Lake Sakakawea dominates the camping landscape near Hazen, North Dakota, with the reservoir stretching over 178 miles and offering more than 1,500 miles of shoreline. Campgrounds in this region typically sit at elevations between 1,800-1,900 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though services become limited when temperatures drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access points: Wolf Creek Campground provides direct lake access with two boat ramps and excellent shore fishing opportunities. "Nearly every site has easy access to the water. Two boat ramps located at the campground and great shore access for fishing," notes one visitor.
Paddling and water sports: Many campers bring kayaks and paddleboards to enjoy the protected bays. At Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground, "Beach is amazing with little bay area that is calm even on windy days for the kayaker or paddleboarder. Boat dock with ample parking," according to a reviewer.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature walking paths with interpretive elements. "Great hike along the shoreline Trail, and also apparently north country Trail, and here that goes all the way across to Vermont," mentions a Lake Sakakawea State Park visitor who stayed during October.
Swimming beaches: Rocky beaches are common, so water shoes are recommended. "Bring water shoes if you plan on swimming in the lake as it is rocky," advises a camper at Beulah Bay Rec Area.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Fort Stevenson State Park Campground receives high marks for site layout. "The campsites are spacious. There are few great hikes that are kid friendly. There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large)," writes one camper. Another added, "North Dakota does a great job with their state parks campgrounds."
Waterfront views: Many sites offer direct views of Lake Sakakawea. "We had a very clear view of the water and the place was very clean. The sites were spaced out well enough where my neighbors weren't too close to me," mentions a camper who stayed at Lake Sakakawea State Park with their dog.
Clean facilities: COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground maintains high standards. "Hot clean showers, space between sites, hike trails, great power...shade," notes one reviewer. However, another mentioned: "Loop Three has vault toilets and I have seen cleaner ones."
Wind protection: The location below Garrison Dam provides shelter from North Dakota's famous winds. "It's below garrison dam and has many big trees, so it's protected from the wind which makes bugs an issue at times so be prepared for that!"
What you should know
Early season limitations: Water and bathroom facilities often remain shut off until mid-May. "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," warns a Lake Sakakawea State Park visitor.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer. For Beulah Bay Rec Area, a reviewer noted, "This campground is nice for larger groups and has a lot of long-term campers."
Insects can be problematic: Several campgrounds report issues with bugs, particularly when wind is calm. "We stayed in the Sanish campground and liked it because it seemed to be enclosed by more trees to help block the wind," one camper mentioned about choosing a wind-protected site.
Weather extremes: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. "One of the days the wind was blowing 50 miles an hour with gusts to 70. Pretty impressive site to see across the lake," reported a camper who visited in October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Riverside Park - Beulah offers family-friendly amenities. "Disc golf, playground and a ball field are here," notes a recent visitor. Sites near playgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends.
Recreational variety: Some campgrounds offer multiple activities in one location. "Lots of to do! Boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding. Cabins, primitive campsites with great views and Full hook up RV sites," writes a Beulah Bay visitor, adding "playground, basketball, volleyball, frisbee golf, horse shoes."
Educational opportunities: Fort Stevenson State Park offers historical learning experiences. "While your there check out Fort Stevenson and read the history of the area," suggests a visitor who found it enriching for children.
Beach conditions: Not all beaches are kid-friendly. "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," mentions a Fort Stevenson camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Sakakawea Park offers affordable sites with utilities. "Very quiet and can't be beat for $20 water and electric," notes a reviewer who appreciated the value compared to more expensive options nearby.
Campsite leveling: Site conditions vary widely across campgrounds. "Sites are grass. We found sites pretty level on the way but on the south side they are steep, better for tents," reports a Riverside Park visitor.
Dump station locations: Some campgrounds have unusual dump station placements. "The dump station is actually in town near the bank," mentions a Sakakawea Park camper, highlighting the importance of asking about these facilities upon arrival.
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours for generators. "The primitive camping area was very dry after a downpour and once the clouds disappeared beautiful sunset each night. Even with neighbors, the area was very quiet of others," notes a COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream camper.
