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Best Campgrounds near Bottineau, ND

46 Reviews

Bottineau, North Dakota provides access to several established campgrounds and dispersed camping areas within the Turtle Mountains region. Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground serves as the primary developed camping destination, offering tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and even glamping options. The park features multiple camping loops with varying levels of amenities, from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. Nearby alternatives include Strawberry Lake Campgrounds and the International Peace Garden, both providing more secluded camping experiences. The Denbigh Experimental Forest offers dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience away from developed facilities.

Road conditions and accessibility vary significantly across the region's camping areas, with most sites accessible via paved or well-maintained gravel roads. Lake Metigoshe State Park remains open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for cold North Dakota temperatures. Many campgrounds in the area, including Strawberry Lake, operate seasonally from late spring through early fall. Reservations are recommended for Lake Metigoshe State Park, especially during summer weekends, while other areas like Twisted Oaks Equestrian Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Cell service can be limited at more remote sites. A camper noted, "Spots are $10 plus $5 per horse. Individual corrals for horses plus hay and water provided. Little to no cell reception (We had 1 bar)."

The camping experience around Bottineau features abundant water recreation opportunities, with multiple lakes accessible for fishing, swimming, and boating. Lake Metigoshe State Park receives consistently high ratings for its waterfront sites and family-friendly amenities. According to one review, "The North Hill campground is small, quiet, and perfect proximity to the water." Hiking trails connect many of the camping areas, with over 16 miles of maintained paths in the Turtle Mountain State Forest. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, though campers should be prepared for mosquitoes during summer months. For those seeking solitude, Strawberry Lake Campgrounds provides a quieter alternative to the more popular Lake Metigoshe. As one visitor described it, "Great little hideout next to hubbub of Lake Metigoshie. Small but clean beach area, pump water, fairly clean toilet, tables, firewood, and garbage can."

Map showing campgrounds near Bottineau, North DakotaExplore the Map

Detours Nearby

Mitchell Lake

Mitchell Lake

2 hrs 1 min away

Michigan City Park Campground

Michigan City Park Campground

2 hrs 6 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Bottineau, North Dakota (22)

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Recent Camping Photos near Bottineau, ND

4 Photos of 22 Bottineau Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Bottineau, ND

46 Reviews of 22 Bottineau Campgrounds

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Strawberry Lake Campgrounds

    Quiet campground

    Small quiet campground. Just what we were looking for. One other camper. Free firewood for registered campers!!! Family of Broad-winged Hawks in campground! Spectacular storm in the night!

  • Lady Phyre ☆.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Log House Visitors Center

    W'eel Turtle Park

    Directly behind the Log House Visitors Center and the W'eel Turtle Sculpture are 6 RV pads with electric, water, sewer, and picnic tables. It's just a quiet little place to park on your way to the International Peace Garden. It's $20 per night cash payable at the Visitors' Center. Nothing fancy. No showers. There's a toilet in the visitors' center but it has limited hours.

  • Emily S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Denbigh Experimental Forest Dispersed

    Beautiful and fascinating but…

    I loved this area. It really has the imagination going and seeing all the different kinds of trees planted in close range was very compelling. Beautifully maintained trails and a small network of unpaved roads. I took a delightful bike ride with my dogs and we really enjoyed this location. However, to say that we became infested with ticks is damn near an understatement. If ticks bother you (in this amount of tips would bother anyone) I do not recommend coming to this spot. I am not sure when tick season ends but if you are going to go go in the ticks are dead. It was hard for me to dock this place a star, but because of the ticks that is why I did so.

  • Tanner G.
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Strawberry Lake Campgrounds

    Quiet place, bring $15 cash

    I love this place every quiet, lots of coyotes and animals at night lake is big only 2 places to fish (BRING WATER AND $15 cash for over night fee) the water from the taste is not filtered good for cleaning dishes

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Denbigh Experimental Forest Dispersed

    Denbigh

    Best part is it’s free, there isn’t much traffic, plenty of room. Pets allowed. Someone might be here to greet you, but probably not.

  • A M.
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Buffalo Lodge Lake

    For a free campground & close to Minot, it was convenient

    After advice from friends, we decided to test this place out since it is near Minot. We stayed Sunday through Tuesday, which was very peaceful for a small campground. I couldn't imagine this place on an actual weekend since there are no "reserved" camper spots, you can pull up and park anywhere. 

    I was forewarned about the toilets, there are 2 and only get dumped twice a year (beginning & end), good thing we have a camper. LOL!

    I wanted to go swim but there was so much algae in the water after you wade out that I'd be afraid to get caught in them. Plus, the baby crawdads clinging to my legs made me think twice about going any deeper than my knees.

  • Marilyn K.
    Apr. 28, 2024

    Pierce County Fair Grounds

    Nice overnight stop

    We were a bit earlier this year. No electric or bathrooms available yet.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2023

    Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground

    Packed tight

    Wow, am I glad I didn't plan to stay. This park camping is packed crazy tight. The park is well maintained but you are sharing a sit with everyone basically. Great looking trails and maybe a good fall sort of place to go.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2023

    Pelican Sandy Recreation Area

    Private and small but nice

    Very well maintained site. Rustic and quiet. I was there over memorial day weekend and there were two campers and no traffic. Definitely a vibe I like. We did one of the trails and there were more. Inexpensive.

Guide to Bottineau

Camping near Bottineau, North Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Great looking trails and maybe a good fall sort of place to go." The park is well-maintained and offers various paths for all skill levels.
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground. A camper noted, "Great swimming lake," making it a perfect spot for families to cool off.
  • Picnicking: Pack a lunch and relax at the picnic areas available at the International Peace Garden. One visitor shared, "The Gardens themselves are so beautiful to explore and there are lots of picnic areas that are super pretty!"

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the clean bathrooms and showers at the International Peace Garden. A reviewer said, "This is a very nice place with clean bathrooms."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy the amenities at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Beautiful playground right behind us, and an amphitheater as well."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers often comment on the spaciousness of the sites at Old Settlers Park. A visitor noted, "Sites are all large. Tent sites are nicest as they are away from road."

What you should know

  • Crowded During Holidays: If you plan to camp during busy weekends like Memorial Day, be prepared for close quarters at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground. One camper advised, "If you are looking for something more peaceful, I'd suggest finding somewhere else to camp."
  • Mosquitoes: Be ready for mosquitoes, especially at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground. A camper warned, "Our only complaint is the mosquitos, which are pretty unavoidable."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Old Settlers Park, may not have sanitation services. A visitor mentioned, "Nice electric and water hookups (no sanitation services)."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose the Right Campground: For a quieter experience, consider the International Peace Garden. One family shared, "Quiet with few other campers."
  • Bring Bug Spray: To combat mosquitoes, especially at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground, make sure to pack effective bug spray. A camper advised, "Bring a great bug spray and your kayak and you’ll be set for an amazing camping trip!"
  • Plan Activities: Keep kids entertained with playgrounds and swimming areas at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground. One parent noted, "There is a great playground, and a great dog area!"

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers should be cautious about site sizes at Roughrider RV Resort. One reviewer mentioned, "If you decide to stay here try to avoid row 90-96 as they are very tight."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Maneuvering: Maneuvering can be tricky at some sites. A camper shared their experience, saying, "We couldn’t maneuver the rig to get our black tank connectors more in the center."
  • Look for Full Hookups: For a more comfortable stay, choose sites with full hookups, like those at Roughrider RV Resort. A visitor praised, "Great flat campground with full hookups."

Camping near Bottineau, North Dakota, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. From family-friendly parks to serene getaways, there's something for every camper.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best camping options near Bottineau, North Dakota?

The Bottineau area offers several excellent camping options. Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground is a standout choice with multiple campground loops, clean facilities, and waterfront sites. For a quieter alternative, Strawberry Lake Campgrounds provides a more secluded experience with smaller sites suitable for tents and some campers, plus a clean beach area and peaceful fishing without motorboats. Other options include Twisted Oaks Equestrian Campground for horse enthusiasts and International Peace Garden for those wanting to explore unique botanical gardens while camping. Most campgrounds in the area offer basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to water.

When is the best time to visit Bottineau for camping and outdoor activities?

Late spring through early fall offers the best camping experience in Bottineau. Summer (June-August) provides warm temperatures ideal for water activities at International Peace Garden, where you can kayak in the garden ponds and explore hiking trails. September is particularly magical at Twisted Oaks Equestrian Campground with spectacular fall colors transforming the landscape and fewer mosquitoes than summer months. The shoulder seasons (May and September) offer less crowded campgrounds while still providing comfortable temperatures. Be aware that mosquitoes can be intense during peak summer, especially in the evenings, so bring ample repellent if visiting June-August.

What activities can you do at Lake Metigoshe State Park near Bottineau?

Water activities dominate at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground, with fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding available. The park offers equipment rentals for paddlesports and bicycles nearby. Hikers can enjoy several well-marked and maintained trails with views of small lakes and occasional wildlife sightings. Families appreciate the playground facilities located near picnic and BBQ areas, with restrooms conveniently nearby. The park is also dog-friendly with a designated dog area. During winter months, the park transforms into a destination for cold-weather activities, making it truly a four-season recreation area. Fishing docks are plentiful for anglers looking to catch the lake's variety of fish.

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