Beartooth Lake Campground

Closed — Closed for winter. The Beartooth Highway typically closes in mid-October and reopens in late May, weather dependent. The campground operates first-come, first-served with no reservations when open.

About

Beartooth Lake Campground is a remote mountain campground located at 9,000 feet elevation along the Beartooth All-American Highway (US-212) in Shoshone National Forest. The campground's 21 sites sit on the shores of Beartooth Lake, surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Beartooth Plateau. All sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations accepted, and the campground often fills during summer months. The campground serves as a popular base for anglers, boaters, and backpackers exploring the Beartooth backcountry. A major trailhead provides access to the wilderness areas of the Beartooth Plateau, while the lake offers fishing and non-motorized boating opportunities. Basic amenities include hand-pumped drinking water and vault toilets. A nearby store provides supplies, though visitors should be prepared for complete lack of cell service. Due to its high elevation location along the Beartooth Highway, the campground operates only during summer months when the highway is open, typically from late May through mid-October. The extreme elevation and weather conditions mean the area receives heavy snowfall that makes winter access impossible. Food storage is required due to bear activity, and stays are limited to 16 consecutive days.

Directions

From Cody, take State Highway 120 north for 16 miles. Turn left onto State Highway 296 (Chief Joseph Scenic Highway) and proceed about 46 miles to the junction with US Highway 212. Turn right onto Highway 212 (Beartooth Highway) and continue about 8 miles to the campground on the left.

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