Best Campgrounds near Fairfield, ND
Camping opportunities around Fairfield, North Dakota include developed campgrounds within the Little Missouri National Grassland and the nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Magpie Campground, located near Fairfield, provides primitive tent and RV camping with direct access to the Maah Daah Hey Trail system. The region includes several established camping areas like Cottonwood and Juniper Campgrounds within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, as well as dispersed sites on public lands. Visitors can choose from tent sites, RV hookups, and occasional glamping opportunities depending on the specific campground.
Road conditions throughout the area vary considerably, with many campgrounds accessible only via unpaved roads that may become challenging during wet weather. "A little difficult to access if you've never been but worth it. Direct access to 100+ miles of the Maah Daah Hey trail!" noted a camper about Magpie Campground. Most established campgrounds remain open from spring through fall, though some like Cottonwood Campground operate year-round. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically across seasons, with summer highs sometimes exceeding 90°F and winter bringing snowfall and freezing conditions. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many camping areas, particularly those in more remote sections of the grasslands.
Campers consistently highlight the privacy and scenic views available at campgrounds in the region. Magpie Campground receives praise for its secluded sites separated by trees, providing privacy even when multiple sites are occupied. A recent review noted that "the sites are relatively spread out, though I like to stay towards the back of the site where it's even more secluded." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the area, with visitors frequently reporting sightings of birds, deer, and occasional bison depending on location. Most developed campground areas provide basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, while more remote dispersed sites require self-sufficiency. Water availability varies by campground, with some offering hand pumps for drinking water and others requiring visitors to bring their own supply.
