Cabin camping near Hazen, North Dakota centers around the Missouri River system and Lake Sakakawea, which covers over 368,000 acres as the third-largest man-made reservoir in the United States. Cabin rentals typically open for booking 95 days in advance, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak season. Winter cabin options remain available at select parks when temperatures can drop below freezing, providing year-round accommodation opportunities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Sakakawea supports multiple fish species and dedicated facilities. "Clean lake with no smells and large campsites. Pick a site with a view of the lake and the breeze is wonderful," notes a visitor at Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground. The park includes a marina with fish cleaning stations.
Water recreation: Many cabin locations provide direct lake access for swimming, boating, and paddling. At Beulah Bay Rec Area, "Lots of to do! Boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding. Cabins, primitive campsites with great views and Full hook up RV sites... Kayak rentals are available as well!"
Trail exploration: Several parks feature hiking trails with river views. "We had a blast! 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!" shares a visitor from Cross Ranch State Park.
Historical sites: Visit Fort Stevenson and other historical landmarks to learn about regional history. "While your there check out Fort Stevenson and read the history of the area," suggests a camper who visited Fort Stevenson State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many cabin areas provide good separation between units. According to one camper at Cross Ranch State Park, "This place has it all! Beautiful, well-groomed, shaded hiking paths everywhere. Playgrounds. Big fields. Clean water access to the river for swimming, dogs, fishing. Good sized sights, well sheltered by trees."
Water views: Cabins with lake views are consistently rated highest. "The sites are well spaced, some with beautiful views of the lake. Great breezes from the water. There is a marina with a fish cleaning station and a store," notes a visitor at Lake Sakakawea State Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers enhance the cabin experience. A camper at Hazen Bay Rec Area appreciated the "Quiet, clean shower rooms" while another mentioned "Full hook ups which is nice!"
Unique accommodation options: Beyond standard cabins, some parks offer distinctive 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," reports a camper from Cross Ranch State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary significantly between locations. Indian Hills Resort operates from "May 15 to October 15," while Heart Butte Reservoir (Lake Tschida) runs from "May to September."
Water access challenges: Lake levels affect beach availability and access points. One visitor noted, "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."
Weather considerations: North Dakota experiences temperature extremes. A camper advised, "Bring water shoes if you plan on swimming in the lake as it is rocky. All campsites include one picnic table and one fire pit."
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for peak season. "Group spots here are fun but you need to book the day they come available to reserve or you will miss out!" warns a Lake Sakakawea visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple cabin locations feature play areas. "There is a fun playground for the kids and an amazing hiking trail around the entire state park," mentions a visitor at Fort Stevenson State Park.
Swimming options: Beaches vary in quality and safety. "There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large) and there is usually another beach with red rocks (lots have leaf fossils!) that you can get to pending the water level," explains a Fort Stevenson camper.
Recreation variety: Choose cabins near diverse activities. At Glen Ullin Memorial Park, nature provides unexpected entertainment: "Took a little walk and saw a blue heron in a tree, great horned owl in a tree and hear a coyote yipping."
Wildlife viewing: The Missouri River system supports diverse wildlife. "Lots of sites to choose from. Not too close together. Reasonable price. Only downside is 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 from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric service differs between locations. "The spots are really not very private but at least they are under the trees out of the sun and wind," observes a visitor at Governors Centennial Loop Campground.
Generator policies: Rules vary regarding generator use hours. "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."
Supply planning: Limited on-site provisions require advance planning. "Come with all of your supplies, there is a small town but everything will cost you double," advises a Lake Sakakawea camper.
Site selection strategy: Research specific sites before booking. "Once we spent some time here we discovered that most are camping here to fish, there is a really good landing and a bait shop on the campground so it is very accommodating for that."
