Best Campgrounds near Keene, ND
The Lake Sakakawea region surrounding Keene, North Dakota features multiple campgrounds accommodating various camping styles from developed sites to more remote options. Lewis and Clark State Park, located on the southern shore of Lake Sakakawea, provides tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals with amenities including drinking water and sanitary dump stations. Other notable options include Tobacco Garden Recreation Area and Little Beaver Bay Campground, both offering tent, RV, and in some cases cabin accommodations. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park's Juniper Campground, about 35 miles southwest of Keene, provides more primitive camping experiences.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping in this area, with most campgrounds fully operational from May through September. "We were lucky as we camped here in late August 2018, the week prior they had record highs of 109!" noted one visitor about Lewis and Clark State Park. Many campgrounds maintain limited services during shoulder seasons, and some close entirely in winter. Water levels in Lake Sakakawea fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and boat launches. Several campgrounds feature electrical hookups but limited water connections, requiring campers to fill tanks at designated stations. Cell service varies throughout the region, with more reliable coverage near larger towns like Watford City.
Along Lake Sakakawea's shoreline, waterfront sites consistently receive positive reviews for their scenic views and water access. A camper described Tobacco Garden Rec Area as having "a little of everything. Playgrounds, boat landing, grocery store and restaurant, fishing, cabins, showers, allows insured atv and utv's, bait." Several campgrounds offer boat-in access options, appealing to anglers and water recreation enthusiasts. Reviewers frequently mention the region's fishing opportunities as exceptional. Campgrounds with electric hookups tend to fill quickly during summer weekends. Privacy between sites varies significantly by location, with some reviewers noting that certain campgrounds have limited space between sites, particularly in newer sections with fewer established trees. Wildlife viewing opportunities and night sky visibility are frequently highlighted as regional highlights.
