Lake Sakakawea dominates the landscape near Garrison, North Dakota, creating numerous camping spots along its 178-mile length. The lake forms the third-largest reservoir in the United States by volume, with water levels that can fluctuate significantly between seasons. Camping options near Garrison range from developed state park facilities to more rustic Corps of Engineers sites, with most campgrounds situated below 2,000 feet elevation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Missouri River below Garrison Dam at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground offers excellent fishing access. "There are many paths down to the Missouri River for some great fishing and if you are a polar bear swimming," notes camper Erin A.
Mountain biking: Explore the trail system at Fort Stevenson State Park Campground, which features well-maintained paths through varied terrain. A camper mentioned it has "excellent mountain biking and hiking trails" and is "surrounded by beautiful lakes and fields of wheat."
Water recreation: Multiple boat ramps provide lake access at most campgrounds. At Beulah Bay Rec Area, "kayak rentals are available" and many campers enjoy "boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding" according to reviewer Brandi M.
Historical exploration: Visit nearby attractions like the Knife River National Historic Site. A camper at Sakakawea Park noted it's "within 2 miles of the Knife River National Historic Site and is a great jump off point" for exploring the area's history.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campgrounds near Garrison consistently offer larger-than-average sites. At COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground, one reviewer emphasized they are "VERY spacious sites! Electric only, but it's camping right!"
Waterfront views: Many camping areas feature direct lake views. At Wolf Creek Campground, campers praise the setting: "We arrived to a most perfect little spot and view of the water" and "this campground has some of the best views of the lake."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive mentions. At Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground, a visitor noted it has "clean shower facilities and flushing toilets! Not to mention the outstanding views of Lake Sakakawea!"
Group camping options: Several campgrounds accommodate larger gatherings. Beulah Bay Rec Area "is nice for larger groups" according to one reviewer, while Fort Stevenson has "spots for group camping that you can have 2-3 RVs on or private single camp spots."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong winds frequently affect camping near Garrison. One camper at Wolf Creek noted the campground has "some tree cover" which can help, while another at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground mentioned "two days of windy during the day yet despite wind gusts going from 25-50 mph there was not a bug in site."
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels vary seasonally, affecting beach access. At Hazen Bay Rec Area, one camper reported, "Lake was high so there was no beach. What was left of the water front was taken up by inconsiderate fisherman who couldn't pull the trailers out of the way."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance bookings through Recreation.gov or state park systems. Wolf Creek Campground requires that "all campers need to register through the Recreation.gov website" as "camp host does not accept registrations."
Seasonal amenities: Water systems and some facilities close during colder months. Lake Sakakawea State Park has "the park is open early but no water, flush toilets or showers until May 15! There a few vault toilets so pick your site accordingly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. At Sakakawea Park, visitors mention a "large playground, clean bathrooms" and "large grassy area with kid toys as well as a basketball court."
Family activities: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options. Beulah Bay Rec Area offers "lots of family activities like horseshoes, basketball court, frisbee golf, and volleyball."
Swimming areas: Beach conditions vary by location and season. One camper at Lake Sakakawea State Park noted, "Beach is amazing with little bay area that is calm even on windy days for the kayaker or paddleboarder."
Educational opportunities: Several sites offer interpretive programs and historical features. Fort Stevenson State Park visitors recommend: "While your there check out Fort Stevenson and read the history of the area."
Tips from RVers
Electric service: Most sites offer 30/50 amp connections but with varied hookup options. At Lake Sakakawea State Park, "Elbow woods, sanish, and van hook loops all have 30/50 amp and water for campers, there is also a primitive loop."
Level sites: Some campgrounds feature more level RV pads than others. At Sakakawea Park, campers reported "concrete pads plenty long enough for our 5ver" and noted there are "10 level RV sites with electric and water hook ups for $20 a night."
Generator regulations: Rules vary regarding generator usage. One Lake Sakakawea State Park visitor mentioned that "the generator rule (off after 8:00 p.m.) is ridiculous. It is sweltering hot (thank goodness for nice breezes) and people are up playing and having fun until 11:00 p.m."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have onsite dump stations. A Sakakawea Park reviewer noted "the dump station is actually in town near the bank" rather than within the campground itself.
