Camping near Hazen, North Dakota centers around Lake Sakakawea, a 180-mile long reservoir created by Garrison Dam on the Missouri River. The lake's shoreline spans approximately 1,500 miles, providing numerous camping access points within 30 minutes of Hazen. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, with summer camping season typically running May through September when daytime temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Fishing access: The Missouri River below Garrison Dam at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground offers excellent fishing spots accessible via paths from the campground. "There are many paths down to the Missouri River for some great fishing and if you are a polar bear swimming. Absolutely loved this place!" notes Erin A.
Hiking trails: Several miles of well-maintained hiking paths follow the Missouri River at Cross Ranch State Park Campground. "Beautiful, well-groomed, shaded hiking paths everywhere," reports Shandi C., while another camper noted, "A scenic walk along the River where Lewis and Clark traveled. Cool stuff."
Canoeing: Guided river trips are available at Cross Ranch State Park. "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!" writes Afton L.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campsites at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground feature good separation between neighbors. "VERY spacious sites! Electric only, but it's camping right!" says Erin A. Another camper notes, "All sites appeared level and had a decent amount of separation between sites. There are some trees to provide shade to some sites."
Shoreline access: Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground provides campsites with lake views and easy water access. "Primitive campsites are very spacious and most having sections of shade during the entire day. Beach is amazing with little bay area that is calm even on windy days for the kayaker or paddleboarder," writes Patti E.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "Clean bathrooms and showers. The park ranger picked us up at Sanger boat launch and brought everything back to the park entrance," reports Afton L. about Cross Ranch State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Early season camping may have restricted services. At Lake Sakakawea State Park, one camper notes: "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."
Bug activity: Insects can be prevalent, especially in protected areas. "Tons of flying ants and ticks everywhere, but we managed!" reports Brandi M. about her stay at Cross Ranch State Park.
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds limit generator use hours. At Fort Stevenson State Park Campground, generator regulations may affect comfort during hot weather, similar to other parks in the region.
Wind conditions: The area frequently experiences strong winds. One camper at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream noted: "Very windy so definitely glad to be here protected below the dam and not up next to the reservoir!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Fort Stevenson State Park offers kid-friendly activities beyond camping. "There is a fun playground for the kids and an amazing hiking trail around the entire state park," reports Ashley B.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas. Fort Stevenson State Park has "multiple swimming beaches on property, playgrounds, an ice cream and general store, and boat rentals available," according to Cassie T.
Family-friendly trails: Easy hiking paths suitable for children are available at several parks. Emily R. notes about Fort Stevenson State Park: "There are a few great hikes that are kid friendly. There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large)."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When RV camping near Hazen, North Dakota, some campgrounds offer better separation than others. At Ball Park RV Park, Teresa T. notes, "The flat spots are close and in the shade and have 30 amp service."
Utility considerations: Many campgrounds offer electric-only hookups. At Center RV Park, "You have full hookups and no bathrooms or other services," according to Teresa T., who adds it's "really more of a man camp for permanent campers then a weekend camper spot."
Loop selection: At COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground, Kyle O. advises: "Loop 1 - 3 are all paved and have very nice level pads for campers and all have fire rings. Loop 4 is primitive and usually always has space even if you arrive without reservations."
