RV sites near Arnegard, North Dakota primarily serve the oil industry workforce rather than recreational campers. Located in the western portion of the state, this area experiences harsh continental climate with winter temperatures often dropping below zero and summer temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F. Camping facilities in this region are predominantly utilitarian and geared toward extended stays rather than short-term recreation.
What to do
Hiking trails: Summit Campground offers a nearby hiking trail with panoramic views of the badlands. "Free camp spot with just a few sites and a vault toilet. Near the main road, so quite a bit of road noise and late arrivals/passersby. Okay cell service, but great with a booster. Hiking trail nearby to stretch the legs or exercise the dog," notes Meghan B. about Summit Campground.
Badlands exploration: The North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is approximately 40 miles south of Arnegard and accessible within a short drive. "10 minutes from the gate to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park," reports Nevin C. about his stay at Summit Campground.
Budget overnight stays: For travelers needing an economical place to park, some campgrounds offer basic amenities at low or no cost. "The sign says it is $6 a night but there is no method to pay so it was free," shares one camper about their experience at Summit Campground near Grassy Butte.
What campers like
Free boondocking options: Summit Campground provides no-cost camping with basic amenities. "There are plenty of spots available with even ground and fire pits. Be aware of current fire conditions posted on the NPS billboard at the bathrooms. No amenities but a great place to stay for a few days for free. 14 day limit on camping," explains Brett D. about Summit Campground.
Covered picnic areas: Some campsites feature sheltered eating spaces, which provide protection from the elements. "This is a pretty spot with 3 boondocking sights with picnic tables, 2 have canopies over them. Parking for hiking. One spot that is a loop turn around," reports Emma A. about her stay at Summit Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Some RV accommodations near Arnegard receive high marks from long-term visitors. "We stayed here while I was working we liked it alot," notes Jesse S. about Fox Run RV Park in Williston, which offers full hookups and modern amenities.
What you should know
Limited amenities: Many RV sites near Arnegard cater to self-contained units with few facilities for traditional campers. RD RV Park (formerly White Buffalo) provides limited services. "The facility is for long term guests that are fully self contained. The owner was friendly enough, although we only spoke on the phone. I put a $30 check in a drop box, plugged into the electric and slept there," explains Wayne K. about White Buffalo RV Park.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity creates constant traffic noise at some campgrounds. "There is steady road noise from I-85. A fair amount of large trucks passing most of the time," warns Emma A. about her experience camping in the area.
Seasonal operations: Many camping facilities operate on limited schedules due to harsh North Dakota winters. White Buffalo RV Park (now RD RV Park) operates from April through mid-October, with limited or no services available during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Limited recreation options: Most RV parks near Arnegard lack family-oriented amenities such as playgrounds or pools. Families should plan to bring their own entertainment or use the campground as a base for exploring nearby attractions.
Consider national park options: Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers more family-friendly camping experiences than the predominantly worker-focused RV parks around Arnegard. The park provides junior ranger programs and interpretive services not found at commercial RV sites.
Small campgrounds work well for groups: Some of the area's modest-sized facilities can accommodate family camping. "Nice forest service campground with pit toilets. No fee, fire pits, picnic tables, only two of us here on a Sat night in August," reports Bob D. about Summit Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size accommodation: Most area RV parks can handle larger rigs, though some require advance verification. "I have a 2500 crew cab and 21' trailer parked without a problem. Could accommodate a little bigger trailer," shares Emma A. about parking at Summit Campground.
Cell service considerations: Mobile connectivity varies throughout the region, with boosters sometimes necessary. "Okay cell service, but great with a booster," notes one camper about their experience with connectivity at Summit Campground.
Self-containment requirements: Many campgrounds in the area expect RVers to be fully self-contained. Limited water, sewer, and electric hookups are available at select locations, with most services concentrated at the commercial RV parks in Watford City and Williston.
