Bridge Bay Campground

Big lakeside basecamp beside the marina, great for boats and fishing

InsideYellowstone National Park

Overview

One of the park’s biggest campgrounds, Bridge Bay sits by Yellowstone Lake at around 7,800 feet. It’s a practical base with lake views, easy access to the marina, and a classic national park feel—flush restrooms and dish stations, yes; hookups and showers, no.

Campsites & Facilities

432 individual sites plus 4 group sites for tents and RVs (no electric/water/sewer hookups).
Flush toilets with cold running water; most restroom buildings have indoor dishwashing stations.
Picnic table and fire grate at each site; ice and firewood sold on-site; potable water spigots throughout.
RV dump station at the campground (can close early/late season due to freezing temps).
Generator hours 8 a.m.–8 p.m. (max 60 dB). No campground Wi‑Fi and cell service is limited.

Layout: Which Loops to Choose

Lower loops (A–D): More open, fewer trees, and more exposure to wind off the lake—great for larger rigs, but tent campers should stake well.
Upper loops (E–J): More wooded with better wind protection and a mix of sun/shade. The amphitheater and hiker/biker area are up here.

What Makes It Stand Out

The marina next door is a major perk: boat tours, rentals, dock space, guided fishing, licenses, a small store, and fuel for watercraft.
Evening ranger programs at the campground amphitheater add a bit of magic and learning after dinner.
Lake Village is about two miles away with dining, shops, a clinic, post office, and more supplies.

Nature, Wildlife & Safety

Expect elk and bison to wander through from time to time. Early season can bring bear activity, and some loops may close accordingly. Follow strict food storage rules—keep all food and scented items in a hard‑sided vehicle or shared food boxes when not in use.

Nearby Things to Do

You’re set up for Yellowstone Lake time—scenic cruises, paddling, and fishing. Popular nearby hikes include the Natural Bridge Trail and Elephant Back Mountain. West Thumb Geyser Basin and Hayden Valley are easy drives for thermal features and wildlife watching.

Best Time to Visit

Season typically runs mid‑May to early September, with a short first‑come, first‑served window at the start of the season. Reservations through Yellowstone National Park Lodges book up quickly.
For calmer lake conditions and pretty light, mornings and evenings are lovely; bring layers year‑round due to swift weather changes at elevation.

Good to Know

Showers and laundry are not on-site—plan a stop at Fishing Bridge RV Park.
Many sites fit common rigs, but some pads aren’t level. Bring leveling gear and reserve for your full combined length.
Hiker/biker sites are walk‑in and non‑reservable.

Pros

Next to Bridge Bay Marina for boat tours, rentals, fuel, and a small store
Flush toilets with dishwashing stations; fire ring and picnic table at each site

Cons

No hookups or showers on-site (showers/laundry at Fishing Bridge RV Park)
Lower loops can be windy; some sites are uneven and close together

Tips

Book as early as possible; a short first‑come window exists right at opening.
Pick upper loops for more shade and wind protection; lower loops are more exposed.
Bring leveling blocks—some pads aren’t perfectly flat, especially in lower loops.
Plan your showers and laundry at Fishing Bridge RV Park.
Follow bear‑safe food storage rules and expect limited cell service.