Campgrounds near Garrison, North Dakota feature varying terrain around Lake Sakakawea, the state's largest reservoir with over 1,500 miles of shoreline. North Dakota weather extremes affect camping conditions, with strong winds common in spring and early summer. Summer temperatures range from 55°F-85°F, with July and August providing optimal camping conditions.
What to do
Canoeing on the Missouri River: Cross Ranch State Park Campground offers canoe and kayak rentals with shuttle service. "We rented a canoe and 2 kayaks and were transported to Washburn and floated/paddled our way to Sanger boat launch. (Approx 9 miles) It took us about 3 hours and it was so beautiful! The park ranger picked us up at Sanger boat launch and brought everything back to the park entrance," shares Afton L.
Fishing from shore: Many campsites at Wolf Creek Campground provide direct water access for anglers without boats. "Nearly every site has easy access to the water. Two boat ramps located at the campground and great shore access for fishing," notes Melissa M.
Hiking historical routes: Explore trails following Lewis and Clark's path. "A scenic walk along the River where Lewis and Clark traveled. Cool stuff. Up the road was an extremely interesting National Historic Site we visited," mentions Shelly S. The Knife River Historic Site is within 2 miles of Sakakawea Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites for privacy: COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground features exceptionally large campsites. "Sites a larger than most campgrounds we've been to. Grounds are well kept," reports Thomas C. Another camper adds, "All sites appeared level and had a decent amount of separation between sites. There are some trees to provide shade to some sites."
Water views: Campers consistently praise the lake and river vistas. "We arrived to a most perfect little spot and view of the water," reports an Olson H. about Wolf Creek Campground. Similarly, at Nelson Carlson Lake, "All sites are along the lake. There are dumpsters, a boat ramp, picnic tables, two pit toilets and fire pits."
Unique accommodation options: Beyond standard tent and RV sites, Cross Ranch State Park Campground offers alternative lodging. "Great experience camping in an authentic Tipi. The Tipi has a wood floor and cots, with plenty of room. It kept us and our things dry during a rainstorm," shares Zachary N.
What you should know
Weather impacts: Strong winds affect bug populations. "Two days of windy during the day yet despite wind gusts going from 25-50 mph there was not a bug in site so you give and take," notes one camper at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground. However, "mosquitoes can be problematic during still evenings."
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds have specific booking procedures. "Note that camp host does not accept registrations, all campers need to register through the Recreation.gov website," advises a Wolf Creek visitor.
Facility limitations: Sakakawea Park offers limited hookup sites. "They have a handful of spots with water and electric and a few primitive spots," explains Teresa T. Some campgrounds have unusual dump station locations: "The dump station is actually in town near the bank."
Variable site quality: Not all sites are created equal. At East Totten Trail Campground, "We were on site 35 and it was not fit for a camper. Very Hilly and goose droppings everywhere. Will not camp there again with our camper. We ended up leaving it unleveled while camping."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Garrison offer play areas. "Loops One and Two have playgrounds; the one in Loop Two appears more modern so if you have kiddos who like playgrounds, I would recommend this loop," suggests one visitor to COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground.
Educational opportunities: Rice Lake County Park provides wildlife viewing chances for children. "The lake is small just northern pike. There is few campsites that are free," notes a visitor. At Cross Ranch State Park, ranger programs engage young campers with "ranger presentations" as mentioned by Karen Z.
Distance considerations: Some amenities require walking. At Cross Ranch State Park, "The showers were in the front office so like a half mile walk from my site. They were clean and well maintained," notes Shelly S. Another camper mentions, "First visit here, nice campground and layout. Park staff was very nice and friendly. Beautiful views of Missouri River. Only complaints were the long haul from the parking area."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric-only sites are common at dog friendly campgrounds near Garrison. "Only electrical service at the sites. Potable water is available at the dump site on the way in to the campground," reports Thomas C. about COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Check site descriptions carefully. "All sites appeared level and had a decent amount of separation between sites," notes one RVer at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground, while others report difficulties at East Totten Trail with "Very Hilly" sites where they "ended up leaving it unleveled while camping."
Budget-friendly options: Sakakawea Park offers good value. "Very cheap," notes c G. Another camper elaborates: "It is in a very nice setting. The sites are huge and the bathrooms are clean and nice. Very quiet and can't be beat for $20 water and electric."
