Primitive camping options provide alternatives to established campgrounds near Bismarck, North Dakota. The Missouri River corridor runs through this region, with the river dropping about 800 feet as it flows across North Dakota. Summer temperatures typically range between 70-85°F during camping season, while spring and fall can bring unpredictable weather patterns requiring layered clothing.
What to do
Explore local history: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park features numerous historical sites including the reconstructed On-A-Slant Mandan village. "We walked the on a slant village, the forts overlooking the Missouri river and of course General Custer's house and the barracks. Such a neat parks with lots to do!" mentions Kristi D. about Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: The trail system at Harmon Lake offers technical rides for bikers of all skill levels. "Kayak rental available, swimming area, fishing and mountain biking trail," notes Eric S. about the recreation opportunities at Harmon Lake Rec Area.
Fishing access: Multiple boat launches and fishing docks provide access to various fish species. "You can catch northern pike, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and rainbow trout if you're lucky!" explains GoWhereYouAreDraw N. about the fishing at Harmon Lake Rec Area.
River camping: Primitive sites along the Missouri River offer unobstructed water views. "The sounds of the river were great, but ruined by the sounds of the vehicles going further south to the fishing and boat docks," reports Dylan T. about his experience at Kimball Bottom.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer good site separation, particularly important during peak season. "Very nice campground right on the Missouri River... Plenty of space between campers," writes Kyle O. about Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer free or low-cost camping near Bismarck. "Very surprised that a place as nice as this one is free. The freeway is somewhat close just across the lake and can be heard, but it didn't bother us at all," shares Stephanie S. about Sweet Briar Lake.
Waterfront locations: Many sites offer direct lake or river access. "There are multiple places to pull off and set up around a scenic lake. A few minutes off the highway on well maintained roads- you can't ask for a better spot than this on a road trip!" says Carmen about Sweet Briar Lake.
Modern facilities: Some campgrounds offer updated bathrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms were the cleanest I have seen. I uploaded pictures. I had an awesome shower. Trail access from the campsites and of course the history!!" reports Kristi D. about the amenities at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Not all campgrounds remain open year-round. "Looking at the map, the little lakefront loops have sites. We arrived after dark and had no problem finding a great waterfront spot," explains BigRed Overlander O. about Sweet Briar Lake's layout and accessibility.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds are located near Interstate 94 and other major roads. "Really nice campground. A bit out of town from Mandan & Bismark. Nice spot. Lots of historical stuff on the fort. Campground has lots of trees but also feels breezy and open," shares Kathy L. about General Sibley Park.
Limited amenities: Some primitive sites lack water hookups or other facilities. "This camping spot is a free for all. Not check in or registration. Not water fill station or sewer dump and no water or electric on site," Josh D. explains about Sweet Briar Lake's setup.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds don't accept reservations. "Nice area, but no reservation, they have water available but I suggest bringing water if you are close by," advises Eric S. about Harmon Lake Rec Area's policies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play structures for children. "Great park for families! That was my first thought. It just looks like a great place for kids to play. There's a playground, wide open spaces, easy trails, a river, and remnants of the fort and an Indian village," says Mary S. about Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. "The park is a stop on the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail, which was the draw for us. The park has a nice visitor center with terrific displays, many about Lewis and Clark, also a reconstructed Mandan encampment," explains Janet R. about Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.
Swimming areas: Designated beaches provide safe water recreation. "The swimming beach was awesome - sand & great water & view," reports Ason S. about Harmon Lake Rec Area.
Tips from RVers
Electrical options: Check for proper amperage before booking. "The sites are laid out so the poles are shared in the middle, which makes for a bit of a tight fit for big rigs. No one on either side during our stay (with no slide outs), so had plenty of room," Mev W. notes about A Prairie Breeze RV Park.
Water access: Not all campgrounds provide water hookups or fill stations. "I would use a water splitter as sometimes there is not one on the spigot and campground does not always have extras!" advises Kyle O. about Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.
Site layout considerations: Some campgrounds have unique configurations. "There are a few 50 amp sites and several posts with 20 amp. Some 20 amp are next to a traditional back in site. Others are in a grassy field and can be shared," describes Heather W. about the setup at Eagles Park Campground.
