Best Dispersed Camping near Belfield, ND
Dispersed camping near Belfield, North Dakota centers primarily on the Grassland Boondocking areas, with several free sites located on public lands within a short drive of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The most established dispersed area is locally known as Scoria Pit Dispersed Camping, situated approximately 10 minutes from the national park entrance. Additional primitive sites can be found along Buffalo Gap Road and West River Road, offering basic backcountry camping with no facilities. These areas fall under federal land management and provide alternatives to developed campgrounds for self-sufficient campers seeking free overnight options.
Access to most dispersed sites requires travel on dirt and gravel roads that may become challenging during wet conditions. The main Scoria Pit area features a maintained gravel road suitable for most vehicles when dry, though some sections can be washout-prone or uneven. Higher elevation sites on bluffs and ridges experience significant wind exposure, while lower areas provide more shelter. No drinking water, toilets, or trash services exist at any of these locations. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with several areas prohibiting open flames year-round. Cell service is generally available throughout the region, particularly at higher elevation sites.
The dispersed camping areas provide panoramic views of the surrounding badlands and prairie landscapes. Sites positioned on ridgetops offer particularly expansive vistas, though they experience stronger winds. Campers frequently note the proximity to Theodore Roosevelt National Park as a major advantage. The areas typically see moderate use during peak season but rarely reach capacity. Wildlife sightings are common, including deer and occasional cattle that graze nearby. "Great views were just a short walk from where we set up camp," one visitor noted. Another camper advised, "If you cross a second cattle guard, you've gone too far," highlighting the sometimes challenging navigation to find the optimal spots in this primitive camping region.
