Yellowstone in July: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
Peak crowds · VisitWhen score 65/100 · #5 of 12 months
July is peak season — expect the year's biggest crowds at Yellowstone National Park: crowds run 100% of the July peak (922,896 average visits), days average 72°F with 15.2 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in July
July is Yellowstone's busiest month — an average of 922,896 recreation visits (2021–2025), the park's crowd peak. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — book early and start days at dawn.
Weather & daylight
Days are pleasant (highs average 72°F), and mornings are chilly (lows average 39°F). It is typically dry (1.5″ of precipitation). Mid-month daylight runs 15.2 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station YELLOWSTONE LAKE, WY US (6 mi from park coordinates, 7,835 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of July.
What to pack for Yellowstone in July
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Warm mid-layer (fleece or light puffy) — mornings average 39°F
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
- Bear spray — recommended by the park in grizzly country (check current park regulations before you carry)
Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for Yellowstone are April and May.
Common questions
Is Yellowstone crowded in July?
Yes — July runs 100% of Yellowstone's peak, averaging 922,896 recreation visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Yellowstone in July?
Average highs of 72°F, lows of 39°F, 1.5″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, YELLOWSTONE LAKE, WY US station).
What should I pack for Yellowstone in July?
Warm mid-layer (fleece or light puffy); Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit; Bear spray — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in July · Last verified 2026-07-16