Dispersed camping sites near Amidon, North Dakota provide access to the badlands terrain of Little Missouri National Grasslands at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,000 feet. The area experiences temperature variations typical of northern Great Plains, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping well below freezing. Most dispersed camping options remain unimproved, requiring campers to pack in water and pack out waste.
What to do
Hike at Burning Coal Vein: The 4-mile Columnar Junipers trail offers scenic overlooks of the Little Missouri National Grasslands. A camper at Burning Coal Vein Campground noted, "Great access to the Columnar Junipers hike and bluffs for beautiful overlook of this part of the Little Missouri National Grassland."
Visit White Butte: The highest point in North Dakota sits just outside Amidon and requires a moderate 1-mile hike. One visitor staying at Cabins of Amidon shared, "White Butte, the high point of ND is very close! A mile or so hike to the top!"
Explore historical exhibits: Local history is preserved at nearby museums and exhibits. According to one camper, "There's a one room schoolhouse exhibit across the road at the fairgrounds. White Butte (tallest point in North Dakota) is a great hike super close."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer good separation from neighboring campers. A visitor to Burning Coal Vein Campground described, "The sites are in a protected shallow valley with good shade. They are fairly private."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistent praise. A guest at Sully Creek State Park appreciated, "Clean, warm, free showers!! The campground was mostly sold out but there is just enough space between camp sites. The main tent sites are pretty private with all the trees."
Birdwatching opportunities: The diverse ecosystem supports varied birdlife. One camper reported, "Great birds!! Chats, American Redstart, Cedar Waxwings, Spotted Towhee, Eastern Kingbird and more!"
Cell coverage: Despite the remote location, mobile service is available at many sites. A visitor to Grassland Boondocking confirmed, "Lots of cell service as well."
What you should know
Limited grocery options: Stock up before arriving. One camper at Cabins of Amidon warned, "Come prepared! No groceries except in small store in Bowman 21 miles away."
Road conditions vary: Some access roads require careful driving. A visitor observed, "The short road in was in need of a bit of repair, but most vehicles could get through it, just a bit of a rut from people getting stuck in mud."
Payment methods differ: Each campground has specific payment requirements. At Twin Butte Campground, "The owner Dave is so polite and knowledgeable. Lovely spot green grass big shade trees. Amazingly clean bathrooms/shower thanks to Jodi. $35 cash or check."
Seasonal availability: Many facilities close during winter months. Free camping options at Bowman Lions Park offer an alternative with "ladies and men's restrooms and dump station" with "a suggested donation of $12."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Find water recreation for kids during hot summer days. A visitor noted, "It has a city pool right on site that is heated, a dog park beautiful grounds with huge trees. Great playground."
Educational opportunities: Use camping as a chance for learning experiences. A visitor to Medora Campground shared, "We just happened to show up on the first day of the Slope County 101 Annual Fair and rodeo. Got to mix with local people. Corn hole games, FFA auction, exhibits and games!"
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy spotting native animals. One camper at Cottonwood Campground enthusiastically reported, "We woke up to find bison all around us. Truly a beautiful and unique experience I'll never forget."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections are limited to specific campgrounds. At Twin Butte Campground, "We stayed here with 2 motorhomes, one with tow. Great family owned, very friendly/warm family, organized, helpful and clean. They have 30 and 50 amp hookups, lots of space."
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal needs. A visitor to Bowman Lions Park appreciated that "This campground is absolutely FREE with a suggested donation of $12 that we happily gave. The cherry on top is the FREE dump station."
Site spacing and size: RV sites vary in their dimensions and proximity. At Butte View Campground, "We did not need FHU, so cannot comment on utilities. We had 50 amp and it was good. Found internal sites in loops a little weird (in alignment), but we stayed on outer loop and had a bit more room."
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