Best Campgrounds near Cannon Ball, ND
Camping options around Cannon Ball, North Dakota include several established campgrounds along Lake Oahe, a major reservoir on the Missouri River. Prairie Knights Marina, operated by the Sioux Tribe, provides tent camping within the Cannon Ball area, while nearby Beaver Creek Recreation Area and Hazelton Area offer both tent and RV accommodations with electric hookups. Most campgrounds in this region are Corps of Engineers or state-managed facilities that provide basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, with varying levels of hookups for recreational vehicles.
Access to campgrounds in the Lake Oahe region typically requires driving on well-maintained roads, though some sites may have limited cell service coverage. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-September due to North Dakota's harsh winter conditions. Beaver Creek and Hazelton Area campgrounds on Lake Oahe feature reservable sites with electric hookups, though water and sewer connections are limited. Visitors should be prepared for occasional strong winds common in the Great Plains region. A camper noted, "Hazelton campground was practically empty on the last day of August. I went to the other side of the area and enjoyed a quiet evening. Great sunset and sunrise the next morning!"
The Missouri River and Lake Oahe shoreline provide the primary scenic backdrop for camping in this area, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Campgrounds like Beaver Creek Recreation Area receive positive reviews for their water access and peaceful settings. For those willing to drive further, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park near Mandan (approximately 45 miles north) offers more amenities including showers, a camp store, and historical attractions. Several visitors mention the area's quiet atmosphere and scenic water views as highlights. While primitive in nature, many of these campgrounds provide adequate space between sites and direct access to the water. The region's open landscape offers expansive views and star-gazing opportunities, though limited tree cover means shade can be scarce during summer months.
