The Beulah area sits in west-central North Dakota at approximately 1,800 feet elevation where the Missouri River basin creates a diverse landscape of rolling hills and river valleys. Camping options near Beulah range from municipal RV facilities to state parks with lakefront access, with most sites experiencing significant seasonal temperature variations from below freezing winters to summer highs frequently above 85°F.
What to do
Fishing access: The Missouri River and Lake Sakakawea offer excellent fishing opportunities. At Cross Ranch State Park Campground, visitors enjoy river access just steps from campsites. "Beautiful views of Missouri River. We stayed in the TeePee this visit but plan on coming back for tent camping," notes one camper.
Hiking trails: Multiple maintained paths provide exploration options throughout the region. Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground features shoreline trails that connect with longer routes. "Great hike along the shoreline Trail, and also apparently north country Trail, and here that goes all the way across to Vermont," reports a visitor who appreciated the trail connections.
Water recreation: Boating, paddling, and swimming are popular activities, especially during summer months. "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!" shares a family who visited Cross Ranch State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer larger-than-average camping spaces. At COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground, campers appreciate the generous layout. "Sites a larger than most campgrounds we've been to. Grounds are well kept," notes a recent visitor.
Natural surroundings: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering shaded sites and others more open. "When I go camping I love having trees and the water near and this spot has both! Has a walking path mowed down for walk and also has play grounds for the kids," shares someone who stayed at Cross Ranch State Park.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards generally remain high at established campgrounds. "Hot clean showers, space between sites, hike trails, great power...shade," reports a visitor to COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many facilities restrict water and restroom availability during shoulder seasons. At Fort Stevenson State Park Campground, full amenities operate primarily during summer. "Lots of sites to choose from. Not too close together. Reasonable price. Only downside is the park is open early but no water, flush toilets or showers until May 15!" explains a camper.
Weather considerations: Strong winds frequently affect the area, particularly at elevated locations. "Arrived as a severe thunderstorm approached. Two days of windy during the day yet despite wind gusts going from 25-50 mph there was not a bug in site so you give and take," notes a visitor to the downstream campground.
Insect activity: Bugs can be problematic depending on season and location. "Only complaints were the long haul from the parking area, the vaulted toilets smelt very bad but could of been from the heat! And the bugs!!! Tons of flying ants and ticks everywhere, but we managed!" shares a Cross Ranch State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment for children. "We are a family of 4, 2 kids ages 11 and 13. We had a blast! We rented a canoe and 2 kayaks and were transported to Washburn and floated/paddled our way to Sanger boat launch," reports a family at Cross Ranch State Park.
Beach activities: Lake swimming areas provide good options for family recreation. At Ball Park RV Park, proximity to town amenities makes it convenient for families. "This is the campground for travelers coming through town. It is very nice and at the city park," notes a visitor.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites near campgrounds offer learning experiences. "A scenic walk along the River where Lewis and Clark traveled. Cool stuff. Up the road was a extremely interesting, National Historic Site we visited," shares someone who appreciated the educational aspects at Cross Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV parks Beulah, North Dakota and surrounding communities offer varied utility connections. At Center RV Park, full hookups are available but with few additional amenities. "This is really more of a man camp for permanent campers then a weekend camper spot. You have full hookups and no bathrooms or other services," explains a recent visitor.
Site configurations: Some RV accommodations near Beulah provide limited spacing between units. "There's probably 15 sites back to back right beside one another in the Sun. So no privacy it really is for people who are probably working and living out of their campers," notes a Center RV Park visitor.
Municipal options: Several town-operated RV parks offer basic accommodations at reasonable prices. "This is the campground for travelers coming through town. It is very nice and at the city park. It is close to the road so I'm assuming you get road noise," shares someone who stayed at Ball Park RV Park in Center.
