Dispersed camping opportunities near Belfield, North Dakota extend beyond the established campgrounds into the vast Little Missouri National Grasslands. The region sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation with badlands terrain transitioning to rolling prairie. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F while winter brings sub-freezing conditions with occasional heavy snowfall that makes many backcountry camping areas inaccessible from November through April.
What to do
Badlands hiking trails: Several trails access the rugged terrain near Belfield, with campsites offering convenient access points. A visitor at Sully Creek State Park noted, "Beautiful campground outside of Theodore Roosevelt NP. Stayed in the latter loop with beautiful view of Badlands cliff. Great birds!! Chats, American Redstart, Cedar Waxwings, Spotted Towhee, Eastern Kingbird and more!"
Mah Dah Hey trail access: This 144-mile non-motorized trail traverses the Little Missouri Grasslands with multiple camping options along the route. One camper reported about the renamed Sully Creek State Park, "This park is no longer known as Sully Creek and changed names to Rough Riders. It has nice facilities, great shaded primitive sites, access to the Mah Dah Hey trail that goes along the Little Missouri River."
Stargazing: The limited light pollution and open prairie creates ideal night sky viewing conditions. A camper at Scoria Pit Dispersed Camping observed, "This boondocking spot is a must-visit for spectacular views, even with a late-night arrival! We got in at 11:30 PM and drove straight to the cell phone tower. The panoramic vistas the next morning were incredible and made the night drive completely worth it."
What campers like
Affordability: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the region's low-cost camping options compared to other national park gateway communities. A reviewer at Buffalo Gap Campground mentioned, "We spoke to the very friendly camp host the next morning and he confirmed the nightly charge of $6 per site. If you have the National Park Senior pass it is only $3!!! Quite the bargain for a night's stay in a very clean and convenient campground."
Privacy in dispersed sites: The grasslands offer spacious boondocking locations without designated boundaries. One camper at Scoria Pit Dispersed Camping shared, "I went June 23rd, 2024. We got there near sunset and was able to find a spot after driving for a bit. Had a gorgeous sunset and it was very quiet."
Uncrowded atmosphere: Even during peak summer periods, many camping areas maintain a sense of solitude. Another Scoria Pit visitor noted, "We stayed 2 nights in July in this area and it was great! Plenty of spots, so we didn't feel like we were on top of other campers. Close to the National Park which was why we stayed."
What you should know
Water availability limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted water access, particularly at primitive sites. At Cottonwood Campground, a visitor mentioned, "I stayed here for a few nights at the start of a road trip. The sites was a reasonable size and easy to navigate. The one criticism I have of this campsite is the potable water tasted horrible."
Wind exposure: The open terrain creates significant wind conditions that impact camping comfort. One camper at Scoria Pit observed, "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."
Shower options: Free or low-cost shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A visitor to Buffalo Gap Campground reported, "Due to other reviews we had anticipated paying to take a shower; however the coin slots were taped over and we showered for free with plenty of pressure and hot water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. A visitor at North Park Campground noted, "It is very pretty and it has a nice playground for the kids. It is not large and there was no on-site host or attendant at the entrance so it is best to make your reservations on-line."
Swimming opportunities: During hot summer months, community pools provide cooling options. One camper at Medora Campground shared, "Good recreation for kids, basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person. Medora is a small town, easy to bike or walk."
Wildlife viewing with children: Early morning wildlife viewing increases chances of seeing bison, wild horses and other animals. A visitor to Cottonwood Campground reported, "We were one of a few campers in this campground. Amazingly vast and wild! Highly recommend!!! We woke up to find bison all around us. Truly a beautiful and unique experience I'll never forget."
Tips from RVers
Utility hookup considerations: Several campgrounds have unusual hookup placements requiring additional equipment. A visitor at The Crossings Campground reported, "Nothing fancy but a good location from both Theodore Roosevelt national parks. Full hook ups, but make sure you bring plenty of sewer hose if your RV is any size. The same goes for electric and water hose."
Leveling requirements: Terrain throughout the area tends to have uneven surfaces. A camper at The Crossings noted, "It's just a big field, so the spots are mostly flat but are lumpy with bumps and giant ant mounds. If you want to explore the NPs and stay cool, it's decent."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds, impacting remote workers. A visitor at Scoria Pit mentioned, "Lots of spots in a beautiful area. Good cell service as well."
