RV camping near Dunn Center, North Dakota provides access to badlands landscapes with elevations ranging from 1,900 to 2,500 feet. The area experiences a continental climate with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows often below freezing. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with limited services during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Little Missouri State Park Campground features extensive equestrian trails through the badlands terrain. "This park is outstanding. The horse and hiking trails are unbelievable. The campgrounds themselves are quiet. You'll experience starry skies and the howls of coyotes," notes Jessica S.
Hiking opportunities: Summit Campground provides access to trails offering badlands views. "Easy walk to a great view of the badlands. 10 minutes from the gate to the North unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park," according to Nevin C.
Stargazing: Clear night skies offer prime stargazing conditions from late spring through fall. "I 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," reports Angie B. about Little Missouri State Park.
What campers like
Free camping options: Summit Campground provides no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Free camp spot with just a few sites and a vault toilet. Hiking trail nearby to stretch the legs or exercise the dog," shares Meghan B.
Full hookup value: The Crossings Campground offers affordable rates for complete services. "This is a bone basic FULL HOOK UP (water, sewer, electric) campground with rock solid smoking fast T-Mobile 5G. Minutes from Medora attractions and TRNP for half the price: $25/night," writes Michelle M.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently spot coyotes, deer, and various bird species near campsites. "At night the sky was lit from ND oil drilling gas release. The campground and trails are VERY accommodating to horse back riding, with many corrals and hay available," reports Olson H. about Little Missouri State Park.
What you should know
Hookup positioning: Utility connection points at some parks require longer-than-standard hoses. "Did not like that the hookups for water and sewer in our site was on the opposite side than any other park we stayed so make sure you have plenty of sewer and water hose," advises Mark H. about The Crossings.
Industrial presence: Oil and gas operations are visible from some campsites and trails. "We were surrounded by miles of hiking in which we enjoyed about 13 miles of, but so much more we could've hiked! The views were gorgeous, but there are oil drillers within view from our site," notes Olson H.
Reservation requirements: Trappers RV Park in Belfield takes reservations for its 25 electric sites with shower facilities. "We stayed here for 3 weeks while working the oil feild. It was nice and quite," reports Jesse S.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation access: Lake Sakakawea offers swimming and boating opportunities approximately 30 miles north of Dunn Center. "The only saving Grace was the water park nearby," mentions Vena B. when staying at 4 Bears RV Park.
Shower availability: Little Missouri State Park Campground provides coin-operated showers essential for families after dusty hiking days. "Toilets were a little bit dirty, however the showers (available through inserted quarters) were very clean and it was nice to use a full pressure and sized shower after a long day in the heat," shares Olson H.
Heat considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with limited shade at most sites. "The full hookups were nice since the temps were in the upper 90s. The price was good and there were spots available fairly last minute," notes Andrew W. about The Crossings Campground.
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly options: Multiple campgrounds offer affordable nightly rates under $30. "We camped here for four days on Memorial weekend. The sights are level and easy to park. There are no restrooms or dumpsters on site. All the neighbors and campers were friendly. Wi fi worked great," reports Tammy P. about The Crossings Campground.
Cellular connectivity: American RV Park in Dunn Center provides reliable cellular service for remote workers. "Nice no frills campsite in a small town. We stayed a week while sightseeing in the area. Highly recommend!" says Bruce S.
Site conditions: Many campgrounds feature gravel or grass pads rather than concrete. "It's just a big field, so the spots are mostly flat but are lumpy with bumps and giant ant mounds. If you want to explore the NPs and stay cool, it's decent," warns Andrew W. about The Crossings Campground.
