Lily Lake Campground

Howdy, fellow Wyomingites and outdoor lovers! If you're searching for a truly authentic, peaceful camping experience far from the hustle and bustle, where the night sky lights up with stars and the mountains are your majestic backdrop, then Lily Lake Campground in the Shoshone National Forest is a spot you absolutely need to know. Nestled in the breathtaking Beartooth Mountains near Cody, this gem offers a rugged yet rewarding escape into the heart of Wyoming's wilderness.

Lily Lake Campground isn't your typical amenity-rich RV park. Instead, it embodies the spirit of dispersed camping with a few added comforts, providing spacious and private sites that allow you to truly unwind and connect with nature. It's a place where the air is crisp, the views are spectacular, and the only soundtrack is the gentle murmur of the wind through the pines and the occasional call of local wildlife. For those of us who cherish privacy and an undisturbed outdoor experience, Lily Lake is a highly sought-after destination.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Lily Lake Campground. We'll cover its location and how to access this serene spot, detail the services it provides, highlight its unique features, and offer essential contact information for planning your visit. Ultimately, we'll explain why this beautiful, free campground is perfectly suited for Wyoming locals looking for an unforgettable adventure without the crowds.

Lily Lake Campground is located within the vast Shoshone National Forest, specifically at Forest Road 130, Cody, WY 82414, USA. This places it in a prime location within the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, offering both a sense of remote wilderness and relative proximity to the town of Cody and the eastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

Accessing Lily Lake Campground requires navigating Forest Road 130 (also sometimes referred to as FR-128), which branches north from the scenic Beartooth Highway (US 212). The turnoff for FR 130 is located approximately 15 miles east of Cooke City, Montana, or less than a mile east of the US 212 & WY 296 (Chief Joseph Highway) intersection. While the access road is about a mile long and generally described as usable by most vehicles, recent reviews indicate that it is a gravel road that can be narrow and, at times, bumpy or rutted. Some visitors have noted it was recently graded, making it less challenging than in previous years, but it's still advisable to exercise caution, especially with low-clearance vehicles or large RVs/towing units. It's crucial to follow signs to Lily Lake, as there are other lakes in the area. Due to the lack of cell service in the immediate vicinity, it's highly recommended to have directions or coordinates noted down before you lose signal.

Despite its rustic nature, Lily Lake Campground offers several essential services designed to enhance your dispersed camping experience while minimizing environmental impact:

• Designated Campsites: Although it operates on a dispersed camping model, there are approximately 5 to 8 recognized sites, helping to structure camping and prevent haphazard setups. These sites are generally spacious and well-spaced, offering a good degree of privacy.
• Picnic Tables: Many sites are equipped with picnic tables, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Shared Bear Boxes: Critically, the campground provides shared bear-proof food storage boxes. Given that the Shoshone National Forest is in active grizzly country, proper food storage is not just recommended, but absolutely essential for visitor safety and wildlife protection.
• Vault Toilet: A vault toilet (also known as a pit toilet) is available, typically located near the boat launch. While some reviews mention it can be "rank smelling," it's a vital facility for human waste management in a remote area.
• Boat Launch: There is a boat launch providing access to the picturesque Lily Lake, perfect for non-motorized boating activities like kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.
• No Fee Camping: Lily Lake Campground is a free camping area, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lily Lake Campground's appeal lies in its rugged beauty and the unique experiences it offers. Here are some of its standout features and highlights:

• Spectacular Views: Campers consistently rave about the "spectacular views" of the surrounding Beartooth Mountains and the serene Lily Lake itself. The sunrise over the lake is often highlighted as a must-see.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Its remote nature and dispersed layout contribute to a very quiet and tranquil camping experience, perfect for those seeking solitude.
• Good Spacing Between Sites: Unlike many developed campgrounds where sites can feel cramped, Lily Lake offers ample space between neighbors, enhancing privacy.
• Excellent for Stargazing: With no light pollution, the night sky at Lily Lake is often incredibly clear, providing fantastic opportunities for stargazing.
• Wildlife Potential: Being in the Shoshone National Forest, there's a chance to spot local wildlife, including deer and various bird species. While in bear country, proper precautions ensure safe viewing.
• Recreational Opportunities: The lake is great for fishing (check Wyoming regulations) and non-motorized boating. The surrounding area also offers hiking opportunities, with trails leading to and around the lake.
• Free Camping: As a free campground, it offers exceptional value for a rustic yet beautiful setting.
• Rustic Charm: It embraces a true wilderness feel, ideal for those who prefer undeveloped camping over resort-style amenities.
• Proximity to Yellowstone and Beartooth Pass: Its location makes it a decent base for exploring nearby Yellowstone National Park or driving the famously scenic Beartooth Pass.

Since Lily Lake Campground is a dispersed camping area within the Shoshone National Forest and does not have a host on site, there isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself. For information, you should contact the relevant Ranger District of the Shoshone National Forest:

Clarks Fork Ranger District (responsible for this area of the Shoshone National Forest)

Address: 203 A Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY 82414, USA

Phone: (307) 527-6921 (This is the general phone number for the Clarks Fork Ranger District)

It's always a good idea to call the Ranger District for current road conditions, fire restrictions, and any updates on the campground status. While booking is not possible as it's a first-come, first-served site, checking for construction updates (as it was noted to be under construction with 7 sites and a boat launch) or seasonal closures is wise.

For us Wyoming locals, Lily Lake Campground is an invaluable resource for experiencing the authentic wild beauty of our state without breaking the bank. Its free access and dispersed nature make it ideal for those seeking privacy and a genuine escape from the daily grind. Unlike many crowded tourist hotspots, Lily Lake offers a serene environment where you can truly appreciate the natural splendor of the Beartooth Mountains and the Shoshone National Forest.

Its "worth it" road access and lack of cell service are actually features for many locals, as they ensure a higher degree of solitude and a deeper immersion in the wilderness. It's perfect for a quick weekend fishing trip, a base camp for exploring the surrounding trails, or simply a place to reset amidst stunning scenery. The presence of bear boxes and a vault toilet, even in a rustic setting, shows a commitment to responsible recreation, which aligns with our local values of preserving Wyoming's pristine landscapes. If you're looking for a quiet, beautiful, and genuinely wild camping experience right here in Wyoming, Lily Lake Campground should be at the top of your list.