Wyoming / Park County / Shoshone National Forest

Clearwater Campground

Closed — Closed for the 2025 season. The campground typically operates seasonally and closes for winter. First-come, first-served only; no advance reservations available.

About

Clearwater Campground is an intimate 11-site campground located along the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway in the Shoshone National Forest, approximately 32 miles west of Cody, Wyoming, and 20 miles from Yellowstone National Park's east entrance. This walk-in tent camping facility sits on the banks of the North Fork of the Shoshone River, surrounded by Douglas fir and large juniper trees with views of the surrounding mountains. The campground provides excellent access to outdoor recreation, including fly-fishing for rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the North Fork, hiking trails, and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Grizzly bears, deer, elk, bison, moose, fox, coyotes, and bald eagles are frequently spotted in the area. Each site includes a bear box for required food storage, fire ring/grill, and picnic table, with RV parking available at the main campground area (maximum 40-foot spur). Clearwater operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. The campground features vault toilets but no potable water, so campers must bring their own water supply. Payment is cash or check only. The 16-day stay limit and $15 per night fee make this an affordable base camp for exploring the greater Yellowstone area and the historic Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway.

Directions

From Cody, take U.S. Highway 14/16/20 west for 32 miles. The campground is on the south side of the highway next to the river, about 21 miles from Yellowstone National Park's east entrance.

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