The Dunn Center area in North Dakota is situated within the rugged North Dakota Badlands, with elevations ranging from 1,900 to 2,500 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, while winter lows can drop below 0°F. This region contains multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Dunn Center with varied terrain - from badlands formations to grassland prairies that transition between seasons.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: 27+ miles of marked paths accessible directly from Little Missouri State Park Campground. "This is a beautiful little park that features trail riding. Great hiking through the Badlands and views that can't be beat. Although this park is in the middle of the oil fields it does not interfere with the horseback riding, hiking, or other experiences," notes Glenda W.
Maah Daah Hey Trail access: Over 100 miles of continuous trail available from Magpie Campground. "I've stayed here multiple times. The sites are relatively spread out, though I like to stay towards the back of the site where it's even more secluded. 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," reports Cullen C.
Patterson Lake activities: Fishing and boating available with easy lake access. "Great spot tent's are on there own grass spot the rv spot's that i seen looked small if you had bigger rig would be very tight," mentions connie P. The lake provides fishing opportunities but sometimes experiences algae blooms that prevent swimming during mid-summer.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area around Juniper Campground offers frequent bison encounters. "Great little campground. Friendly hosts, clean, plenty of spots and didn't even fill up for the holiday weekend. Bison will definitely stroll through your sites if you're over by the field like we were," shares Jillian C.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution provides exceptional stargazing. "I stayed here one night on a spur of the moment idea while visiting my dad. We had a great time two nights. We had no cell service but we were from out of state so theres that," notes Jesse S. about Indian Hills State Rec Area.
Low crowd density: Many campgrounds report low occupancy even during peak season. "We were headed to the north unit of TRNP and found this nice campground. Small and private, only one other group there who were visiting with their horses," writes Melissa B. about Magpie Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly across pet-friendly camping areas. "I think the most we saw were two other camp sites filled. Even if it was at capacity, you wouldn't hear or see much of others. The sites are spaced apart and surrounded by trees," reports Jenny K. about Magpie Campground.
Road access challenges: Several campgrounds require travel on unpaved 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," notes Melissa B.
Seasonal weather impacts: Summer temperatures can exceed 90°F with limited shade at many sites. "This place is awesome. The super nice lady gave me a tent site for my 19ft van in complete shade with a private grass area and picnic table. It was perfect," writes Marlo C. about North Park Campground.
Water availability: Varies significantly between campgrounds. "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," explains Jenny K.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog-accommodating parks offer recreational areas for children. "Grassy Butte Community Park has a beautiful playground if you have kids. And the store the host owns has basic necessities. The park is beautifully kept," reports Mimi.
Wildlife education opportunities: Ranger-led programs available seasonally at CCC Campground. "Plenty of pit toilets, potable water, and electric. The views from the park are amazing! Sites are big and each has a picnic table, fire pit, and grill," explains Scott D.
Campground spacing considerations: Family noise levels vary between locations. "We watched the sun rise over the ND badlands! The Campground was immaculate, the ranger on duty was super helpful, and I had the whole grounds to myself (it was on a Tuesday)," writes Angie B. about Little Missouri State Park.
Junior ranger programs: Available at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. "Lots of great trails and bison roam freely. Funny tidbit, the campground is on the border of the time zone border, so my devices would change times and I thought there was a problem, took me a while to figure it out," mentions Deborah C.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Most pet-friendly campgrounds offer partial services only. "The site was perfectly level and with full hook-ups for $42 a night! We were able to stay hooked up to our truck to make the exit in the morning speedy," notes Karen B. about North Park Campground.
Site spacing variations: RV sites at Grassy Butte Community Park provide more room between campers. "Quiet, we're the only people here and the host said that's usually the case. $15 a night with 110 extension cord power - can't beat that! The water here tastes good, there are several frost free hydrants for use," shares Mimi.
Road navigation challenges: Large rigs face difficulties at some campgrounds. "When this place was built, they never envisioned large rigs. So if you have one over 30 feet, just be aware you might have to wiggle your way into a site," advises Bob M. regarding Juniper Campground.
