We go during Thanksgiving nice weather. Then again never know what the weather will be like. Study Butte is the town we stay in with a FHU campground. Only about a mile from the west gate. No matter what place you stay it is a drive. Be sure to visit the hot springs and follow all the rules. I was in a parking lot when 4 park rangers ask to search a car next to ours. Someone had notice them picking up rocks (a big no).
Sharon