Upper Slough Creek Campground: Your Montana Wilderness Gateway

Upper Slough Creek Introduce

For those of us who live in Montana, the true camping experience is about finding a peaceful, rustic spot where nature takes center stage. Upper Slough Creek Campground, located within the stunning landscape of Yellowstone National Park near Gardiner, is one such place. It’s an ideal choice for campers who want to get away from the crowds and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the wilderness. As a local, you appreciate a spot that offers a genuine connection to the outdoors, and that's exactly what Upper Slough Creek provides. It’s a "beautiful, remote, quiet campground on the creek," and the perfect base camp for exploring the nearby wonders of the Lamar Valley.

The core of the experience at Upper Slough Creek is its no-frills, authentic feel. It is a primitive campground that embraces the wildness of Yellowstone. While it offers essential amenities, its true value lies in the natural surroundings. Campers consistently praise the "quiet vibe away from crowds," which is a rare find in such a popular area. This is a place for those who enjoy the simple pleasures of camping: the peaceful sounds of the nearby creek, the starry night sky, and the chance to spot some of the park's most iconic wildlife. The campground's atmosphere is a testament to the beauty of a genuine, back-to-nature experience.

It is important to know that this is a popular spot, and sites can fill up quickly. However, the reward for an early start is well worth it. Once you've secured a spot, you'll find a serene and well-kept site that feels like your own private slice of the park. The presence of friendly camp hosts adds to the welcoming and organized atmosphere, ensuring that your stay is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Upper Slough Creek Campground is a true gem for those seeking a tranquil and authentic Montana adventure.

Upper Slough Creek Campground is situated within Yellowstone National Park, with its address listed as Gardiner, MT 59030, USA. While the mailing address is in Montana, the campground is located on the Wyoming side of the park. Its location is a significant highlight, as it is just off the main road and a "short drive" down a 2.5-mile gravel road. This road, while "rough" and "potholed," contributes to the campground's remote and secluded feel, discouraging large crowds and ensuring a quieter experience.

The accessibility of the campground is geared towards a more rustic approach. The gravel road leading in is best suited for tents and smaller RVs, as larger rigs may find it difficult to navigate or turn around. This is an important detail for campers to be aware of, but it also helps maintain the peaceful atmosphere. Once inside, you'll find a small, intimate campground with only 16 sites, which adds to the sense of a private escape.

The campground’s location near the Lamar Valley is a major draw. The Lamar Valley is often referred to as the "Serengeti of America" for its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. This proximity means that campers are just a short drive from seeing large herds of bison, elk, and possibly even wolves and grizzly bears. It’s a perfect launching point for early morning wildlife watching, a favorite activity among visitors. The serene setting, combined with its accessibility to some of the park's best features, makes Upper Slough Creek a truly special place.

Upper Slough Creek Campground provides a few essential services that are designed to support a primitive camping experience. The focus is on providing the basics, allowing campers to enjoy a more authentic outdoor adventure.

Public Restrooms: The campground is equipped with public restrooms, which are described by visitors as "vault toilets" that are "clean" and "well-kept." While they are not flush toilets, they are maintained to a high standard, which is a significant plus for a primitive campground.
Running Water: Running water is available via a hand pump. This provides access to potable water for drinking, cooking, and washing up, a crucial amenity in a remote setting. It is always wise to bring a good supply of your own water, however, as a backup.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring. This allows you to have a dedicated space for preparing and enjoying meals and safely building a campfire to enjoy the evenings. Please note that fire restrictions may be in effect at times.
Tent Sites: The campground is very well-suited for tent camping, with sites that are spacious and situated in a natural, forested setting. Some sites are right on the creek, offering a serene view and the peaceful sounds of the flowing water.

Upper Slough Creek Campground is celebrated for its unique features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional place to camp. These are the elements that create a memorable experience.

Unrivaled Wildlife Viewing: The campground's location at the entrance to the Lamar Valley makes it a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts. It's not uncommon to see bison and elk herds passing through the area. Getting up at sunrise and driving down the access road can provide some of the best opportunities to view wolves and other predators from a safe distance.
Secluded and Peaceful Atmosphere: With only 16 sites, Upper Slough Creek is one of Yellowstone's smallest and most intimate campgrounds. This results in a quiet and peaceful environment that is a welcome change from the more crowded, larger campgrounds in the park. The sites are spacious, offering a bit of privacy and a true sense of being "away from the crowds."
Excellent Fly Fishing: Slough Creek is a renowned location for fly fishing. Campers have direct access to the creek, which is a popular spot for anglers. The beautiful, winding creek provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing day of fishing.
Friendly Camp Hosts: Campers frequently mention the "friendly" and "helpful" camp hosts. Their presence ensures the campground is well-managed and helps to create a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Good for Kids: The natural surroundings and quiet setting make this campground "Good for kids." It’s an ideal place for children to learn about wildlife, experience nature, and enjoy the simple joys of camping in a safe environment.

As a campground within Yellowstone National Park, Upper Slough Creek is managed by the National Park Service. It is important to check the official park websites for the most up-to-date information on fees and availability.

Address: Gardiner, MT 59030, USA

Phone: (307) 739-5500

Mobile Phone: +1 307-739-5500

For Montanans and visitors seeking an authentic wilderness experience, Upper Slough Creek Campground is an excellent choice. The primary reason to choose this campground is its peaceful and secluded atmosphere. Unlike some of the park's larger, more bustling campgrounds, Slough Creek offers a sense of tranquility that allows you to truly disconnect and appreciate your surroundings. The small number of sites ensures a more intimate and quiet setting, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Furthermore, its location is a major draw for anyone interested in wildlife. Being so close to the Lamar Valley, one of the best wildlife viewing areas in North America, provides a unique opportunity to see animals like bison, elk, and wolves in their natural habitat. This accessibility to the park's most iconic wildlife, combined with the solitude of the campground, creates a best-of-both-worlds scenario. While the road in can be rough, it is a small price to pay for the incredible experience that awaits.

Finally, the campground's rustic nature is a significant advantage for those who love traditional camping. With basic amenities like clean vault toilets and running water, you have everything you need for a comfortable stay without the distractions of a more commercial site. The friendly camp hosts add to the positive experience, and the opportunity for great fly fishing on Slough Creek is a bonus for anglers. In short, Upper Slough Creek is the perfect spot for a genuine, nature-filled, and serene camping trip in the heart of the Yellowstone wilderness.