Dakota Prairie National Grasslands has diverse horse-friendly campgrounds nestled within the badlands terrain of western North Dakota. Sites range from 2,500 to 2,800 feet in elevation with summer temperatures frequently reaching the mid-90s. The grasslands feature multiple equestrian trails connecting campgrounds through rugged terrain with designated water crossings.
What to do
Trail connections: Sites at Magpie Campground provide direct access to the Maah Daah Hey Trail system. "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," notes Cullen C.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning offers prime bison watching from camp areas. "We loved being close the the NP and the town of Medora," reports Art S. from his stay at Sully Creek State Park. The area supports prairie dog colonies, wild horses, and pronghorn antelope.
Night sky observation: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "I was able to see the northern lights here once!" reports Adam L. about Magpie Campground. Summer months offer the clearest skies for viewing with minimal humidity.
What campers like
Site spacing: Coal Creek Campground provides well-separated sites. "Sites are level, hard gravel with a firepit and picnic table. Sites are well separated with plenty of trees and brush between sites," writes Victor E. This arrangement creates natural privacy barriers.
Water availability: Hand pumps supply fresh water at most sites. "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," notes Jenny K. about her experience at Magpie Campground.
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance keeps campground amenities functional. "Clean, warm, free showers!!" exclaims Janet K. about Sully Creek State Park. The park's three camping loops are organized by use type.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse camps require advance booking while standard sites operate first-come, first-served. At Buffalo Gap Campground, "Sites are available on a first-come-first serve basis, but even by nightfall plenty of sites were still available in each loop," reports Hannah W.
Access roads: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved surfaces. "Last 8.6 miles of road is well maintained gravel and wide enough for all types of RV," notes Victor E. about Coal Creek Campground. Elkhorn Campground requires approximately 35 miles of driving on unpaved roads.
Payment methods: Cash or check payment is standard at most sites. "Pay $6 per night or less with America the Beautiful pass. First come first serve," explains Erin G. about her stay at Magpie Campground. Exact change is needed as no change facilities exist at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Medora Campground offers multiple activities. "Good recreation for kids, basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person. Medora is a small town, easy to bike or walk," shares Beth B.
Trail difficulty levels: Plan routes based on child age and hiking experience. "The sites are in a protected shallow valley with good shade. They are fairly private. Great access to the Columnar Junipers hike and bluffs for beautiful overlook," explains Lara F. about Burning Coal Vein Campground.
Supply limitations: Stock up before arrival as services are limited. "No grocery store, only small convenience store so make sure you stock up if you are staying for a few days," advises Beth B. from her Medora Campground experience.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks for uneven sites. "Site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks," notes Clean Slate D. about their stay at Boots Campground.
Site selection strategy: Request specific areas based on your needs. "I paid $5 to use their facility when I left. Most sites are first come first serve," shares Mark J. about Buffalo Gap Campground, noting the alternative dumping options when the station was under repair.
Shade availability: Park positioning impacts comfort during summer heat. "Campsites in valley in Badlands. Nice and clean. No power, no dumps, hand pump for water," reports Steve D. about Elkhorn Campground, where valley positioning provides natural cooling effects.
