Tent camping opportunities near Dickinson, North Dakota extend across the badlands and grasslands terrain with multiple primitive campgrounds offering basic facilities. Campers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, including summer thunderstorms and strong winds. Water availability is inconsistent at most sites, with many hand pumps producing discolored water that requires filtering or supplementation with brought supplies.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Several campgrounds connect to notable hiking paths. At Elkhorn Campground, campers can access the Elkhorn Ranch Unit trail leading to Theodore Roosevelt's historic ranch site. According to Jim M., "Nearby is Elkhorn Ranch Unit trail leading to Theodore Roosevelt Ranch site. No buildings but interpretive signage."
Wildlife viewing: The prairie landscape hosts diverse wildlife including bison and wild horses. Near West River Rd Medora ND Dispersed camping area, visitors have spotted free-roaming horses. Maddy T. reports being "awoken to the mooing of cows bright and early," while another camper noted "a large beautiful herd of feral horses bedding down with their little ones here in the evening."
Photography opportunities: The badlands terrain creates unique lighting conditions for photography. At Bennett campground, Lynn G. describes "thunderstorms rolling over the prairie is something you'll never forget!" The wide-open spaces and dramatic weather patterns provide distinctive photographic conditions throughout the seasons.
What campers like
Well-spaced campsites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Burning Coal Vein Campground. Cora H. describes it as a "nice, cheap, quiet and well spaced campground," while Erin G. notes "the sites looked to be spaced out fairly well, many of them had a picnic table."
Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere: The remote locations create peaceful camping experiences. At BLM Schnell Recreation Area, Teresa T. found "only a handful of spots but they are nicely separated with some privacy," adding that "small maintained trails and really pretty" surroundings enhance the camping experience.
Natural landscape variety: The best tent camping near Dickinson, North Dakota showcases diverse prairie ecosystems. Brenda R. calls Burning Coal Vein "a fun little place to camp" with "fun little hike to the Butte, or hop on the Maah Da Hey Trail and hike for miles." The combination of buttes, grasslands, and valleys creates varied terrain for exploration.
What you should know
Water concerns: Most campgrounds have unreliable or questionable water sources. Jim M. at Elkhorn Campground reported "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." Similarly, at Burning Coal Vein Campground, Erin G. noted "a water pump that did not seem accessible by vehicle, so I doubt you could fill an rv with it."
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require careful navigation. Regarding West River Rd dispersed camping, Maddy T. warned "when I pulled into what I thought would be a spot, the road was deserving a 4WD." Even established campgrounds may have challenging access, as Erin G. observed at Burning Coal Vein: "The short road in was in need of a bit of repair... just a bit of a rut from people getting stuck in mud. Rather narrow as well."
Insect preparation: Ticks are prevalent, particularly in spring and early summer. At Schnell Recreation Area, Moonyen S. reported "There were a lot of TICKS! But I found the few that were on me before they latched. My friend had at least twenty on her." Teresa T. confirmed that "you need to be prepared for ticks to hike in the tall grass."
Tips for camping with families
Simpler sites for beginners: Some campgrounds offer more user-friendly experiences for families with children. Rhonda M. describes Burning Coal Vein as having "No hookups - one vault toilet - picnic tables and fire rings at each site. Boondocking only... Outstanding views - BIG lots - peaceful."
Weather preparation: Sudden storms are common in this region, requiring family campers to prepare accordingly. Bill P. at Schnell Recreation Area experienced "5 hail storms" in a single night, despite it being a "lovely place to stay, clean with trash cans and vault toilets."
Educational opportunities: Several sites offer learning experiences about local ecosystems and history. At Bennett, Lynn G. notes "This is wide open country with no real facilities" but highlights opportunities to see "bison and other prairie critters" making it ideal for nature education.
Tips from RVers
Water limitations: RVers should plan to bring adequate water supplies. Steve D. at Elkhorn Campground summarizes the situation as "No power, no dumps, hand pump for water," making self-sufficiency essential for campers in larger vehicles.
Payment systems: Most campgrounds use honor-system payment methods. Brittany explains the process at Elkhorn: "$6 cash or check, put the money in the envelope and drop it in the box, clip the tag to your site #." Similarly, at Burning Coal Vein, Erin G. noted "The sign seemed to say $10 a night, pay with cash in an envelope."
Site access concerns: Many camping areas have limitations for larger vehicles. At Burning Coal Vein, Erin G. observed the access road was "Rather narrow as well, could definitely only accommodate one way traffic as a time," something RV drivers should consider before attempting entry.
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