Backcountry Camping at Yellowstone National Park for Beginners

Millions of visitors come to Yellowstone National Park every year to see the park's amazing wildlife, and the best place to encounter wild animals is away from the developed parts of the park. Hiking deep into Yellowstone's wilderness, however, entails entering the realm of backcountry camping. The idea of striking out off-trail and away from civilization is a daunting prospect for many avid hikers and campers, but by following a few simple steps anyone can enjoy a safe backcountry camping trip in Yellowstone National Park.

1. Plan a Route Following a Watercourse

For day hikers and car campers, becoming lost in an area without well-marked trails is a serious concern. The Lamar River or Slough Creek, for example, offer easy to follow highways from park campgrounds and roads into the backcountry. Using waterways might add miles to the hike, but it minimizes orienteering and reduces the risk of becoming lost.

2. Reserve Early

If you follow a river or stream into the backcountry, you will likely set up camp in a popular backcountry area. Although backcountry camping permits must be picked up in person, reservations can be made in advance on a first come, first serve basis.

3. Bring the Extras

Backcountry camping differs from car camping mostly because the backcountry camper enjoys no amenities whatsoever beyond what he carries with him, necessitating more gear. Some backcountry campsites do not have fire rings, so a lightweight camping stove is needed for cooking and sanitizing water. Since you must dig a latrine, you need a camping or Army surplus spade. You must also pack bear safety equipment (see below). Study these issues carefully and think every day of your camping trip through carefully before collecting your equipment.

4. Avoid Overloading

Many first-time backpackers pack more gear than they can carry at their level of conditioning, resulting in injured ankles, knees, and backs from crossing rough country or simple overexertion. If you have never carried 80 lbs of gear on a hike before, Yellowstone is no place to start. Be conservative in making the maximum weight estimate for your backpack, and try to take your prospective backcountry load on a day hike before going to Yellowstone.

5. Bear Safety

Backcountry campers routinely sight black bears in Yellowstone National Park, and grizzly sightings are not uncommon. Take bear safety seriously. Most backcountry campsites have bear poles for storing food and clothes that have picked up food-scent, but you must still bring plastic containers for storing food-scented refuse. Follow the rule about setting up your tent 100 yards from where you cook and eat religiously, and pack a can of bear spray.