With its natural geysers, sprawling forests, and stunning natural hot springs, Yellowstone National Park is a breathtakingly picturesque attraction. At the park, wildlife such as moose and bears roam freely across the unspoiled wilderness, and starlit night skies shine dramatically in the absence of city lights. Whether you plan to enjoy scenic drives or adventurous backcountry hikes, this expansive park has something for everyone. Book a vacation rental at Yellowstone today. From rustic cabins to lovely cottages, the accommodations near the park offer an ideal place to rest after a fun-filled day of exploring Wyoming’s wilderness. That said, here are the top places to stay in and around Yellowstone.
1. West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone sits just across the Montana/Wyoming border from Yellowstone. As the western gateway to the park, this small town has a well-developed infrastructure that ensures a comfortable, convenient vacation. Vacation rentals near Firehole Avenue and North Canyon Street place you near the best local restaurants and food trucks. Pick up a coffee from Espresso West and stop by the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center to learn about local wildlife before heading into the park to check out Old Faithful.
2. Big Springs
Surround yourself with stunning Idaho wilderness with a vacation rental in Big Springs. Tucked into a towering pine forest on the banks of the Henrys Fork River, this remote village brings a peaceful quality to your trip. Watch wildlife from the porch of your rental cabin, or stay near the river to enjoy fishing from your backyard. The Yellowstone West Entrance lies less than 30 miles away.
3. Island Park
Marvel at stunning mountain and river views in Island Park, Idaho. Known for its spectacular freshwater fishing and its extensive hiking trails, this tiny community provides plenty to do when you’re not exploring nearby Yellowstone. If you’re visiting in the winter, start off the day with a wild snowmobile ride through the lowlands, or get a workout on the local groomed cross-country ski trails.
4. Warm River
Get away from it all in Warm River, which sits between the west and south entrances to Yellowstone. Here, the slow-flowing Warm River provides excellent fly-fishing, lovely shoreline hikes and relaxed boating. Don’t forget your inner tube; the river is a popular spot for tubing and swimming. When you want to stay close to your vacation rental, leave your car behind and explore the area by mountain bike.
5. Alta
Enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Teton mountains in Alta. This popular community sits near the southern entrance to Yellowstone, as well as Grand Teton National Park, making it easy to experience two of the country’s most beautiful natural areas in one trip. In the winter, head to the nearby Grand Targhee Ski Resort for high-elevation winter sports; in the summer, the resort offers hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking.
6. Driggs
Enjoy urban amenities within a short drive of Yellowstone in Driggs, Idaho. With its classic western vibe, this friendly town makes a welcoming home base. Fuel up for a day of hiking with breakfast at Provisions, and end your day with a relaxing meal at the popular Forage and Lounge. Vacation rentals in town are a convenient option if you’re flying in to the nearby Driggs-Reed Memorial Airport.
7. Teton Village
Kick back in a mountain-chic condo in Teton Village, Wyoming. Situated at the base of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, this Swiss-inspired community provides instant access to skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. A picturesque drive brings you to the Yellowstone South Entrance, placing you in easy reach of the Old Faithful Geyser and Yellowstone Lake.
8. Jackson
Establish a luxurious base for your Yellowstone adventures with a vacation rental in Jackson. This upscale community hosts a wide variety of rental options, from sprawling cabins to modern apartments. If you’re craving culture, check out the Grand Teton Music Festival or the National Museum of Wildlife Art. After a day of hiking around Yellowstone, pamper your sore muscles with a dip in the nearby Granite Hot Springs.
9. Wapiti
If your Yellowstone plans center on the eastern end of the park, Wapiti makes a convenient home base. Located just 30 miles from the park’s east entrance, this lovely valley community provides fast access to Yellowstone Lake and the Elephant Back Mountain trail. Many Wapiti vacation rentals come with mountain views and expansive yards, making them a great choice for families.
10. Cooke City-Silver Gate
Get into Yellowstone in minutes from your vacation rental in Cooke City-Silver Gate, which sits just eight miles from the park’s northeast entrance. With its towering peaks and tall trees, this area is a true mountain paradise. From here, you can explore the thundering Yellowstone Falls, hike through the remarkable Fossil Forest or explore the otherworldly Devil’s Den.
11. Gardiner
Stay within striking distance of the Yellowstone North Entrance in Gardiner, Montana. From your vacation rental, you can drive to the iconic Mammoth Hot Springs in less than 20 minutes, so it’s easy to beat the crowds. While you’re in town, check out the nearby Boiling River for a dip in the naturally heated water.
12. Grayling
Step out of the major tourist zones with a vacation rental in Grayling, Montana. This sparsely populated area sits on the banks of the lovely Hebgen Lake, which provides some of the best stillwater fishing in the state. If you’re visiting in the winter, enjoy ice fishing; in the summer, the lake is a popular spot for boating and swimming.