c
camping with M.
Guide
GuideGrand Forks Campground
Great
Very helpful staff nice showers and laundry pretty trees and they are renovating a little but it’s not a problem. We could tell it is going to be even nicer.
Best North Dakota Campgrounds and Camping Areas
North Dakota offers diverse camping options ranging from established campgrounds in Theodore Roosevelt National Park to dispersed sites in the grasslands. Cottonwood Campground and Juniper Campground within the national park provide tent and RV sites without hookups, while private campgrounds like Red Trail and Medora Campground offer full-service amenities with electricity, water, and sewer connections. The state park system maintains several mixed-use campgrounds including Fort Abraham Lincoln, Lake Metigoshe, and Turtle River, which feature both primitive tent sites and developed RV areas with hookups. Most state parks also offer cabin rentals for those seeking shelter from North Dakota's variable weather conditions. Camping in North Dakota provides unique opportunities to experience both the rugged badlands and serene prairie landscapes throughout the state.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences across the state, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. "We camped here for four days on Memorial weekend. The sights are level and easy to park," noted one visitor about their experience at a North Dakota campground. Winter camping is available at select locations including Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and Lake Metigoshe State Park, though services may be limited during colder months. Summer reservations are recommended for popular destinations, especially at Theodore Roosevelt National Park campgrounds, which can fill quickly during peak season. Many campgrounds provide potable water and vault toilets, though shower facilities are primarily available at developed state park and private campgrounds rather than federal recreation areas.
Campers consistently praise the peaceful atmosphere found at many North Dakota camping areas. Several reviewers specifically mentioned the quiet setting and natural beauty as standout features of their camping experiences. The eastern portion of the state offers more wooded campgrounds near lakes and rivers, while the western badlands region provides dramatic landscape views with less shade coverage. Campgrounds near Medora serve as popular base camps for exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park, though they tend to be busier during summer months. Rural city parks throughout the state offer affordable overnight options with basic amenities, often charging minimal fees between $10-25 per night for electric hookups. These municipal campgrounds typically provide convenient access to small-town services while maintaining a quiet environment away from highway and rail noise that affects some locations.
Best Camping Sites in North Dakota (371)
1. Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
71 ReviewsMedora, NDWebsite+1 (701) 623-4466$10 - $60 / night
"I visited this campground for 1 night while driving across North Dakota. It's super easy to access from I-94, but you feel like you're a million miles away from the interstate."
"Cottonwood Campground was a very welcome oasis in the prairies of North Dakota."
2. Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking
58 ReviewsMedora, NDWebsite+1 (701) 227-7800"It was easy to come from Medora, North Dakota to the site, but it appears that you only get an entrance and exit on the Medora side."
"The road in was fairly flat, and basically right off the highway. You can have the option of lots of privacy as well. Most of the sites are quite a distance away from each other."
3. Medora Campground
44 ReviewsMedora, NDWebsite+1 (701) 623-4435$30 - $60 / night
"There's a picnic table, but it was very hot outside without shade. There's a great creek within walking distance that you can cool off in and let the dogs run around."
"Great location right outside the park. Utilities all worked well. Beautiful walk down to the Little Missouri River."
4. Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
32 ReviewsGrassy Butte, NDWebsite+1 (701) 842-2333$30 / night
"Especially against the terrain that surrounds it. The campground is low on amenities but high on scenery, and it is very clean. The hiking in the North unit is amazing. There is so much wildlife."
"We showed our Access Passes to get into the park and then proceeded to mile marker 5, where the CG is located."
5. Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area
30 ReviewsMedora, NDWebsite+1 (701) 623-2024"It was right next to an equestrian area, so some horses being trained and whinnying just next door."
"We had total privacy, a fire pit that you could see the bluff from, trees all around, and the only thing you heard were horses from the horse camp area."
6. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground
26 ReviewsBismarck, NDWebsite+1 (701) 667-6340$15 - $85 / night
"Planning a hike to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in North Dakota motivated me to learn more about the diverse landscapes and natural wonders of the U.S. national parks."
"We were right next to comfort station which was well maintained. Kid Park was new and close to our site. There was lots of bike and walking trails."
7. Buffalo Gap Campground (ND)
22 ReviewsMedora, NDWebsite+1 (701) 227-7800$20 / night
"General: Small (37-site) forest service campground in two loops near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. No hookups or cell service (despite proximity to the highway)."
"Isolated Some camp sites are real gems A variety of sites depending on what you want- camp on the hill in grassland if you want to watch sunset/sunrise- or get one of the camp sites that are nestled behind"
8. Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground
21 ReviewsBottineau, NDWebsite+1 (701) 263-4651$15 / night
"This State Park is in North Dakota near the Canadian border. With a very large body of water that has many amenities from fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding."
"This campground tucked away in the turtle mountains next to Lake Metigoshie is definitely worth the visit! The campground is located in a state park so rules do apply."
9. Turtle River State Park Campground
20 ReviewsLarimore, NDWebsite+1 (701) 594-4445"looking to get away from the flat land of North Dakota? This park is where to be. Lots of great trails with some awesome views."
"Campground was set up a little funny but not hard to locate site once driving around about 3 minutes. Pretty wooded area in hell hole North Dakota."
10. Grahams Island State Park Campground
18 ReviewsFort Totten, NDWebsite+1 (701) 766-4015$30 / night
"It was completely private surrounded by trees that were full of birds! Primitive area has pit toilets but the shower room and flush toilets were a short walk away."
"Our site had pasture land behind all the trees, and the sunsets were amazing. We loved the dog park and mowed trails. Most of the park was immaculate."
Recent Camping Photos in North Dakota
167 Photos of 371 North Dakota Campgrounds
Brittany
Backcountry Campsite
Kevin H.
Butte View Campground
Eric O.
Mitchell Lake
Blanca M.
James River Bay Area Camping
Janet R.
Walhalla Riverside City Park
Bradley H.
Langdon City Park
Janet R.
Fort Daer
Chris O.
Patterson Lake Rec Area
Laura J G.
Cooperstown City Campground
Ken D.
Jamestown Dam/Lakeside Marina Campground
Lauren M.
Glen Ullin Memorial Park
Brandi M.
Cross Ranch State Park Campground
Recent Reviews in North Dakota
1063 Reviews of 371 North Dakota Campgrounds
- ccamping with M.Guide
Grand Forks Campground
Good enough for us!
Safe, friendly, we stayed at a campsite close to the interstate yes of course you can hear cars but that doesn’t bother us and there is construction going on north but that wasn’t a problem for us either. We like it here.
James V.
ScoutBarnes County Park Clausen Springs Recreation Area
Wonderful county rec area and campground.
I can't say enough about this little gem along I-94. Site 10 was perfectly level for my 25 ft rig, and probably for up to a 30-35 ft rig as well. Trails and sites were very well maintained and there is a small creek running though the camping area. Everything has the look of being well taken care of. Low light pollution meant a wonderful night sky.
There is also a well maintained sandy area by the small lake and trails that loop around the area. Plenty far off the interstate to be very quiet. Cell coverage was plenty good for me, however the local Internet provider does supply wifi for$5/day or I believe$15/week. I didn't try it but the signal was strong.
The only caveat I should mention is that there is 2.5-3 miles of gravel on the trip from the Interstate to the campground. I can't imagine a much better place to spend the night while passing through the area. Everything demonstrated that Barnes County really cared about have a great rec area.
Cable A.
RangerLake Sakakawea State Park Campground
Very large and busy, good experience.
Nice state park campground. Large camp sites and most amenities available. Good views and multiple lake access points. Come with all of your supplies, there is a small town but everything will cost you double.
- Cable A.Ranger
Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Fantastic campground
Great experience at this campground. Toilets, water, trash/recycling. Park Rangers provide educational classes from Thursday-Sunday evenings. Stunning views and wildlife experiences. Not a good park for walking dogs.
Kody Bear A.ScoutA Prairie Breeze RV Park
Resting
It's a nice little Park was $40 a night full hookups nice Wi-Fi laundry showers I haven't seen what the showers look like yet but it's pretty spaced out I'll pull throughs I love that we're here for two days and I'd recommend it it's I believe 240 a month I mean a week and over 700 for a month but they're closing on November 1st so this is definitely nearing the end of their season and it was a self-check in cash or check only and the lady was very friendly everything works just fine it's clean
TracyLeeScoutLindenwood Campground
Great place
Spent a lot of time at this campground, staff is friendly and showers are hot and clean
CJ M.
TravelerMoon Lake
Very easy
Dirt road coming in was. Little rough but the place is very chill. Camping for under 10 days at a time is free. Pull in and park anywhere in the grass and sleep in your camper/tent. Very easy and chill
- hheidiTraveler
Bismarck KOA
What you expect from a KOA
We needed a site for a night in the middle of a trip. This was it. Typical KOA. Clean, close to major roads. Easy to find. Easy to book online. Most of the sites are pull throughs in trees. It appeared that big rig spots were mostly back in. The bathrooms, which we utilize frequently since we are in a 15 foot Aliner, were well lit, clean, and the showers were hot!
Guide to North Dakota
Camping in North Dakota offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there's something for everyone.
What to Do
- Explore Nature: North Dakota is home to beautiful parks like Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground, where you can hike and enjoy the diverse landscapes. One visitor said, “Planning a hike to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park motivated me to learn more about the diverse landscapes and natural wonders of the U.S. national parks.”
- Fishing and Boating: At Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A camper mentioned, “There is good off-shore fishing as well as a swim beach with a bathroom.”
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like Fort Stevenson State Park, where one reviewer noted, “While there were very few tent sites available, we had our choice of sites as we were the only tent campers.”
What Campers Like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review stated, “The bathrooms were great, the trails around the lake were great and the food at the marina was OK.”
- Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Cross Ranch State Park Campground said, “The spots, well they were close but situated in a way that you weren’t sitting staring at your neighbor.”
- Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of park staff. A review from General Sibley Park noted, “The park staff was super friendly, bathrooms were the cleanest I have seen.”
What You Should Know
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in summer. One camper shared, “Mosquitos were bad when we were here surprisingly. I was getting bit every second.”
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Sweet Briar Lake, have fewer amenities. A visitor mentioned, “There are not many bathrooms (pit toilets).”
- Reservation Recommendations: Popular spots can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to book in advance. A camper at Bismarck KOA said, “The campground was packed since it was a Saturday and it was incredibly quiet at night.”
Tips for Camping with Families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One reviewer at Harmon Lake Rec Area said, “Great playground that the kids loved! The swimming beach was awesome.”
- Group Camping: Consider group sites for family gatherings. A visitor at Fort Stevenson State Park mentioned, “They have spots for group camping that you can have 2-3 RVs on or private single camp spots.”
- Plan for Nature: Bring outdoor games and activities to keep kids entertained. One camper noted, “The campsites are spacious. There are few great hikes that are kid-friendly.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Lake Sakakawea State Park mentioned, “We drove in with our 34' bus and had no issue finding a nice level spot.”
- Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups for convenience. One camper at Bismarck KOA said, “Good stop with full hookups.”
- Quiet Locations: Choose campgrounds that are a bit off the main roads for a peaceful stay. A visitor at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground noted, “Mostly quiet and peaceful.”
Camping in North Dakota can be a memorable experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in North Dakota for summer visits?
What are the best campgrounds in North Dakota for summer visits?
North Dakota offers excellent summer camping options that showcase the state's diverse landscapes. Turtle River State Park Campground is a top choice for those looking to escape North Dakota's flat terrain, offering wooded sites and excellent hiking trails. For stunning prairie views, Sully Creek State Park near Medora provides a scenic base for exploring the badlands. Summer is the ideal time to visit these parks when facilities are fully operational and trails are accessible. Most North Dakota state parks offer amenities like clean restrooms, picnic areas, and recreational opportunities. For the best experience, make reservations well in advance as popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak summer months.
Where can I find lakeside camping in North Dakota?
Where can I find lakeside camping in North Dakota?
North Dakota boasts several outstanding lakeside camping destinations. Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground near the Canadian border offers extensive water recreation including fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with equipment rentals available just outside the park. Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground features huge, well-spaced campsites with breathtaking views and proximity to the Garrison Dam and National Fish Hatchery. For a smaller lake experience, Beaver Lake State Park Campground (also known as Red Lake) offers modern camping loops, group sites, tent camping, and cabins with numerous hiking trails. Most lakeside campgrounds in North Dakota provide boat ramps, swimming areas, and fishing opportunities with varying levels of amenities.
Are there private campgrounds in North Dakota with full hookups?
Are there private campgrounds in North Dakota with full hookups?
Yes, North Dakota offers several private campgrounds with full hookups for RVers seeking more amenities. Roughrider RV Resort provides full hookup sites with modern facilities for a comfortable stay. Medora Campground offers reservable sites with water, electric, and sewer connections, making it convenient for larger RVs and extended stays. Most private campgrounds in North Dakota with full hookups typically include 30/50 amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections, along with amenities like WiFi, laundry facilities, and shower houses. Prices generally range from $30-$50 per night depending on the season and location. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during summer months when tourism peaks in popular areas like Medora and the Theodore Roosevelt National Park region.
What river camping options are available in North Dakota?
What river camping options are available in North Dakota?
North Dakota offers several river camping destinations that provide scenic views and water recreation opportunities. Sheyenne National Grassland features beautiful riverside campsites with trails and knowledgeable rangers who can help with navigation. This area is suitable for larger rigs, though some caution is needed on certain trails. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground near Mandan offers boat-in access along with drive-in sites, making it perfect for paddlers exploring the Missouri River. Most river campgrounds in North Dakota provide basic amenities like vault toilets and drinking water, though facilities vary by location. For those seeking a more primitive experience, dispersed camping is available in some areas, but always check local regulations before setting up camp.
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