Best Dispersed Camping near Fairfield, ND

Dispersed camping options near Fairfield, North Dakota include several free primitive sites on public lands. The most highly rated area is Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking, located approximately 10 minutes from Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This area features multiple pullouts along a dirt road with established camping spots at various elevations. Buffalo Gap Road and West River Road also offer dispersed camping opportunities, though with fewer amenities and less reliable access.

No facilities exist at these sites. Campers must pack in all water and supplies and pack out all trash. According to recent visitors, the main Grassland Boondocking area is accessible via a gravel road that becomes a dirt track. Several campers noted that "2WD/low clearance is no problem on the dirt road," though conditions may deteriorate after rain. The road requires careful navigation as one section is "a little washed out, but generally easy access."

These sites provide exceptional stargazing opportunities on clear nights. Cellular service varies by location and elevation, with better reception typically found at higher elevations. Verizon and AT&T coverage is generally reliable on the bluffs. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with strong winds common on exposed ridges. Visitors should be aware of wildlife, including cattle that occasionally graze through the area and potential rattlesnakes in brushy areas. The sites fill more quickly in the evening hours, particularly during summer weekends and near sunset. For water and dumping services, Sully Creek State Park is the nearest facility.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Fairfield, North Dakota (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Fairfield, ND

54 Photos of 5 Fairfield Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Fairfield, ND

56 Reviews of 5 Fairfield Campgrounds


  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Amazing Views, Easy Access, Quiet Stay

    Arrived the afternoon 07/27/24 and had no issues finding a spot. Went past where Google maps took us for Scoria Pit and up the hill to sit atop on the bluffs for some amazing views! No amenities, but the location and quietness around us was very much worth it. Good location a little off the highway near Theodore Roosevelt NP. One section of the road was a little washed out, but generally easy access.

  • Issa F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2023

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    A Breathe of Fresh Air

    Pulled up to the first campsite which was very easy to get to. Very peaceful. Around 9:30pm another camper pulled up next to me which seems like bad camping etiquette but maybe this is considered overflow since there’s enough space for two. I ended up moving to a different spot. Tried to make my way down to the petrified forest hike which is five miles down the dirt road but the last half mile was too washed out for my van to make it. Visited early June.

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    West River Rd Medora ND Dispersed

    Cow Country

    Beautiful but confusing. I originally went to dispersed camping on the other side of the highway but it was completely full!

    Despite the one negative review, I decided to scope out west river. There wasn’t a closure like they mentioned so I thought I was in the clear. But 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. It didn’t scream safety.

    Looking back, I’m sure it could be multi-use and fine to camp. Either way, I ended up the road car camping in what was essentially a turnout. I was awoken to the mooing of cows bright and early.

  • James W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Spectacular

    This is one of my favorite campsites to date. It’s totally dispersed camping, and there’s a lot of dirt road dust, however our site was super quiet and dark for beautiful stargazing. The other five star reviews are in my opinion legitimate. It was easy to come from Medora, North Dakota to the site, but it appears that you only get an entrance and exit on the Medora side. We almost went here for a second night, but got a first come first serve site inside the park for the next night.

  • Abraham The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2021

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Primo boondocking

    Just a dirt road with ample pullouts for camping/RVs. 2wd/low clearance is no problem on the dirt road. It's a right turn after the first cattle guard, previous reviewers were saying they had trouble finding the spot, I'd recommend Gaia gps or something similar.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2022

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Easy, good views, privacy

    There is one spectacular site at the end of the road and up a hill that overlooks the whole area. I wish I had gotten the opportunity to stay there. My site was simply okay. However, this campground was super easy to get to. The road in was fairly flat, and basically right off the highway. You can have the option of lots of privacy as well. Most of the sites are quite a distance away from each other.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Absolutely beautiful views

    Narrow Road, but plenty of spots to park at as well as not being too close to the next camper! Some of the most beautiful views you’ll see

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2021

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Gorgeous views!

    Loved this site so close to Medora, ND and especially Theodore Roosevelt NP. Little challenging to find as the GPS coordinates took us beyond the turnoff. As one writer earlier stated if you go over more than one cattle guard you’ve gone too far. Beautiful views and an early morning visit by a herd of cows. Drove to the top of the road with our Little Guy Max to find a site with 360 degree views.


Guide to Fairfield

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Fairfield, North Dakota, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of choosing your own spot while taking in the stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Scenic Views while Free Camping near Fairfield

  • The Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking offers breathtaking views from the top of the bluff, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
  • Campers have reported excellent visibility of the night sky, ideal for stargazing, especially from elevated areas within the site.
  • The location is known for its tranquility, providing a peaceful retreat despite its proximity to the Interstate.

Wildlife Watching for Dispersed Campers

  • At the West River Rd Medora ND Dispersed, visitors have spotted large herds of feral horses, adding a unique touch to the camping experience.
  • The area is rich in wildlife, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture the local fauna.
  • Campers often enjoy the sight of wild horses roaming freely, especially during the early morning or late evening hours.

Top Activities for Dispersed Campers

  • Hiking is a popular activity at the Buffalo Gap Rd Dispersed Camp, with easy access to trails that lead through the picturesque Little Missouri National Grassland.
  • Fishing opportunities abound near the Patterson Lake Boat Ramp, where you can enjoy a day on the water surrounded by nature.
  • For those seeking adventure, the area around Camels Hump Lake offers swimming and recreational activities, perfect for cooling off on hot days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Fairfield, ND?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Fairfield, ND is Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking with a 4.9-star rating from 54 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Fairfield, ND?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Fairfield, ND, with real photos and reviews from campers.