Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground provides camping options along the Missouri River near Mandan, North Dakota. The park sits at an elevation of 1,680 feet and experiences continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Situated where the Heart River joins the Missouri, the park combines historical significance with outdoor recreation opportunities. Primitive sites along the riverbank offer a more rustic experience compared to the developed areas with utilities.
What to do
Historic exploration: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park contains several reconstructed historic sites including General Custer's house and military buildings. "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, plus the home and barracks of Custer and his cavalry," notes Janet R. about Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Trail hiking: The park features multiple trail systems ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "We have camped at so many Forest Service sites that all these amenities make it feel like glamping! There's a paved bike path that you can take from the campground all the way to Bismarck (10+ miles). Or you can ride over to the cavalry and infantry areas of the fort and to the Indian village," shares Mary S. about her experience at Fort Abraham Lincoln.
Natural areas exploration: For those seeking quieter alternatives to the more developed parks, consider heading west. "Only a handful of spots but they are nicely separated with some privacy. Small maintained trails and really pretty. It is a wet year and everything is very green and yes you need to be prepared for ticks to hike in the tall grass," reports Teresa T. about BLM Schnell Recreation Area.
What campers like
Spacious riverside sites: Many campers appreciate the primitive sites along the water at Fort Abraham Lincoln. "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. Sites with electricity and water are $25," explains Mary S. from Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: The maintenance of bathrooms receives consistent praise. "The park staff was super friendly, bathrooms were the cleanest I have seen. I had an awesome shower. Trail access from the campsites and of course the history!" states Kristi D. about her stay at Fort Abraham Lincoln.
Astronomy opportunities: The lack of light pollution in more remote areas creates opportunities for stargazing. "They have 9 tent spots and it's 360 view from the mountain. Priceless and can see the Milky Way," shares Von B. about Wing Lake Mitchell, making it a consideration for those seeking horse campgrounds near Center, North Dakota with stellar night views.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: While many campgrounds in the region operate year-round, facilities and availability vary significantly by season. "The restrooms were not open yet," notes Moonyen S. about spring conditions at Schnell Recreation Area, indicating travelers should confirm facility status before arrival.
Wildlife awareness: Ticks are prevalent in the tall grass areas during warmer months. "There were a lot of TICKS! But I found the few that were on me before they latched. My friend had at least twenty on her; luckily, they didn't latch to her either," warns Moonyen S. about BLM Schnell Recreation Area.
Maintenance variations: Site conditions can vary between locations and even within the same property over time. "Ten years ago the campground was clean, weed free, well maintained and now it is an embarrassment of what it once was," reports Tod W. about changes at Schnell Recreation Area, suggesting visitors check recent reviews before planning equestrian camping near Center, North Dakota.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with younger children, Fort Abraham Lincoln offers dedicated play areas. "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," shares Mary S. about Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Weekend crowding: Expect more families and activity on weekends, with quieter midweek experiences. "We came in on a Saturday and it was packed...spots a little close together for my liking, but it was quiet overall. Lots of family enjoying family time with their kids. Once Sunday afternoon hit, everyone cleared out getting ready for the workweek," observes Kristi D. about Fort Abraham Lincoln.
Bring insect protection: Multiple reviews mention mosquitoes and ticks during warm months. "Mosquitos were bad when we were here surprisingly. I was getting bit every second, so I got a gazebo shelter so we could enjoy the outdoors without getting bit to death. Had a fire our final night which also helped," suggests Kristi D.
Tips from RVers
Water access planning: RVers should prepare for water hookup limitations. "Some pull through and other shared campsites 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. about Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Check electrical connections: At some smaller sites, utilities may not be functioning properly. "If you're looking for electric-they have it! Downside, it may not work.... it didn't for us," shares Kenya A. about her experience at Wing Lake Mitchell.
Big rig accommodations: Fort Abraham Lincoln accommodates larger RVs. "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," notes Kathy L., indicating the park can handle various RV sizes while maintaining a comfortable atmosphere.
