Crazy Creek Campground

Overview

Perched above its namesake stream, Crazy Creek Campground is a small, first‑come Forest Service spot right off the Beartooth Highway. With 16 simple sites and knockout views toward peaks like Pilot, it’s the kind of place where the soundtrack is flowing water and wind in the pines.

Campsites and Amenities

Expect basic but well‑kept facilities: vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and a bear box at each site. There’s no potable water—plan to pack it in or treat creek water. Sites work well for tents and smaller rigs; the reported maximum spur length is about 28 feet. Don’t count on cell coverage for AT&T, Verizon, or T‑Mobile.

Things to Do

• Crazy Creek Falls sits just across the highway via a short stroll (roughly 0.1–0.25 miles). Spring runoff is thundering; late summer is gentler and great for photos.
• Wet a line in Crazy Creek or nearby waters; anglers report cutthroat, rainbow, and brook trout in the area (license required).
• Use camp as a quiet base for scenic driving on the Beartooth and Chief Joseph Highways, or for quick access to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance.

Wildlife and Safety

This corridor is classic bear country. Use the provided food‑storage boxes for everything with a scent—food, coolers, cookware, toiletries—whenever you’re not actively using them. Keep a clean camp, cook and store food away from your sleeping area, and carry bear spray.

Season and Closures

Typical season runs late May to mid‑September, weather dependent. As of September 10, 2025, the Forest Service lists Crazy Creek Campground as closed for the 2025 season: no services and no fees, with walk‑in camping permitted. When closed, don’t expect trash service—pack out everything.

Best Time to Visit

In a normal year, arrive on summer weekdays before mid‑afternoon to nab a first‑come site. Morning and evening bring the best light on the surrounding peaks, and the falls photograph well in soft light or on overcast days. Mosquitoes can pop after storms; bring repellent.

Getting There

From Cody, take WY‑120 north, then WY‑296 (Chief Joseph Highway), and finally US‑212 (Beartooth Highway); the campground is about 3.5 miles west of that junction. It’s roughly 11 miles east of Cooke City and about 15 miles from Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance.

If It’s Full or Closed

Nearby options include Fox Creek Campground and dispersed spots along Pilot Creek; check current Forest Service advisories before you go.