MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WY – Celebrate Independence Day at Yellowstone safely by following these top five tips:
- Leave fireworks at home. Fireworks are not allowed in Yellowstone.
- Plan ahead. Campgrounds, lodges, and parking lots fill early. Finding a place to sleep at the last minute is unlikely. Check the park website at Plan Your Visit for more information.
- Pack your patience. Drive defensively and cautiously. Enjoy the ride and allow for extra time to get from one place to another. Check for updates at Park Roads. Expect long lines and crowds during peak times of the day. Visit busy sites in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Extinguish your campfire. Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings in the 11 developed campgrounds and most backcountry campsites. Campfires must be extinguished and cold to the touch after use. Fire danger is moderate.
- Take the Yellowstone Pledge! Stay safe and protect the park. Put these tips into action:
- Give wildlife space. Stay 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves and 25 yards (23 m) from all other animals.
- Follow the beaten path. In thermal areas, stay on boardwalks and established trails. People have been severely burned and killed after leaving the boardwalk or reaching into hot water.
- Be bear aware. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Be alert, make noise, hike in groups, and stay on trails.
- Watch out for water. Use caution around rivers, lakes, and streams.
- Practice safe selfies. No picture is worth hurting yourself, others, or the park. Be aware of your surroundings whether near wildlife, thermal areas, roads, or steep cliffs.
We hope you have a safe and happy Fourth of July!
