Theodore Roosevelt National Park's badlands and grasslands surround the small town of Grassy Butte, North Dakota at an elevation of 2,760 feet. The area features dramatic changes in temperature throughout the year, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping below 0°F. Camping options range from full-service sites with electric hookups to primitive locations with vault toilets and hand pumps for water.
What to do
Trail exploration: Maah Daah Hey Trail: The extensive trail network offers over 100 miles of hiking through the North Dakota Badlands. CCC Campground provides direct access to the trail system. "This is a good solid campground that was almost full when we arrived, but we were able to choose a nice spot. The park rangers here were awesome and so helpful," notes Deborah C. about nearby Juniper Campground.
Stargazing: clear night skies: Camping areas away from town lights provide excellent stargazing conditions. "Be sure to look up at night…the stars are amazing! I saw three shooting stars and you could clearly see the Milky Way and everything," reports Stephanie W. who stayed at Juniper Campground.
Wildlife viewing: bison herds: Buffalo regularly move through camping areas, particularly in early morning and evening hours. Chris A. from Juniper Campground notes, "While we were camped here, 2 small herds of bison grazed through the camp," providing a unique wildlife viewing opportunity without leaving your site.
What campers like
Privacy in natural settings: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites separated by trees and terrain features. At Magpie Campground, Jenny K. appreciates that "the sites are spaced apart and surrounded by trees. Even if it was at capacity, you wouldn't hear or see much of others."
Scenic vistas: panoramic badlands views: The elevated terrain provides expansive views across the rugged landscape. Eric G. describes CCC Campground as having "awesome views. 360 deg. Large sites spaced far apart. 40 plus sites. Host said never full. $10 a night. No road noise."
Clean facilities: Despite the remote location, many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. Janet K. appreciated Sully Creek State Park for its "Clean, warm, free showers!" and notes it's "Beautiful campground outside of Theodore Roosevelt NP."
What you should know
Limited water sources: Many campgrounds have restricted water access or non-potable water. Jennifer K. warns about Juniper Campground: "There's quite a few 'drinking water' spigots marked on the map but when you get to them there is a sign with a drinking glass and a red slash through it. The only drinking water is at the bathroom and not meant to fill your RV."
Wildlife safety precautions: Bison, deer, and other wildlife frequently pass through campgrounds. "Bison will definitely stroll through your sites if you're over by the field like we were," reports Jillian C. at Juniper Campground, emphasizing the need to maintain safe distances.
Reservation limitations: Many sites operate on first-come, first-served basis, which can create challenges during peak season. At Summit Campground, Nevin C. notes, "The sign says it is $6 a night but there is no method to pay so it was free. 10 minutes from the gate to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park."
Tips for camping with families
Bird watching opportunities: The diverse habitat supports numerous bird species. "Great birds!! Chats, American Redstart, Cedar Waxwings, Spotted Towhee, Eastern Kingbird and more!" enthuses Janet K. about Sully Creek State Park, providing an educational activity for children.
Ranger programs: educational sessions: National Park Service offers regular programming at certain campgrounds. Lee L. appreciated Juniper Campground for having "the standard National Park features, but our kids especially enjoyed the ranger presentation on prairie dogs."
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be extreme in this region. Nicole C. from CCC Campground warns, "October can be cold! It got down below freezing in the first week of October. It gets windy." Families should pack additional layers even for summer camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large vehicles: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. Bob M. advises about Juniper Campground: "When this place was built, they never envisioned large rigs. So if you have one over 30 feet, just be aware you might have to wiggle your way into a site."
Water tank management: Fill tanks before arrival at campgrounds with limited water. "There is a dump station, but no potable water for RV tanks. Drinking water is available at the wash house," notes Chris A. about Grassy Butte Community Park, adding that "drinking of the water at the fill station is discouraged due to high levels of fluoride."
Power options: Electric hookups are limited to specific campgrounds. Luckybreak R. describes Grassy Butte Community Park as offering "$15 a night with 110 extension cord power - can't beat that!" providing an affordable option for RVers needing minimal power.
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