Best Dispersed Camping near Amidon, ND
Dispersed camping options near Amidon, North Dakota provide free primitive sites primarily on public grasslands. The most highly rated area, Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking (also known as Scoria Pit), features multiple pullouts along dirt roads with panoramic views of the badlands. Buffalo Gap Road and West River Road also offer dispersed camping opportunities, though West River Road access is occasionally restricted. These sites are located approximately 10 minutes from Theodore Roosevelt National Park, making them convenient bases for park exploration.
No amenities exist at these dispersed sites. Campers must pack in all water and pack out all waste. According to recent visitors, the access road to Scoria Pit requires careful navigation, with one section reported as "a little washed out" in summer 2024. The dirt road is generally passable for 2WD vehicles with low clearance in dry conditions, though larger rigs should remain in the lower sections where turnaround space is available. Several campers noted that GPS coordinates can be misleading; the correct turn is after the first cattle guard.
Weather conditions can be extreme, with high winds common on the exposed bluffs. Cell service varies by location, with better reception typically found at higher elevations. Verizon and AT&T coverage is generally reliable on the ridges. The area becomes busier around sunset as day visitors to the national park seek overnight accommodations. Wildlife sightings may include mule deer, cattle, and occasionally wild horses. Rattlesnakes are present in the area, requiring vigilance when walking through brush. The night skies offer exceptional stargazing opportunities when conditions are clear, with minimal light pollution allowing views of the Milky Way.
