Tent camping near Amidon, North Dakota centers on the Little Missouri National Grasslands, encompassing over 1 million acres of mixed-grass prairie. The area sits at elevations ranging from 2,200 to 2,800 feet with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during day and dropping to 55°F at night. Primitive camping sites in this region typically require visitors to bring all necessary supplies, including water, as most locations lack running water.
What to do
Hiking the Maah Da Hey Trail: Access this 144-mile trail system from multiple camping areas, including Burning Coal Vein Campground. "Fun little place to camp, and fun little hike to the Butte, or hop on the Maah Da Hey Trail and hike for miles," notes camper Brenda R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Look for feral horses in the backcountry areas near West River Rd Dispersed. One camper reports, "There was a large beautiful herd of feral horses bedding down with their little ones here in the evening."
Visit nearby towns: Bowman is accessible via a short trip from some campsites. "About 1 mile on ebike ride to town. Town has 1 grocery store- nice! And also a neat museum," shares James P. about his stay at Twin Butte Campground.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at primitive camping locations. "Nice, cheap, quiet and well spaced campground," writes Cora H. about her experience at Burning Coal Vein.
Clean facilities at developed campgrounds: Twin Butte Campground receives high marks for cleanliness. "Bathrooms were extremely clean," notes Rachel K., while another camper mentions "Super clean showers/br too."
Natural setting: The undeveloped landscape appeals to many tent campers. "Beautiful, safe & simple family owned campground. No potholes or tree limbs to scratch up your RV. Surrounded by lush farmland," according to James P.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to primitive sites can be challenging. At West River Rd Dispersed, one camper reports, "When I pulled into what I thought would be a spot, the road was deserving a 4WD."
Payment systems: Burning Coal Vein operates on a self-payment system. "The sign seemed to say $10 a night, pay with cash in an envelope. We passed a forest ranger coming out to check on the campground while we were there," notes Erin G.
Water access challenges: Even at campgrounds with water pumps, access can be difficult. One camper observed a "water pump that did not seem accessible by vehicle, so I doubt you could fill an RV with it."
Tips for camping with families
Consider campgrounds with amenities: For families with children, Visitors Center - Beach offers both tent space and RV options. "This was a small rv park we stayed at for 3 night there is space for around 7 units. And some tent space as well. It was clean and we liked it alot," shares Jesse S.
Look for shaded sites: Temperature management is important when tent camping with kids. Burning Coal Vein offers good protection from the elements as the "sites are in a protected shallow valley with good shade."
Plan activities nearby: Twin Butte Campground offers "areas to walk dogs, or yourself," making it suitable for family outings without long drives.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most primitive camping near Amidon lacks services for RVs. For those requiring hookups, Twin Butte Campground is an exception. "We stayed here with 2 motorhomes, one with tow. They have 30 and 50 amp hookups, lots of space. Call ahead and I'm sure they can accommodate your needs. You can fill water and a dump station avail on request," advises Christina B.
Connectivity concerns: Cell service varies throughout the region. At Twin Butte Campground, one camper reports "Excellent AT&T service" with "5Gs."
Size restrictions: Many primitive camping areas have narrow access roads. One camper noted Burning Coal Vein's entrance was "rather narrow as well, could definitely only accommodate one way traffic at a time."
