Dispersed camping near Amidon, North Dakota offers access to the unique Little Missouri Grasslands. These public lands sit at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,000 feet, creating temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night even in summer months. Local camping areas experience frequent thunderstorms during summer afternoons, with lightning strikes common on exposed ridges.
What to do
Sunrise wildlife watching: Early mornings at Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking provide optimal wildlife viewing. "There are about 5-7 pullouts that I could see. Each are private with plenty of space. You might see another person but the sites are far enough away from each other to not be a bother," notes camper goose10091203.
Visit Painted Canyon Visitor Center: Less than 15 minutes from most dispersed sites, this center offers basic facilities. "We were able to use all the facilities at the Painted Canyon Visitor center for morning rituals (aka teeth brushing, bathroom in a toilet, face washing etc)," shares Lynsey M.
Evening stargazing: The higher elevation spots provide unobstructed night sky views. "It was easy to get level and the views are incredible with an hours long sunset and very early sunrise," reports Joni Z. from their stay at Grassland Boondocking.
What campers like
Elevated camping spots: The higher ridges of Buffalo Gap Rd Dispersed Camp provide panoramic views. "Don't stop early; keep following the dirt road past what seems like the end. Don't get discouraged – there are plenty of spots! The panoramic vistas the next morning were incredible," advises camper ez.
Cell service reliability: Despite remote locations, connectivity is strong in certain areas. "Lots of spots in a beautiful area. Good cell service as well," reports Tyler K. about his experience at Grassland Boondocking.
Late arrival accessibility: Many sites accommodate evening arrivals. "We arrived late, about 9:30 on Sunday evening and we were still able to find a spot. Beautiful place to watch the sunset," notes James K. about his experience finding available campsites.
What you should know
Road navigation challenges: Access roads require careful driving. "After the first cattle guard, it's the first right! The coordinates might not be correct. If you cross a second cattle guard, you went too far," advises Alice C. about finding West River Rd Medora ND Dispersed.
Site availability patterns: Weekdays offer better opportunities for prime spots. "There is a lot of people looking for spots on a Monday. Get here early. It's worth it!" suggests goose10091203.
Animal encounters: Local wildlife includes both domestic and wild species. "I was awoken to the mooing of cows bright and early," reports Maddy T. about her West River Road experience.
Changing access conditions: Road closures occur periodically. "Road was closed to the actual marked area. There was another campsite right before the road with a fire pit if you follow the directions," notes Joseph G.
Tips for camping with families
Shower planning: Nearby state parks offer pay showers. "We did drive to a Rough Rider State park for a shower which was $5 a person (totally worth it after multiple muddy river crossings on our hike)," recommends Lynsey M. from Camels Hump Lake.
Entertainment options: Nearby towns provide family activities. "Medora is nearby with opportunities for dining & entertainment," suggests Kathy S.
Site selection for wind protection: Lower elevation sites provide better shelter. "Rooftop tent campers be aware the top ridge is so windy the first night we stayed we were whipping around all night but the second night we stayed on the lower ridge and the wind was much better," advises Lynsey M.
Tips from RVers
Road surface conditions: The primary access routes accommodate most vehicles in dry weather. "Plenty of spots all the way to the cell tower on the top bluff. Nice gravel road. Even if you stop before the top, explore the space," shares Kathy S. about Patterson Lake Boat Ramp.
Site spacing: Multiple sites provide adequate separation. "Great place with lots of great spots to camp! Not cramped but not all alone," notes Katrina T.
Turnaround considerations: Higher elevation spots have limited maneuvering space. "If you have a 4x4 you can get up to the last spot before the fence on the right!" advises Alice C., indicating that larger rigs should consider lower areas.
