Indian Creek Campground – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana

Indian Creek Campground is a quiet, forest-lined campground nestled along the Gardner River corridor near the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Situated at approximately 7,300 feet of elevation, it offers a peaceful riverside setting with fewer crowds than many of the more developed campgrounds in Yellowstone—making it a great choice for tent campers and those seeking a more tranquil park experience.

Location & Setting

The campground lies about eight miles south of the Mammoth Hot Springs area and the North Entrance of Yellowstone, via the road to Norris. Set beneath lodgepole pine and fir trees, Indian Creek sits at the base of the Gallatin Range and near Electric Peak, providing scenic mountain views as well as stream-side access to creeks like Indian Creek and Panther Creek that join here. The forested setting and riverside ambiance help create a very natural-feeling campsite within this popular national park.

Campground Overview

Indian Creek offers around 70 sites (some sources list 71-73). Many sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and smaller RVs (generally up to about 30-35 feet). The campground is divided into loops A and B, with plenty of shade, and the sites are spaced within the forest rather than tightly packed. Because of its quieter location compared with the big valley campgrounds, Indian Creek is especially appealing for campers who prefer fewer crowds while still being inside Yellowstone’s boundary.

Amenities

Amenities at Indian Creek include picnic tables, fire rings, bear-resistant food lockers, potable water spigots, and modern restrooms (flush toilets) available during the main season. There are no electrical hookups and no showers on site, and the dump station is located at the nearby Mammoth or Gardiner area rather than inside the campground. Standard park rules regarding bears, food storage, and quiet hours apply—part of what keeps this campground feeling more natural and slightly less developed.

Activities & Nearby Recreation

Staying at Indian Creek gives you good access to several trails and day-use areas in the North Yellowstone region. Just outside the campground is the trailhead for the Bighorn Pass Trail, which traverses mountain meadows, subalpine forest, and scenic views before reaching the Gallatin River drainage. The Gardner River and nearby creeks offer fly-fishing opportunities for trout, and wildlife such as elk and mule deer are frequently seen. The forest setting and elevation also mean cooler evenings and dramatic starry skies—perfect for stargazing and photography away from busier park zones.

Summary

Indian Creek Campground provides a quieter, forest-front camping experience in Yellowstone National Park, offering scenic views, access to backcountry trails, and a comfortable albeit simple setup for outdoor enthusiasts. While it lacks the large RV hookups and full amenities of some valley campgrounds, its strength lies in the setting, proximity to the North Entrance, and relaxed atmosphere. For campers seeking a more tranquil stay inside Yellowstone, Indian Creek is a highly recommended choice.