Cross Ranch State Park Campground offers various camping experiences along the Missouri River, about 20 miles north of Center, North Dakota. The region has rolling prairies with elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,000 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the 80s with cooler evenings in the 50s, while winters can drop well below freezing with significant snowfall.
What to do
River activities: Cross Ranch State Park Campground provides canoe and kayak rentals for Missouri River excursions. "We rented a canoe and 2 kayaks and were transported to Washburn and floated/paddled our way to Sanger boat launch. (Approx 9 miles) It took us about 3 hours and it was so beautiful!" reports one visitor.
Historic exploration: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground features restored military buildings and a reconstructed Mandan village. A camper noted, "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!"
Trail hiking: Well-maintained trails wind through most campgrounds in the area. A Cross Ranch visitor commented, "Beautiful, well-groomed, shaded hiking paths everywhere. Playgrounds. Big fields. Clean water access to the river for swimming, dogs, fishing."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At many campgrounds, natural vegetation creates separation. A visitor to Fort Abraham Lincoln mentioned, "Plenty of space between campers. Lots of young families RV camping here."
Spacious campsites: COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground offers particularly large sites. "Probably one of my favorite campgrounds. VERY spacious sites! Electric only, but it's camping right! Clean bathrooms and showers," wrote one reviewer.
River access: Many rv sites near Center, North Dakota provide easy access to the Missouri River. A COE Lake Sakakawea visitor appreciated that "they have many paths down to the Missouri River for some great fishing and if you are a polar bear swimming."
Unique accommodations: Beyond standard rv sites, some campgrounds offer special lodging options. A Cross Ranch camper shared, "Great experience camping in an authentic Tipi. The Tipi has a wood floor and cots, with plenty of room. It kept us and our things dry during a rainstorm."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind can be significant in this region. At A Prairie Breeze RV Park, one camper reported, "My only complaint—#21 was underwater after an overnight rain. A pond of about 2-3 inches of water completely surrounded my rig."
Reservation needs: During peak season, booking in advance is recommended. Fort Abraham Lincoln can be particularly busy: "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."
Bugs: Insects can be prevalent, especially in sheltered areas. A COE Lake Sakakawea visitor noted, "It's below garrison dam and has many big trees, so it's protected from the wind which makes bugs an issue at times so be prepared for that!"
Entrance fees: Some parks charge daily vehicle fees in addition to camping costs. One visitor mentioned about Cross Ranch: "The only down fall is that it's a national park so on top of the camping you have to pay for your vehicle just to enter."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Ball Park RV Park provides recreation facilities for children. "This is the campground for travelers coming through town. It is very nice and at the city park," notes one visitor, making it convenient for families.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger programs and historic sites. A Cross Ranch camper shared, "Great camping facilites. Tent and camper sites. Yurts available and cabins available. Great hiking area, playground, ranger presentations."
Water activities: Rivers provide swimming and fishing opportunities for kids. A family at Cross Ranch reported, "We are a family of 4, 2 kids ages 11 and 13. We had a blast! We rented a canoe and 2 kayaks and were transported to Washburn and floated/paddled our way to Sanger boat launch."
Tips from RVers
Campsite layout: At many rv sites near Center, North Dakota, hookup placement can affect parking. At Center RV Park, "You have full hookups and no bathrooms or other services. There's probably 15 sites back to back right beside one another in the Sun. So no privacy it really is for people who are probably working and living out of their campers."
Leveling considerations: Many sites require minimal adjustment. A Prairie Breeze visitor noted, "The sites are laid out so the poles are shared in the middle, which makes for a bit of a tight fit for big rigs. No one on either side during our stay (with no slide outs), so had plenty of room."
Reservation options: Some parks accommodate last-minute arrivals. A Prairie Breeze RV Park visitor shared, "Reservations were taken care of with one call, but none are needed as they also offer 24 hour first-come, first-serve spots, too."
Dump station access: Several campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities. COE Lake Sakakawea campers mentioned "Potable water is available at the dump site on the way in to the campground."
