Yellowstone with Kids: Tips, Safety & What to Pack

There are family vacations. And then there is Yellowstone with kids.

No theme park, no beach resort, no cruise ship can replicate what happens when a child watches Old Faithful erupt for the first time, locks eyes with a wild bison from the car window, or stands at the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with their jaw hanging open. Yellowstone does something to kids that no other destination on earth can do — it makes the natural world feel impossibly big, wildly alive, and absolutely magical.

At Old Faithful RV Park in Cody, Wyoming, we are just 32 miles from the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park — and we have welcomed countless families through our gates on their way to one of the greatest adventures of their lives. This complete family trip to Yellowstone covers everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable experience with the kids — from safety essentials and packing tips to must-see attractions, the best Yellowstone entrance for families, and insider advice that will save you time, frustration, and money.

Let’s go!

Why Yellowstone is the Ultimate Family Destination

Yellowstone is not just a national park — it is the world’s first national park, established in 1872, and it remains one of the most extraordinary places on the planet. Spanning more than 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it is home to more geothermal features than anywhere else on earth, one of the largest wild bison herds in North America, and an ecosystem so rich and intact that it feels like stepping back in time to a world before humans changed everything.

For families, Yellowstone with kids delivers on every level. The geysers and hot springs captivate even the most reluctant traveler. The wildlife watching turns every drive into an adventure. The hiking trails range from stroller-friendly boardwalks to challenging backcountry routes. And the sheer scale of the place — the wide open Wyoming sky, the vast meadows, the steaming thermal basins — creates a sense of wonder that stays with children for the rest of their lives.

A family trip to Yellowstone is not just a vacation. It is an experience that shapes who your children become.

Planning Your Family Trip to Yellowstone: The Basics

How many days do you need?

Yellowstone is enormous — and the mistake most first time families make is underestimating just how big it is. Plan for a minimum of three to five days to experience Yellowstone with kids properly without feeling rushed. With a basecamp at Old Faithful RV Park just 32 miles from the East Gate, you can take multiple day trips into different areas of the park each day and return to camp each evening comfortable and relaxed.

When should you go?

The park is open and Yellowstone with kids friendly from late spring through early fall. Here is a quick breakdown:

May & June — Spring Baby bison calves, emerging bears, wolf pups, and wildflowers make spring one of the most magical times for Yellowstone with kids. Crowds are lighter and prices are lower. Old Faithful RV Park opens May 8 — perfectly timed for spring adventurers. Book your site or cabin now before the best spots fill up.

July & August — Peak Summer All roads and facilities are open and the weather is warm and reliable. This is the most popular time to visit with families. Book your RV site or cabin early — summer fills up fast throughout the region.

September & October — Fall Fewer crowds, spectacular fall colors, the elk rut, and active wildlife make fall an outstanding time for a trip to Yellowstone with Kids. Cooler temperatures mean wildlife is active throughout the day rather than just at dawn and dusk.

Book as early as possible — Yellowstone is one of the most visited national parks in America and the surrounding area fills up months in advance for peak summer dates.

Getting to Yellowstone: Flying vs. Driving

Flying In The closest airport to the East Gate of Yellowstone is the Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming, just minutes from downtown Cody and about 32 miles from the East Gate. The airport is served by United Airlines with connections through Denver. Renting a car in Cody and driving up the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway to the East Gate is one of the most scenic airport-to-park drives in the entire country.

Driving For RV families and road trippers, the drive to Yellowstone via Cody is one of the great American road trip experiences. The Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway follows the North Fork of the Shoshone River through the Wapiti Valley — past towering red rock canyon walls, dense Shoshone National Forest, and stunning Absaroka Mountain scenery — before arriving at the East Gate. The park begins the moment you leave Cody. Check out our complete Yellowstone Road Trip Guide for everything you need to know about planning your drive.

Choosing Your Yellowstone Entrance: Which One is Best for Families?

Yellowstone National Park has five entrances and choosing the best Yellowstone entrance for families is one of the most important planning decisions you will make. The park is enormous — spanning 2.2 million acres — and it matters significantly where you enter. Here is a complete breakdown of all five entrances and what each one offers:

The West Entrance — West Yellowstone, Montana

Best for: First time visitors focused on geothermal features

The West Entrance provides direct access to the park’s central loop, making it a starting point for visiting iconic sites like Old Faithful, the Upper Geyser Basin, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Norris Geyser Basin.

The West Entrance is the most popular entrance to Yellowstone — and that popularity comes with a significant downside for families. In peak summer season expect bumper-to-bumper traffic from West Yellowstone to the park entrance and potential slow traffic throughout the day inside the park. If seeing Old Faithful is your primary goal and crowds do not concern you, the West Entrance works well. But for families looking for a more relaxed and scenic experience there are much better options.

The North Entrance — Gardiner, Montana

Best for: Year-round visitors and history enthusiasts

The North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana is the park’s original entrance and the only one open to vehicles year-round. Upon entering visitors are greeted by the iconic Roosevelt Arch — a monumental stone archway dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903 that makes for one of the most dramatic park entrances in the entire National Park system.

From the North Entrance families have immediate access to Mammoth Hot Springs — one of the most unique and accessible geothermal features in the park — and can easily reach the northern range and Lamar Valley for outstanding wildlife watching. Gardiner, Montana is a small but well-serviced gateway town with solid family dining and accommodation options.

The Northeast Entrance — Cooke City, Montana

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers

The Northeast Entrance is the least trafficked of Yellowstone’s five entrances making it ideal for families seeking solitude and a more serene wilderness experience. The gateway to the legendary Lamar Valley — the “American Serengeti” — the Northeast Entrance offers some of the finest wildlife watching in the entire park. Wolves, grizzly bears, bison, and elk are all regularly spotted in this spectacular corridor.

The Northeast Entrance is also the starting point for the legendary Beartooth Highway — widely regarded as one of the most spectacular scenic drives in America with a summit of 10,947 feet making it the highest paved highway in the Northern Rockies. However the remote gateway towns of Cooke City and Silver Gate offer very limited family amenities and services compared to other entrances.

The South Entrance — Jackson, Wyoming

Best for: Families combining Yellowstone with Grand Teton National Park

The South Entrance seamlessly connects Yellowstone with Grand Teton National Park via the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway — making it the logical choice for families planning a combined two-park road trip. The gateway city of Jackson, Wyoming offers outstanding family amenities, dining, and accommodation options.

From the South Entrance families have direct access to Yellowstone Lake, the West Thumb Geyser Basin, and Grant Village. The South Entrance is a solid choice for families doing a broader Wyoming road trip — but for families focused purely on the best of Yellowstone it requires the most driving to reach the park’s most iconic attractions.

The East Entrance — Cody, Wyoming — The Best Yellowstone Entrance for Families

Best for: Families who want less crowds, a spectacular drive, world class wildlife watching, and a full service Western town as their basecamp

Here is the truth that every experienced Yellowstone visitor eventually discovers — the East Gate is the best Yellowstone entrance for families. While the masses pour through the West Entrance and sit in traffic, families entering through the East Gate are rolling through open roads on one of the most spectacular drives in America with Yellowstone’s greatest wildlife watching destinations right at their doorstep.

The journey from Cody, Wyoming to the East Gate along the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway follows the North Fork of the Shoshone River through the dramatic Wapiti Valley — past towering canyon walls, the historic Buffalo Bill Dam, dense Shoshone National Forest, and the stunning Absaroka Mountains. The drive hugs the North Fork flanked by jagged cliffs and fantastical rock formations — Big Sky Country and the wild West in full glory. For families the drive itself is part of the experience — and it begins the moment you leave Cody.

Once inside the park the East Gate delivers immediate access to some of Yellowstone’s most spectacular and family-friendly destinations — Sylvan Pass with breathtaking views of the Absaroka Range, Yellowstone Lake — the largest high-elevation lake in North America, Fishing Bridge — a historic site renowned for its excellent fishing, and Hayden Valley — one of the premier wildlife watching destinations in the entire park for bison, grizzly bears, wolves, and waterfowl.

And beyond the park itself the East Gate offers something no other entrance can match — Cody, Wyoming as your gateway city. While West Yellowstone and Gardiner are small tourist towns built almost entirely around park traffic, Cody is a genuine Western destination in its own right. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West — five Smithsonian-quality museums under one roof — the Cody Nite Rodeo running every night from June 1 through August 31, the award-winning Wild West Spectacular the Musical performing on select days at the historic Cody Theatre, outstanding dining, world class fly fishing, whitewater rafting, and authentic Western culture make Cody one of the finest base camps for a Yellowstone with kids experience anywhere in the region.

And right at the start of that spectacular Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway drive — just 32 miles from the East Gate on the banks of the North Fork of the Shoshone River — is Old Faithful RV Park. Your perfect family basecamp for the East Yellowstone experience.

Must-See Things to Do in Yellowstone with Kids

With so much to see and so little time, here are the absolute must-see stops for things to do in Yellowstone with kids via the East Gate:

Old Faithful Geyser The icon of Yellowstone and a non-negotiable stop on every family visit. Old Faithful erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 185 feet in the air. Download the Yellowstone NPS app before your trip for current eruption prediction times so you can plan your day around a front row seat.

Grand Prismatic Spring The largest hot spring in the United States and one of the most visually stunning natural features on earth. The rainbow colors surrounding the spring — created by colonies of heat-loving microorganisms — are unlike anything your kids have ever seen. The overlook trail offers the best aerial view.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone The dramatic Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River drop 308 feet into a canyon of gold and red rock that stops every visitor in their tracks — adults and kids alike. Multiple overlooks and short trails make this accessible for families of all ages and fitness levels.

Hayden Valley The premier wildlife watching destination in the eastern park and the best place for families to spot bison, bears, wolves, and waterfowl. Pull over, scan the meadows with binoculars, and let the kids call out the animals. This is where Yellowstone with kids memories are made.

Yellowstone Lake The largest high-altitude lake in North America is a spectacular and peaceful stop — great for a family picnic, some wildlife watching along the shore, and taking in views that look more like a painting than real life.

Mammoth Hot Springs The terraced travertine formations at Mammoth Hot Springs look like something from another planet — and kids are absolutely fascinated by them. The resident elk herd that wanders freely around the visitor center is an added bonus that never fails to delight.

Yellowstone Safety Tips for Families

Safety is the most important topic for any Yellowstone National Park family guide. The park is a genuine wilderness — beautiful, wild, and demanding of respect. Here are the non-negotiable safety rules every family needs to know:

Wildlife Safety Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and at least 25 yards from all other wildlife including bison and elk at all times. These are federal regulations. Every year visitors are injured by wildlife — almost always because they got too close. Remind your kids of these distances before every trip into the park and make it a game — 25 yards is roughly the length of two school buses.

Bear Spray is Essential Every adult in your group should carry bear spray and know how to use it any time you leave your vehicle. Read our complete Bear Safety in Yellowstone Country guide before your trip — it covers everything families need to know about staying safe in grizzly country including our specific tips for hiking with kids in bear country.

Thermal Feature Safety Yellowstone’s hot springs and geothermal features are extraordinarily dangerous. The water in many features reaches boiling temperature and the ground surrounding them can be thin and unstable. Always stay on designated boardwalks and trails. Never allow children to run or play near thermal features under any circumstances.

Hydration and Sun Protection Yellowstone sits at elevations between 6,000 and 11,000 feet above sea level. The combination of altitude, intense sun, and physical activity means dehydration can sneak up on families quickly. Pack plenty of water, apply sunscreen liberally and frequently, and keep kids well hydrated throughout the day.

Cell Service A large portion of Yellowstone has no cell service. Download offline maps before you enter the park, pick up the free park map and newspaper at the entrance gate, and decide on family meeting points in advance in case your group gets separated.

Yellowstone Junior Ranger Program: A Must for Kids

If you are visiting Yellowstone with kids there is one thing you absolutely cannot skip — the Junior Ranger Program. Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at any visitor center and have your kids complete the activities as you explore the park. When finished they can take the Junior Ranger pledge and receive their official badge.

The program is engaging, educational, and gives kids a sense of ownership and purpose throughout the trip. Many families find their kids are more engaged and observant in the park when working toward their badge — looking more carefully at wildlife, reading interpretive signs, and asking better questions. The Yellowstone NPS app also includes a digital Junior Ranger component that kids can work through on their device throughout the visit.

Best Family Hikes Near the East Gate

The eastern section of Yellowstone accessed via the East Gate offers outstanding things to do in Yellowstone with kids for all ages and fitness levels:

Storm Point Trail — Yellowstone Lake A relatively flat 2.3 mile loop along the Yellowstone Lake shoreline with outstanding wildlife watching opportunities. Watch for otters, eagles, and bison along the route. Accessible for older kids and adults of all fitness levels.

Natural Bridge Trail — Bridge Bay An easy 2 mile round trip hike to a stunning natural rock bridge carved by Bridge Creek. A great introduction to Yellowstone hiking for families with younger children.

Mud Volcano Area Boardwalk A short and accessible boardwalk loop through one of Yellowstone’s most dramatic geothermal areas — bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and acidic pools. Completely stroller and wheelchair accessible and endlessly fascinating for kids of all ages.

Elephant Back Mountain — Yellowstone Lake A moderately challenging 3.6 mile round trip hike rewarded with panoramic views over Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding mountains. A great option for older kids and teens looking for a more rewarding physical challenge.

Always carry bear spray on every hike regardless of trail length or difficulty. For more information on staying safe on the trails check out our complete Bear Safety in Yellowstone Country guide.

What to Pack for a Family Trip to Yellowstone

Being well prepared makes the difference between a stressful experience and a magical one. Here is your complete family trip to Yellowstone packing list:

Essential Safety Gear:

• Bear spray — one canister per adult, carried on the hip at all times
• First aid kit with blister treatment, pain relief, and any prescription medications
• Headlamp or flashlight for each family member
• Downloaded offline maps — cell service is unreliable throughout the park

Clothing:

• Layers for every family member — temperatures can swing dramatically throughout the day
• Rain jacket or poncho — afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer
• Sturdy comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for every family member
• Wide brim hats and sunglasses for sun protection at altitude
• Light gloves and a warm hat for cool mornings even in summer

Day Pack Essentials:

• Reusable water bottles — one per person, filled and ready every morning
• Packed lunches and snacks — food options inside the park are limited and expensive
• Binoculars — at least one pair, ideally one for each older child
• Camera with a long zoom lens for wildlife photography
• Sunscreen — reapply frequently at altitude

For the Kids:

• Junior Ranger booklet — pick up at any visitor center
• Wildlife checklist — print one before you leave and let the kids check off each species they spot
• Their own small backpack — kids feel more invested when they carry their own gear
• A good Yellowstone field guide or kids nature book for the car

For Your RV or Cabin Stay:

• Groceries stocked up in Cody before heading up the North Fork
• Camp chairs for relaxing outside after a full day in the park
• Extension cords and surge protectors for full hookup RV sites

Your Perfect Family Yellowstone Basecamp

Every great Yellowstone with kids adventure needs a great home base, and Old Faithful RV Park is exactly that.

Situated on the scenic North Fork of the Shoshone River in Cody, Wyoming, just 32 miles from the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park, we offer everything families need to rest, recharge, and go back out for more.

Our rustic cabins sleep up to 6 guests and are perfectly designed for families. Each cabin features a main floor bedroom for the adults and here is where the kids get really excited — a loft bedroom that is pure magic for children. There is something about climbing a ladder to your own loft that every kid absolutely loves. Kids who might normally resist an early bedtime suddenly cannot wait to get up to their loft after a big day exploring Yellowstone. Parents, you are welcome. 😄

Each cabin also includes a sofa sleeper in the living area for extra guests, a full bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchenette — everything your family needs to feel right at home on the banks of the North Fork of the Shoshone River.

Our full hookup RV sites are big rig friendly with spacious pull through sites and stunning Absaroka Mountain views — perfect for families rolling in with their home on wheels.

And when the day in Yellowstone is done, Cody has no shortage of incredible family evening entertainment waiting for you. The Cody Nite Rodeo runs every night from June 1 through August 31 — two hours of authentic Western rodeo action including bull riding, barrel racing, saddle bronc riding, and a kids calf scramble that the little ones will never forget.

On select days throughout summer the award-winning Wild West Spectacular the Musical brings the story of Buffalo Bill Cody, Annie Oakley, and Wild Bill Hickok to life on stage at the historic Cody Theatre — a genuinely unforgettable evening out for the whole family.

Still planning your trip? Our Complete Yellowstone Wildlife Watching Guide and Complete Fly Fishing Guide to the North Fork of the Shoshone River are both must-reads before your family adventure begins.

Stock up on groceries in Cody, cook a simple camp meal, get everyone to bed early — yes including the kids who are already halfway up the ladder to the loft — and wake up ready to be at the East Gate when it opens. This is the rhythm of a great family trip to Yellowstone — and from Old Faithful RV Park it is exactly what every day looks and feels like.

📅 Opening May 8, 2026 — book early, summer fills up fast! 👉 Reserve your family’s RV site or cabin at OldFaithfulRVPark.com

Frequently Asked Questions: Yellowstone with Kids

How many days should I plan for Yellowstone with kids? We recommend a minimum of three to five days for a family trip to Yellowstone. This gives you enough time to explore the major attractions without feeling rushed while still leaving room for the unexpected discoveries that make Yellowstone so special.

What age is appropriate for Yellowstone with kids? Yellowstone is wonderful for children of all ages. Toddlers and young children enjoy the accessible boardwalks and dramatic wildlife encounters from the car. Older kids and teens can tackle more challenging hikes and engage more deeply with the park’s geology and ecology. The Junior Ranger Program is available for all ages and is one of the best things to do in Yellowstone with kids regardless of age.

What is the best Yellowstone entrance for families? The East Gate near Cody, Wyoming is the best Yellowstone entrance for families. The drive along the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway is spectacular, the East Gate is significantly less crowded than the western entrances, and staying at Old Faithful RV Park puts you just 32 miles from the gate with comfortable RV sites and family-friendly cabins sleeping up to 6 guests.

Is Yellowstone safe for families with young children? Yes — with the right preparation and by following all National Park Service guidelines, Yellowstone is a safe and incredibly rewarding destination for families. The key rules are maintaining safe distances from all wildlife, staying on designated boardwalks near thermal features, carrying bear spray, and always supervising young children closely.

Do I need to make reservations for Yellowstone? Reservations are not currently required to enter Yellowstone National Park. However accommodations in and around the park fill up extremely quickly for peak summer dates. Book your stay at Old Faithful RV Park as early as possible to secure your preferred site or cabin.

What should kids wear to Yellowstone? Dress kids in comfortable layers that can be added or removed as temperatures change throughout the day. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are essential. Wide brim hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are non-negotiable at Yellowstone’s altitude. Always pack a rain jacket regardless of the forecast.

Can I bring a stroller to Yellowstone? Yes — many of the most popular things to do in Yellowstone with kids including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Mud Volcano area all feature paved or boardwalk surfaces that are stroller accessible. Some trails are not stroller-friendly so check trail conditions before heading out.

What is the best place to stay for a family trip to Yellowstone near the East Gate? Old Faithful RV Park in Cody, Wyoming offers family-friendly rustic cabins sleeping up to 6 guests — complete with a loft bedroom kids absolutely love — and spacious full hookup RV sites just 32 miles from the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park — the perfect family basecamp for the best Yellowstone entrance for families.

Rest. Explore. Repeat.