Tips for visiting Yellowstone National Park this Fourth of July

News Release Date:
June 25, 2026

Contact: Yellowstone Public Affairs, (307) 344-2015

MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, Wyo. - If you plan to visit Yellowstone National Park this Fourth of July, plan ahead to protect yourself and this wild and awe-inspiring place. Summer is the busiest time in the park, so please pack your patience. Expect crowds at popular areas and lines at entrance stations, construction areas, and roadside wildlife sightings.

Follow our tips to enjoy your visit and protect the park for generations to come:

Leave Fireworks at Home
Fireworks are not allowed in Yellowstone - even just a spark can ignite a wildfire.

Flood Your Flames
Campfires are only permitted within established fire rings in campgrounds and some backcountry campsites in Yellowstone. Never leave your campfire unattended and always check to ensure it's cold to the touch before leaving: Soak, stir, feel, and repeat.

Check Current Fire Conditions
The current fire danger level in the park is moderate but could change at any time based on conditions. Please plan your activities accordingly. If you see smoke or fire in the park, please report it to rangers or call 911.

Drive and Park Responsibly
Traffic-related accidents are a common cause of human injury and fatality in the park. Please be responsible and do not drive under the influence of alcohol or substances. Observe posted speed limits and do not stop your vehicle in the road. Use pullouts to watch wildlife, take pictures, and let other cars pass. When pulling over, be sure to park with all four tires fully to the right of the white line. Pack your patience and allow plenty of time to travel through the park during this busiest time of year.

Check Status of Park Roads
Summer is road construction season in the West. Road improvement projects or inclement weather may cause temporary closures and traffic delays. Stay informed about current road conditions in Yellowstone:

• Visit go.nps.gov/YELLroads
• Call (307) 344-2117 for recorded information
• Receive Yellowstone road alerts on your mobile phone by texting "82190" to 888-777 (an automatic text reply will confirm receipt and provide instructions)

Give Wildlife Room
It's your responsibility to respect safety regulations and view wildlife from a safe distance. Wild animals are dangerous if you get too close! People have been injured or killed by bears, bison, and elk. Always maintain a minimum of 100 yards (91 m) from bears, wolves, and cougars and 25 yards (23 m) from all other wildlife. If an animal moves closer to you, back away to maintain these safe viewing distances. If a bear approaches your vehicle, honk the horn and slowly drive away. Follow instructions from park rangers and learn how to watch wildlife safely and travel safely in bear country .

Stay on Boardwalks
Boardwalks take you to amazing places and keep you safe. People who travel off boardwalks have been severely injured or killed by breaking through the thin ground in thermal basins or falling into hot springs.

Plan Ahead
All campgrounds and lodging require a reservation and fill up well in advance. Operating hours and service levels can change with little notice. Check the latest information before coming to the park:

Prepare for Weather Changes Unpredictability characterizes Yellowstone's weather. While summers can be hot and dry, expect big temperature swings, rain, or even snow. Bring water to stay hydrated, a warm jacket, rain gear, and lots of layers. Check current weather conditions before you arrive.

Enter Yellowstone for Free
In celebration of the Independence Day weekend, U.S. residents will gain free entry to the park July 3-5 (reservations are not required).

Additionally, if you really want to share your love for Yellowstone, take the Yellowstone Pledge. Encourage your friends and family to do the same and share your photos with us online using #YellowstonePledge. Have a safe and happy Independence Day!