The Hankinson area of southeastern North Dakota sits at approximately 1,070 feet above sea level, featuring a mix of prairie grasslands and oak savanna ecosystems. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F, while camping options include established county parks, city facilities, and national grasslands. Most campgrounds close seasonally from late October through April due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails: 5-6 mile loop trails are available at Hankinson Hills Campground, where visitors can experience native oak/grass prairie ecosystems. "There is a hiking trail that circles this small grassland about 5 or 6 miles long," notes Doug W. about Hankinson Hills Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake access is available at several campgrounds, particularly at Chahinkapa Park. "We stayed here one night in April and it was a nice little place. There is a zoo which is nice for the kids," mentions Joe S. about Chahinkapa Park, which also offers golf course access.
Wildlife viewing: The Sheyenne National Grassland provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities including coyotes and native prairie species. "Heard some coyotes late at night," reports Erik C. about his overnight stay at Sheyenne National Grassland.
What campers like
Affordable rates: Most campgrounds in the area are budget-friendly with basic amenities. "Very nice camping. Quiet and peaceful. Ten bucks a night," explains Roger A. about Welles Memorial Park.
Limited light pollution: Rural locations around Hankinson offer excellent stargazing opportunities. "There is grazing in the grassland but it is very quiet and no light pollution," notes Doug W. about Hankinson Hills Campground.
Unique ecological experience: The area represents remnant prairie ecosystems rare in the region. "The tall grass prairie here is absolutely beautiful, and a rare place to be able to enjoy," writes Sean M. about Sheyenne National Grassland, adding "It's a very different kind of camping than I was used to in forests back east."
What you should know
Biting insects: Summer months bring significant insect activity. "Only downside was the abundance of biting flies and mosquitoes," warns Katie L. after her stay at Hankinson Hills Campground.
Livestock presence: Many camping areas in the region double as grazing land. "Only problem: there are cows everywhere. You go through cow pastures to get to the campground and they are just sitting at the fence line mooing," reports Brendon K. about his experience at Hankinson Hills.
Variable amenities: City parks often have limited facilities. "4 grass spots with 30 amp electric picnic table and trash cans. Dump station at the pay box but no water," explains Always C. about Hankinson City Park, noting "Bathroom across from the sites."
Tips for camping with families
Zoo access: Families can combine camping with educational experiences. Joe S. mentions that Chahinkapa Park has "a zoo which is nice for the kids" along with facilities that make family camping comfortable.
Shade considerations: Many sites have limited shade coverage. "The campsites are integrated into the fairgrounds which is different but nice. Very little shade for most of the sites," notes Teresa T. about Welles Memorial Park.
Trail accessibility: Some areas have recently maintained trails suitable for family exploration. "We love it so much! Only saw 1 other group on the trail, did 5 miles out to Mirror pond, enjoyed lunch there and did the 5 miles back," shares Christina M. about her family's experience at Sheyenne National Grassland.
Tips from RVers
Road accessibility: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "It is well off the main road but the dirt road is passable with any rig. The sites are varied, well kept and some will fit larger rigs," explains Doug W. about Hankinson Hills Campground.
Water supply planning: Limited water access requires advance planning. "Dump station at the pay box but no water. Found a business that let us fill our tanks," shares Always C. about their experience at Hankinson City Park.
Site selection concerns: Some campgrounds have limited designated RV spaces. "There's a short row of camp spots in the sun for campers," warns Teresa T. about Kidder Recreation Area, adding that space can be limited during busy periods.
