Cheap Hotels Near Yellowstone National Park: Budget Stays for 2025

Understanding Yellowstone's Entrances and Nearby Towns

Before diving into specific hotel recommendations, it's essential to understand Yellowstone's geography. The park has five main entrances, each offering different accommodation options and proximity to various attractions. Your choice of entrance will significantly impact your overall experience and budget.

North Entrance (Gardiner, Montana)

The North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, is the only entrance open year-round, making it an excellent choice for winter visits. This historic gateway is marked by the iconic Roosevelt Arch and provides convenient access to Mammoth Hot Springs, one of the park's most spectacular thermal features. Gardiner offers a range of budget accommodations, from motels to vacation rentals, with prices typically lower than those inside the park. During my winter visit, I found Gardiner to be particularly charming with its small-town atmosphere and wildlife often wandering through the streets.

The town sits at a lower elevation than other gateway communities, resulting in milder winter conditions. If you're planning a visit between November and April, the North Entrance should be your primary consideration, as it provides the only vehicle access to Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley (the best location for wolf watching) during winter months.

West Entrance (West Yellowstone, Montana)

West Yellowstone is the busiest and most developed gateway town, located just outside the West Entrance. This entrance provides the quickest access to the geyser basins, including Old Faithful. West Yellowstone boasts the highest concentration of budget hotels and motels near the park, making it an excellent base for budget-conscious travelers. The town has numerous restaurants, shops, and amenities, creating a convenient hub for park exploration.

During peak summer months, West Yellowstone can become crowded, so booking accommodations well in advance is essential. The town essentially shuts down during winter when the West Entrance closes to regular vehicles (though snowcoach and snowmobile tours operate). If you're visiting between May and October and want easy access to the park's most famous features while having plenty of affordable lodging options, West Yellowstone is your best bet.

East Entrance (Cody, Wyoming)

The East Entrance connects to Cody, Wyoming, located about 50 miles from the park boundary. Cody offers a authentic western experience with its Buffalo Bill Center of the West museum complex and nightly summer rodeos. While accommodations in Cody tend to be reasonably priced compared to locations closer to the park, the longer driving distance (about an hour to the East Entrance, plus additional time to reach major attractions) means you'll spend more time on the road and less time exploring the park.

However, the drive between Cody and Yellowstone through the Wapiti Valley and Shoshone National Forest is spectacularly scenic, following the route that Buffalo Bill himself declared "the most beautiful 50 miles in America." If you don't mind the additional driving time and want to combine your Yellowstone visit with authentic western heritage experiences, Cody makes an interesting base with generally lower accommodation prices than the closer gateway communities.

South Entrance (Jackson/Grand Teton Area)

The South Entrance connects Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Park and the town of Jackson, Wyoming. While Jackson offers excellent amenities and a vibrant atmosphere, it's generally the most expensive gateway community. Budget accommodations are limited, especially during peak summer months. However, if you're planning to visit both Yellowstone and Grand Teton, basing yourself in this area might make sense despite the higher costs.

Northeast Entrance (Cooke City-Silver Gate, Montana)

The Northeast Entrance is accessed via Cooke City and Silver Gate, tiny mountain communities that offer a more remote, authentic experience. Accommodation options are limited but often more affordable than staying inside the park. This entrance provides excellent access to the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. The stunning Beartooth Highway (typically open late May through October) connects this area to Red Lodge, Montana, offering one of America's most scenic drives.

Best Budget Hotels Near Yellowstone National Park

Based on my extensive research and personal experiences, here are the best budget-friendly hotels and motels near each entrance of Yellowstone National Park. These accommodations offer the best value for money while still providing comfortable stays for park visitors.

West Entrance Budget Hotels (West Yellowstone, MT)

North Entrance Budget Options (Gardiner, MT)

Gardiner provides several affordable options just minutes from the North Entrance:

• Absaroka Lodge - Offers stunning views of the Yellowstone River from private balconies, clean comfortable rooms with refrigerators and microwaves, at rates significantly lower than in-park lodging.
• Yellowstone Gateway Inn - Features apartment-style accommodations with kitchens, making it perfect for families looking to save on meal costs.
• Yellowstone Basin Inn - While slightly more expensive than other budget options, their exceptional service, complimentary breakfast, and beautiful mountain views justify the moderate prices.
• Rodopa Lodge - A newer addition to Gardiner's accommodation scene offering modern, well-equipped rooms with kitchenettes at reasonable rates.

Gardiner's proximity to the Boiling River hot spring (when open) provides a free natural swimming experience that enhances the value of staying in this area. Additionally, grocery stores in Gardiner allow you to stock up on supplies at prices lower than you'll find inside the park.

East Entrance Area (Cody, WY)

While Cody is farther from the park (about an hour's drive to the East Entrance), it offers substantial savings on accommodations:

• Buffalo Bill's Irma Hotel - This historic hotel founded by Buffalo Bill Cody himself offers rooms starting around $109 in the shoulder season. While not the cheapest option, the historic experience and central location add significant value.
• Cody Cowboy Village - Features clean, western-themed rooms and cabins at moderate prices, with an outdoor pool for summer guests.
• Robin's Nest Bed & Breakfast - A charming B&B offering personal service and home-cooked breakfasts at prices competitive with chain hotels.

The advantage of staying in Cody extends beyond accommodation savings. The town offers more affordable dining options than gateway communities closer to Yellowstone, plus free or low-cost attractions like the Cody Nite Rodeo and outdoor concerts in summer. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West (five museums in one) provides excellent value with a ticket that remains valid for two consecutive days.

Northeast Entrance Area (Cooke City-Silver Gate, MT)

These tiny communities offer a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience:

• Silver Gate Lodging - Rustic cabins with kitchenettes in a peaceful setting just minutes from the Northeast Entrance.
• Antlers Lodge - Simple but clean motel rooms and cabins in Cooke City at reasonable rates.
• Soda Butte Lodge - Basic but comfortable accommodations centrally located in Cooke City.

The Cooke City-Silver Gate area is particularly appealing if wildlife viewing is your priority. The nearby Lamar Valley offers the best wildlife watching in Yellowstone, especially for wolf enthusiasts. While dining options are limited, most accommodations provide kitchenettes, allowing you to prepare your own meals and save on food costs.

South Entrance Area (Jackson Hole Area)

The Jackson Hole area is generally the most expensive gateway region, but some budget options exist:

• The Anvil Hotel - A renovated motel in Jackson with modern amenities and stylish decor at mid-range prices (more affordable in shoulder seasons).
• Elk Country Inn - Offers clean, comfortable rooms and cabins in Jackson at slightly lower rates than many competitors.
• Flagg Ranch - Located between Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, offering rustic cabins at more reasonable rates than most Jackson properties.

If you're determined to visit both Yellowstone and Grand Teton but are on a tight budget, consider camping in one of the national forest campgrounds between the parks instead of staying in costly Jackson accommodations.

Alternative Accommodation Options

Camping: The Ultimate Budget Option

Camping remains the most economical way to stay near Yellowstone, with options ranging from developed campgrounds to dispersed camping in surrounding national forests. Within Yellowstone itself, the National Park Service operates several campgrounds at reasonable rates ($20-35 per night), though these fill quickly and most require reservations well in advance.

The most budget-friendly camping options are found in the national forests surrounding Yellowstone. Custer Gallatin, Shoshone, and Bridger-Teton National Forests all border the park and offer campgrounds at lower rates than those inside Yellowstone (typically $10-20 per night), with some offering primitive sites for even less. Many forest service campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility for budget travelers.

For those without camping equipment, KOA campgrounds near West Yellowstone and Cody offer cabin rentals that, while not as cheap as tent camping, cost significantly less than most hotel rooms during peak season. During my last visit, I stayed at the West Yellowstone KOA in a basic cabin for about half the price of nearby motels.

Vacation Rentals and Cabins

Vacation rentals can offer excellent value for families or groups traveling together. In Gardiner and West Yellowstone, many property owners rent cabins, apartments, or homes at rates that, when split among several travelers, become quite reasonable per person. These rentals typically include kitchens, allowing you to prepare meals rather than dining out.

During my trip with extended family last summer, we rented a three-bedroom cabin near Gardiner for approximately $250 per night. Split between three couples, this came to around $83 per couple—far less than we would have paid for separate hotel rooms. The fully equipped kitchen saved us hundreds on meal costs throughout our week-long stay.

Some of the best vacation rental values can be found slightly further from the park entrances. Properties in communities like Emigrant (north of Gardiner) or Island Park (west of West Yellowstone) often offer lower rates than those right at the park boundaries while still providing reasonable access.

Hostels and Shared Accommodations

For solo travelers or those comfortable with shared accommodations, limited hostel options exist near Yellowstone. The Yellowstone Hostel in Gardiner offers dormitory-style accommodations at rates starting around $35 per night during peak season—a fraction of what you'd pay for private rooms in the area.

Some bed and breakfasts in the gateway communities also offer single rooms with shared bathrooms at reduced rates, providing another budget-friendly option with more privacy than hostels.

Camping Near Yellowstone: My Experience

During my budget trip to Yellowstone last summer, I decided to camp in the Custer Gallatin National Forest just north of the park. For just $15 per night, I had a spacious tent site with basic amenities (vault toilets and potable water). The money saved on accommodation allowed me to splurge on experiences inside the park, including a guided wildlife tour in the Lamar Valley.

The key to successful budget camping is having the right gear. A quality sleeping bag like the MalloMe Camping Sleeping Bag and a comfortable sleeping pad made my camping experience comfortable even as temperatures dropped into the 40s at night in early September.

Essential Camping Gear for Yellowstone Visitors

If you're opting for camping to save on accommodation costs, having the right gear is essential for a comfortable experience. Yellowstone's weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures potentially dropping below freezing even in summer months. Based on my multiple camping trips to the Yellowstone area, here are my top recommendations for essential camping gear:

1. MalloMe Sleeping Bag

This versatile sleeping bag is suitable for both warm and cold weather conditions you might encounter in Yellowstone. With over 14,800 positive reviews, it's a proven performer for camping near Yellowstone. I've personally used this during early fall trips when nighttime temperatures dipped into the 40s, and it kept me perfectly comfortable.

Key features: Waterproof, lightweight design, compression sack included, suitable for temperatures down to 32°F

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2. Rumpl Yellowstone National Park Blanket

This versatile outdoor blanket is perfect for adding extra warmth to your sleeping bag or for use around the campfire. The Yellowstone-themed design makes it a wonderful souvenir of your trip. During chilly mornings at my campsite, this blanket was invaluable for staying warm while enjoying coffee and planning the day's adventures.

Key features: Made from recycled materials, water-resistant, machine washable, packs down small

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3. REDCAMP Cotton Flannel Sleeping Bag

For those seeking extra comfort, this flannel-lined sleeping bag provides a cozy, home-like feel. The cotton flannel lining is much more comfortable against the skin than synthetic materials, making it perfect for family camping trips. I've recommended this to several friends who were new to camping, and they all reported excellent sleeping experiences.

Key features: Soft cotton flannel lining, multiple filling options (2/3/4 lbs), compression sack included, suitable for temperatures down to 23°F with 4lbs filling

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4. Teton Celsius XXL Sleeping Bag

For larger individuals or those who prefer extra space while sleeping, this oversized sleeping bag is ideal. It's also perfect for colder Yellowstone nights in late spring or early fall. During my September camping trip when temperatures dropped unexpectedly, this bag kept me warm and comfortable throughout the night.

Key features: Extra roomy design, rated for temperatures as low as 0°F, soft flannel lining, internal pocket for valuables

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5. Coleman Heritage Big & Tall Flannel Sleeping Bag

For taller campers or those who prefer more room, this Coleman sleeping bag is an excellent choice. Rated for temperatures as low as 10°F, it's suitable for Yellowstone's variable conditions. The cotton flannel lining provides exceptional comfort, while the rugged construction ensures years of reliable use.

Key features: Fits people up to 6'7" tall, machine washable, flannel liner, ZipPlow system prevents zipper snags

During my camping trip with my brother (who's 6'5"), finding adequately sized sleeping gear was a challenge until we discovered this Coleman bag. He reported it was the first camping sleep system where his feet didn't press against the end of the bag.

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Additional Camping Essentials for Yellowstone

Beyond sleeping bags, consider these additional items for a comfortable camping experience near Yellowstone:

• Bear-resistant food container: Essential in bear country to safely store food and scented items
• Quality tent with rainfly: Yellowstone weather can change rapidly, so proper rain protection is crucial
• Insulated sleeping pad: The ground can be cold even in summer; a good pad provides insulation and comfort
• Portable camp stove: For preparing hot meals and essential morning coffee
• Water filtration system: While developed campgrounds provide potable water, backcountry camping requires water purification

My Personal Experience Staying Near Yellowstone

Silver Gate-Cooke City Experience

Perhaps my most unique stay was in a cabin at Silver Gate Lodging, just outside the Northeast Entrance. At approximately $130 per night in September (shoulder season), the rustic cabin featured a kitchenette, wood stove, and porch with mountain views. While the accommodations were basic—no TV, limited cell service, and spotty Wi-Fi—the experience was enriched by the remote setting and abundant wildlife.

My mornings began with coffee on the porch, often accompanied by the sight of moose or deer wandering through the property. The location provided ideal access to the Lamar Valley (known as America's Serengeti for its wildlife concentration) without the crowds found at other entrances. I could be watching wolves and grizzlies in the valley by sunrise, return to the cabin for lunch, and head back out for evening wildlife viewing.

National Forest Camping Experience

My most budget-friendly stay was camping in the Custer Gallatin National Forest just north of Yellowstone. At only $15 per night, this primitive campsite provided basic amenities (vault toilet, fire ring, picnic table) in a gorgeous setting. Using my REDCAMP Cotton Flannel Sleeping Bag, I stayed warm despite overnight temperatures in the 40s.

The money saved on accommodation allowed me to splurge on experiences—a guided wildlife tour, a scenic helicopter flight, and several meals at better restaurants than my usual budget would permit. This reinforced my belief that for many travelers, reducing lodging costs creates flexibility to enjoy unique experiences that might otherwise be unaffordable.

Tips for Booking Affordable Yellowstone Accommodation

Use Multiple Booking Platforms

Don't rely solely on one booking site. Check official hotel websites, major booking platforms, and local tourism board listings. I've often found significant price differences for the same property across different platforms. For instance, during my West Yellowstone stay, I saved nearly $30 per night by booking directly through the hotel website rather than using a major booking site.

Some properties also offer unadvertised discounts for multi-night stays or for AAA/AARP members. Always call the property directly after checking online rates—sometimes speaking with staff can reveal promotions or room types not listed online.

Consider Package Deals

Some accommodations offer packages that include activities or meals, potentially providing better overall value. During my stay in Gardiner, I found a small inn offering a package that included accommodation, breakfast, and a wildlife tour at a price only slightly higher than the room alone would have cost if booked separately.

Similarly, some West Yellowstone hotels partner with activity providers to offer discounted rafting, zipline, or horseback riding experiences for guests. These partnerships can result in substantial savings on activities you might have booked anyway.

Explore Alternative Lodging Types

Beyond traditional hotels, consider vacation rentals, cabins, hostels, or camping. For families or groups, vacation rentals often provide better value per person than multiple hotel rooms. During my family reunion trip, we rented a large cabin that accommodated 10 people for roughly the same cost as three hotel rooms would have been.

If you're comfortable with basic accommodations, hostels in gateway towns offer the lowest-cost private or shared rooms. The money saved can be allocated to experiences, meals, or extending your stay.

Join Loyalty Programs

If you're flexible about where you stay, hotel chain loyalty programs can provide significant savings. Several major chains have properties in gateway communities like West Yellowstone and Cody. By concentrating your stays within one brand, you might qualify for member rates, earn points toward free nights, or receive room upgrades.

During my most recent trip, my loyalty status with a major hotel chain resulted in a complimentary upgrade to a mini-suite in West Yellowstone—a considerable value enhancement without additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest time of year to visit Yellowstone?

The most affordable time to visit Yellowstone is during the shoulder seasons: late April to early June and September to mid-October. During these periods, accommodation rates can be 30-50% lower than peak summer prices, while the park remains largely accessible (weather permitting). Early May and October offer the lowest rates, though some park roads may be closed due to snow. Winter visits (December-March) offer unique experiences at reduced rates, but only the North Entrance remains open to regular vehicles.

How far in advance should I book accommodation near Yellowstone?

For summer visits (June-August), book accommodations 6-12 months in advance for the best selection and rates. In-park lodging specifically should be booked as soon as the reservation window opens (typically 13 months in advance). For shoulder season visits, booking 3-6 months ahead is usually sufficient. Last-minute accommodations are occasionally available but expect to pay premium rates and have limited options, particularly within 30 miles of park entrances during peak season.

Which entrance to Yellowstone has the most affordable nearby accommodations?

Generally, the West and North entrances (West Yellowstone and Gardiner) offer the widest range of budget accommodations due to their greater development and competition. For absolute lowest costs, look at accommodations near the East Entrance in Cody, Wyoming (about an hour's drive from the park), which typically offers lower rates but requires more driving time. The Northeast and South entrances have fewer options, often resulting in higher rates despite their remote locations.

Is it cheaper to stay inside or outside Yellowstone National Park?

Staying outside the park is almost always cheaper than in-park lodging. In-park accommodations command premium rates due to their location and limited availability. Budget-conscious travelers can save 30-60% by staying in gateway communities, though this comes with the trade-off of daily commuting time. The cost difference is most pronounced during peak season (June-August) and less significant during shoulder seasons when in-park rates are reduced.

Are there any free camping options near Yellowstone?

Free dispersed camping is available in national forest land surrounding Yellowstone, including Custer Gallatin, Shoshone, and Bridger-Teton National Forests. These sites typically have no amenities (no toilets, water, or trash services) and operate on a 14-day stay limit. Popular free camping areas include areas along Beartooth Highway northeast of the park and Forest Service roads west of West Yellowstone. While free, these sites require proper preparation, including bear-resistant food storage, waste disposal plans, and usually a high-clearance vehicle to access.

What's the most affordable way to visit Yellowstone with a family?

For families, vacation rentals or cabins often provide the best value, allowing you to prepare meals rather than dining out and providing more space than standard hotel rooms. KOA cabin rentals offer another economical option, providing basic shelter without requiring camping equipment. If your family owns camping gear, developed campgrounds offer the lowest-cost accommodation while still providing essential amenities like restrooms and water. Multi-generational families might consider renting a larger property and splitting costs among adult family members.

Conclusion

Finding affordable accommodation near Yellowstone National Park requires planning and flexibility, but the effort pays off in substantial savings that can extend your stay or enhance other aspects of your trip. Throughout my many visits to this remarkable park, I've discovered that where you stay matters far less than the experiences you have and the natural wonders you witness.

Whether you choose a budget hotel in West Yellowstone, a cabin in Silver Gate, a vacation rental in Gardiner, or a campsite in the surrounding national forests, each option offers its own advantages beyond cost savings. The gateway communities surrounding Yellowstone each have their own character and charm, adding dimension to your national park experience.

Remember that accommodation costs represent just one aspect of your Yellowstone budget. By saving on lodging, you create financial flexibility for guided tours, special meals, or simply extending your stay to explore at a more relaxed pace. Many of my most memorable Yellowstone experiences—a sunrise wildlife tour in the Lamar Valley, a guided backcountry hike, an evening ranger program—were possible because I allocated my budget thoughtfully, starting with affordable accommodation.

As you plan your 2025 Yellowstone adventure, consider what matters most to you—convenience, comfort, or cost—and choose accommodations that best align with your priorities. With the strategies and specific recommendations outlined in this guide, you can create a memorable Yellowstone experience that respects both the magnificent landscape and your travel budget.

The wonder of Yellowstone doesn't depend on luxury accommodations; it lies in the steaming geysers, majestic wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes that have captivated visitors for generations. By choosing budget-friendly lodging options, you're not compromising your experience—you're enhancing it by allowing yourself more time and resources to truly immerse in the magic of America's first national park.