The Lake District occupies the entire southeast quadrant of Yellowstone and encompasses the park's East and South entrances. The roads to Bridge Bay, Lake Village and Fishing Bridge are accessible to wheeled vehicles from early May through October and oversnow vehicles from late December to early March.

There are three ways to experience the Lake District; walk, boat and drive. The trails in the area range from easy to extreme. All are open to hikers. Natural Bridge Trail is the only bike path. Not all boardwalks are easy walks nor are they all wheelchair (and stroller) accessible. Pelican Creek and Storm Point trails are easy and short. Elephant Back Mountain and Pelican Valley trails are graded moderate. Howard Eaton Trail is a full day trek. Thorofare Trail is a multi-day backcountry adventure. Boat rentals and scenic cruises are found at Bridge Bay marina. Ranger-led walks and talks are offered at Lake Village, Fishing Bridge, Grant Village and West Thumb. NB: Yellowstone Lake is grizzly country. Check the ranger station for trail closings before you set out.

While there is no right or wrong time of year to visit Yellowstone there are few things to keep in mind when traveling with kids. July is the warmest month (75°F or 24°C); January is the coldest (25°F or -4°C). The nighttime low is significantly cooler than the daytime high all through the year. Afternoon rain showers are likely in July and August and snow is possible from September to June. Sudden changes in the weather happen all the time. The peak tourist season is late June to mid-August. Fall (late August to late October) and spring (April and May) offer the best wildlife viewing. Yellowstone is magical in winter (November to March) but it is often downright frigid. Pack warm cloths and wet weather gear and plan to dress in layers no matter when you travel.

Dehydration, altitude sickness, hot water, hypothermia and wildlife encounters are the main health risks in Yellowstone. Carry plenty of water (4 liters per person per day is recommended when hiking in summer) and encourage children to drink regularly. Don't drink the water in the lakes, rivers or streams unless you boil or filter it first. Select activities that are commensurate with the age and ability of the kids and give your body a chance to acclimate before you play hard. Keep to boardwalks and designated trails; the earth in geothermal areas is little more than a thin crust overlaying hot, scalding water. Swimming and bathing is prohibited in all areas but two: Boiling River and Firehole Canyon. Dress with highs and lows in mind. Pack rain gear and extra clothing even if it is warm and sunny when you set out. Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife, 100 yards (91m) from bears and wolves and 25 yards (23m) from all other animals. Be bear aware at all times; carry bear spray, make lots of noise on hikes, and store food and discard debris in apposite bear safe containers.