Hunter Peak Campground

For us Wyoming locals, the grandeur of Yellowstone National Park is a well-known treasure, but so too is the desire to escape its often-hectic crowds. If you're seeking a serene and truly peaceful camping experience that still offers convenient access to some of Wyoming's most iconic natural attractions, look no further than Hunter Peak Campground. Tucked away in the beautiful Shoshone National Forest, along the banks of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River, this small campground offers a refreshing change of pace and a chance to reconnect with nature in its purest form.

Hunter Peak Campground is renowned for its quiet ambiance and natural beauty. It’s a place where the sound of the river replaces traffic noise, and the vast Wyoming sky provides a breathtaking backdrop for your outdoor adventures. Unlike the often-packed campgrounds within national parks, Hunter Peak offers a sense of seclusion that allows for genuine relaxation and immersion in the wilderness. It's the kind of spot where you might wake up to the sound of elk bugling or spot deer grazing nearby, truly feeling like you've found a secret slice of paradise.

The experiences of past visitors consistently highlight the campground's tranquility and the helpfulness of its camp hosts, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re an angler hoping to catch trout, a hiker ready to explore scenic trails, or simply someone yearning for a quiet night under the stars, Hunter Peak Campground provides an ideal setting. Its strategic location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the stunning Beartooth and Chief Joseph Scenic Highways, further enhancing its appeal for local adventurers.

Hunter Peak Campground is located on Crandall Rd, Cody, WY 82414, USA. More specifically, it sits along the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway (State Highway 296), approximately four miles south of its junction with the Beartooth Highway (U.S. Highway 212). This places it roughly 60 miles northeast of Cody, in the northwestern part of Wyoming, within the Shoshone National Forest.

For us Wyoming locals, the drive to Hunter Peak Campground is an adventure in itself. Starting from Cody, you’ll typically take State Highway 120 north, then turn onto State Highway 296, the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway. This route is renowned for its stunning vistas, often considered one of the most picturesque drives in the state. The campground is situated conveniently along this highway, making it relatively easy to access. While the location provides a secluded feel, its proximity to the Beartooth Highway means you’re on the doorstep of one of America's most celebrated scenic drives, offering access to higher elevations and incredible mountain landscapes. Additionally, the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone National Park is only about 24 miles northwest via the Beartooth Highway, positioning Hunter Peak as an excellent, less-crowded alternative base for exploring the park. It's advisable to check road conditions, especially in spring and fall, as high-country routes can be affected by weather.

• Campsites: Offers a small number of single-family campsites, typically around 8-10, providing an intimate camping experience.
• First-Come, First-Served: Many sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, although some sources indicate sites 5, 6, 7, and 8 may be reservable. Checking Recreation.gov is recommended for current reservation status.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available for camper use.
• Potable Water: Hand-pumped potable water is provided on-site, a valuable amenity for rustic camping.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Campfire Rings: Fire rings with grates are provided at each site for campfires and cooking (always adhere to current fire restrictions).
• Bear-Proof Food Storage: Due to the presence of wildlife, bear boxes or other bear-proof food storage solutions are available and required.
• On-Site Camp Host: A friendly and knowledgeable camp host is often present, offering assistance and local tips, as praised by past visitors.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are usually provided.
• Proximity to Clark Fork River: The campground is situated on the banks of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River, offering excellent fishing opportunities.

• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: A key highlight is the campground's quiet and secluded nature, offering a peaceful alternative to more crowded park campgrounds.
• Riverside Location: Directly situated along the beautiful Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River, providing scenic views and excellent fishing for trout (rainbow and cutthroat).
• Strategic Access to Scenic Drives: Located conveniently on the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway and just off the Beartooth All-American Highway, making it an ideal base for exploring these world-renowned routes.
• Proximity to Yellowstone National Park: Provides a less crowded, yet still accessible, base camp for exploring Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance (approx. 24 miles away).
• Friendly Camp Host: Visitors consistently praise the helpfulness and friendliness of the on-site camp hosts, who often offer valuable tips for exploring the area.
• Abundant Wildlife: The natural setting in the Shoshone National Forest means frequent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, elk, and possibly even grizzly bears (requiring proper food storage).
• Hiking Opportunities: The Clarks Fork Trailhead is located directly across the highway from the campground, offering immediate access to numerous hiking trails.
• Rustic Charm with Essential Amenities: Balances a primitive, "unplugged" feel with the convenience of potable water, vault toilets, and picnic tables.
• Beautiful Scenery: Surrounded by mixed conifer forest and offering clear night skies, it's a visually stunning location for photography and nature appreciation.

Hunter Peak Campground is managed by the Shoshone National Forest, Clarks Fork Ranger District. For the most current information, including site availability, conditions, and fire restrictions, it is best to contact the District Office.

Phone: (307) 527-6921

Mobile Phone: +1 307-527-6921

Address: Crandall Rd, Cody, WY 82414, USA (This indicates the general area and access road; the campground is within the Shoshone National Forest.)

For specific inquiries, the administrative office for the Clarks Fork Ranger District is located in Cody, which can provide detailed information about Hunter Peak Campground.

For us Wyoming locals, Hunter Peak Campground is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of serene wilderness and convenient access to some of our state's most iconic natural attractions. We appreciate places where we can escape the crowds, and Hunter Peak, with its small size and peaceful atmosphere, delivers exactly that. It's a breath of fresh air compared to the often-bustling campgrounds within Yellowstone, allowing for a more authentic and relaxing outdoor experience.

Its location along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River means fantastic fishing opportunities right at your campsite – a major draw for many Wyomingites. The proximity to both the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway and the Beartooth All-American Highway makes it an ideal base for day trips exploring these world-renowned routes, offering spectacular mountain views and endless photo opportunities. For those of us who love Yellowstone but prefer a quieter place to rest our heads, Hunter Peak is an exceptional alternative, being just a short drive from the park's northeast entrance.

The presence of a friendly and knowledgeable camp host, as highlighted in reviews, adds a comforting and welcoming touch, making you feel right at home in the wilderness. While it offers basic amenities like vault toilets and potable water, its lack of hookups encourages a more self-sufficient camping style that many locals are accustomed to and even prefer. Hunter Peak Campground truly captures the essence of Wyoming's wild beauty and offers a peaceful, convenient, and truly memorable escape for any local seeking to connect with the great outdoors.