Best Campgrounds near Dickinson, ND

The western North Dakota landscape surrounding Dickinson features a mix of established campgrounds and recreational areas that serve as gateways to the badlands region. North Park Campground and Camp On The Heart provide full-hookup options within city limits, while Patterson Lake Recreation Area offers year-round camping with lake access just southwest of town. Most local campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of amenities. The proximity to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, approximately 35 miles west in Medora, makes Dickinson a strategic basecamp for exploring the region's dramatic badlands terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region. Summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s despite the northern latitude, with limited shade at many sites. As one camper noted about Patterson Lake, "None of the campsites are very close to the lake... and there's a train track right nearby with trains that run pretty much throughout the night." Winter camping is possible at year-round facilities, though amenities may be reduced. Many campgrounds operate with limited services during off-season months (typically October through April), with some facilities like showers and flush toilets closed until the main season begins in May.

Wildlife viewing opportunities rank among the top experiences mentioned by visitors to the region. Campers at Theodore Roosevelt National Park frequently report bison walking through campgrounds, along with sightings of elk, deer, wild horses, and prairie dogs. The landscape transitions from prairie to badlands, offering distinctive camping environments. "Buffalo were common visitors while having coffee in the morning," noted one camper at Cottonwood Campground. Sites with river or lake views tend to fill quickly during peak season. Noise considerations vary by location, with some campgrounds affected by nearby industrial facilities, train tracks, or highway sounds, while others provide more secluded experiences, particularly at dispersed sites in the national grasslands west of Dickinson.

Best Camping Sites Near Dickinson, North Dakota (41)

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Recent Reviews near Dickinson, ND

311 Reviews of 41 Dickinson Campgrounds



Guide to Dickinson

Camping near Dickinson, North Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a base for outdoor adventures, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park: This park is just a short drive from Dickinson and offers stunning views and wildlife. One camper mentioned, "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."
  • Visit Medora: The town of Medora is nearby and has attractions like the Medora Musical and delicious dining options. One reviewer said, "Super easy to walk over to the NP or into Thiel for coffee, breakfast, dinner."
  • Hiking and biking: Trails around the area, especially in places like Sully Creek State Park, provide great opportunities for hiking. A visitor noted, "The trail makes for awesome hiking and biking."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. A review from Cottonwood Campground highlighted, "Clean toilets with running water. Drinking water spigots throughout."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites that provide privacy. One camper at Sully Creek State Park mentioned, "Spacious sites, very quiet."
  • Friendly staff: Campground hosts are often noted for their helpfulness. A visitor at Medora Campground said, "The staff are so helpful and kind."

What you should know

  • Limited services at some campgrounds: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Cottonwood Campground pointed out, "This campground has very limited services. There is a water filling station... but no dump station for RVs."
  • Noise from nearby roads: Some sites are close to highways, which can be noisy. A review noted, "You can hear the main park road easily and when the breeze dies down you can hear the interstate."
  • First-come, first-served sites: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, which can be tricky during peak seasons. A camper mentioned, "Seemed odd numbers were reservation and even numbered sites were first come."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose sites with shade: If camping in warmer months, look for shaded spots. A camper at Sully Creek State Park said, "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.
  • Check restroom locations: Some campgrounds have restrooms that are a bit of a walk from the sites. A camper at Cottonwood Campground noted, "Bathrooms are a distance off from walk-in sites."

Tips from RVers

  • Level your site: Some sites can be uneven, so bring leveling blocks. A review from Boots Campground mentioned, "Site 7 is very hard to get level."
  • Check for hookups: Make sure to confirm if your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Red Trail Campground said, "The price for all the amenities provided was excellent!"
  • Be prepared for limited cell service: Some areas have spotty reception. A visitor at Sully Creek State Park noted, "We received no OTA channels and satellite connection was not an issue."

Camping around Dickinson, ND, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic experience for everyone involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Dickinson, ND?

According to TheDyrt.com, Dickinson, ND offers a wide range of camping options, with 41 campgrounds and RV parks near Dickinson, ND and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Dickinson, ND?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dickinson, ND is North Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dickinson, ND?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Dickinson, ND.

What parks are near Dickinson, ND?

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