Lewis Lake Campground
3.9180 reviewsYellowstone National Park, Campgrounds, PO Box 168, Yellowstone, WY 82190
Lewis Lake Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly fee cost is $20.00. Interagency Access and Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount.
About this campground
Escape to the serene shores of Lewis Lake Campground, where pristine wilderness meets crystal-clear waters at the crossroads of two of America's most beloved national parks. This intimate, back-to-nature retreat sits perfectly positioned between Yellowstone and Grand Teton, offering adventurers a genuine wilderness experience far from the digital world. Here, the absence of cell towers and modern facilities isn't a limitation—it's an invitation to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with the raw beauty of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Lewis Lake Campground accommodates various camping preferences, though it leans more towards rustic camping. It is suited for tent camping and smaller RVs due to the vehicle length limit.
Weather and SeasonsAt Lewis Lake, Mother Nature keeps you on your toes with her ever-changing moods. Summer days unfold with gentle warmth, temperatures climbing to a comfortable 70-80°F, perfect for paddling the lake or exploring nearby trails. But don't let those sunny afternoons fool you—mountain nights have their own agenda, often dipping toward freezing even in July. Spring and fall paint the landscape in dramatic transitions, with temperatures dancing between 30-60°F and frost greeting early risers. Perhaps most thrilling is the possibility of witnessing snowflakes any month of the year—a reminder that you're camping in true mountain country where winter never fully loosens its grip.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,800 feet above sea level, Lewis Lake Campground places you firmly in the thin-air realm of the Rocky Mountain high country. This lofty elevation creates a unique microclimate where afternoon sunshine gives way to crisp, star-filled nights that demand an extra layer in your sleeping bag. The altitude adds an element of adventure to every activity, from the slight breathlessness on morning hikes to the spectacular alpenglow that bathes the surrounding peaks at sunset.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering lodgepole pines and Engelmann spruce create a natural cathedral around Lewis Lake Campground, their evergreen spires reaching skyward while providing sheltered camping spots below. The star attraction is Lewis Lake itself—a sprawling mountain jewel that mirrors the sky and welcomes both peaceful paddlers and fishing enthusiasts with motorboats. This high-altitude aquatic playground stretches across the landscape, its waters holding secrets of native trout while reflecting the surrounding wilderness in perfect clarity. The combination of dense forest and expansive water creates a photographer's paradise where misty mornings and golden evenings transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Geological RegionNestled within Yellowstone National Park's volcanic wonderland at 7,800 feet (2,377 meters), Lewis Lake represents a fascinating chapter in the region's geological story. This substantial freshwater lake, cradled by ancient pine forests, occupies a basin shaped by volcanic forces and glacial artistry over millennia. The surrounding landscape tells tales of fire and ice—where volcanic eruptions once shook the earth, and massive glaciers later carved and sculpted the terrain into today's breathtaking high-elevation sanctuary. The lake itself serves as a liquid reminder of the powerful forces that continue to shape this dynamic corner of the Rocky Mountains.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has no designated ADA campsites. Paths are made of compacted gravel or dirt with limited gradient changes, and bathrooms and the ranger station are accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites vary significantly in size, with some being small and sloped, making it challenging for larger tents or RVs. The maximum vehicle length is 25 feet.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate that privacy varies by site. Some sites are closely packed, while others are more secluded with foliage barriers.
Total Campsites85 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites on the outer loops are recommended for privacy. Sites near the lake can face mosquito issues.
Best CampsitesCampsites with shade and proximity to facilities are popular. Site recommendations include #76 and #37 for privacy and convenience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
10:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 AM
Stay Limit
- 14 days from July 1 to Labor Day
- 30 days the rest of the year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Six guests per campsite
- strictly enforced.
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThree loops labeled A, B, and C. Walk-in sites available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 15 to October 13.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, including the mobile app and call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityEighty percent of sites are reservable in advance; twenty percent available on short-term release two weeks prior.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation before arrival incurs $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee in addition to forfeiting the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lewis Lake Campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering direct access to Lewis Lake for boating and fishing. Wildlife viewing, hiking, and backcountry camping are other popular activities. The area is more suited for visitors looking for serene natural experiences rather than extensive on-site recreational facilities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the campground, though some users note the lack of trails directly around the lake, which may limit options for nearby walks.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Lewis Lake, which requires a Yellowstone National Park fishing permit. Common catches include trout species.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are allowed. A boat ramp is located near the campground registration area, and all boats must pass an aquatic invasive species inspection and have a park-issued boat permit.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight at Lewis Lake, with opportunities to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat.Winter Activities
During the off-season (October to June), the campground is closed, so winter activities are not applicable.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular due to the lake's accessibility and scenic beauty.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood and charcoal fires allowed; propane stoves generally unrestricted. Seasonal fire bans may apply.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsHeavy mosquito presence near the lake. Strict bear safety measures required. Seasonal plumbing issues noted in user reviews.
Active alertsDaily fishing closures after 2 p.m. on certain park rivers due to low water levels and hydrothermal explosion closures at Biscuit Basin.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest park ranger station is at the South Entrance, 12 miles away. Nearest full-service hospital is in Cody, WY, approximately 100 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 15 to October 13.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling collection are available at the entrance. Bear-proof bins are provided to ensure food safety and cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresShort walk to Lewis Lake, known for boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSmall and cramped campsites; vault toilets are the only restroom option. Mosquito infestations in summer.
HostCampground hosts are seasonal and noted to be helpful and welcoming.
Campground Map
Yellowstone National Park, Campgrounds, PO Box 168, Yellowstone, WY 82190
Driving directionsLocated twelve miles north of the South Entrance. The campground is situated on the road between South Entrance and West Thumb.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Vehicle length maximum is 25 feet, including trailers. Strict enforcement of parking on designated pads is applied.Nearby places
Yellowstone (12 miles, about 30 minutes), Grand Teton National Park (23 miles, up to 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supply point is Grant Village, 20 minutes away, offering food, ice, gas, and firewood.
Camper Reviews
3.9
80 reviews
Lewis Lake Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lewis Lake Campground are highly polarized. Some reviewers appreciate the natural beauty, access to the lake, and proximity to Yellowstone attractions, while others criticize the small, cramped campsites, lack of modern facilities, and mosquito prevalence.
Review Summaries
Based on 80 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the serene location, proximity to Lewis Lake, and friendly campground hosts. Many users appreciate the lack of RV generators and the quiet atmosphere.
Based on 80 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include cramped and uneven campsites, lack of cell phone reception, missing or broken water spigots, and vault toilets. Mosquitoes are frequently noted as a major issue during...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and your own water supply, especially during late summer when spigots may be turned off. Consider choosing sites on the outer loops for better privacy. Arrive prepared for...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews from the summer months frequently mention mosquitoes and crowded conditions, while fall reviews highlight the campground's tranquility and accessibility. Winter reviews are not applicable as...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campground is honestly beautiful with good space between camp sites." — Justin C. | "Nice place to stay, but the lake was windy as heck." — Keiran M. | "The vault toilets were always clean and...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #19 was noted as too small for larger tents. Site #33 is highlighted for its privacy. Site #76 was appreciated for its quiet location but faced issues with water availability.
Based on 80 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews on accessibility, but official sources state that there are no ADA-compliant campsites.
Based on 80 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be physically restrained. One reviewer noted the challenge of exploring the park with dogs due to restrictions on trails and boardwalks.
Based on 80 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025