Fairfield, North Dakota sits on the southwestern edge of the Little Missouri Badlands at approximately 2,640 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below 0°F, with campsites often experiencing high winds due to the region's open terrain and minimal tree cover.
What to do
Prairie hiking trails: 3-6 miles in length within Theodore Roosevelt National Park's South Unit near Medora Campground. The Petrified Forest trail offers unique geological features. "Hiking trail is a must! We saw wild horses running through the prairie," reports one camper at Cottonwood Campground.
Little Missouri River wading access: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for cooling off during hot summer days. "Nice campground, good roads and pull through spots... easy to bike or walk. No grocery store, only small convenience store so make sure you stock up if you are staying for a few days," notes a visitor at Medora Campground.
Badlands wildlife viewing: dawn/dusk optimal for spotting bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs. "We woke up to find bison all around us. Truly a beautiful and unique experience I'll never forget," writes a camper at Cottonwood Campground.
What campers like
Affordability: $10-30 per night at most campgrounds with basic amenities. "Nothing fancy but a good location from both Theodore Roosevelt national parks. Full hook ups," notes one visitor at The Crossings Campground. Another camper added: "Minutes from Medora attractions and TRNP for half the price: $25/night."
Small-town hospitality: Many campground hosts receive positive mentions. "Nice no frills campsite in a small town. Jason was a very gracious host! He met us when we arrived and gave us information about the site and the town," shares a guest at American RV Park.
Dark night skies: Limited light pollution provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "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," explains a candid review from The Crossings Campground.
What you should know
Limited grocery options: No major supermarkets in small towns near RV parks. "No grocery store, only small convenience store so make sure you stock up if you are staying for a few days," advises a Medora Campground visitor.
Extreme weather considerations: Summer brings intense heat and sudden storms. "The full hookups were nice since the temps were in the upper 90s," mentions a camper at The Crossings. Winter camping is primarily for self-contained units.
Uneven site conditions: Many RV parks in Fairfield and surrounding areas have basic gravel pads. "Site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks," explains a visitor at Boots Campground.
Free camping options: 14-day limit at Summit Campground on national grasslands. "There are plenty of spots available with even ground and fire pits. Be aware of current fire conditions posted on the NPS billboard at the bathrooms," shares a camper.
Tips for camping with families
City pool access: $5 per person at the Medora municipal pool located near campgrounds. "Good recreation for kids, basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person. Medora is a small town, easy to bike or walk," writes a family staying at Medora Campground.
Book evening entertainment: The Medora Musical runs June through September. "Definitely worth the convenience to the park and the Medora Musical," notes a visitor at Red Trail Campground.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer play areas. "Playground was large and great for our kids (1,2,4,&8). Showers were clean and open late. C store was a lifesaver!!!" shares a family at Red Trail Campground.
Specialty accommodations: Some campgrounds offer unique sleeping options. "I believe that you can rent covered wagons here to sleep in as well if you are looking for a truly unique and western experience," mentions a visitor to Medora Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning challenges: Some RV parks have unusual utility layouts. "Make sure you bring plenty of sewer hose if your RV is any size. The same goes for electric and water hose," advises a camper at The Crossings Campground.
Sanitary dump availability: Several RV parks Fairfield area provide dump stations. "There is water, but I have not yet found a dumping station at this site," notes a visitor to Cottonwood Campground, highlighting the importance of planning dumps before arrival.
Internet connectivity: Wi-Fi quality varies significantly between parks. "Rock solid smoking fast T-Mobile 5G" at The Crossings Campground, while other facilities offer inconsistent service. "Good cell reception. Good for stop over only," reports a visitor to Boots Campground.
Site spacing considerations: RV parks have varying degrees of privacy. "Sites are small, tight and un-level. Close to Theodore Roosevelt NP. Site 2 gives you room to park and put chairs out, some of the others are so close you can almost touch your neighbor standing in your door!" explains a Boots Campground visitor.
