5 Best RV Parks Near Cody, Wyoming: Gateway to Yellowstone

Finding the right basecamp in Cody is about more than just a place to park. You need a strategic location that balances access to the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park with the convenience of city amenities. Cody serves as the perfect launchpad for your adventures, but the experience varies significantly depending on where you stay. Some travelers prefer the rugged feel of state parks, while others need the reliability of full hookups and high-speed Wi-Fi to work from the road.

This guide cuts through the noise to help you choose the best spot for your rig, whether you drive a compact Class B or pull a 45-foot fifth wheel.

Cody KOA Holiday

If you travel with kids or need the reliability of a corporate standard, the Cody KOA Holiday stands out as a top contender. This park acts as a resort rather than just a campground. You get access to a heated pool which becomes a lifesaver after a dusty day of hiking. The park also provides a dedicated dog run, making it easier for pet owners to manage their furry friends in a safe environment.

The location offers a free shuttle service to the nightly Cody Nite Rodeo during the summer season. This perk saves you the hassle of unhooking your tow vehicle or driving your motorhome through town traffic at night. While it sits close to the highway, the convenience often outweighs the road noise for most travelers.

Absaroka Bay RV Park

Absaroka Bay RV Park appeals to those who prioritize a quiet, orderly environment over resort-style amenities. It sits comfortably away from the main highway, so you deal with less traffic noise compared to other in-town options. The sites here feature concrete pads and paved roads, which helps keep the inside of your RV dust-free.

Big rig owners often favor this park because the pull-through sites are spacious and easy to navigate. You also get reliable Wi-Fi here, which is a rare find in this region. If you need to stay connected for work or streaming, Absaroka Bay serves as one of the most dependable options in Cody.

Buffalo Bill State Park

For a true Wyoming experience, Buffalo Bill State Park offers unbeatable scenery. Located about 9 miles west of town, this park places you right on the shores of the reservoir with the Absaroka mountains towering in the background. You trade luxury amenities for raw nature here. Most sites have electric and water hookups, but you should prepare for a dump station visit rather than full sewer connections at every site.

An RV campsite located right on the shores of the Buffalo Bill Reservoir offering stunning waterfront views.

Be aware of the wind. Locals know that afternoon gusts coming off the reservoir can be strong, so you should retract your awnings before leaving your campsite. If you want to wake up to a water view and save money compared to private parks, this state park is your best bet.

Ponderosa Campground

Ponderosa Campground lives up to its name with plenty of mature trees providing shade, a commodity that can be scarce in the high desert. This park excels in location. You can walk to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and downtown dining spots, making it ideal if you lack a toad (towed vehicle) or simply want to stretch your legs.

The atmosphere feels welcoming and family-run. While the sites can feel a bit tighter than the state park, the convenience of being in the heart of Cody makes up for the density. You also have access to clean bathhouses and laundry facilities, which helps you refresh before heading into the national park.

Parkway RV Campground

Parkway RV Campground offers a straightforward, no-nonsense camping experience. It sits on the east side of town, giving you a head start if you plan to explore the Bighorn Basin or head towards the Bighorn Mountains. The park is known for its immaculately clean facilities and friendly staff who often provide great local tips on road conditions.

The sites are gravel but level, and the park layout accommodates slide-outs easily. It serves as a great stopover for travelers who want a quiet night of sleep without paying for resort amenities they won't use.

Driving the Road to Yellowstone

Choosing a park in Cody means you will likely drive the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway to reach Yellowstone. This route is stunning but requires attention. The road follows the Shoshone River and climbs significantly as you approach the East Entrance and Sylvan Pass.

You should check your brakes and transmission fluids before attempting this drive, especially if you tow a heavy load. The grade is manageable for most modern vehicles, but taking it slow allows you to enjoy the dramatic rock formations and potential wildlife sightings along the way. Early morning starts help you beat the tour bus traffic and increase your chances of seeing bears or moose near the park boundary.

Planning Your Stay

Weather in Wyoming changes rapidly. Even in summer, temperatures can drop at night, so you should pack layers. The high elevation means the sun hits harder, making sunscreen essential even on cool days. Most RV parks in Cody operate seasonally, typically opening in May and closing by October. You should always book well in advance for July and August, as these months see the highest influx of visitors heading to the national parks.