Camping options near Bismarck, North Dakota range from state parks with historic sites to recreation areas with fishing access. The Missouri River flows through the region, creating diverse habitats at elevations around 1,700 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions.
What to Do
Hiking at Sweet Briar Lake: This free recreation area offers lakeside trails with multiple access points. "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!" according to Carmen.
Historical exploration at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground: The park features reconstructions of military and Native American sites. "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!" notes Kristi D.
Water activities on the Missouri River: Kimball Bottom provides river access for fishing and boating. "I found this yesterday. I'll check it out fishing spots. It says you can stay for up to 14 days in a row each month for free," states Benjamin M.
What Campers Like
Budget-friendly options: Sweet Briar Lake offers free camping with basic amenities. "Why is this free?! Perfect overnight on our road trip. Spacious, easy and the cleanest pit toilet I've ever used!" reports BigRed Overlander O.
Spacious sites at Eagles Park Campground: This city-run facility provides ample room between sites. "This is an interesting tiny campground run by the city of Bismarck. For $12 per night, what is not to love!!" writes Heather W.
Swimming beaches: Harmon Lake Rec Area offers sand beaches and swimming areas. "Swimming, fishing, canoeing and kayak," reports Jeff S., while another camper notes "Love the fact that this little body of water has a great beach and idle speed rule."
What You Should Know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds like Sweet Briar Lake are close to highways. "You can see/hear the highway, but we kinda like that. Lake is full of birds. We haven't seen another human. The spots are really nice," explains bryan.
Limited facilities at some locations: Prepare accordingly for more remote sites. "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," warns Josh D. about Sweet Briar Lake.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Bismarck area operate from April through October or November. Graner Park specifies that it's open "April to September" and Josh D. notes "This campground is nice if you can get one of the few electric sites on the water."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "What a 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," recommends Mary S. about Fort Abraham Lincoln.
Consider trolley tours: Fort Abraham Lincoln offers transportation that's popular with children. "Running through the park is a cool trolley that takes you to historic points within the park, then on into the town of Mandan 6 miles away," explains Janet R.
Find pet-friendly areas with space: When bringing pets camping near Bismarck, North Dakota, consider campgrounds with room to exercise. "The campgrounds have nice bath houses, plus a playground for kids and naturalist programs with an enthusiastic staff," adds Janet R.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Bismarck KOA provides full-service sites for RVs. "Great staff! Office is open late (they were there at 8:45 pm). Clean park. Quiet and off the highway. Clean water and power," reports Erik T.
Weather preparation: North Dakota experiences significant temperature swings. "Spacious sites share a water source so make sure to bring a water splitter as sometimes there is not one on the spigot and campground does not always have extras!" advises Kyle O.
Site selection for larger RVs: Not all campgrounds accommodate big rigs. "The campground is about a mile off I-94 and easy to find. Check-in was quick and easy, and we proceeded to pull through site 11 right past the check-in office, store, showers, and laundry facility," reports MickandKarla W.
