Surf - shore camping for motor boats is by permit only (there is no charge for the permits and the limit is three nights, but there is competition for the spaces and if you book 48 hours in advance, there is a $25.00 fee. Docks in the back country are located at Wolf, Eagle, and Plover Pt. These are fairly protected spots and have tables, fire pits, toilets, and bear proof metal boxes (no bear poles to contend with).
These sites allow for three (3) different parties and also several on the shore tent sites plus the boats tied to the docks. There are several overnight anchorages allowed, one in he Southeast Arm and the other in the Flat Mountain Arm (before reaching the South Arm). The Southeast Arm anchorage is not a good one and is subject to winds. The other anchorage in Flat Mountain Arm is in a tiny bay called Grizzly Bay, and is the most protected from the winds than even the marina itself. It allows for two independent boats swinging on an anchor, but no landing on shore is permitted. A spawning stream frequented by bears runs into the bay.
The docks at Bridge Bay marina are world class with water and power at each slip.
Recently commercial guides are taking private parties into these back country shore sites which really limits the use by the general boating public.
Motorized craft over 16' must stay a quarter mile off shore in the arms and travel no more than 5 mph before reaching the hand-propelled zone.
However these crafts can proceed to shore in a direct line, but no overnight anchoring is allowed.
Frank Island has a good dock located in a sheltered area for day use and picnics,( a toilet and tables) but no camping overnight is allowed. Boats on occasion will stay anchored the night behind Frank Island when nasty blows are coming thru. Our C-dorys will handle any waters on the lake, but not in complete comfort. Already this season (justt a few weeks ago), two days of steady wind produced six foot waves.
Dot Island is a fun island to explore during the day with a good landing area on the east side. Stevenson Island can also be explored, but check the regulations when shore landing is permitted.
Some people will launch at Grant Village, but there are no overnight accommodations there.
I know some folks who anchor overnight without permits, but if they are discovered by the lake patrol rangers, they will be cited. The current regulations in Yelowstone are reasonable and should be followed. Since I spend most of my summers in a leased slip (B-8), in Bridge Bay Marina, if you come to the Marina, look me up and I'll be pleased to help you deal with the regulations. Your boat will be inspected for foreign critters before being allowed to launch.
Hope to see you this summer.
Yellowstone John
P.S. cell service on the lake is available only in a few spots.
