The Missouri River basin shapes the landscape around Hensler, North Dakota, where camping opportunities exist in a region characterized by grassland prairies and river valleys. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with cooler nights, while spring and fall camping brings temperature variations of 30-40 degrees between day and night. Winter camping remains available at select campgrounds with reduced services and limited access to water facilities.
What to do
Canoe the Missouri River: At Cross Ranch State Park Campground, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks for river excursions. "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! The park ranger picked us up at Sanger boat launch and brought everything back to the park entrance."
Explore historic sites: The region contains significant Lewis and Clark Expedition landmarks. "The park has a nice visitor center with terrific displays, many about Lewis and Clark, also a reconstructed Mandan encampment, plus the home and barracks of Custer and his cavalry," notes a camper at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail networks connect campgrounds to natural areas. "Beautiful, well-groomed, shaded hiking paths everywhere. Playgrounds. Big fields. Clean water access to the river for swimming, dogs, fishing," writes a visitor about Cross Ranch State Park.
Fishing opportunities: The Missouri River and Lake Sakakawea provide fishing access. "They have many paths down to the Missouri River for some great fishing and if you are a polar bear swimming," according to a review of COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground.
What campers like
Privacy and natural features: Campgrounds in the area offer good site separation. "When I go camping I love having trees and the water near and this spot has both! Has a walking path mowed down for walk and also has play grounds for the kids and restrooms and water spikets through out."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise. "The modern sites are well maintained and showers and bathrooms are clean," notes a camper at Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground. Another mentions, "The sites were clean and well kept primative toilets."
Wildlife viewing: The river corridor supports diverse wildlife. "There are opportunities for bird and wildlife watching," according to a reviewer at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground.
Site spacing: Campsites typically provide adequate separation. "Spaces were nicely spread apart," observes a Lake Sakakawea visitor. Another notes, "The campground has lots of trees but also feels breezy and open."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind can be significant in this area. "We spent two nights here as one of the days the wind was blowing 50 miles an hour with gusts to 70. Pretty impressive site to see across the lake," writes a camper at Lake Sakakawea State Park.
Seasonal facility limitations: Some campgrounds restrict services seasonally. "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."
Bugs: Insects can be problematic during summer months. "Only complaints were the vaulted toilets smelt very bad but could of been from the heat! (Vaulted toilet, no sink) And the bugs!!! Tons of flying ants and ticks everywhere, but we managed!"
Limited services at some parks: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. "This is really more of a man camp for permanent campers then a weekend camper spot. You have full hookups and no bathrooms or other services," notes a visitor at Center RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Great camping facilites. Tent and camper sites. Yurts available and cabins available. Great hiking area, playground, ranger presentations," according to a Cross Ranch State Park visitor.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. "We had a whole bunch of fun learning about the camp and General Custard. There is a bunch of history and many happy faces in this area," shares a visitor at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.
Specialty accommodations: Unique lodging options exist for families seeking alternatives to traditional camping. "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."
Water recreation: Swimming areas suit families with children. "Beach is amazing with little bay area that is calm even on windy days for the kayaker or paddleboarder."
Tips from RVers
Campsite utilities: Water connections may require additional equipment at rv parks near Hensler, North Dakota. "Sites with electricity and water are $25. There is a clean shower facility plus other restrooms. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, and there's a dump station."
Site selection: When staying at Hensler area rv parks, choose sites based on amenities and exposure. "I stayed in the Sanish campground and liked it because it seemed to be enclosed by more trees to help block the wind."
Primitive camping options: RVers seeking simpler experiences have choices. "Primitive campsites are very spacious and most having sections of shade during the entire day. Clean and well kept primative toilets."
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds limit generator operation 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."
