Dakota Prairie National Grasslands contains several upscale tent and cabin accommodations near the scenic badlands terrain of western North Dakota. Sitting at elevations between 2,000-2,500 feet, the grasslands experience temperature swings from below zero in winter to over 90°F in summer. Cottonwood trees provide natural shade at many sites, with seasonal access determined by the region's unpredictable spring thaw and fall freeze periods.
What to do
Maah Daah Hey Trail access: Connect directly to this renowned trail system from Magpie Campground for hiking and biking adventures. "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," notes a regular visitor.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Morning and evening hours at Cottonwood Campground offer prime bison viewing. "We woke up to find bison all around us. Truly a beautiful and unique experience I'll never forget," shares one camper who spotted wildlife within the campground itself.
Stargazing: The limited light pollution at Magpie Campground creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. As one visitor reports, "I was able to see the northern lights here once!" The remote location helps maintain dark skies with minimal interference from urban areas.
Scenic drives: The loop road through Theodore Roosevelt National Park takes approximately two hours round trip from Medora Campground. "The scenic trail drive is about 2 hours round trip (there is construction so one part of road is shut down…no loop…you have to turn around)," advises a recent visitor.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Sully Creek State Park offers a mix of wooded and open sites with badlands views. A visitor notes, "Beautiful campground outside of Theodore Roosevelt NP. Nice to have 3 loops separated by use and rig size- big rigs, horses and small RVs and tents. Stayed in the latter loop with beautiful view of Badlands cliff."
Site privacy: Magpie Campground provides secluded sites separated by trees. "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," explains a repeat visitor.
Clean facilities: Medora Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. A camper reports, "Bathrooms were clean and the campground was overall pretty quiet. We don't have the biggest camper, but it was big rig friendly for sure."
Water access: The Little Missouri River runs alongside several camping areas, including Medora Campground. "Beautiful and short walk to the Little Missouri River. Very close to Teddy Roosevelt National Park. Nice size camping spots," states one camper about the riverside location.
What you should know
Shower costs: At Sully Creek State Park, coin-operated showers require payment. "Pit toilets, and a shower house near the front. I didn't expect to pay for showers but the site is only $12 so another $1 is fine," explains a visitor who used the facilities.
Water quality issues: Water taste varies between campgrounds. At Cottonwood Campground, one camper noted, "The one criticism I have of this campsite is the potable water tasted horrible."
Road conditions: Accessing Makoshika State Park requires navigating some challenging roads. "Only downfall was the long drive on the rough/unpaved roads. My Toyota Corolla isn't the best 'off roading' car, but we got there safely," reports a visitor who reached the campground in a passenger car.
Campfire restrictions: Cottonwood Campground has unique fire policies. "No campfire rings. They have raised grills that can be used to have a small fire," explains a visitor who discovered the alternative setup for campfires.
Seasonal weather: Summer temperatures can reach extreme highs. A camper at Magpie noted, "The water pump is a blessing since it was in the 90s when we visited. You really have to work the old fashioned pump but the crisp water is worth it."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Little Missouri National Grassland glamping close to Dakota Prairie National Grasslands provides activities for children. Medora Campground offers "Good recreation for kids, basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person."
Educational opportunities: Makoshika State Park features paleontology exhibits. "Makoshika State Park has a Triceratops on the sign, how can you not get excited about checking it out! Kids would love this park," writes an enthusiastic visitor.
Wildlife encounters: At Cottonwood Campground, families can view bison safely. "This spot is unbelievable. Gorgeous views. Buffalo in the campground. Quiet, private enough, clean pot toilets, secure bear garbages," reports a visitor who appreciated the safety measures.
Hiking difficulty levels: Makoshika offers trails suitable for different ages. "Several hiking trails, from short hike to longer trails. Some fairly easy and others are more moderate," notes a visitor who appreciated the variety of options for different ability levels.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Medora Campground, certain sites offer more privacy. "Large sites, very helpful & friendly staff & volunteers. Large large shade trees. Convenient to town, walk or bike ride," advises an RV camper about choosing the right location.
Hookup options: Different camping areas offer varying levels of amenities. "A little pricey for our taste, but the hook ups in the August heat were worth it," explains a Medora Campground visitor who paid extra for electrical service during hot weather.
Supply planning: Limited shopping options exist in the area. "No grocery store, only small convenience store so make sure you stock up if you are staying for a few days," warns a Medora visitor about the need to bring supplies.
Site spacing: Despite close quarters in some areas, campers report manageable conditions. "Quiet even though spots are close together," notes a Medora Campground visitor about the proximity of neighboring sites.
