These states are ideal places to camp; in fact, at some destinations, such as Yellowstone National Park, it's practically mandatory. Most communities have at least one commercial campground, and campsites are available at all the national parks and national recreation areas, though these campsites are often crowded in summer. Those who can stand being without hot showers for a day or so can often find free or very reasonable campsites just outside the national parks, in national forests, and on Bureau of Land Management lands. Other good bets are found at state parks.

A growing number of state and federal campgrounds allow visitors to reserve sites, although more often than not only in the busy summer months. Throughout Montana and Wyoming there are more than 100 national forest campgrounds and numerous state parks that will also reserve sites. To check on campground reservation possibilities for many National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and other federal properties, contact the new Recreation.gov, which combines the old ReserveUSA and National Park Reservation Service into one portal (tel. 800/444-6777 or 518/885-3639; www.recreation.gov). For information on Montana state parks, get in touch with Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, 1420 E. 6th Ave., P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620 (tel. 406/444-2535; www.fwp.state.mt.us). In Wyoming, contact Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites, 2301 Central Ave., Cheyenne, WY 82001 (tel. 307/777-6323; http://wyoparks.state.wy.us).

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.