This is the general area where the Gallatin, Custer, and Shoshone National Forests all meet. This is also still very much part of the Yellowstone ecosystem. Over the years, I have found I prefer camping in the national forests surrounding Yellowstone, both in terms of crowds, scenery, and the actual campgrounds themselves. Don’t get me wrong, Yellowstone is amazing, and one of the most beautiful places on earth. But there’s much more to Yellowstone than the official national park. The Yellowstone ecosystem comprises 18 million acres, and the land surrounding the park is often more scenic, and far less crowded.

Those seeking watchable wildlife like bison and the unique geothermal features will prefer Yellowstone. but the national forests that border the park offer a more “in-the-mountains” vibe, without the traffic jams one can find in the park.

The Beartooth Mountains are to the north in the photo, just beyond the snow-dusted mountains. To the left is the Absaroka Range, one of the longest ranges in the U.S.