Norris Campground

For us Wyoming locals, a trip into Yellowstone National Park is more than just a vacation—it's a homecoming to the state's most iconic landscapes. And when it comes to camping in the park, finding the right base camp is key to a successful adventure. Norris Campground, with its central location and classic feel, offers an ideal spot to launch your explorations. It's a place where the wild beauty of Yellowstone is not just a destination but a part of your daily life, from the moment you wake up to the sight of a bison in a nearby meadow to the short walk to one of the park's most dynamic geothermal areas.

Norris Campground is a well-established site that provides a quintessential Yellowstone camping experience. It's known for its first-come, first-served system, which adds a touch of classic spontaneity to your trip. This can be a double-edged sword, as noted by a reviewer who described the challenge of securing a spot. However, for those who arrive early and are prepared to wait, the reward is a beautiful campsite that serves as a fantastic hub for day trips and a peaceful retreat in the evenings. The reviews highlight its proximity to the Norris Geyser Basin and its serene, natural setting, complete with frequent wildlife sightings.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into all the practical details of Norris Campground. We will explore its central location, the services and amenities it offers, its unique features, and a compelling case for why it's a worthy choice for your next outdoor adventure in Wyoming. Our aim is to provide you with the factual, professional information you need to confidently plan a memorable trip to one of Yellowstone's most popular campgrounds.

Norris Campground is centrally located within Yellowstone National Park, with the address Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA. This is a significant advantage, as it places you almost equidistant from many of the park's major attractions. It sits on the Norris-Canyon Road, providing easy access to both the geyser basins and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Its strategic location saves valuable travel time, allowing you to spend more time exploring and less time driving.

One of the most appealing aspects of its location is its proximity to the Norris Geyser Basin, which is a must-see for any Yellowstone visitor. A reviewer noted that the walk to the basin is "just one mile from this campground along a pleasant trail and is highly recommended." This convenient access to one of the hottest and most dynamic thermal areas in the park is a major draw. You can witness powerful geysers and bubbling hot springs without having to find a parking spot at the often-crowded basin lot.

The accessibility of the campground itself is also worth noting. It is a developed campground with a well-marked entrance and a ranger station. While the first-come, first-served system requires early arrival during peak season, its central location makes it a known and reliable option for those traveling through the park.

Norris Campground provides a range of essential services and amenities that make for a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of the park.

• Camping Ground: The campground offers a variety of site types, including tent sites and some RV sites. This variety caters to different types of campers, from those with minimal gear to those with larger vehicles. The sites are generally well-defined, and each comes with a fire pit and a table for a classic camping setup.

• Flush Toilets: A major convenience at Norris is the presence of flush toilets. This is a significant upgrade from many backcountry or more primitive sites and makes for a much more comfortable experience, especially for families. The availability of clean, well-maintained restrooms is a key feature highlighted by positive reviews.

• Firewood and Ice: The campground sells firewood and ice on-site. As one review mentioned, "Firewood is 7.99 a bundle. Ice also sold here." This is a crucial service that saves campers from having to leave the park to replenish these essential supplies, ensuring you can keep your food cool and enjoy a campfire without hassle.

• Fresh Water and Food Storage: There are water spigots throughout the campground for drinking water. Additionally, shared bear-proof food storage boxes are available. These are vital for safely storing food and other scented items in a bear-prone area, ensuring both camper safety and the protection of wildlife.

Beyond the basic services, Norris Campground offers several unique highlights that make it a premier choice for many Yellowstone visitors.

• Proximity to Norris Geyser Basin: As mentioned, the ability to walk to the Norris Geyser Basin is an incredible benefit. This allows for early morning or late evening visits when the crowds are minimal, providing a more intimate and profound experience with the geothermal features.

• Wildlife Viewing: The reviews highlight frequent wildlife sightings right from the campground. One reviewer mentioned that "Buffalo frequent the open meadow and even saw trumpeter swans." This level of wildlife immersion is a core part of the Yellowstone experience, and Norris provides a front-row seat to these natural spectacles.

• Scenic Walk-in Sites: One reviewer specifically mentioned a "beautiful walk in site near the river." These sites offer a more secluded and picturesque experience, perfect for tent campers seeking a more private setting away from the main road and RVs.

• First-Come, First-Served System: While it can be a challenge, this system also means that a last-minute trip to Yellowstone is possible. For the spontaneous adventurer, Norris offers a chance to secure a site without a long-term reservation, as long as you arrive prepared to wait and are flexible with your schedule.

As a National Park Service campground, Norris Campground can be contacted for general information. While specific reservations are not taken, general information can be obtained through the park's main channels.

Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA

Phone: (307) 344-7381

Mobile Phone: +1 307-344-7381

Choosing Norris Campground is about embracing a central and authentic Yellowstone experience. For a Wyoming resident, this campground feels like the perfect blend of convenience and immersion in nature. It provides the essential amenities you need for a comfortable stay while keeping you close to the park's most iconic features. The review that mentioned having a "very comfortable time" over three nights speaks to the campground's ability to serve as a perfect home base for extended exploration.

The first-come, first-served policy, while demanding, is also a reflection of the classic camping spirit. It encourages you to slow down, be patient, and appreciate the journey. The experience of joining the line in the morning cold, as one reviewer noted, can be part of the adventure—a shared experience with fellow campers all seeking the same connection to the park. This communal aspect can lead to new friendships and stories.

Furthermore, the proximity to the Norris Geyser Basin is a huge selling point. It’s an invaluable perk for anyone who wants to witness the raw power of the earth without a major commitment. The beautiful walk along the pleasant trail is a highlight in itself, and the opportunity to see wildlife right from your campsite is something that few other places can offer. Norris Campground is for those who want a practical and central location, a place that delivers on both comfort and a true sense of being in the heart of Yellowstone's wild and magnificent landscape.

Norris Campground

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA