Pros & cons
PROS
- Charming 1919 cedar-octagon building right on the lake
- Scoops, groceries, and a simple sit-down grill under one roof
CONS
- Food can be pricey and hit-or-miss
- Small lot and afternoon lines for ice cream
Overview
A classic lakeside pit stop, Lake General Store is a 30-foot cedar-octagon (built in 1919) steps from the shore of Yellowstone Lake. It’s where you stock up, cool down with ice cream, and grab a quick burger or sandwich before your next geyser run. The setting is the draw: benches and a couple of picnic tables out front face the water.
What You’ll Find
- Groceries, snacks, toiletries, and camping essentials
- Gifts, souvenirs, apparel, and books
- Ice cream (including a fountain counter) and a simple sit-down menu of burgers and sandwiches
- Beer and wine, plus a handy selection for campers and hotel guests
- Restrooms located in a separate building just northeast of the store
What Stands Out
The combo of lakeside views and one-stop convenience is hard to beat. You can grab souvenirs and sundries, then linger outside with an ice cream while you watch the light on the water. It’s more about the setting and convenience than culinary greatness.
Manage Expectations
This is a seasonal, in-park general store with tourist pricing and variable food quality. Popular items (especially ice cream) can sell out during peak hours. If you want a relaxed stop, time it away from the midday rush.
Best Time to Visit
Open only in summer (typically mid-June to mid-September). Hours are limited to daytime; confirm on-site as they can change with staffing and season. Mornings or early evenings are best to avoid lines and snag a parking spot. Afternoons see the heaviest rush at the ice cream counter.
Wildlife Note
Bison frequently roam the Lake Village area. Give them (and all wildlife) plenty of space and never approach—enjoy the views from the picnic tables instead.
Where it is
44.5501, -110.3965Tips for Lake General Store
- 01Go early or late for ice cream to avoid lines and sell-outs.
- 02Confirm hours day-of; this spot keeps limited daytime hours.
- 03Parking is tight—aim for morning or be patient mid-afternoon.
- 04Restrooms are in a separate building just northeast of the store.
- 05Outside its summer season, try Fishing Bridge or Canyon general stores for supplies.
Amenities
Near Lake General Store
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayLake Yellowstone HotelHistoric lakeside grand hotel with sunsets, live music, and boat accessLodging · Restaurant
0.2 mi awayLake Hotel Dining RoomHistoric lakefront dining with views, live music, and seasonal menusRestaurant · Food
0.3 mi awayLake Medical ClinicSeasonal walk-in clinic for injuries, illness, and transfersRestroom · Parking
0.3 mi awayLake Lodge CabinsRustic lake-area cabins with private baths and on-site canteenLodging · Restaurant
0.6 mi awayElephant Back Mountain TrailShaded forest loop to a big Yellowstone Lake panoramaModerate · 3.8 mi · 2 hr
1.9 mi awayPelican Creek Nature TrailShort, shady loop to Yellowstone Lake with easy birding rewardsEasy · 0.6 mi · 30 min
2.3 mi awayBridge Bay Campground-Natural Bridge TrailShady out-and-back to a rhyolite arch steps from Bridge BayEasy · 2.5 mi · 1.2 hr
2.3 mi awayNatural Bridge TrailEasy forest walk to a rhyolite arch, with a short steep viewpointEasy · 3.1 mi · 1.2 hr
