Cross Ranch State Park stretches along 12 miles of undeveloped Missouri River shoreline, situated at an elevation of around 1,700 feet. The park's cottonwood forest provides natural shelter for campers, while the surrounding mixed-grass prairie represents one of the last undisturbed sections of river bottomland in North Dakota. Winter temperatures can drop below -30°F, while summer camping season typically sees highs in the 80s with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
River activities: 9-mile paddling route with shuttle service available from Cross Ranch State Park. "We rented a canoe and 2 kayaks and were transported to Washburn and floated/paddled our way to Sanger boat launch. It took us about 3 hours and it was so beautiful!" writes a visitor to Cross Ranch State Park.
Historical exploration: Fort reconstruction tours at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park showcase military history. "The park has a nice visitor center with terrific displays, many about Lewis and Clark, also a reconstructed Mandan encampment, plus the home and barracks of Custer and his cavalry," notes a camper at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Primitive sites along the Missouri River offer secluded nature watching. "The tall cottonwood trees provide great seclusion, and we didn't hear anyone all night," reports a visitor at Primitive Campground. "The stars every night were just amazing," shares a camper from Heart Butte Reservoir about nighttime stargazing opportunities.
What campers like
Private campsites: The walk-in tent sites at Cross Ranch provide isolation from other campers. "The camp hosts provided wagons in the parking area for easy transport of camping supplies. I highly recommend staying in a site along the river for a great water view right from your site," mentions a visitor to Primitive Campground.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise across the region. "Bathrooms were great, the trails around the lake were great and the food at the marina was OK. This park is surrounded by beautiful lakes and fields of wheat. Shower was great," reports a camper from Fort Stevenson State Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and open spaces accommodate children at most area campgrounds. "Lots of family enjoying family time with their kids. The park staff was super friendly, bathrooms were the cleanest I have seen," shares a visitor to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer storms can develop quickly in the region. "It kept us and our things dry during a rainstorm. Only downside is the size and shape of it don't allow any warmth to be retained, so be sure to have clothing/sleeping bags appropriate for the nighttime temperatures," advises a camper about tent accommodations.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options near Center, North Dakota require advance booking. "There are a lot of long-term campers. The campground does have cabins and they are well kept and clean," notes a visitor to Beulah Bay Rec Area.
Water access varies: River and lake access points differ in quality and convenience. "Bring water shoes if you plan on swimming in the lake as it is rocky. All campsites include one picnic table and one fire pit," recommends a camper at Beulah Bay.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple play areas exist throughout Cross Ranch State Park. "Great camping facilities. Tent and camper sites. Yurts available and cabins available. Great hiking area, playground, ranger presentations," mentions one visitor about the family amenities.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. "There is a separate $7/day entrance fee in addition to the camping fee. We chose a primitive site (no water, no electric) because those sites are along the river, and the fee was $17," shares a camper from Fort Abraham Lincoln.
Swimming locations: Beaches offer water recreation but vary in quality. "There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large) and there is usually another beach with red rocks (lots have leaf fossils!) that you can get to pending the water level," notes a visitor to Fort Stevenson State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Consider proximity to amenities when choosing glamping near Center, North Dakota. "There are multiple drive-in tent sites along the road to the walk-in sites. The camp hosts provided wagons in the parking area for easy transport of camping supplies," advises a camper at Primitive Campground.
Water and power access: Hookup availability varies by campground. "Lots of to do! Boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding. Cabins, primitive campsites with great views and Full hook up RV sites," explains a visitor to Beulah Bay Rec Area.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs before arrival. "Off the main road there is the office with a dumping and filling station, showers that were very clean, flushable toilets and sites with electricity," notes a visitor to Heart Butte Reservoir.
