Madison Campground sits at an elevation of 6,800 feet, 14 miles east of West Yellowstone. It is located near the confluence of the Gibbon and Firehole rivers, forming the Madison River, with meadows teeming with wildflowers and bison in early summer.
Wood and charcoal fires are permitted, though special fire restrictions are occasionally put in place. Propane grills and stoves are normally not restricted. Checkout time is 11 am.
National Park camping is the cathedral experience—crowded in peak season, reserved far in advance, and worth the planning. Food-storage orders are strict, and walk-up nights are scarce when the parks fill.
Nearest town: West Yellowstone. Elevation about 6800 feet.
Campground snapshot
- Agency / unit: NPS — Yellowstone National Park
- Sites: 276
- Type: Tent/RV
- Fee range: $33.00
- Season: late spring through fall (Closed October 18–April 30)
- Reservations: Yellowstone National Park Lodges
- Best for: Firehole Gibbon rivers geysers
Amenities
Trash/Recycling Collection, Food Storage Lockers, Ice for Sale, Firewood for Sale, Staff On Site, Amphitheater, Dump Station, Potable Water, Flush Toilets
How to book
Book early through Yellowstone National Park Lodges. Glacier and Yellowstone gateway nights fill months ahead; smaller primitive loops still need a firm plan for arrival day. Official listing: www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/madisoncg.htm.
Bear country & campcraft
This stop sits in classic Montana bear country. Store all attractants—food, trash, toiletries, cookware, and pet food—in a hard-sided vehicle, an IGBC-approved container, a provided bear box, or a proper hang. Never bring food or cooking clothes into the tent.
Campfires belong only in provided metal rings when restrictions allow. Drown, stir, and feel the ashes with the back of your hand before leaving or sleeping. In Stage II restrictions, open fires are banned even in developed sites—use a shut-off stove only.
Follow Leave No Trace: camp on durable surfaces, pack out everything you pack in, and leave the site cleaner than you found it.
Plan the rest of the trip
- Camping reference: reservations, bears, and fire rules
- Open this stop on the Backroads Guided Trails map
- Campgrounds directory
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: West Yellowstone
- Focus: National Park
- Coordinates: 44.6433, -110.8631
- Access note: Confirm road conditions, water availability, and fire restrictions before arrival. Mountain weather can drop below freezing even in midsummer.
- Legal reminder: Follow agency food-storage orders, stay within designated sites in developed camps, and respect private land and tribal boundaries.