Lake Sakakawea surrounds much of the camping area near Beulah, North Dakota, creating over 1,500 miles of shoreline with multiple access points for water recreation. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season from June through August. The region offers rustic primitive sites and luxury glamping accommodations, with most campgrounds operating from May through September.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Sakakawea: Visitors to Beulah Bay Rec Area can enjoy numerous water-based activities including boating, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding. "Lots of to do! Boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding. Cabins, primitive campsites with great views and Full hook up RV sites," notes Brandi M.
Mountain biking and hiking: Fort Stevenson State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems for outdoor enthusiasts. "There are few great hikes that are kid friendly. There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large) and there is usually another beach with red rocks (lots have leaf fossils!) that you can get to pending the water level," writes Emily R.
River excursions: The Missouri River provides opportunities for paddling trips at Cross Ranch State Park Campground. "We rented a canoe and 2 kayaks and were transported to Washburn and floated/paddled our way to Sanger boat launch. (Approx 9 miles) It took us about 3 hours and it was so beautiful! The park ranger picked us up at Sanger boat launch and brought everything back to the park entrance," shares Afton L.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many glamping options near Beulah offer privacy despite being in established campgrounds. At East Totten Trail Campground, Allison H. notes, "Very open but when you get to your spots they are nice and private. Really cool thing is when you want to have adult time the bar/restaurant is not far and you can all take a walk there and do that for the night if you want."
Fossil hunting: The shoreline at Fort Stevenson State Park contains interesting geological features. "There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large) and there is usually another beach with red rocks (lots have leaf fossils!) that you can get to pending the water level," mentions Emily R.
Historical connections: The region has significant historical value. At Heart Butte Reservoir (Lake Tschida), campers can experience both natural beauty and historical significance. "Sites are large, had a 20ft RV, two room tent, two person tent and a screened in tent in our spot. There is not alot of shelter does gets pretty hot from about noon till 4pm," reports Teresa M.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping options in Beulah, North Dakota operate from May through September. Heart Butte Reservoir specifies "May to September" as their operating season, while Beulah Bay notes "May 11 - Sep 16."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Primitive Campground, campers should book early but can sometimes make adjustments: "I reserved the site online, and received great help and flexibility from the park rangers when I needed to change the reservation date due to poor weather," states Cullen C.
Water conditions: Lake water can change throughout the season. At Heart Butte Reservoir, Teresa M. observed: "Water was nice but did have blue algae during our stay since it was so very dry out there." Similarly, at Beulah Bay, one reviewer advised: "Bring water shoes if you plan on swimming in the lake as it is rocky."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. At Killdeer City Park, families have access to both camping and town amenities. Heart Butte Reservoir offers family-friendly facilities as Sarah H. notes: "The beach is beautiful. Fishing is good. The kids love the playgrounds."
Transportation options: Some campgrounds provide equipment to help with campsite setup. At Primitive Campground, Cullen C. reports: "The camp hosts provided wagons in the parking area for easy transport of camping supplies. I highly recommend staying in a site along the river for a great water view right from your site."
Site selection for families: Choose sites based on your needs. Beulah Bay Rec Area reviewer GoWhereYouAreDraw N. advises: "This campground is nice for larger groups and has a lot of long-term campers. The campground does have cabins and they are well kept and clean. Lots of family activities like horseshoes, basketball court, frisbee golf, and volleyball."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility considerations: Some glamping locations near Beulah have challenging terrain. One camper at East Totten Trail noted: "We were on site 35 and it was not fit for a camper. Very Hilly and goose droppings everywhere. Will not camp there again with our camper. We ended up leaving it unleveled while camping."
Utilities and hookups: RV sites vary in available amenities. At Governors Centennial Loop Campground, Teresa T. observes: "The sites are really not very private but at least they are under the trees out of the sun and wind." Shading is important during summer when temperatures frequently exceed 80°F.
Camp host accessibility: Most campgrounds have on-site staff to assist. Lauren M. noted about Glen Ullin Memorial Park: "This was a quick one night stop for me along the road. It's very nice and quiet. There is a camp host but I didn't meet them. Super amazing quick way to pay via a QR code and Apple Pay!!"
