Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the prairies and buttes surrounding Hettinger, North Dakota. Located in the southwestern corner of North Dakota, this area sits at approximately 2,700 feet elevation with weather that can change rapidly during all seasons. The region features a mix of grasslands, prairie, and distinctive butte formations that create unique camping environments with varying levels of accessibility.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk: Hugh Glass Campground provides excellent opportunities for spotting prairie wildlife. "Remote with ~14 campsites. You take a dirt road all the way in. First come first serve no fee. There isn't a designated swim area but there is a nice sandy bottom close to the boat launch," explains Brian K.
Hiking around buttes: Reva Gap Campground offers trails with views of distinctive rock formations. "A not difficult path leads you upward to a beautiful view of The Castles formation in the Slim Buttes. We will stay here again," notes Donna E.
Fishing at local reservoirs: Anglers can try their luck at Shadehill Recreation Area, though water conditions should be monitored. "Very nice campground. What appear to be lakeside sites are actually elevated above the water. Clean vault toilets and also shower house with running water," shares Leslie B.
What campers like
Solitude even on holidays: Picnic Spring Campground offers remarkable privacy between sites. "Arrived around 2:00 pm on a Tuesday. There are 2 other campers here. One is a big rig and the other is a 5th wheel. This campground is so private and the sites are spaced far enough away you can't see each other," reports Diana V.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote locations around Hettinger provide minimal light pollution. "Coyotes serenaded us throughout the night!" shares Natalie B. about Reva Gap Campground, highlighting the wilderness experience.
Budget-friendly options: Many campgrounds in the area are free or low-cost. "Memorial Day weekend and there is only one other camper. The campground is run by the South Dakota Fish and Game and the current rate is $16.91 per night with a 14 day max stay," notes Debra P. about Hugh Glass Campground.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Most remote campgrounds require bringing your own water. "No water, no trash collection. Many sites are really private with long driveways. Not all had tables and/or fire pits," explains Leslie B. about Reva Gap Campground.
Cell service coverage: Signal strength varies significantly by location and carrier. "I had 2 bars of LTE via ATT basically anywhere before the first camping loop. After that, 1 bar of 4G," reports Abby M. about Reva Gap Campground.
Road conditions: Gascoyne Lake Campground and similar sites require planning for gravel or dirt roads. "Found this spot while heading north and it was great for a night. There are a couple picnic tables around in a field and you're right along the lake which had a beautiful sunset," notes Abby M.
Algae concerns: Swimming isn't always safe in area lakes. "Don't count on swimming in Bowman Haley Lake, signs posted stating the water may contain blue green algae that can be harmful to humans and pets," warns Scherry D.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mirror Lake City Park provides amenities for children close to town. "Very beautiful campsites next to Mirror Lake. It is a small city campground. They have water and electricity. Sewer dump is in town. Cost is only $20 a night with a limit of 10 nights," describes Lydia S.
Swimming options: Despite algae warnings at some lakes, there are safe swimming spots. "Large open area next to the reservoir. Had some locals visit fishing and swimming during the day," shares Lisa B. about Grand River National Grassland.
Wildlife education: The mix of ecosystems creates learning opportunities for children. "It is an outcropping of rock, buttes and ponderosa forest with spectacular views of distant grazing land. It is quiet, remote and rustic. Bring your own water," advises Caryl D. about Reva Gap Campground.
Campsite spacing: Seek campgrounds with good separation for families. "The campsites are spread out so you get tons of privacy," notes Matthew S. about Reva Gap Campground.
Tips from RVers
RV-friendly sites with hookups: Twin Butte Campground offers both large rig accommodation and amenities. "Great family owned, very friendly/warm family, organized, helpful and clean. Areas to walk dogs, or yourself. Surrounded by trees and farming. We have 30 and 50 amp hookups, lots of space," shares Christina B.
Level site challenges: Finding truly level sites can be difficult in some campgrounds. "The electric campsites are not attractive, or level, and my first electric campsite #26, which was quite a distance beyond the marina, had a faulty electric," warns Scherry D. about North Shore Bowman Haley Lake.
Low clearance considerations: Some of the best places to camp near Hettinger require higher clearance vehicles. "Large open area next to the reservoir. Did not seem that used and need 4x4 for clearance. Didn't have trouble driving even after a little rain. FS gravel roads were solid but narrow," advises Lisa B.
