Yellowstone Lake Wyoming Fishing, Camping, Boating

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Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is the largest lake in Yellowstone National Park. Its northern shore is easily accessible and nearby activities include boating, hiking, fishing, camping, and lodging.

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Providers These companies can get you there

  • Located in the heart of the park with services available at West Thumb, Grant Village, Fishing Bridge, Bridge Bay and Lake Village
  • Explore the waters via kayak or canoe, or spend the day fishing
  • Find 3 developed campgrounds and 3 lodging options

What can I do and see at Yellowstone Lake?

  • Boating: Take a scenic lake cruise or a guided fishing trip. Or rent a row boat and cruise the shoreline. Kayaks and canoes are a popular way to explore the lake as well (especially if you are planning on staying at a backcountry lakeside campsite). Not that kayak and canoe rentals are not available within the park. The Bridge Bay Marina offers scenic lake cruises as well as row boat and motor boat rentals. If you bring your own boat, you'll need to acquire a boat permit. Call Bridge Bay Marina with questions: 307-344-7311.
  • Fishing: Many visitors enjoy fishing the deep waters of Yellowstone Lake. Note that a fishing license is required. Cutthroat trout are catch and release only. Lake Trout must be killed if caught. The areas around Fishing Bridge and all marinas and developed shoreline is closed to fishing.
  • Hiking: There are a number of hiking trails easily accessible from the lake's edge. Take your pick from trails at Lake Village and West Thumb.
  • Camping and Lodging: Lodging is available at Grant Village, Lake Lodge and Cabins, and Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Campgrounds can be found at Bridge Bay, Fishing Bridge, and Grant Village.

Where is Yellowstone Lake?

As the largest lake in the park, it's hard to miss it. The lake is located in the southeast corner of the park and is easily accessible along the West Thumb-Fishing Bridge Road.

When is the lake accessible?

Park roads that access the lake close for the winter season in November and reopen in May.

Other Yellowstone Lake Resources

Flathead Lake in Montana

Plan your Montana vacation to include Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in western United States.

Island Park Reservoir

This is a popular recreational hub for boaters, anglers, and 2nd home owners, just west of Yellowstone.

Quake Lake

Lake formed by an earthquake and landslide on the Madison River.