Best Camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

Searching for the best camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands, ND? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands, ND. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands, ND (42)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    1. Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    66 Reviews
    305 Photos
    238 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Overview

    For people visiting the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Cottonwood Campground is a great place to stay. Located five miles (8 km) from the entrance to the South Unit of the park, the campground is open year-round. To make a reservation for the group site please visit this the Cottonwood Group Site (ND ) page.

    Recreation

    Hikers can access the estimated 70 miles (21 km) of trails within a short distance of the campground. Visit the Hiking and Trail Information page on the park website or stop at a Visitor Center for more details. Located immediately adjacent to the Little Missouri River and filled with Cottonwood trees bird watching in the campground can be a rewarding experience. Watch for Bison that can be seen traveling through the campground on their way to a stop at the river. Just a few miles from the campground is the Peaceful Valley Ranch. A former ranch from Theodore Roosevelt's time, the location also serves as one of the best sites in the park for outstanding night sky viewing.

    Natural Features

    The Little Missouri River is the central, unifying feature of this wild and broken land where, as a young man, Theodore Roosevelt ranched and hunted in the 1880s. The park is part of both the Northern Great Plains and the West, blending a rich natural beauty with diverse human history. The rugged topography, with its flora and fauna, also provides an opportunity to discover the badlands environment as Roosevelt once did. It is a place to experience a land and way of life that helped shape Theodore Roosevelt's attitudes and philosophy regarding conservation. Cottonwood trees surrounding the campsite turn golden in the fall. Although the campground is moderately forested, most of the campsites are in partial to full sun but visitors can cool off in the cold river when temperatures peak during summer.

    Nearby Attractions

    The town of Medora has shopping, restaurants, amenities and the Medora Musical is located approximately five miles (8 km) to the south. The Little Missouri National Grassland is the largest National Grassland in the nation at 1.03 million acres (416,826 ha). It is located in western North Dakota and is managed by the Medora Ranger District in Dickinson, ND and the McKenzie Ranger District in Watford City, ND. The National Grassland provides additional recreation opportunities in the area.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    2. Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    39 Reviews
    105 Photos
    396 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Grasslands OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no picnic tables, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. Typically, dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, boat ramps, picnic areas or trailheads. There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It's your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience.

    Driving cross-country (off a road or trail) by motorized, wheeled vehicles is prohibited in the National Grasslands. Along certain roads, vehicles may drive up to 300 feet off road to camp. These roads are shown on the Grassland's Motor Vehicle Use Map.

    Picking a Campsite

    If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that's been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites, so using existing ones will minimize your impact on the grassland. If there is no existing campsite, then follow these Leave No Trace guidelines:

    Camp on bare soil if possible, to avoid damaging or killing plants and grass. Do NOT camp within 200 feet of any water source, plants near water are especially fragile. Don't camp in the middle of a pasture or clearing. Make your campsite less visible so that other visitors will see a "wild" setting. Campfires

    Many wildfires are caused by human activity, typically escaped campfires from dispersed campers. Campfires are allowed when you are dispersed camping UNLESS there are fire restrictions in effect due to high fire danger conditions. It is YOUR responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before you go camping. Use existing fire rings if they exist. Minimize the scarring of new rocks, soil and plants by using existing fire rings. Clear an area of combustible material six feet away from a campfire to reduce the chance of it spreading into a wildfire. NEVER LEAVE A FIRE UNATTENDED. You should have a bucket, shovel, and axe available to control or extinguish escaped fire. BEFORE YOU LEAVE YOUR CAMPFIRE, MAKE SURE IT IS DEAD OUT. You should be able to put your whole hand into the ashes without being burned and it should be cool to the touch. Protect Water Quality

    Water gets contaminated by visitors who don't take care of their human waste or their garbage and food properly. To dispose of feces, dig a hole 6 inches deep and AT LEAST 200 FEET AWAY FROM ANY WATER SOURCE (creeks, wetlands, springs, or lakes). When you're done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground, it could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it. Wash your body, dishes, etc., and dispose of waste water AT LEAST 200 FEET AWAY FROM ANY WATER SOURCE. Do not use ANY soap directly in a water source. Use biodegradable soap.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground

    3. Medora Campground

    37 Reviews
    108 Photos
    147 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    If you're looking for campgrounds in Medora, ND, consider Medora Campground. Conveniently located on the west side of Medora, the Medora Campground is the perfect place to set up your basecamp for adventure in the Badlands. You can choose between our hook-up spaces or our primitive camping area, whichever makes your Medora experience perfect. Facility amenities include: -150 campsites of varying sizes. -FREE Wi-Fi -Access to bathroom and shower facilities -RV waste station -Playground for the kids -And a new General Store with many of the provisions you might need -- plus a laundry facility to help clean up your gear after a day in the Badlands.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area

    4. Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area

    27 Reviews
    78 Photos
    106 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Just south of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and a couple miles from the town of Medora, Sully Creek State Park is located in the heart of North Dakota’s Badlands. This small park provides easy access to the Little Missouri River for paddlers and anglers, and serves as a launch point for the 170-mile Maah Daah Hey and the 50-mile Maah Daah Hey II trails. These two scenic trails invite hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders to discover the Badlands’ peaks, plateaus, prairies, and wetlands—just as Roosevelt saw them more than a century ago. Sully Creek also makes an ideal basecamp for exploring the nearby national park in a quieter setting, or if the park’s facilities are full.

    Sully Creek offers 41 spacious campsites in three open, grassy areas: Whitetail Flats, Cedar, and Little Muddy Breaks. Whitetail Flats offers open, grassy, pull-through sites that can accommodate large RVs; Cedar is a wooded loop with pull-through and back-in sites for smaller RVs and tent campers; Little Muddy Breaks is an open area designated for horse campers, and features corrals and a round pen. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, and there are vault toilets, a shower house, drinking water, and a dump station available; hookups are not available at this location. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed. Camping is available from April through November. Campsites are $12/night; reservations accepted.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)

    5. Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)

    20 Reviews
    66 Photos
    128 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Overview

    Buffalo Gap campground, located in the heart of western North Dakota.

    Recreation

    There is a trail near by that is called the Buffalo Gap Trail, perfect for a day hike. You can also it to the Maah Daah Hey trail using the Buffalo Gap Trail for longer hikes.

    Natural Features

    Here you are surrounded by colorful buttes. During your stay you may have Prong horns, Mule deer and White tail deer come through your site. This area is good for birders and plant enthusiast during the sping and summer months. Perfect for all year outdoor adventures.

    Nearby Attractions

    It a short drive to the small town of Medora and enterance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground

    6. Red Trail Campground

    19 Reviews
    15 Photos
    43 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Red Trail is a family owned and operated campground, providing campers with a second home for over 44 years. We try to provide friendly and professional service to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. We have been told "You come as a stranger and leave as a friend". We hope that you will feel the same way. We try to make you feel like coming back to visit Medora and stay with us at the Red Trail Campground.

    Red Trail Campground is nestled below a butte on the southeast edge of historic Medora which takes its name from the wife of its founder, a French nobleman, the Marquis De Mores. Though his dreams of a cattle empire and meat packing plant have long since vanished, the town survived to witness, and retain in history. For a short time Teddy Roosevelt stayed in Medora opening two cattle ranches. Custer camped in Medora while on his way to Montana. Many other notables besides these have stayed in Medora. Come see the Medora Musical, learn a little more about us, where the west picks up its heels and parts of history began. Browse through our shops, enjoy the authentic western food at any of our restaurants, look though our museums, North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, and drive though the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. That is the Medora experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $27 - $46 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground

    7. Makoshika State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    182 Photos
    165 Saves
    Glendive, Montana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Boots Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Boots Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Boots Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Boots Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Boots Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Boots Campground

    8. Boots Campground

    4 Reviews
    7 Photos
    13 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Boots RV and Cabin Campground is located one mile outside of Historic Medora, ND. We have 16 RV spots with full electrical and water hookups, as well as 3 cabins for daily VRBO/Airbnb rentals. This is the perfect campground if you’re looking for a spacious place to stay with beautiful views of the badlands outside Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Indulge yourself in Medora’s activities full of history, incredible scenery, inspiring hikes, and camping! We can accommodate RVs up to 60 ft with 30/50 amp, full hookups, pull-throughs and back-ins. WiFi available!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Magpie Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magpie Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magpie Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magpie Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magpie Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magpie Campground

    9. Magpie Campground

    9 Reviews
    25 Photos
    88 Saves
    Grassy Butte, North Dakota

    Turn west on Road #712 at the Magpie Camp sign, located 1.5 miles north of Fairfield on Highway 85; travel 15.5 miles on gravel road #712. The campground is located ¼ mile northeast off road # 712. A day use parking lot right adjacent to the MDH trail is located ½ mile south of the campground. This fenced camp features 11 camp spurs. A handicap accessible vault toilet and a potable water well are available during the summer months. A convenient meeting area for those traveling to Devil's Pass or the Ice Caves. A great shaded area in the summer!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $6 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri National Grassland

    10. Little Missouri National Grassland

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    21 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Little Missouri National Grassland is located in western North Dakota, USA. At 1,033,271 acres (418,150 ha), it is the largest grassland in the country.[1] Enclaved within its borders is Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which is managed by the National Park Service (and therefore not included in the preceding statistics). The Little Missouri National Grassland was once a part of the Custer National Forest, but is now a part of the Dakota Prairie Grasslands, a National Forest unit consisting entirely of National Grasslands. A predominant feature of the grassland is colorful and beautiful badlands and rugged terrain extensively eroded by wind and water. It is a mixed grass prairie, meaning it has both long and short grass. The boundaries of the grasslands on certain maps can be misleading. Within the boundaries of the national grassland are significant portions of state-owned and privately owned land, much of it leased by cattle ranchers for grazing. Overall, in descending order of land area, it is located in parts of McKenzie, Billings, Slope, and Golden Valley counties. White Butte, North Dakota's highest point, is located in the extreme southeast corner of the grassland, south of the town of Amidon. The grassland is administered by the Forest Service as part of the Dakota Prairie Grasslands from offices in Bismarck, North Dakota. There are local ranger district offices in Dickinson and Watford City.

    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
Showing results 1-10 of 42 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

Recent Reviews in Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

322 Reviews of 42 Dakota Prairie National Grasslands Campgrounds


  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)

    Convenient to the highway

    General: Small (37-site) forest service campground in two loops near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. No hookups or cell service (despite proximity to the highway). We arrived on a Thursday afternoon in late August with no reservation and had no problem securing a site, although it filled almost to capacity by evening. 

    Site Quality: Many are in direct sun, but we found one that had some afternoon shade. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. All camper pads are paved. 

    Bath/Shower house: There were six vault toilets (two by the entrance and two in each loop) that had sinks but no soap; they were reasonably clean. Two showers were in the other loop from where we stayed, and we did not use them. 

    Activities: There is access to the Buffalo Gap Trail, but we did not hike it as this was an overnight stop for us and quite hot. It is not far from the south unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

    It was hot when we were there (high 80s) so we just kind of collapsed upon arrival and took off the next day. The good news is you are close to the highway, but you will hear some road noise. $20 or$10 with the senior pass makes it a good deal. Cash or check if you cannot register online (no service with Verizon).

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Overnight after Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Found this site close to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Road in is pretty good, any right should be able to make it. There are several sites in the camping area, some could fit big rigs. Smaller rigs can get into any of the other sites. Despite being near the Interstate, it was really quiet at night. Great Verizon signal on this location. Starlink had some of the fastest connections we have seen.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    So Many Great Spots

    Easy access on a gravel road all the way to the top of the bluff. We opted to park at one of the first few pull out spots but saw several campers all along the road up to and on the bluff itself. We had great Verizon service.

  • Renee H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Red Trail Campground

    Busy campground, convenient location

    There are a lot of people coming and going at this busy family operated campground. Sites are fairly close, not much privacy. Bathrooms, showers and laundry on site, all of which were maintained adequately. It is a short walk to downtown Medora. Campground is within the town and across from residences. Upon check-in, a staff member escorts you to your site and directs you where to park. Mixture of grass sites and gravel sites. Cell signal is adequate. Garbage and dump station on site. Small convenience store on property with essentials.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Red Trail Campground

    Horrible Campground

    We checked in today and were met by rude registration staff followed by a deranged woman employee who screamed commands laced with sarcasm and condescension as I tried to back the camper into our site. When I tried to politely explain that I had backed the camper successfully for years, she suggested I go camp somewhere else. We did leave and landed happily at a much nicer and kinder campground that wasnt covered in fleas. They also made it quite clear that there would be no refund. We visited North Park Campground, no overnight stay.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Rd Dispersed Camp
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Buffalo Gap Rd Dispersed Camp

    Buffalo Gap Rd Parking Spot near Campground

    Along Buffalo Gap Rd closer to I-94 area. The land is within Little Missouri National Grassland and there are no signs at this spot saying not to camp. The campground area, fee area, is on the other side of I-94.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camels Hump Lake
    Sep. 8, 2024

    Camels Hump Lake

    Good pond spot on a hot day

    Interesting pond spot. There are three roads from Camel Hump Rd that go into lake area loops. Chose the second right turn 1st, so you can scope out the areas down the first and third roads from across the pond, because those are tight and if someone is already there then theres no use driving down. Theres about two private spots down the 1st and 3rd right turns. The second turn though has tables and is more open and recreational for swimming and fishing. The best spot at 2nd right turn (middle of pond) is first loop on left with table and pit. It has a clear swim spot. Its a bit deep there but nice. No toilet or water but nice area to chill on a hot day.

  • k
    Camper-submitted photo from North Park Campground
    Sep. 7, 2024

    North Park Campground

    Quiet and large

    Reasonable rates for FHU.. Quiet shady site. Friendly staff. Bathrooms adequate. Wifi inconsistent. Good verizon signal.

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Trail Campground
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Red Trail Campground

    Great location

    This campground is perfectly located for visiting the TRNP, Painted Canyon and the town of Medora has nice offerings for entertainment and western history and way of life. The campground is decent with a small store, nice laundry machines and the restrooms are decent and clean but could use a little sprucing up.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Lots of space and nice views

    As a tenter or suv camper I drove to the top of the grasslands boondocking area to find others doing the same thing. Even without an actual "spot" I was able to get a nice place on the bluff to spread out, not close to other dudes. Obviously no services here but just piss into the wind. Ominous heavy fog in the morning with low visibilty but a cool spot for sure. Drive, dont roll, down the hill. No need for bug spray but maybe a pair of binoculars to check out the ladies. Big sky, wild horses, and yummy grasshoppers. No west bound access when leaving so take Buffalo Gap Rd or backtrack to Medora. Such a nice town to chill during the hot days, especially at the historic park with covered tables.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkhorn Campground
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Elkhorn Campground

    Isolated and secluded campsite

    Traveled about 35 miles on unpaved road in RAV4 AWD. Campsite was empty, so we had different sites to choose from. We were in a spot with some shade for our tent. Close to clean pit toilet. Hand pump was hard to pump which produced light brown water which wasn't something we wanted to drink, so bring in your own water. Site had large picnic table and fire ring. Nice view of landscape and Trailhead nearby. Nearby is Elkhorn Ranch Unit trail leading to Theodore Roosevelt Ranch site. No buildings but interpretive signage.

  • Kevin L.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Makoshika State Park Campground

    Unique

    Small campground with vault toilets, and drinking water. a mile away from the campground are standalone sites you can drive into and park one vehicle you’re champion if you get site #22.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Burning Coal Vein Campground
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Burning Coal Vein Campground

    Passed through, it looked good

    We did not personally camp here but we cruised through on a motorcycle. The sites looked to be spaced out fairly well, many of them had a picnic table, there is a bathroom on site and also a water pump that did not seem accessible by vehicle, so I doubt you could fill an rv with it. The sign seemed to say $10 a night, pay with cash in an envelope. We passed a forest ranger coming out to check on the campground while we were there. The short road in was in need of a bit of repair, but most vehicles could get through it, just a bit of a rut from people getting stuck in mud. Rather narrow as well, could definitely only accommodate one way traffic as a time.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Amazing Views, Easy Access, Quiet Stay

    Arrived the afternoon 07/27/24 and had no issues finding a spot. Went past where Google maps took us for Scoria Pit and up the hill to sit atop on the bluffs for some amazing views! No amenities, but the location and quietness around us was very much worth it. Good location a little off the highway near Theodore Roosevelt NP. One section of the road was a little washed out, but generally easy access.

  • Ellery K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Insane views and great cell service

    Stunning views in every direction and plenty of spots to choose from once you turn onto the gravel/dirt road. It’s a little bumpy so take it slowly, but I had no problem and I drive a 2WD hatchback.

    A quick word of warning: rattlesnakes could be in the bushes! Keep your dog close and be cognizant of your surroundings!

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Medora Campground

    Best place to stay near NP & town

    A tidy easy in and out campground right in town and next to the NP. Super easy to walk over to the np or into Thiel for coffee, breakfast, dinner. Feeling adventurous go check out the Medora musical and steak fondue dinner. Totally worth it. There’s a community pool right at the campground too. Bonus!

  • Brooke R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Medora Campground

    Great Vibes for Price!

    The price for all the amenities provided was excellent! There was plenty of room for our tent and cooking set up!

    The access to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is ideal as well as being able to explore the town of Medora!

    It was hot during the day but the campground had plenty of shade to provide a cool place to hangout.

  • Peyton P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Short Pine OHV Area
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Short Pine OHV Area

    Super private, great area!

    This was an excellent spot for jeeps/off road vehicles. Very private, lots of fun if you have dirt bikes or four wheelers with you to explore. It’s just off the road so we heard cars going by every once in awhile, but for the most part had the area to ourselves. Only bugs were grasshoppers. Pit toilet was clean and unlocked. There was a map of the entire park as well. Probably one of my favorite spots

  • Josh K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)
    Jul. 11, 2024

    Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)

    Good, nice sites

    Overall a nice campsite. Many sites for tents, some for campers and trailers. Each had a picnic table and a fire ring. Pretty loud road noise from the highway but a good spot to stop for a night.

  • w
    Camper-submitted photo from North Park Campground
    Jul. 9, 2024

    North Park Campground

    Very nice, clean, friendly, and convenient t!

    On a motorcycle camping vacation I reserved a tent site at North Park campground. The person I spoke with was fun and knowledgeable! I rode in after hours to find my reservation paperwork duly taped to the office door. The campsite was pleasantly private with fencing and plenty of space. The bathroom and laundry facilities were spotless with all the expected amenities. Campground staff visited to ensure all was well and to give me useful pointers about the local area. Totally quiet during the night! The campground is isolated from the city yet plenty close enough to shopping and fuel. There is no campground store (who cares?). I’ll stay here again for sure!

  • Cullen C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Magpie Campground
    Jul. 3, 2024

    Magpie Campground

    Secluded access to the heart of the badlands

    I’ve stayed here multiple times. The sites are relatively spread out, though I like to stay towards the back of the site where it’s even more secluded. Every time I’ve been here, the camp is never over 1/2 full. The part I like most about this campground is the easy access to the world renowned Maah Daah Hey Trail: >100 miles of trail open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Either head south on Magpie road to Magpie trailhead, or follow the campground road away from the main road past the cattleguard and find the connecting trail there. From there, either head west towards Devil’s Pass or east towards the ice caves. At dusk, be sure to listen for coyotes barking in the distance

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Jun. 25, 2024

    Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Wonderful National Park campground

    Lots of trees and plenty of space between most sites. Clean toilets with running water. Drinking water spikets throughout with a camper water fill Station at entrance... no dump station. Seemed odd numbers were reservation and even numbered sites were first come. We reserved site 3 but were very disappointed, it was not an accommodating site for our truck and small 23' camper... BUT the campground host allowed us to switch to another site that was available!! Awesome!!!Our stay was 6/10,11/2024



Guide to Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

Camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands offers a unique experience filled with stunning landscapes and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are several campgrounds to choose from, each with its own charm.

What to do:

  • Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Just a stone's throw away, this park is perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. One camper noted, "We saw a ton of buffalo on the north side and we have already spotted buffalo, seen prairie dogs and wild horses from the road" at Cottonwood Campground.
  • Visit Medora: This charming town offers dining and entertainment options. A reviewer mentioned, "Super easy to walk over to the NP or into Thiel for coffee, breakfast, dinner" while staying at Medora Campground.
  • Hiking and biking: The Maah Daah Hey Trail is nearby, providing over 100 miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts. One camper shared, "The sites are relatively spread out... easy access to the world-renowned Maah Daah Hey Trail" at Magpie Campground.

What campers like:

  • Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites. A review from Cottonwood Campground stated, "Lots of trees and plenty of space between most sites."
  • Clean facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of restrooms. One reviewer at Sully Creek State Park said, "The shower house was always clean."
  • Wildlife sightings: Campers enjoy the chance to see wildlife up close. A visitor at Burning Coal Vein Campground remarked, "The sites are in a protected shallow valley with good shade... Great access to the Columnar Junipers hike."

What you should know:

  • Limited services: Some campgrounds, like Cottonwood Campground, have no showers or dump stations. A camper noted, "There is no dump station for RVs."
  • Noise from roads: Campers at Buffalo Gap Campground mentioned, "Pretty loud road noise from the highway but a good spot to stop for a night."
  • First-come, first-served sites: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come basis, which can be tricky. A reviewer at Sully Creek State Park advised, "Choose your tent only walk-in site carefully."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose shaded sites: Families should look for sites with shade, especially during hot days. A camper at Sully Creek State Park mentioned, "If it’s hot, all have plenty of shade."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games or outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. One family enjoyed the "community pool right at the campground" at Medora Campground.
  • Pack snacks: Having snacks on hand can make family outings smoother. A camper at Red Trail Campground appreciated the "small store" for essentials.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site levels: Some sites can be uneven, so it's good to have leveling blocks handy. A reviewer at Boots Campground noted, "We had to buy more leveling blocks."
  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Buffalo Gap Campground offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One RV traveler said, "The sites are all asphalt and offer a decent amount of privacy!"
  • Be prepared for limited cell service: Some areas have poor reception, so plan accordingly. A camper at Magpie Campground mentioned, "No cell coverage."

Camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands, North Dakota, provides a great mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Dakota Prairie National Grasslands offers a wide range of camping options, with 42 campgrounds and RV parks near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands is Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park with a 4.6-star rating from 66 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands.

  • What parks are near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands that allow camping, notably Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Sakakawea Lake.