How much does camping cost at Clearwater Campground?

Camping fees at Clearwater Campground are $15 - $90/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Clearwater Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Clearwater Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Clearwater Campground before I book?

Yes! Clearwater Campground has 16 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Clearwater Campground?

Clearwater Campground is open May 22 to September 06. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Clearwater Campground?

Clearwater Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Clearwater Campground have?

Clearwater Campground has 12 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Clearwater Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Clearwater Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Clearwater Campground?

Clearwater Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Clearwater Campground?

Popular activities at Clearwater Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Clearwater Campground

4.46

67 reviews

203A Yellowstone Ave

Top 24% in WYSummer

B+Report Card

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Fishing Camping Wyoming Fall Camping Wyoming Spring Camping Wyoming +11 more

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$15 - $90/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Shoshone National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$15 - $90/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Shoshone National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Clearwater Campground

$15.00 - $90.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $90.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $30.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $15.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction...

Group Site Fee$90.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

307-527-6921 - THIS NUMBER IS NOT FOR RESERVATIONS. FOR RESERVATION OR INQUIRIES ABOUT RESERVATION STATUS, GO TO RECREATION.GOV 1-877-444-6777

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Clearwater Campground

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

203A Yellowstone Ave

Clearwater Campground

203A Yellowstone Ave

Nearby places

Cody (32 miles, approximately 40-minute drive), Yellowstone National Park East Entrance (25 miles, approximately 30-minute drive)

Weather at Clearwater Campground

Best Time to Camp at Clearwater Campground

Best season: summer. Summer delivers the best combination of reliably warm weather, long daylight, and full access to trails and river fishing—daytime highs typically range from the mid-60s to low-80s°F with cool nights in the mid-30s to 50s°F. This is peak time for hiking, fly-fishing the North Fork of the Shoshone, and easy wildlife viewing along the river; wildflowers and green forests are at their fullest. Expect moderate to busy crowds (especially July) because Clearwater is a short drive from Cody and close to Peak months: July, August, June, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in WY

Best season: summer; warm days, full access to trails and peak fishing/wildlife viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22 to September 06. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025, through September 6, 2025.

About Clearwater Campground

Clearwater Campground sits along the North Fork of the Shoshone River in Shoshone National Forest, a short drive from Yellowstone's east entrance. This small, forested campground offers spacious, private sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables but no water or hookups. Visitors come for fly-fishing, wildlife viewing along the river corridor, and access to national forest trails.

Clearwater Campground is designed for primitive and tent camping with no utility hookups. Single-family campsites and one reservable group area are offered.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers the best combination of reliably warm weather, long daylight, and full access to trails and river fishing—daytime highs typically range from the mid-60s to low-80s°F with cool nights in the mid-30s to 50s°F. This is peak time for hiking, fly-fishing the North Fork of the Shoshone, and easy wildlife viewing along the river; wildflowers and green forests are at their fullest. Expect moderate to busy crowds (especially July) because Clearwater is a short drive from Cody and close to Peak months: July, August, June, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation6000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe North Fork of the Shoshone River flows past the campground through a mix of Douglas fir and juniper forest. Mountain views frame the sites, and reviewers consistently mention the scenic beauty and peaceful setting. Grizzly bears, elk, deer, moose, bald eagles, foxes, and coyotes all move through the area. Multiple campers note grizzly bear warnings and the importance of using the provided food storage lockers. The campground's location within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem means wildlife encounters are common, not occasional.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodgings available at Clearwater Campground. This location is strictly designated for camping.

Programs & ActivitiesThe nearby Pahaska Tepee offers guided tours of Buffalo Bill's original hunting lodge, as well as horseback rides, a gift shop, restaurant, and lodging. Tours are available daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.

Groups

The group camping area includes private parking, three large picnic tables, two food storage lockers, and a campfire circle.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, contact center, or mobile app.

AccessibilityAccessibility features were not explicitly mentioned in the source material or reviews.

Site SizeSites are spacious and provide ample room for camping. "Sites that have a lot of space and privacy," according to a review by Brian Kurth.

PrivacyThe campsites are noted for their privacy, with Claire Nolan describing them as "spacious and private from the other camps around it." User LGN also highlighted good privacy for a public camping area.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesFor tent camping and scenic views, choose sites near the river, such as 3, 4, and 6. Sites with trees are suitable for hammocks.

Best CampsitesSites 3, 4, and 6 get mentioned most often for river proximity and privacy. Tent campers should look for sites with tree coverage for wind protection.

Need help booking Clearwater Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Vault toilets and trash collection are provided, but drinking water is not available. Utility hookups are not available Be sure to bring plenty of drinking water and to empty black water tanks prior to arrival; there is no water or dump station available at the campground.

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Clearwater Campground

The campground provides a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, scenic driving, and wildlife viewing. According to the authoritative source, "Great opportunities for hiking, fishing, scenic driving and wildlife viewing are available around the campground. The North Fork of the Shoshone River is a popular fly-fishing location for rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout."

Wildlife viewing5.0/5Top 4% in Wyoming

Fishing4.0/5

Hiking3.5/5

Water Sports2.0/5

River present but no boating/kayaking opportunities are described.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Remote forested site with low light and solitude suggests very good night skies.

Photography4.5/5Outstanding views, riverside scenes and frequent wildlife make it highly photo-worthy.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Food Storage RequiredEach campsite is equipped with food storage lockers that comply with bear safety standards.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is provided, and food storage lockers are available at each site. Proper trash and food management is critical due to the presence of wildlife.

Cell CoverageUser reviews pointed out that there is no cell service available within the campground. Mindy Miles specifically mentioned, "There was not any service but you wouldn’t be far if you needed it (10-15 minute drive to the east)."

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Clearwater Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.5

67 reviews

Recommended

Clearwater Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews praise Clearwater Campground for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and excellent camp host. Grizzly bear warnings and proper food storage practices are frequently noted. Users expressed appreciation for the privacy of campsites, proximity to the river, and general peacefulness of the area.

Review Summaries

Based on 67 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean facilities, spacious sites, great privacy, and outstanding views. Hosts were often described as knowledgeable and helpful, with Walt highlighted as particularly...

Based on 67 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of drinking water and cell service, as well as isolated incidents of host demeanor being perceived as less friendly than expected. One user reported confusion over group...

Based on 67 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews indicate sites 4 and 6 are particularly desirable for their privacy and proximity to the river. User Scott G stated, "We stayed on site #6 and it worked great for the 2 tents we...

Based on 67 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water due to the absence of potable water on-site. Utilize food storage lockers effectively to mitigate wildlife risks. Tent campers should select sites with tree coverage for wind...

Based on 67 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season for camping at Clearwater Campground, with users appreciating the proximity to Yellowstone and wildlife viewing opportunities during this time. Winter reviews are...

Based on 67 reviews

Camper Quotes

Direct quotes include: "Camp host was great, very respectful and full of knowledge with bear safety" - Marty Vanmiddelkoop. "The campsite itself was very well maintained and beautiful!" - Brenna...

Based on 67 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews are absent or not explicitly detailed in user feedback.

Based on 67 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies were not directly mentioned in user reviews or authoritative sources.

Based on 67 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Clearwater Campground

$15.00 - $90.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $90.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $30.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $15.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction...

Group Site Fee$90.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

307-527-6921 - THIS NUMBER IS NOT FOR RESERVATIONS. FOR RESERVATION OR INQUIRIES ABOUT RESERVATION STATUS, GO TO RECREATION.GOV 1-877-444-6777

Go if

You want privacy and wildlife near Yellowstone and can bring your own water.

Skip if

You need drinking water on-site or any utility hookups for your RV.

Nearby Campgrounds

Elk Fork Campground, Wapiti Ranger District, Cody, Wyoming, USA

Elk Fork Campground sits along the Shoshone River 25 miles from Yellowstone's East Entrance, offering 13 rustic sites at 6,000 feet elevation. The campground costs $10-15 per night and operates May 8 through September 30. Sites accommodate RVs up to 22 feet, though the straight (non-looped) layout makes maneuvering larger rigs tricky. Corrals at the nearby Elk Fork Trailhead make this a popular base for horseback trips into the Washakie Wilderness.

Clearwater Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Clearwater Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Clearwater Campground

Best Time to Camp at Clearwater Campground

Planning Tips

About Clearwater Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Clearwater Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Clearwater Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Clearwater Campground

Best Time to Camp at Clearwater Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Clearwater Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Clearwater Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews