Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonderland, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique geothermal features. Covering over 2.2 million acres, the vast wilderness offers unforgettable experiences to millions of visitors each year to one of the most amazing national parks in the United States.
While exploring this incredible park, one question often looms large: where can you find gas stations within Yellowstone National Park?
This is a crucial question for anyone planning to explore the wildlife in Yellowstone National Park where motorized travel is the primary mode of transportation.
In this guide, I'll share the locations of gas stations within Yellowstone and the surrounding areas, ensuring that your journey through this national treasure is worry-free.
Overview of Gas Stations
Exploring Yellowstone National Park is an unforgettable journey through breathtaking natural beauty. As you plan your trip around the park's famous loop, knowing where to find gas stations is essential for a seamless and enjoyable experience. Yellowstone Park Service Stations are strategically located to ensure that you can refuel your vehicle while taking in the wonders of this unique national park. They are generally attached to convenience stores that have quick snacks and sandwiches available for those that are on the go.
The map below displays the gas station locations along the Grand Loop of Yellowstone National Park. Use this map to help plan your journey through the park's incredible natural wonders. Pay particular attention when planning your trip from Mammoth to Old Faithful, as gas stations are limited on the park's west side. Alternatively, you can exit the park to West Yellowstone, where you can also enjoy some delicious pizza along the way.
Where are Gas Stations Located?
Gas stations within Yellowstone National Park are strategically placed to provide convenience for travelers, but they can be around 25-75 miles a part within the park.
Yellowstone roads are notorious for delays, as there could be bison crossing the road or road work that congests the traffic for up to an hour on average.
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- Tower Roosevelt Junction
- Canyon Village
- Fishing Bridge
- Grant Village
- Old Faithful
These gas stations will be lit up at night, but you won't be able to miss them during daylight hours. It's a good idea to make sure you bring a physical map printed out!
Gas Stations Inside the Park
These service stations can be found at various key points within the park, ensuring that visitors can refuel their vehicles as they explore the stunning landscapes. They all take credit cards, so there shouldn't be any concern around payment forms. Here are the details of each:
Mammoth Hot Springs
The Mammoth Hot Springs service station is located at Yellowstone Park headquarters, below the magnificent limestone terraces. This unique structure was built in 1920 and offers unleaded fuel, diesel #2, and propane bottle exchange. Nearby amenities include lodging, camping, dining, shopping, and a visitor center.
Tower/Roosevelt Junction
Located near the Lamar Valley, which is home to the majority of Yellowstone's wolves, this service station is close to the popular Roosevelt Lodge, named after former President Teddy Roosevelt. The 132-foot Tower Fall is up the road, offering another amazing view of canyon formations. This station offers unleaded fuel, diesel #2, and propane bottle exchange. Nearby amenities include lodging, camping, dining, and shopping.
Canyon Village
This gas station operates from April 21 to October 31 and is conveniently located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Dunraven Pass, which offers the highest elevated road in the park. It provides unleaded fuel, diesel #2, and propane bottle exchange. Nearby amenities include lodging, camping, dining, shopping, and a visitor center.
Fishing Bridge
Open from May 19 to October 1, the Fishing Bridge service station was constructed around 1925. It offers unleaded fuel, diesel #2, and propane. Additionally, RV and automotive repair, as well as towing services including parts, are available. This station is situated near the Fishing Bridge, which crosses the cutthroat trout spawning ground on the Yellowstone River. The only full hook-up RV campground in the park is also nearby, making it a convenient stop for RV travelers.
Grant Village
Situated on the southwestern shore of Yellowstone Lake, approximately 20 miles from Old Faithful, the Grant Village service station offers unleaded fuel, diesel #2, and propane. It also provides RV and automotive repair and towing services, including parts. Nearby amenities include lodging, camping, dining, shopping, and a visitor center.
Old Faithful Service Stations (Two)
Yellowstone's famous Old Faithful area is served by two service stations that were constructed in the early 1920s. Both stations are within walking distance of the historic Old Faithful Inn and the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser. These stations provide unleaded fuel, diesel #2, and propane bottle exchange. In addition to fuel services, automotive repair and towing, including parts, are also available. Nearby amenities in this area include lodging, dining, shopping, and a visitor center.
Gas Stations Outside the Park
Furthermore, it's worth noting that while Yellowstone gas stations are convenient, you can also find gas outside the park in towns like West Yellowstone and Cooke City. These options may be especially helpful if you plan to drive home at the end of your visit.
There are a few other essential locations to note when planning your Yellowstone adventure:
- Gardiner (North side of the park): Gardiner is a charming town located at the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It's a popular entry point for many visitors, and fortunately, it offers gas stations to meet the needs of travelers. Whether you're arriving from Montana or other nearby destinations, you can easily find a gas station in Gardiner to fuel up before or after your Yellowstone adventure.
- Cooke City (Northeast of the Park): Nestled on the northeastern edge of Yellowstone, Cooke City serves as a gateway to the park. While a relatively small town, Cooke City does have gas stations to cater to travelers entering or exiting the park from this side. These stations provide a convenient refueling option for those exploring the park's less crowded and charming northeastern regions. Gas stations are Cooke City Exxon and Sinclair (open 24 hours).
- West Yellowstone (West side of the park): West Yellowstone is a bustling hub for visitors entering the park through the west entrance. As such, it boasts several gas stations to accommodate the needs of travelers. Whether you're heading into Yellowstone or returning from your adventure, you'll find ample opportunities to fill up your tank in West Yellowstone. Plus, as mentioned earlier, it's a great place to grab a delicious slice of pizza. There are three gas stations near by the entrance of Yellowstone: Exxon, Corner Cenex, and Conoco. There are also grocery stores if you wanted to refill your cooler with food.
- East Entrance (Near Cody): The east entrance of Yellowstone provides access to the park from Cody, Wyoming. While this entry point is less frequented than some others, it still provides gas stations to serve travelers. It's an excellent choice for those looking to explore the park's eastern regions and offers convenient refueling options for your journey into Yellowstone's wilderness.
- Grand Teton National Park (South of Yellowstone): Just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park offers its own share of natural wonders. While it's a separate park, it's in close proximity to Yellowstone. The town of Jackson, Wyoming, serves as a gateway to both parks and has plenty of gas stations to ensure that you can embark on your adventures with a full tank.
Yellowstone Gas Considerations
Lastly, keep in mind that road conditions and access to certain areas, including Yellowstone gas stations, can be affected by changing weather conditions and road work.
Therefore, before starting on your Yellowstone adventure, be sure to check the park's road information page to stay informed about the current status of Yellowstone's roads. Armed with this knowledge, you can embark on your Yellowstone journey with confidence, knowing that you'll have the fuel you need to explore this national treasure to the fullest.
Gas Prices and Convenience
When it comes to gas prices within Yellowstone National Park, you'll find that they may be slightly higher than what you'd encounter outside the park, but not significantly so. Park visitors will be relieved to know that the cost of fuel at Yellowstone's gas pumps generally remains competitive with nearby towns like West Yellowstone and Gardiner. Most gas stations within the park accept credit cards, making it convenient for travelers to pay for their fuel without the need for cash. This ensures that you can quickly refuel your vehicle and get back to exploring the park's wonders. However, it's essential to maintain the speed limit while driving within the park to maximize fuel efficiency and safety.
Fuel Availability Outside the Park
While cheaper fuel can often be found outside the park's boundaries, it's essential to consider the trade-off in time and convenience. Venturing outside Yellowstone to save a few cents per gallon may not be worth the time and distance, unless you are driving an RV that guzzles a significant amount of fuel. Park visitors typically prioritize the convenience of refueling within Yellowstone, given the limited time available to explore the park's vast and breathtaking landscapes. So, rest assured that you can efficiently maintain your journey through Yellowstone with the assurance of available and reasonably priced fuel options within the park itself.
Final Thoughts
Yellowstone National Park offers a well-thought-out network of gas stations strategically placed to meet the needs of families and visitors exploring its diverse landscapes.
Whether you're enjoying the geysers at Old Faithful, witnessing the grandeur of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, or marveling at the wildlife in Lamar Valley, you can rest assured that fuel and automotive services are within reach.
Additionally, each station's proximity to lodging, dining, shopping, and visitor centers enhances the convenience of your Yellowstone adventure.
