Equestrian camping near Fairfield, North Dakota offers direct access to over 100 miles of the Maah Daah Hey Trail system through badlands terrain. Located in the Little Missouri National Grasslands, this region features elevations ranging from 1,800 to 2,800 feet with dramatic buttes and ridges. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during the day, cooling to 45-60°F at night, creating substantial temperature swings campers should prepare for.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Several campgrounds connect directly to the Maah Daah Hey Trail system, which extends over 100 miles. At CCC Campground, "The Maah Daah Hey and Long X trails start at this campground. We did a great 11ish mile mountain bike loop by heading up Maah Daah Hey and down Long X," notes Nicole C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The grasslands and badlands support diverse wildlife populations easily spotted from trails. "We saw buffalo, prairie dogs, Big Horn Sheep, wild horses, deer, eagles, warblers, jack rabbits, antelope, and that is just what we saw in a day and a half!" reports Charles C. from Buffalo Gap Campground.
Badlands exploration: The unique terrain offers distinctive hiking experiences. At Elkhorn Campground, "Nearby is Elkhorn Ranch Unit trail leading to Theodore Roosevelt Ranch site. No buildings but interpretive signage," shares Jim M.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Most equestrian campgrounds offer privacy between sites. At Magpie Campground, "The sites are spaced apart and surrounded by trees. We stayed Sat-Mon in late June and it wasn't crowded at all. I think the most we saw were two other camp sites filled," reports Jenny K.
Natural water sources: Access to water for both campers and horses is available at select sites. "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," notes Jenny K. about Magpie Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers exceptional night skies. "I was able to see the northern lights here once!" says Adam L. about Magpie Campground, highlighting the dark sky conditions available to campers.
What you should know
Travel time to sites: Many equestrian campgrounds require significant travel on unpaved roads. "The campsite is a good 25 min off the highway on a dirt road so don't plan to go back-forth a lot," warns Jenny K. about accessing Magpie Campground.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have limited water sources with varying quality. "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," advises Jim M. from his stay at Elkhorn Campground.
Payment systems: Most sites operate on a self-service payment basis. At Wannagan Campground, "I believe the fee is $6 a night, bring exact cash or a check, no change to be made," explains Brittany.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger programs. At Juniper Campground, "Park Rangers provide educational classes from Thursday-Sunday evenings," notes Cable A., making it ideal for families wanting structured learning experiences.
Wildlife safety awareness: Bison frequently move through campgrounds. "Plenty 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," explains Deborah C. about Juniper Campground.
Weather preparedness: Temperature shifts can be dramatic. "October can be cold! It got down below freezing in the first week of October. It gets windy," warns Nicole C. about CCC Campground, emphasizing the need for proper gear even during shoulder seasons.
Tips from RVers
Limited services: Most horse-oriented campgrounds have minimal amenities for RVs. "There are no hook-ups, and no dump station. The only water is a well that you have to pump yourself with a handle, so come with your black/grey tanks empty and water tank full," advises Holly E. about CCC Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. "Very close to neighbors and site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks," reports Clean Slate D. about their experience at Boots Campground.
Generator policies: Rules about generator use vary between campgrounds. "They do allow generators, but it would be nice if they didn't. We have solar panels so we always get annoyed with generators ruining the peace and quiet," notes Holly E. about CCC Campground.
