Primitive camping near Dickinson, North Dakota centers primarily around the Little Missouri National Grassland, which spans over 1 million acres in the western part of the state. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 2,200-2,700 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night regardless of season. During summer months, daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while dropping to the 50s overnight, requiring campers to prepare for both heat and cold.
What to do
Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Located approximately 30 minutes from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking, the park offers extensive hiking opportunities. "We stayed 2 nights in July in this area and it was great! Plenty of spots, so we didn't feel like we were on top of other campers. Close to the National Park which was why we stayed," notes camper Lynsey M.
Visit Medora's attractions: The historic town near primitive camping areas provides entertainment options. "Medora is nearby with opportunities for dining & entertainment," shares Kathy S. about staying at Grassland Boondocking. Many campers use dispersed sites as affordable home bases while exploring town amenities.
Wildlife photography: Dawn and dusk provide optimal lighting for photographing the region's diverse wildlife. Campers at West River Rd Medora ND Dispersed report unique sightings: "There was a large beautiful herd of feral horses bedding down with their little ones here in the evening," notes Joseph G. Bring telephoto lenses and maintain appropriate distances from animals.
What campers like
Sunset viewing spots: The elevated terrain creates spectacular sunset opportunities from certain campsites. "Had a gorgeous sunset and it was very quiet," reports Keegan R. about their June stay at Grassland Boondocking. Most campers recommend arriving by 7 PM during summer to secure prime sunset-viewing positions.
Cell service reliability: Unlike many remote camping areas, sites near Dickinson often maintain functional connectivity. "Good cell service as well," confirms Tyler K. about the Grassland Boondocking area, making these sites practical for remote workers or those needing to stay connected.
Navigation simplicity: Despite the remote nature, most sites have relatively straightforward access. "After the first cattle guard, it's the first right! The coordinates might not be correct. If you cross a second cattle guard, you went too far," advises Alice C. about finding Buffalo Gap Rd Dispersed Camp, helping newcomers navigate confidently.
What you should know
Site availability timing: Arriving early improves chances of securing preferred spots, especially during peak seasons. "There is alot of people looking for spots on a Monday. Get here early. It's worth it!" advises camper goose10091203 about the popular Grassland Boondocking area. Late arrivals may find limited options.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads range from well-maintained to challenging depending on recent weather. "When I pulled into what I thought would be a spot, the road was deserving a 4WD. I went anyway and crossed paths with a couple of locals out there shooting," reports Maddy T. about their experience at West River Rd.
Multi-use land awareness: Much of the dispersed camping around Dickinson sits on land shared with livestock and other recreational users. "I was awoken to the mooing of cows bright and early," shares Maddy T. about camping near West River Rd. Expect to encounter cattle, recreational shooters, and ATVs depending on location.
Tips for camping with families
Morning routines: Public facilities can supplement primitive camping limitations for families. "We were able to use all the facilities at the Painted Canyon Visitor center for morning rituals (aka teeth brushing bathroom in a toilet, face washing etc)," suggests Lynsey M. about camping with Camels Hump Lake as a base.
Site spacing considerations: Choose areas where distance between campsites accommodates family activities. "Not cramped but not all alone❤️," notes Katrina T. about the Grassland Boondocking area, indicating a good balance of privacy and community.
Shower access planning: Incorporate state park facilities into your itinerary for hygiene needs. "We did drive to a Rough Rider State park for a shower which was $5 a person (totally worth it after multiple muddy river crossings on our hike)," shares Lynsey M., demonstrating how families can manage longer stays comfortably.
Tips from RVers
Levelness assessment: Most dispersed sites require minimal effort to level RVs despite the varied terrain. "It was easy to get level and the views are incredible with an hours long sunset and very early sunrise," shares Joni Z. about camping at Patterson Lake Boat Ramp, noting the practical advantage for RV campers.
Wind exposure planning: Higher elevation sites offer better views but come with increased wind exposure. "Rooftop tent campers be aware the top ridge is so windy the first night we stayed we were whipping around all night but the second night we stayed on the lower ridge and the wind was much better," advises Lynsey M., providing insight applicable to RVs and trailers as well.
Route scouting: For larger rigs, investigating roads before committing prevents access issues. "If you have a 4x4 you can get up to the last spot before the fence on the right!" notes Alice C., suggesting that vehicle capabilities determine site accessibility on many primitive camping roads near Dickinson.
