Mariposa Lake is a remote backcountry campsite located in the southeast Thorofare area of Yellowstone National Park, one of the most isolated wilderness regions in the lower 48 states. The lake is accessible via hiking trails west of the Yellowstone River, requiring approximately 2,000 feet of elevation gain from the river valley. This designated backcountry campsite requires a Yellowstone backcountry permit for overnight stays, obtained through Recreation.gov. The site is known for its extreme wilderness character and significant grizzly bear and wolf activity, requiring proper backcountry safety protocols. The Thorofare region, where Mariposa Lake is located, represents some of the most challenging and remote backpacking terrain in the park.
Open Jul through Sep
Mariposa Lake is west of the Yellowstone River. From Mariposa Lake, travel to the Southeast Arm of Yellowstone Lake across Two Ocean Plateau. Requires approximately 2,000 feet of elevation gain.
A backcountry permit is required year-round for all overnight stays. Yellowstone has 293 designated backcountry campsites available through Recreation.gov.
The Thorofare is one of the most remote areas in the lower 48 states, with significant wildlife activity including grizzly bears and wolves.
CampgroundTour strives to provide accurate campground information but cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Information is subject to change — please confirm details with the agency managing this facility before booking or making travel decisions. See our Terms of Use.
Mariposa Lake is a remote backcountry campsite located in the southeast Thorofare area of Yellowstone National Park, one of the most isolated wilderness regions in the lower 48 states. The lake is accessible via hiking trails west of the Yellowstone River, requiring approximately 2,000 feet of elevation gain from the river valley. This designated backcountry campsite requires a Yellowstone backcountry permit for overnight stays, obtained through Recreation.gov. The site is known for its extreme wilderness character and significant grizzly bear and wolf activity, requiring proper backcountry safety protocols. The Thorofare region, where Mariposa Lake is located, represents some of the most challenging and remote backpacking terrain in the park.
Open Jul through Sep
Mariposa Lake is west of the Yellowstone River. From Mariposa Lake, travel to the Southeast Arm of Yellowstone Lake across Two Ocean Plateau. Requires approximately 2,000 feet of elevation gain.
A backcountry permit is required year-round for all overnight stays. Yellowstone has 293 designated backcountry campsites available through Recreation.gov.
The Thorofare is one of the most remote areas in the lower 48 states, with significant wildlife activity including grizzly bears and wolves.
CampgroundTour strives to provide accurate campground information but cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Information is subject to change — please confirm details with the agency managing this facility before booking or making travel decisions. See our Terms of Use.