Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground serves visitors near Mandan, North Dakota with diverse camping options that support various outdoor experiences. Situated at the confluence of the Heart and Missouri Rivers, the campground sits within a historically significant area that played a key role in western military history and indigenous culture. The park experiences wide temperature ranges typical of the northern plains, with summer highs reaching the 90s and winter temperatures dropping well below freezing.
What to do
Historic exploration: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park features reconstructed military buildings and a Mandan Indian village that provide educational opportunities. "We walked the on a slant village, the forts overlooking the Missouri river and of course General Custer's house and the barracks. Such a neat parks with lots to do!" notes Kristi D. from Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Cycling adventures: Access the extensive trail system connecting to urban areas. "There's a paved bike path that you can take from the campground all the way to Bismarck (10+ miles). Or you can ride over to the cavalry and infantry areas of the fort and to the Indian village," shares Mary S.
Trolley transportation: Utilize the historic trolley service that connects camping areas to important sites. "Running through the park is a cool trolley that takes you to historic points within the park, then on into the town of Mandan 6 miles away," explains Janet R.
What campers like
River proximity: Primitive tent sites at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground offer direct access to the water. "The park has a nice campground, with RV sites set back in the trees and large tent sites right in the Missouri River!" reports Janet R.
Stargazing opportunities: Visitors to Wing Lake Mitchell appreciate the unobstructed night sky views. "They have 9 tent spots and it's 360 view from the mountain. Priceless and can see the Milky Way," shares Von B.
Cleanliness standards: Bathroom facilities receive consistent praise. "The bathrooms were the cleanest I have seen... I had an awesome shower," states Kristi D. who visited in summer 2023.
What you should know
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Weekends tend to fill quickly while weekdays offer more solitude. "We came in on a Saturday and it was packed... Once Sunday afternoon hit, everyone cleared out getting ready for the workweek," explains Kristi D. from Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Pricing structure: Campsite fees vary by amenity level. "There is a separate $7/day entrance fee in addition to the camping fee. We chose a primitive site (no water, no electric) because those sites are along the river, and the fee was $17. Sites with electricity and water are $25."
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes can be problematic during certain periods. "Mosquitos were bad when we were here surprisingly. I was getting bit every second, so I got a gazebo shelter so we could enjoy the outdoors without getting bit to death."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly environment: The open spaces and playground equipment at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground cater to younger visitors. "What a great park for families! That was my first thought. It just looks like a great place for kids to play. There's a playground, wide open spaces, easy trails, a river, and remnants of the fort and an Indian village," shares Mary S.
Educational programming: Take advantage of staff-led activities. "The campgrounds have nice bath houses, plus a playground for kids and naturalist programs with an enthusiastic staff," notes Janet R.
Activity variety: Multiple recreation options keep children engaged. "Very nice campground right on the Missouri River. Lots of walking/bike trails, playground for kids and places to fish on the river," explains Kyle O.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Some campsites offer more privacy than others. "Spots a little close together for my liking, but it was quiet overall," notes Kristi D. who stayed at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground.
Water hookup preparation: Shared water sources require planning. "Some pull through and other shared campsites share a water source so make sure to bring a water splitter as sometimes there is not one on the spigot and campground does not always have extras!"
Equestrian camping near Mandan, North Dakota: While horse facilities are limited in the immediate area, travelers interested in equestrian camping near Mandan should contact specific parks directly. Current data indicates that Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and Wing Lake Mitchell do not offer dedicated horse corrals or designated equestrian camping areas.
