Wyoming / Park County / Shoshone National Forest

Wapiti Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates mid-May through mid-September.

About

Wapiti Campground is situated along the North Fork of the Shoshone River on the historic Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway, approximately 30 miles west of Cody and 22 miles east of Yellowstone National Park's east entrance. Set at 6,000 feet elevation among cottonwood and juniper trees, the campground sits beneath ancient cliffs formed by Absaroka volcanic mud flows. The location places campers in prime grizzly bear habitat, where deer, elk, moose, bison, fox, coyotes, and bald eagles are commonly observed. The campground features 41 campsites with a maximum RV spur length of 50 feet. Sites include both electric and non-electric options, with all sites equipped with bear-proof food storage boxes, picnic tables, and fire rings with grills. Vault toilets, potable water via hand pump, and trash collection are provided. The nearby Wapiti Wayside offers interpretive information about grizzly bears and local wildlife. A trailhead from the campground provides access to the Washakie Wilderness via Elk Fork Creek. The North Fork of the Shoshone River is popular for fly-fishing rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Pahaska Tepee, Buffalo Bill's original 1904 hunting lodge, is located west of the campground and offers tours, horseback rides, and other amenities. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a 16-day stay limit and requires cash or check payment.

Directions

From Cody, travel west on U.S. Highway 14/16/20 for 28 miles to the campground on the north side of the highway next to the river. The campground is located between Elk Fork Campground to the west and Big Game Campground to the east, approximately 25 miles from Yellowstone National Park's east entrance.

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