurant stay at BEST WESTERN Cross-Winds Motor Inn

day 3 driving ≈ 7 hours

What are RV campgrounds along the way?

Luning (Nevada) Austin     Austin RV Park   (1 mention)     Austin Baptist Church RV Park   (1 mention)     Pony Express RV Park   (1 mention)     Bob Scott Campground   (1 mention) Battle Mountain     Clark Park   (1 mention)     Broadway Flying J RV Park   (1 mention) Elko   (9 answers)     Gold Country RV Park   (1 mention)     Iron Horse RV Resort   (1 mention)     Double Dice RV Park   (1 mention)     Valley View RV Park   (1 mention)     hotels around Elko:         Super 8 Elko         Travelodge Elko         BEST WESTERN Elko Inn         Americas Best Value Gold Country Inn & Casino         Red Lion Hotel & Casino         TownePlace Suites Elko         High Desert Inn         Motel 6 Elko         Quality Inn & Suites Elko         Iron Horse RV Resort Twin Falls   (13 answers)     Rock Creek RV Park   (1 mention)     Oregon Trail RV Park and Campground   (1 mention)     Twin Falls 93 RV Park   (1 mention)     KOA Campground Jerome   (1 mention)     restaurants around Twin Falls:         Dunken's Microbrewery         SONIC Drive-In Pocatello   (2 answers)     Sullivans Mobile Home And RV Park   (1 mention)     Cowboy RV Park   (1 mention)     Pocatello KOA   (1 mention)     Bannock County Event Center   (1 mention)     Batiste Springs RV Park   (1 mention)     Pocatello ORV Blackrock Canyon - BLM   (1 mention)     restaurants around Pocatello:         SONIC Drive-In

Where's the best place to stay in West Yellowstone?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in West Yellowstone .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out BEST WESTERN Cross-Winds Motor Inn .

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in West Yellowstone? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in West Yellowstone?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

GoPetFriendly suggests Kiwi' Takeaway Restaurant .

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in West Yellowstone? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in West Yellowstone?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on AllStays :

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to West Yellowstone.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a West Yellowstone to California drive in an RV , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from California to West Yellowstone . Or get a full California to West Yellowstone flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know California well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about California!

More info on this route:

road conditions

places to eat

flattest route

alternate routes

Google driving directions

• Yellowstone National Park Tourism
• Yellowstone National Park Hotels
• Yellowstone National Park Bed and Breakfast
• Yellowstone National Park Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Yellowstone National Park
• Yellowstone National Park Restaurants
• Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park
• Yellowstone National Park Travel Forum
• Yellowstone National Park Photos
• Yellowstone National Park Map
• Yellowstone Travel Articles
• All Yellowstone National Park Hotels
• Yellowstone National Park Hotel Deals
• Yellowstone National Park
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

California to Yellowstone with RV - Yellowstone National Park Forum

• United States    
• Wyoming (WY)    
• Yellowstone National Park    

California to Yellowstone with RV

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Wyoming forums
• Yellowstone National Park forum

1. What is the best way to get their with a RV?

2. where are the best places to stop on our way?

3. any advice on RV driving to Yellowstone?

Many Thanks

Where to stop depends on how many days you want to drive in a aday and how many drivers. You could make SLC in a day and then YNP the next day but they would be long days. Age of kids, and tolerance being copped up, is also a factor. Reno might be a good first day's shake out run. Winnemucca might be too hot in August. SLC for 2nd night and then to YNP (or GTNP if stopping there).

Another virtually pass-less route to YNP is up to Idaho Falls then to W. Yellowstone. Targhee Pass is pretty much a non-event so easy in RV. Not sure if it is still there but there was a huge KOA Kampground at W. Yellwostone that had a huge indoor pool. Just suggesting due to kid factor.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Yellowstone and Grand Teton - 7 fulldays w/ kids - Itinerary 12:54 pm
• Yellowstone Lodging yesterday
• Yellowstone lodging yesterday
• June 2024 Itinerary Critique/Advice yesterday
• Xanterra booking site and lower loop cabins yesterday
• Old Faithful Lodge cabin Or Snow Lodge Cabin? yesterday
• Roosevelt Cabins or Mammoth Hot Springs Cabins or Gardiner yesterday
• Itinerary - am I focusing on the wrong thing? yesterday
• I think this might be good-what do you think? yesterday
• Yet another Itinerary/Route question...sorry! yesterday
• Lower Falls viewpoint question yesterday
• Visualizing Yellowstone's "loops" with drive times Apr 22, 2024
• Trip to yellowstone Apr 22, 2024
• Yellowstone trip staying in Gardiner MT Apr 22, 2024
• Best airport to fly into for Yellowstone and itinerary help 11 replies
• Nearest International Airport 8 replies
• driving distance from Jackson Hole 5 replies
• How far from Salt Lake City? 19 replies
• Best Time to visit 2 replies
• Need Advice About Visiting Yellowstone :) 5 replies
• San Francisco to Yellowstone by Car 5 replies
• routes denver to yellowstone 5 replies
• Tetons-Yellowstone from Denver 10 replies
• Yellowstone vs. Yosemite 16 replies

Yellowstone National Park Hotels and Places to Stay

• 2024 Trip Reports
• 2023 Trip Reports
• 2022 Trip Reports
• Older Trip Report Links
• 2023 YNP Road Construction Delays & Night Closures
• Important 2023 Advance Reservation Changes for Yellowstone Park starting April 2022
• Please Report illegal behavior or criminal acts in Yellowstone. 2 choices.
• Road Conditions/Winter weather closures for WY, YNP, GTNP
• When is the best time to visit Yellowstone?
• Yellowstone IN PARK Lodging
• Avoid Third Party lodging bookers
• How do I prevent Altitude Sickness?
• For Yellowstone, which airport should I use?
• Are there tours available in the park?
• The Famous Yellow Buses of Yellowstone are Special.
• Visiting Yellowstone and Grand Tetons with limited mobility
• Do I need an SUV to visit YNP?
• RVing in YNP
• Cooking/Grilling in cabins/picnic areas in YNP
• Observing/Photographing wildlife. Scope Rental.
• Birding Resources
• Best Wildlife Locations in Yellowstone?
• How do I store my bear spray
• Beartooth Highway Distances/Hikes/Waterfalls
• How do you organize your trip information?
• What Do Newbies Need to Know?
• Best route between SLC and Jackson?
• YNP on Twitter & Facebook?

roadtripfrom.com

California To Yellowstone Road Trip: Top 18 Tips

California to Yellowstone National Park road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 1,040 miles of California to Yellowstone National Park drive takes around 15 hours and 37 mins without stops.

This article includes 18 top tips that turn your California to Yellowstone National Park drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

6 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From California To Yellowstone National Park

On California to Yellowstone National Park road trip, you may want to stay at some points on the way. Here is the top six hotels on California – Yellowstone National Park route!

• Hilton Stockton: Hilton Stockton is one of the best hotels where you can stay on the California to Yellowstone National Park road trip. Driving from California to Hilton Stockton might take around 2 hours and 28 mins . Take advantage of complimentary WiFi, in-room mini-refrigerators, HDTVs, and large work desks during your stay. Our rooms are clean and fresh and perfect for unwinding after a long day. Plus, the central location is ideal for exploring the city on foot – plenty of great places to grab a bite to eat nearby. Check the Hilton Stockton, one of the best hotels in Stockton, California, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Yellowstone National Park from California is Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo. Located in Sacramento, California, the hotel is 194 miles away from California, and it would take 3 hours to drive. The front desk staff at the hotel were excellent; they were friendly and helpful. The room was reasonably comfortable; there was plenty of water pressure in the shower, and the hot water came immediately. The breakfast was also perfect. If you want to learn more about the Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• Grand Sierra Resort and Casino: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino. Grand Sierra Resort and Casino is located in Reno, Nevada, and it’s 325 miles away from California. You can arrive there in 5 hours and 11 mins of non-stop driving. The Grand Sierra Resort and Casino is located in the heart of Reno/Tahoe. Every employee, from the Head of Security to Housekeepers, is a joy to deal with. It is absolutely the best place to stay in Reno. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Grand Sierra Resort and Casino for more information.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Twin Falls: If you are taking the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park, Twin Falls, Idaho, is must have a place you should visit. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Twin Falls is one of the best hotels in town. It is La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Twin Falls, 777 miles from California, and it would take 11 hours and 41 mins to drive. The convenient location is perfect for travelers on business, special occasions, or family travel. With 101 beautifully appointed guest rooms, you’ll enjoy many of the comforts of home. If you need more info about the price and availability of La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Twin Falls, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.
• Black Swan Inn Luxurious Theme Suites: Our next hotel is Black Swan Inn Luxurious Theme Suites, Pocatello, Idaho. It will take 13 hours, and 19 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from California. The Black Swan Inn entices visitors with its luxurious theme suites, including the Mayan Rain Forest, Enchanted Forest, Atlantis, Egyptian, and Arabian Nights. This hotel is located in downtown Pocatello and just off I-15. Check the Black Swan Inn Luxurious Theme Suites on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Black Swan Inn Luxurious Theme Suites for reviews, prices, and availability.
• Hilton Garden Inn Idaho Falls: Hilton Garden Inn Idaho Falls is another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel, located in Idaho Falls, Idaho, within 13 hours and 54 mins drive from California. The rooms at this hotel offer stunning views of the Snake River and are only minutes from downtown Idaho Falls. Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to the riverwalk or enjoy the indoor pool, fitness center, and bar during winter. The back patio is perfect for taking in incredible views. Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .

In this part, we explained six different hotels you can stay at on the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by writing a comment to this post. It will help people take some California to Yellowstone National Park route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from California to Yellowstone National Park. We have six restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

6 Best Restaurants On California To Yellowstone National Park Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your California to Yellowstone National Park road trip. This section lists the six  restaurants to dine at on the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• Dave Wongs: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on California to Yellowstone National Park road trip with Dave Wongs. Dave Wongs is located in Stockton, California, 153 miles from California. It would take 2 hours and 29 mins of driving. The menu has plenty of options to choose from. The waitstaff was friendly and let us sit on the patio to avoid an hour-long wait. The food was delicious. For more information about Dave Wongs, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Dave Wongs.
• The Waterboy, Sacramento: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Yellowstone National Park from California is The Waterboy, Sacramento. Located in Sacramento, California, The Waterboy, Sacramento is 192 miles from California and would take 3 hours to drive. Although it’s a bit of a drive from Sacramento, this restaurant is worth it. An outdoor sidewalk seating area and the main dining room are in a quiet residential area. If you love seafood, this is the spot for you – the oysters are some of the best I’ve had. Besides seafood, the duck is excellent, and the pork belly is an all-time favorite. It’s a more fancy place, but that’s part of what I enjoy. If you want to learn more about The Waterboy, Sacramento, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Atlantis Steakhouse, Reno: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Atlantis Steakhouse, Reno. It will take 5 hours and 14 mins of car drive to take 327 miles from California to Atlantis Steakhouse, Reno, Reno, Nevada. We had a great time at Atlantis Steakhouse. We recommend the pork belly appetizers – they were excellent. The food and waitstaff were very attentive and charming – they made you feel special. You can check Atlantis Steakhouse, Reno, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information .
• Elevation 486: Elevation 486 deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Twin Falls, Idaho. On a clear day, you can see Soldier Mountain to the northwest, the Pioneer Range due north, and Pomerelle to the east. The menu contains a wide variety of dishes and interesting cocktails. Elevation 486 is 777 miles away from California, and it would take 11 hours and 41 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Elevation 486, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Sandpiper Restaurant, Pocatello: If you enjoy dining, Sandpiper Restaurant, Pocatello, would be an excellent choice in Pocatello, Idaho. It’s 887 miles from California and would take 13 hours and 17 mins of car driving. The Pocatello location for Sandpiper Restaurant opened in 1975. It was always intended to be a casual fine-dining restaurant specializing in steaks, seafood, and pasta. The restaurant continues to enjoy great popularity. If you want to learn more about the Sandpiper Restaurant, Pocatello, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Copper Rill Restaurant: Another restaurant we recommend you visit on the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park is Copper Rill Restaurant, Idaho Falls, Idaho. It will take 13 hours and 54 mins of driving to reach Copper Rill Restaurant from California. Copper Rill offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual to formal, as well as catering and private parties. They pride themselves on their simple yet memorable dishes and inviting atmosphere that encourages you to be yourself around the people in your life. For more information about Copper Rill Restaurant, you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.

This section lists our six restaurant recommendations for you to eat on your road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 1,040 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Yellowstone National Park road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from California to Yellowstone National Park. Keep reading.

6 Places To Visit On California To Yellowstone National Park Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Yellowstone National Park. However, there are also some unique destinations, like Stockton, California, on your road trip. We want to explain the top six destinations we recommend on the Yellowstone National Park route.

• Historic Bob Hope Theatre: Historic Bob Hope Theatre will be the first destination we recommend you stop on your California to Yellowstone National Park road trip. Located in Stockton, California, Historic Bob Hope Theatre is 149 miles away from California, and it would take 2 hours and 25 mins to drive. The Bob Hope Theatre, known to some locals as The Fox, is a beautifully restored piece of Stockton’s history and an exciting entertainment destination. If you get the chance to attend an event or movie night at the Fox, you will be impressed with the magnificence of the building. It was restored several years ago to its former glory, so you can see what movie houses were like in the 1920s and 1930s. If you want to learn more about the Historic Bob Hope Theatre, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Old Sacramento: Old Sacramento, Sacramento, California, is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on California to Yellowstone National Park route. It’s 194 miles from California and will take about 3 hours of driving. The Sacramento waterfront is a historic area with restored buildings, museums, and novelty shops. It is a great place to have a glass of wine or sit on a patio and enjoy the view of the river. If you want to learn more about Old Sacramento, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• National Automobile Museum: One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park in Reno, Nevada. And if you visit Reno, Nevada, we suggest you visit National Automobile Museum. You can arrive National Automobile Museum after 5 hours and 10 mins of driving. The National Automobile Museum is one of the top Reno attractions. The museum has more than 225 rare, one-of-a-kind, antique, and collector cars with authentic street scenes and sounds that bring displays to life. The collection tells the story of the automobile from the late 1800s onward. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of the National Automobile Museum for more information.
• Shoshone Falls: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls, and Idaho on the California Yellowstone National Park road trip. Shoshone Falls is 781 miles from California, and you can arrive there after the 11 hours and 52 mins of drive. Multiple viewing platforms and a trail along the canyon at the falls. Although the road to the falls is narrow with several sharp turns, the park by the river is spacious. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Shoshone Falls before going there.
• Swore Farms: Located in Pocatello, Idaho, Swore Farms ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park. You must take 13 hours and 23 mins of driving to arrive at Swore Farms. The farm’s mission is to enrich the community through healthy, delicious, fresh produce grown on-site; educate children and youth through summer programs; and offer opportunities for quality family fun late summer through fall with activities such as exploring the corn maze & pumpkin patch and learning about agriculture. If you want to learn more about Swore Farms, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Snake River Greenbelt: Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park is Snake River Greenbelt, Idaho Falls, Idaho. Snake River Greenbelt is 991 miles from California, and it would take 16 hours and 13 mins to drive. A park is an excellent place for walking, with beautiful cityscape views. The metal sculptures add an interesting touch, and the falls are a highlight of the green space. It’s also lovely to walk along the river. You can check their TripAdvisor page or official website for more information about Snake River Greenbelt .

FAQ of the Road Trip From California to Yellowstone National Park

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about California to Yellowstone National Park drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From California To Yellowstone National Park?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, California to Yellowstone National Park road trip takes approximately 15 hours and 37 minutes to drive. Therefore, the driving distance between California to Yellowstone National Park is 1,040 miles.
• If you want to make California Yellowstone National Park a road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be three days and 9 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the California-Yellowstone National Park route, you will have to walk for 12 days and 4 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From California To Yellowstone National Park?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Yellowstone National Park. You can visit Stockton, California; Sacramento, California; Reno, Nevada; Twin Falls, Idaho; Pocatello, Idaho; Idaho Falls, Idaho on the road. Here we list six places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on California to Yellowstone National Park journey, you can check the 6 Best Places To Visit On The Way From California To Yellowstone National Park part.

• Historic Bob Hope Theatre: 149 miles / 2 hours and 25 mins to drive from California | 897 miles / 13 hours and 24 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Old Sacramento: 194 miles / 3 hours to drive from California | 853 miles / 12 hours and 42 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• National Automobile Museum: 323 miles / 5 hours and 10 mins to drive from California | 719 miles / 10 hours and 35 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Shoshone Falls: 781 miles / 11 hours and 52 mins to drive from California | 266 miles / 4 hours of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Swore Farms: 889 miles / 13 hours and 23 mins to drive from California | 151 miles / 2 hours and 26 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Snake River Greenbelt: 991 miles / 16 hours and 13 mins to drive from California | 275 miles / 5 hours and 29 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From California To Yellowstone National Park?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park. We have selected six hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 6 Best Hotels On The Way To Yellowstone National Park From California section.

• Hilton Stockton: 154 miles / 2 hours and 28 mins to drive from California | 896 miles / 13 hours and 21 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Cal Expo: 194 miles / 3 hours to drive from California | 847 miles / 12 hours and 35 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Grand Sierra Resort and Casino: 325 miles / 5 hours and 11 mins to drive from California | 719 miles / 10 hours and 35 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Twin Falls: 777 miles / 11 hours and 41 mins to drive from California | 270 miles / 4 hours of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Black Swan Inn Luxurious Theme Suites: 889 miles / 13 hours and 19 mins to drive from California | 159 miles / 2 hours and 29 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Hilton Garden Inn Idaho Falls: 933 miles / 13 hours and 54 mins to drive from California | 108 miles / 1 hour and 47 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.

Where To Eat Between California to Yellowstone National Park?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your California to Yellowstone National Park drive, you can consider the six restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 6 Best Restaurants On The Way From California To Yellowstone National Park .

• Dave Wongs: 153 miles / 2 hours and 29 mins to drive from California | 896 miles / 13 hours and 21 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• The Waterboy, Sacramento: 192 miles / 3 hours to drive from California | 850 miles / 12 hours and 42 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Atlantis Steakhouse, Reno: 327 miles / 5 hours and 14 mins to drive from California | 721 miles / 10 hours and 37 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Elevation 486: 777 miles / 11 hours and 41 mins to drive from California | 271 miles / 4 hours of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Sandpiper Restaurant, Pocatello: 887 miles / 13 hours and 17 mins to drive from California | 156 miles / 2 hours and 25 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.
• Copper Rill Restaurant: 933 miles / 13 hours and 54 mins to drive from California | 109 miles / 1 hour and 48 mins of driving to Yellowstone National Park.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park. We have listed six hotels, six restaurants, and six places to visit on California to Yellowstone National Park drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken California to Yellowstone National Park road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from California to Yellowstone National Park and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: Yellowstone National Park Travel Guide

In this video you can find the detailed information about Yellowstone National Park.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

• Salt Lake City To Yellowstone Road Trip: Enchanting Views
• Virginia To Yellowstone National Park Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide
• Minneapolis To Yellowstone National Park Road Trip: Top 18 Tips

Hi, I'm Ece. Join me in navigating memorable road trips around the USA, Europe, and Australia. I provide valuable tips and destination guides, sometimes enhanced by AI. Let's hit the road and make memories!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to content

• Arches and Canyonlands
• Banff and Jasper
• Black Hills and Badlands
• California Coast
• Grand Canyon and Sedona
• Joshua Tree and Death Valley
• Ultimate Oregon
• Ultimate Rocky Mountains
• Ultimate Sierras
• Ultimate Utah

Yellowstone

• Yosemite and Lake Tahoe
• Zion and Bryce
• Build Your Own
• Destinations
• Choosing The Best RV
• Campgrounds 101
• RV Trip Planning 101
• Trip Resources For Kids
• Note From Our Founder
• Why Tumbleweed?
• In The News
• Testimonials
• (717) 4 RV TRIP

Trip Information

Number of Nights: 7

Seasons: May – Early September

Start / End: Billings, MT

Average Price: $5700

Detailed Itinerary

Start: billings, mt.

Starting from Billings, Montana, you will drive to Livingston to spend the night. Learn more about Billings .

Billings to Livingston: 120 miles

1 night Livingston, MT

Livingston is the epitome of small-town charm with its locally-run stores and easy access to the Yellowstone River for a relaxing float. Learn more about Livingston .

Livingston to Yellowstone: 95 miles

2 nights Yellowstone National Park (Western Area)

Next, you will head through the northern entrance of Yellowstone to begin your journey around Yellowstone National Park. Stop at one of the major gateways to the park featuring museums, research parks, and activities. From here, you can quickly begin exploring the wonders of the park. Learn more about Yellowstone National Park. Learn more about Yellowstone National Park .

West to South: 35 mile

1 night Yellowstone National Park (Southern Area)

Heading south, you will have the opportunity to travel through the Geyser Basins, hike the Grand Prismatic Spring and experience Old Faithful erupt before your eyes. Learn more about Yellowstone National Park .

South to East: 37 miles

2 nights Yellowstone National Park (Eastern Area)

Traveling around the lower loop, you will head to the Canyon area of Yellowstone for two nights. Passing through Lamar Valley, you will most likely be slowed by buffalo in your path. You will also have an opportunity to hike out to see the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and see the various falls created in the Canyon Learn more about Yellowstone National Park. Learn more about Yellowstone National Park .

Yellowstone to Red Lodge: 150 miles

1 night Red Lodge, MT

The last night will be spent in Red Lodge. After driving over the famous Beartooth Highway, you can relax and enjoy your last night. If you would like to extend your road trip, we suggest adding two nights at Grand Teton National Park.

Red Lodge to Billings: 60 miles

End: Billings, MT

Trip extensions.

2 nights Grand Teton National Park +$725

While it took over 20 years to establish, Grand Teton National Park is now beloved by everyone who gets to visit it. There is something for everyone to enjoy in this park all year round from the lush forests to the sparkling lakes to the snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a float along the river, hiking the trails, wildlife watching, and more when you add two nights at Grand Teton to your road trip!

Learn more about Grand Teton National Park .

Here Are 10 Of The Best Campgrounds In Yellowstone To Choose From

• Yellowstone National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife and is a geothermal hotspot with numerous geysers.
• There are several excellent campgrounds within Yellowstone that offer a variety of amenities and opportunities for outdoor activities.
• The nightly fees for campgrounds in Yellowstone range from $20 to $99, depending on the facilities provided.

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the world. It is the greatest wildlife hotspot in the United States, and there are plenty of fascinating animals in Yellowstone to see .

Moreover, it's also one of the greatest geothermal hotspots in the world. Yellowstone has around half of the world's geysers and most of the major North American animals. Sometimes, bison, elk, and other animals wander through the campground in Yellowstone.

Yellowstone is a great place to go camping and really enjoy an immersive experience in the great outdoors of America. Here are some of the best Yellowstone campgrounds to consider camping at. They are scattered throughout the park - reserve the site in advance, as they can book out in the busy season.

Bridge Bay Campground

For some of the best camping in Yellowstone National Park, head to Bridge Bay Camground. The Bridge Bay Campground is also massive; it's one of the largest campgrounds in Yellowstone, with 432 sites.

It is near Yellowstone Lake, which is one of the highest elevations (7,800 feet) freshwater lakes in North America ( Lake Tahoe in California and Nevada is the largest North American alpine lake ).

• Nightly Fee: $33.00 Plus taxes

Madison Campground

The Madison Campground has 276 sites and is reservable through Yellowstone National Park Lodges . It is around 14 miles to the east of the town, West Yellowstone, and it is a similar distance from the world's most famous geyser - Old Faithful.

Come during the early summer and see bison and wildflowers, or during the fall, and hear bugling elk.

Related: How To Plan A Visit Around Yellowstone's Wildlife Mating, Migration Patterns, and More

Grant Village Campground

The Grand Campground is another one of the top-rated campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park, set just off the Grand Loop Road in Grant Village.

Grant Village is located at the southern of Yellowstone Lake and has 430 sites (making it only 2 sites smaller than the largest campground in the park). There is a visitor center, a gas station, a restaurant, stores, and other facilities nearby.

• Nightly Fee: $39.00 Plus taxes

Fishing Bridge RV Park

The Fishing Bridge RV Park is the most expensive campground and the only one to offer sewer, electrical hookups, and water. No tents are allowed in this RV Park because of the presence of grizzly bears in the area (Yellowstone is one of the only places in the Lower 48 still home to grizzlies).

Fishing Bridge RV Park is a great base from which to explore the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

• Nightly Fee: $89-99.00 Plus taxes

Canyon Campground

The Canyon Campground has 273 sites and is nestled in a lodgepole pine forest at the Canyon Village. It is close to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, with plenty of hiking trails nearby - including the Canyon Rim, Mount Washburn, and Cascade Lake trails.

It is also close to conveniences like stores and restaurants.

Related: Why Hayden Valley Is The First Place To See Wildlife In Yellowstone

Slough Creek Campground

The Slough Creek Campground is a small campground with only 16 sites (making it the smallest in the park). It is one of the best campsites in Yellowstone National Park that is ideally suited for tents and small RVs.

There are plenty of opportunities for fishing and hiking, and at night, campers can gaze up at the starry sky and enjoy the serenity of the area (it is located at the end of a two-mile dirt road).

• Nightly Fee: $20.00 Plus taxes

Mammoth Campground

The Mammoth Campground has 82 sites and is due to open in 2023 - check with the NPS to see if it is open. It is the only campground open in Yellowstone year-round and is five miles to the south of the North Entrance of the park.

Enjoy the great wildlife viewing in the area, with even bison and elk sometimes wandering through the campground.

• Nightly Fee: $25.00 Plus taxes

Related: 10 Best Hikes In Yellowstone That Show Off Its Scenic Beauty

Lewis Lake Campground

The Lewis Lake Campground is near the South Entrance and only a walk away from Lewis Lake (where there is a boat ramp).

It is permitted to put kayaks, canoes, and motorboats in Lewis Lake, although boat permits and a check for aquatic invasive species are required in advance.

Indian Creek Campground

The Indian Creek Campground is a short drive from Mammoth Hot Springs (arguably some of the world's most stunning hot springs) .

From the campground, campers can enjoy breathtaking views of Electric Peak and the Gallatin Mountains. The setting is quiet and primitive and away from the main drag.

Pebble Creek Campground

The Pebble Creek Campground is unfortunately closed in 2023 due to flood damage. It is set against eye-watering backdrops of the Absaroka Mountains found near the park's Northeast Entrance.

Come here when it's open again and enjoy isolated camping in Yellowstone National Park while fishing in the Soda Butte Creek. Gaze out over the nearby Lamar Valley - one of the most famous valleys for viewing wildlife in Yellowstone .

The Most Popular National Park Campgrounds For RVers (& Where To Go Instead)

Do you want an escape into nature? Take an RV trip to these national parks that are popular with RV campers.

• RV camping at national parks offers the chance to create unforgettable memories with family and friends among stunning natural beauty.
• Enjoy easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife spotting, and stargazing while staying at well-equipped campgrounds.
• From Yellowstone to Yosemite, RV campgrounds provide a gateway to explore iconic national parks with amenities for a comfortable stay.

The U.S. is home to some of the awe-inspiring national parks in the world with epic campgrounds that are worth taking an RV road trip to. RV travel is a great way to take a long weekend trip, a family road trip adventure, and retirement living.

A national park RV camping trip with family and friends can make great, life-changing memories. You can spend time cooking outside, enjoy easy access to hikes, and witness epic stargazing. The following is a list of some of the most popular national park campgrounds for an RV camping trip ranked by the total number of annual RV visitors.

You Can Rent A Vacation Rental In These State Parks

7 madison campground at yellowstone national park, yellowstone national park rv campers in 2023: 30,413.

The campground is well-situated to enable you to enjoy the attractions, like easy hikes and the world-renowned Old Faithful geyser at Yellowstone National Park . It’s also a perfect spot for fishermen because it’s located near the Madison River. Campers might spot wildlife like bison, elk, and grizzly bears that roam the park’s wilderness. The RV sites at the campground are well-maintained and include picnic tables, fire pits, food storage bins, and potable water.

• Campground fee: From $33

Alternative: Grant Village Campground

Enjoy a tranquil retreat amid Yellowstone’s breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife at the Grant Village Campground . Located along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, it offers a serene experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can embark on several activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

The campground also offers opportunities to explore the boardwalks, geysers, and stunning views of the national park landscape. Amenities provided at the campground are flush toilets, potable water, cold water faucets, dishwashing stations, food storage bins, coin laundry facilities, picnic tables, and fire pits.

• Campground fee: From $39

6 Lodgepole Campground At Sequoia National Park

Sequoia national park rv campers in 2023: 43,526.

Situated at the heart of the park, this campground offers access to natural attractions and recreational activities . Visitors can embark on a variety of activities, such as hiking trails that take you through the ancient groves of giant sequoias. There are also scenic drives along the Generals Highway that offer breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Amenities at the campground include flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and a dump station.

• Campground fee: $32

Alternative: Sunset Campground

Sunset Campground is located near the entrance of the national park and offers 150 campsites. Visitors can visit the nearby Giant Forest Museum for some insight into the park’s rich natural and cultural history. There are also educational programs provided by rangers at the park. Campers can go hiking on several trails that lead to magnificent sequoia groves, waterfalls, and stunning views. RV sites at the campground are equipped with amenities such as running water, flush toilets, and food storage lockers.

5 Mather Campground At Grand Canyon National Park

Grand canyon national park rv campers in 2023: 84,332.

Experience nature’s power and the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon by RV camping at Mather Campground . Located at the South Rim of the canyon, it offers easy access to stunning views and facilities such as a free shuttle bus system, a visitor center, and hiking trails.

Visitors can go hiking on the rim trails that capture panoramic views of the canyon or go for scenic drives along Desert View Drive. The RV sites at the campground are equipped with amenities such as picnic tables, toilets, campfire rings, and showers.

• Campground fee: $18 to $25

Alternative: North Rim Campground

This campground is further away from Grand Canyon Village and thus offers a quieter and more peaceful camping experience. Visitors can go on hiking trails, birdwatch, and take photographs of the ponderosa pines and aspens. Available amenities include picnic tables, flush toilets, drinking water, and a dump station which ensures a convenient camping experience.

• Campground fee: $15 to $50

Here’s How To Rent An RV & See The American Southwest

4 south campground at zion national park, zion national park rv campers in 2023: 85,948.

Located near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Watchman Campground has all you need for an unforgettable RV camping experience. The surrounding landscapes consist of red cliffs which are great for hiking. It's equipped with plenty of amenities such as dump stations, picnic tables, flush toilets, and potable water. Go hiking at trails such as Angels Landing or the Narrows or visit the beautiful Canyon Overlook for a photo-op.

• Campground fee: $20 to $45

Alternative: Zion River Resort RV Park

The Zion River Resort RV Park is a great choice for folks who want a bit of comfort mixed in with their adventure or for those traveling with kids. The park offers full hook-up RV sites with spacious pads to ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors. The campground is meticulously maintained and offers modern amenities such as clean restrooms, a laundry facility, free Wi-Fi, a pool, a convenience store, and hot showers.

• Campground fee: From $45 per night

3 Jumbo Rocks Campground At Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua tree national park rv campers in 2023: 101,514.

With 124 campsites, Jumbo Rocks Campground is an ideal place to escape into nature and take it easy. Visitors can go hiking in the surrounding area which offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs up the rocks. The bouldering routes offer an opportunity for rock-climbing enthusiasts to test their skills. The campground is run by the NPS and offers amenities such as toilets and picnic tables.

• Campground fee: $20

Alternative: Ryan Campground

Ryan Campground (reservations required) offers campers a serene desert escape filled with a range of outdoor activities that include mountain biking, off-roading, hiking, and horseback riding. From the campsite, visitors can explore nearby hiking trails that offer stunning views of the desert landscape and wildlife sightings.

The granite cliffs and boulders scattered throughout the park offer a suitable playground for rock climbers. RVs must be less than 35 feet long and the campground features limited amenities, which include fire rings, pit toilets, and picnic tables but no hookups or water.

2 Apgar Campground At Glacier National Park

Glacier national park rv campers in 2023: 132,336.

This is the largest campground at Glacier National Park and offers RV campers a gateway into the park’s pristine wilderness and spectacular natural beauty. With its shoreside setting next to Lake McDonald, the campground has a tranquil setting to relax and discover the wonders of the park.

There are hiking trails near the campground that lead visitors to breathtaking viewpoints, crystal-clear lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can learn about the park’s history and ecosystem at the Apgar Visitor Center nearby. Available amenities are potable water, flush toilets, RV dump stations, picnic tables, fire rings, and trash bins.

• Campground fee: $20 to $30

Alternative: Fish Creek Campground

Fish Creek Campground has 178 campsites available for visitors. It’s a fairly busy campground so you are advised to book in time and make a reservation. The campsites offers stunning views of Lake McDonald.

There are hiking trails that will take you through the park’s forests and rivers. Available amenities include running water sinks, potable water, RV dump stations, and picnic tables. Visitors can also visit Lake McDonald Lodge to get educated about the park’s cultural heritage.

• Campground fee: $30

7 Least Crowded National Park RV Campgrounds

1 pines campgrounds at yosemite national park, yosemite national park rv campers in 2023: 196,092.

This campground offers campers an opportunity to explore one of the most popular parks in the country . It consists of the Upper, Lower, and North Pines . Campers can go hiking in the trails surrounding the campground, watch wildlife, or visit wonders like Yosemite Falls. Amenities include flashing toilets, electric hookups, and drinking water.

• Campground fee: $36

Alternative: Tuolumne Meadows Campground

Tuolumne Meadows Campground is the biggest in Yosemite National Park and offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of recreational activities and rugged beauty to explore. Activities include hiking trails and rock climbing the granite formations. The campground offers stunning views of the Cathedral Range. It’s great for RV camping because it offers picnic tables and fire rings, which ensures a pleasant, comfortable stay. Note that Tuolumne Meadows is closed for the 2024 season.

LA To Yellowstone – 10 Day Road Trip

Last Updated on July 5, 2023

2700 miles in 10 days

Table of Contents

400 miles driven.

I left LA around 2 PM and I drove up North towards Reno to pick my friend up who was coming with me for the weekend.

I called Topaz Lake RV Park prior to my arrival to find out how late I can arrive. They told me I can come at any time, they are open 24 hours. A Casino also belongs to the park.

It is a pretty park, they require a $10 deposit for a bathroom key which was weird. Usually, all parks keep their bathrooms open. The sites overlooked the lake which was very nice in the morning.

70 miles driven.

I left in the morning, I picked my friend up at work in the afternoon. We have decided to stay for the night and start our trip up North the next morning.

600 miles driven

This was a long day and the drive was pretty boring through Nevada. We were driving through the desert, with nothing to see and it was hot. We crossed the Idaho border where finally everything became green. I love green. Mountains started to appear in the distance. We’ve decided to sleep at a FlyingJ truck stop. We had a good night, this was my first night at a truck stop. Since my RV is pretty small, we were able to park farther from the trucks in a normal parking spot.

Brigi, my friend was pretty happy because she found great wifi, so she could get some job done.

150 miles driven

We’ve decided to go from South through the Grand Teton National Park . We crossed the Wyoming border and everything was simply beautiful. Green rolling hills, forests, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and mountains. The top of the mountains still had snow on them. We have stopped pretty often and followed the “touristy” sights. I found a small RV park by the south entrance of the Grand Teton Park, called the Fireside Resort in Buffalo Valley. It was a pretty basic park and it was a bit pricey but probably we paid for the location. We just spent the night and the next day followed the road up North to Yellowstone.

170 miles driven

We spent the whole day in Yellowstone. We followed the big loop counter-clockwise. We stopped by each point of interest on our map, took pictures, and walked around a bit. It was Saturday, many people visited the park. We saw lots of wildlife, bison, elks, and bears in their natural habitat. It was awesome! We spent the night right outside the West entrance of the park at the Rus tic Wagon RV park.

380 miles driven

We’ve decided to drive back the way we came by finishing the big loop and the rest of the park. This was the day when we saw the Grand Prismatic and other beautiful geysers.

I must admit, we could have done some hiking or biking if we spent another day in the park, but we had to head back to Reno. We ended up near Twin Falls and spent the night at a truck stop.

My favorite sights:

Grand prismatic spring:.

When we visited the Grand Prismatic Spring, we were first taken in by the overall size of it as well as all of the magnificent colors there are to see. It shows off the most radiant colors similar to that of when shining a light through a prism, such as that of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. The colors of the spring can vary each time that you visit this place and is very much dependent on the temperature and season at the time.

Old Faithful Geyser:

This geyser is probably one of the most famous landmarks that can be found in the United States, attracting many people each year, and has become number two on my list of favorite places at Yellowstone. The geyser typically erupts with huge streams of hot spring water about every 35 to 120 minutes, and its eruptions can reach up to between 106 feet to even 185 feet in the air. It is truly an amazing sight to behold. You shouldn’t miss it when visiting.

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone:

On my list of favorite destinations in Yellowstone goes to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone . Stretching just about 24 miles long, this landmark is labeled as the first big canyon formed by the river entitled the Yellowstone River in Wyoming and makes its way from the waterfalls of Yellowstone Falls all the way to the park itself.

No products found.

460 miles driven

This was the last night with my friend which we spent in Reno.

70 miles driven

I still had a few days till I had to get back to LA, I’ve decided to spend a day at Lake Tahoe. I loved it. I choose a city park called Campground by the Lake to stay and went for a bike ride. The whole Lake Tahoe area has lots of nice biking trails. I biked around 13 miles by the lake, hills, and meadows. I can really imagine spending more time here. Lake Tahoe has it all, the casinos, the entertainment, dining, shopping opportunities, and beautiful nature.

400 miles driven

This was the day I drove a lot by myself, heading back to LA. I picked an alternative road from Lake Tahoe to see something different. I stopped overlooking Mono Lake. Driving through the desert in California was difficult because of the high winds. I had to hold the turning wheel strong all way through which made the drive even harder. I spent my night at the California RV Resort.

30 miles driven

My van looked like a bug cemetery, the whole front was black from the bugs we killed by driving through the states, it was time for a carwash. After 2 hours and $60 lighter, now I have a “new” van. 🙂

Yellowstone Picture Gallery

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Related Posts

Rest Areas Overnight RV Parking Rules By State – UPDATED 2024

Where To Park And Stay Overnight With A Small RV In California?

Tips on Choosing Your Next RV Destination

5 Amazing Scenic Drives on the West Coast For RVers

Canadian RV Road Trips That Are Worth Your Attention

The 5 Best Summer Destinations for RVers

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

No, thanks!

Road Trip From San Francisco To Yellowstone National Park

When it comes to national parks, there are few more famous than Yellowstone. With the majority of the park located mostly in Wyoming, you'll see wildlife, amazing canyons, and the famous Old Faithful geyser itself.

Plus, starting out in San Francisco, you'll get to enjoy sights in sunny California, as well as a few beautiful stops in Nevada and Idaho along the way.

The drive from San Francisco to Yellowstone National Park can be done in a full day of driving taking at least 16 hours including stops on the way. You will really want to break it up into 2 to 3 days to make the most of the stunning sights along the way.

Keep reading to learn more about what you'll see along the way, plus some ideas for amazing places to stop by.

How far is it from San Francisco to Yellowstone National Park, and how long will the road trip take?

The most direct route from San Francisco to Yellowstone is around 950 miles and will take just over 14 hours of straight driving to get there. That's not counting stops to eat, use the washroom, and load up on gas.

So even if you did set out early in the morning from San Francisco, and kept breaks to a minimum, you wouldn't be arriving at Yellowstone until late in the evening.

If you're planning to camp, you'll be arriving too late to set up the tent and even if you're staying in a hotel, you'll most likely be coming in way after dinner service is finished.

Since you're driving anyway, a much better idea is to break up the road trip into 2 or more days so you can enjoy some of the sights along the way.

With so many amazing places to see, stunning national parks and must-see detours along the way, taking 3-4 days to drive each way will give you lots of options on the way and when you come back, keeping the amount of driving per day to a more relaxing 4 to 5 hours.

Best road trip route from San Francisco to Yellowstone National Park

The best route for your San Francisco to Yellowstone Road trip is also the fastest. It'll take you a little over 14 hours, and you'll get the chance to see plenty of amazing sights and wildlife.

Whether you're flying into San Francisco, or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from San Francisco to Yellowstone National Park, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

Road trip route from San Francisco to Yellowstone National Park

To get to Yellowstone from San Francisco, you'll first need take the I-80 towards Sacramento. Continue along the I-80 towards Tahoe National Forest with rivers, groves, and amazing mountains en route as you pass just to the north of Lake Tahoe.

The I-80 will then take you to Reno, Nevada before going all the way across the Great Basin Desert covering northern Nevada. Take exit 352 as you pass the town of Wells onto US-93 and head north into Idaho.

From Twin Falls, you can follow interstates I-84, I-86 and I-15 all the way to Idaho Falls. From there, US-20 will take you past Rexburg and all the way to the West Entrance into the national park near West Yellowstone.

Best places to stop between San Francisco and Yellowstone

With such a scenic route, you absolutely must make a few overnight stops along the way to make the most of the sights and nature. Depending on how much time you've got on your hands, here are some places to stop for you to consider on your way from San Francisco to Yellowstone.

Relax on a short detour to Lake Tahoe

Although it'll add about 45 minutes onto your journey, a detour to Lake Tahoe might be the perfect way to spend a night en route to Yellowstone.

If you're planning to set off from San Francisco after work, it'll take you around 3 hours 30 minutes to reach South Lake Tahoe - perfect for stopping over allowing plenty of time for driving the next day.

Hotels here can be incredibly expensive but Black Bear Lodge is a perfect combination of luxury and great value for money in South Lake Tahoe .

Sitting right between the emerald waters of the lake and Heavenly Ski Resort, every room in this boutique hotel comes with a cozy fireplace and you're a short walk away from a selection of restaurants.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Stop over in Twin Falls, Idaho

Twin Falls is the first major city on your road trip after you enter the state of Idaho. There isn't much to do or many places to stop in northern Nevada so if you've made the long drive in one day, Twin Falls is the perfect place to set up camp.

The Shoshone Falls on Snake River are a few minutes away and well worth seeing whether you're stopping or not. Further out, you can make visits to Boise or Sun Valley or go see the lava fields in the Craters of the Moon National Monument.

Your choice of hotels is limited to the usual chains so you can pick your favorite option - we recommend La Quinta Inn & Suites for its perfect location and a selection of places to eat within walking distance .

Whether you've driven the 11+ hours straight from San Francisco or made the 8-hour road trip from South Lake Tahoe, you'll want to stretch your legs!

Things to see on a road trip from San Francisco to Yellowstone National Park

As I mentioned above, although you COULD do the entire road trip in one day, I'd recommend you actually see some of the amazing nature and sights along the way. Take a few days, stop over and add some of the below to your itinerary.

• Sacramento - California's capital is a quirky city and a great spot for brunch if you're setting off from San Francisco in the morning.
• Tahoe National Forest - Directly on the route, you'll pass through the groves and mountains as you make your way up the I-80
• Yosemite National Park - If you're up for a significant detour (about 3 hours added onto your trip), you can cross the Sierra Nevada further south and head for Yosemite National Park. This way you'll visit arguably the two most famous national parks in the country on the same trip
• Lake Tahoe - On the way if you pass further south across the Sierra Nevada Mountains and a perfect place to relax with the beautiful lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks
• Shoshone Falls - Located in Twin Falls, Idaho, these magnificent falls drop more than 200 feet down into Snake River. There are plenty of viewpoints around, so you'll be sure to get a good angle of these falls.
• Perrine Memorial Bridge - Also located near Twin Falls, the southern canyon of Snake River features ten miles of walking trails, plus an incredible view of the Perrine Memorial Bridge. For the adrenaline junkies, tandem BASE jumping off the bridge will definitely get your heart rate going.
• Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve - If you've wondered what it's like to be on the moon, wonder no longer - this desolate landscape with buttes and lava fields has an otherworldly feel.
• Grand Teton National Park - Located just South of Yellowstone National Park, you can hike through the breathtaking Teton Mountain Range. Bring your camera along so you can photograph the hundreds of different bird species living in the area
• Jackson - A charming town famous as the gateway to the Jackson Hole ski resort.
• Island Park - You'll pass through the valley and the adjoining Caribou-Targhee National Forest on your way up to West Yellowstone. There are endless activities whether you're coming in the summer or winter and this is one of my favorite secret places in the United States.
• Yellowstone National Park - Let's not forget the reason you came here! Head over to visit the Old Faithful geyser, which continues to erupt on schedule. Stand in awe at the colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring. Visit Yellowstone Lake, the Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Yellowstone Caldera along with endless other sights and natural wonders.

Best time to go on a road trip from San Francisco to Yellowstone National Park

If you're interested in exploring Yellowstone National Park, the best time to go is during the milder months of April to May or September to October. You'll find the weather isn't too harsh, plus the park itself won't be too crowded.

July and August are still amazing months to visit Yellowstone, but the warm weather will bring in more crowds. The good news is that Yellowstone National Park is so huge, you won't be running into other hikers or campers too often even in peak season.

The route you decide to take from San Francisco to Yellowstone will also help determine when the best time to go is. Driving across Nevada in the summer will feel very hot. From June to August expect temperatures to frequently break the 100 degrees Fahrenheit mark.

While the milder spring and fall months are the best time to go visit the park, don't discount a winter trip. It will be very cold and you'll need to remember that the roads leading into Yellowstone close for the winter season, but you can stay just outside in Island Park or West Yellowstone and head into the park on a snowmobile.

Alternatively, pack your skis for some cross-country skiing, and make sure you carry your camera with you. Animals will stand out better against the white snowy background.

No matter when you decide to go, you'll want to spend a few days as a minimum, in Yellowstone to really appreciate the park. The longer you can stay the more you'll discover and the more time you'll have to visit different parts of the park.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts