Yellowstone National Park reported a record 566,363 recreation visits in May, marking an 8% increase from May 2024 and a 20% rise compared to May 2021.
According to the National Park Service (NPS), this makes May 2025 the park’s busiest May on record, reinforcing Yellowstone’s status as one of the most visited destinations in the country.
So far this year, Yellowstone has hosted 762,672 recreation visits through the end of May, reflecting a 6% increase over the same period in 2024 and a 17% increase compared to 2021 figures.
May’s surge continues a multi-year upward trend in visitor numbers, despite fluctuations caused by past events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the historic flood in June 2022.
In May 2021, Yellowstone recorded 473,799 recreation visits. The park’s busiest year remains 2021, when it attracted more than 4.8 million visitors overall.
The year-to-date data also shows a rebound from 2022, when Yellowstone faced a temporary closure due to severe flooding. That year, the park saw 733,471 visits through May, slightly lower than 2025’s current figures.
In contrast, visitation in 2020 dropped sharply to 145,849 recreation visits through May after the park closed from late March to mid-May in response to the pandemic.
Yellowstone’s growing visitor numbers suggest continued opportunities for nearby campgrounds to expand amenities and prepare for heavy summer crowds, particularly as tourists seek diverse lodging options and experiences.
According to its website, the park features campgrounds to enhance the guest experience. Bridge Bay, Fishing Bridge RV Park, Grant Campground, and Madison Campground are among Yellowstone National Park’s most popular camping destinations, each offering unique experiences close to the park’s iconic landscapes and wildlife.
Bridge Bay Campground sits at an elevation of 7,800 feet and overlooks Yellowstone Lake, providing views of the Absaroka Range to the east.
Fishing Bridge RV Park, also at 7,800 feet, is the only campground in the park with full hookups for water, sewer, and electricity, though tents are prohibited due to bear activity in the area.
Grant Campground, located in Grant Village near the lake’s south end, offers group and wheelchair-accessible sites along with convenient access to a visitor center, boat ramp, gas station, and dining options.
Madison Campground, at 6,800 feet, is also known for its proximity to the Madison River and seasonal wildlife viewing, including wildflowers, bison, and elk during autumn.