RV campgrounds near Killdeer, North Dakota offer proximity to both the North and South units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Located in Dunn County at an elevation of 2,300 feet, the region experiences wide temperature swings between summer highs in the 80s and winter lows well below freezing. Most campgrounds operate with limited availability between October and April due to harsh winter conditions and limited staff.
What to do
Hiking in the badlands: Little Missouri State Park Campground provides access to numerous hiking trails through the unique badlands landscape. "This park is outstanding. There are many amenities including electrical hookups, water, horse corrals vault toilets and pay showers. But the amenities aren't why you stay at this park. You stay for the views. The horse and hiking trails are unbelievable," notes Jessica S.
Wildlife viewing: From Summit Campground, visitors can access nearby wildlife viewing areas. "Nice forest service campground with pit toilets. No fee, fire pits, picnic tables, only two of us here on a Sat night in August," shares Bob D. The free campground provides convenient access to Theodore Roosevelt National Park's North Unit, where visitors often spot bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs.
Swimming: During hot summer months, families can cool off at the city pool adjacent to Medora Campground. "It has a city pool right on site that is heated, a dog park beautiful grounds with huge trees. Great playground," explains Amber W. The pool charges $5 per person for day use.
What campers like
Access to national park: Proximity to Theodore Roosevelt National Park ranks high with campers. "Perfect for Teddy Roosevelt National Park visit," says Beth B. about Medora Campground. "National park entrance South is next door and scenic trail drive is about 2 hours round trip (there is construction so one part of road is shut down...no loop...you have to turn around)."
Night sky viewing: The limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "You'll experience starry skies and the howls of coyotes," reports Jessica S. about Little Missouri State Park. However, some campers note oil drilling impacts: "At night the sky was lit from ND oil drilling gas release," according to Olson H.
Budget-friendly options: Summit Campground offers free camping with basic amenities. "Free camp spot with just a few sites and a vault toilet. Near the main road, so quite a bit of road noise and late arrivals/passersby. Okay cell service, but great with a booster. Hiking trail nearby to stretch the legs or exercise the dog," explains Meghan B.
What you should know
Limited services: Many Killdeer area RV campgrounds operate with minimal staffing or self-check-in systems. At The Crossings Campground, "There are no showers, bathrooms, or office, so you should be self-contained. Figuring out where to situate your rig is tricky due to weird, irregular spacing of the hookups in some sites," cautions Andrew W.
Grocery limitations: Stock up before arriving as shopping options are minimal. "Medora is a small town, easy to bike or walk. No grocery store, only small convenience store so make sure you stock up if you are staying for a few days," advises Beth B.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Killdeer region operate seasonally. Medora Campground runs from May 18 to September 15, while some parks like Little Missouri remain open year-round but with limited services during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: American RV Park provides a family-friendly environment with helpful staff. "Nice no frills campsite in a small town. Jason was a very gracious host! He met us when we arrived and gave us information about the site and the town," notes Bruce S.
Kid-friendly activities: Recreation options vary significantly between campgrounds. Medora Campground offers "basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person," according to Beth B., making it suitable for families with children needing entertainment.
Wildlife education opportunities: Several campgrounds offer access to wildlife viewing areas perfect for educating children. Little Missouri State Park provides opportunities to see horses and native wildlife. "Kids loved the horses that people brought to ride," mentions Tyler C.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up placement: RVers should come prepared with extra-long hoses and cords. At The Crossings Campground, "make sure you bring plenty of sewer hose if your RV is any size. The same goes for electric and water hose," warns Joe C., noting that some sites have utilities positioned unusually.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require leveling equipment. "It's just a big field, so the spots are mostly flat but are lumpy with bumps and giant ant mounds," notes Andrew W. about The Crossings Campground.
Wi-Fi connectivity: Connectivity varies widely between RV campgrounds near Killdeer. The Crossings Campground offers "rock solid smoking fast T-Mobile 5G" and "very good WiFi" according to reviewers, while Summit Campground provides "Okay cell service, but great with a booster."
