RV sites near Garrison, North Dakota provide access to the Missouri River and Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota's largest reservoir spanning over 178,000 acres. The region sits at approximately 1,850 feet elevation with warm summers reaching 85°F and cold winters dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds remain operational from May through September, though some offer limited services during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Hiking trails: Fort Stevenson State Park Campground offers excellent mountain biking and hiking trails around Lake Sakakawea. As one visitor mentioned, "There are a few great hikes that are kid friendly" and "There is a nice marina if you bring a boat."
Fishing access: COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground provides direct access to the Missouri River for fishing. A camper noted, "They have many paths down to the Missouri River for some great fishing and if you are a polar bear swimming."
Water recreation: Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground features multiple swimming beaches and boat access. "A beach is amazing with little bay area that is calm even on windy days for the kayaker or paddleboarder. Boat dock with ample parking," reports one visitor.
Historical exploration: Visit the original Fort Stevenson site to learn about regional history. "While you're there check out Fort Stevenson and read the history of the area," recommends a camper from Fort Stevenson State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Roughrider RV Resort in Minot offers varying site types. "The front section feels like a true campground with the exception of the sites are a little close and the rear corner is set up like a gravel rv parking lot and priced accordingly," notes one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain clean restrooms and showers. A visitor to Roughrider RV Resort commented, "The restrooms and paid showers were clean and new. On site laundry was a plus."
Natural protection: Downstream camping areas provide shelter from strong winds. "It's below garrison dam and has many big trees, so it's protected from the wind," explains a camper at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities for bird and wildlife watching. "The sounds from Mother Nature were singing her melodies to keep us entertained. Nothing better than waking up to the sound of wind in the leaves and birds singing their songs," shares one camper.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Many campgrounds shut off water systems before May 15 and after September. "Only downside is the park is open early but no water, flush toilets or showers until May 15! There are a few vault toilets so pick your site accordingly," advises a visitor to Lake Sakakawea State Park.
Wind conditions: The area experiences strong winds, especially on the lake. "We spent two nights here as one of the days the wind was blowing 50 miles an hour with gusts to 70. Pretty impressive site to see across the lake," reports a camper at Lake Sakakawea State Park.
Reservation systems: Swenson Valley View RV Park in Minot has limited availability during busy periods. "As our visit was on a Sunday, Labor Day weekend arrival, there were 3 back-in sites available in the short term area - all sites in the Park are $50/night with FHU and septic," notes one visitor.
Insects: Wind-protected areas may have more bugs. A camper at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground warned, "It's protected from the wind which makes bugs an issue at times so be prepared for that!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with play areas for children. "There is a fun playground for the kids and an amazing hiking trail around the entire state park," notes a visitor to Fort Stevenson State Park.
Beach activities: Center RV Park provides convenient access to local amenities. While primarily serving long-term stays, its central location makes it ideal for families visiting the area, though as one camper noted, "This is really more of a man camp for permanent campers then a weekend camper spot."
Group camping: Some parks offer larger sites for multiple families. "They have spots for group camping that you can have 2-3 RVs on or private single camp spots," mentions a Fort Stevenson State Park visitor.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning with camping. "Great hike along the shoreline Trail, and also apparently North Country Trail, and here that goes all the way across to Vermont," notes a Lake Sakakawea State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
City park options: Ball Park RV Park in Center offers convenient overnight stops. "This is the campground for travelers coming through town. It is very nice and at the city park. It is close to the road so I'm assuming you get road noise," explains a visitor.
Site selection: When staying at Roughrider RV Resort, choose sites carefully. "If you decide to stay here try to avoid row 90-96 as they are very tight, you share utilities, and you are door to door with your neighbor," advises one RVer.
Utility hookups: Electric-only sites require planning for water needs. "All sites have paved camper pads and electric hookups," notes a COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground visitor, while another mentions, "Potable water is available at the dump site on the way in to the campground."
Campground layouts: Some RV parks primarily serve long-term residents. A visitor to Center RV Park observed, "You have full hookups and no bathrooms or other services. There's probably 15 sites back to back right beside one another in the Sun."
