Hey there, it’s your boy Matthew Taylor again. I remember the first time I took my RV to Yellowstone, I had no idea how much it was going to cost to park it in the park.
I mean, I knew it wasn’t going to be cheap, but I had no idea just how much I was in for.
So I’m driving along, feeling pretty pleased with myself, when I see the sign for the entrance station. I pull up to the gate and the ranger asks me how long I’m planning to stay. I tell him I’m not sure, maybe a couple of days. He gives me a little smile and says, “That’ll be $50 per day, please.”
Well, I’ll tell you what, I almost fell out of my chair. Fifty bucks a day?! I had no idea it was going to be that expensive. I mean, I knew national park fees weren’t cheap, but this was ridiculous.
But despite the shock of that initial fee, I still think an RV is a great way to see Yellowstone. It’s convenient, comfortable, and affordable (if you plan ahead).
And if you’re wondering how much it’s going to cost to park your RV in the park, here’s what you need to know:
Table of Contents
1. Entrance Fees
The first thing you’ll need to pay for when you enter Yellowstone is the entrance fee. This is a per-vehicle fee that allows you to access the park for a certain number of days.
The fee is $35 per vehicle, which gives you access to the park for seven days. If you’re planning to stay longer, you’ll need to pay an additional fee for each additional week or month that you’re in the park.
2. Camping Fees
If you’re planning to park your RV in one of Yellowstone’s campgrounds, you’ll also need to pay a camping fee.
These fees vary depending on the campground and the time of year, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50 per night. Some campgrounds also have additional fees for amenities like electricity, water, or showers.
3. Other Fees
In addition to the entrance and camping fees, you may also incur other costs while you’re in the park. These could include fees for activities like guided tours, educational programs, or special events.
You may also need to pay for things like firewood or ice, or for services like laundry or shower facilities.
FAQ
Are there any discounts available for RV camping in Yellowstone?
Yes, there are a few discounts available for RV camping in Yellowstone:
- Annual pass: If you plan to visit Yellowstone multiple times in a year, you may want to consider purchasing an annual pass. These cost $70 and are good for one year from the date of purchase. They can be used at any national park or federal recreation site in the United States.
- Senior pass: If you’re over the age of 62, you may be eligible for a senior pass. These cost $80 and are good for the lifetime of the pass holder. They also allow
access to any national park or federal recreation site in the United States. - Access pass: If you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a permanent disability, you may be eligible for an access pass. These are free and also allow access to any national park or federal recreation site in the United States.
Is it cheaper to stay outside the park and drive in?
It can be cheaper to stay outside the park and drive in, especially if you’re staying for an extended period of time.
Many of the campgrounds outside the park offer lower rates than the ones inside, and you’ll only need to pay the entrance fee when you enter the park each day.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that you’ll need to pay for gas and potentially other expenses like food and souvenirs as well, so it’s a good idea to do some cost comparisons before making a decision.
Can I park my RV anywhere in the park?
No, you can’t park your RV just anywhere in the park. There are designated RV camping areas in each of the park’s campgrounds, and you’ll need to park your RV in one of these areas.
It’s also important to follow any size or length restrictions that may be in place, as some campgrounds have limits on how large or long your RV can be.
The Takeaway
As you can see, the cost of parking an RV in Yellowstone can vary quite a bit depending on a number of factors.
But with a little planning and budgeting, you can have a fantastic time exploring this amazing national park in the comfort of your own RV.
Just make sure to bring plenty of snacks, because those fees can really add up!