The Little Missouri National Grasslands surrounding Medora, North Dakota, encompass over one million acres of rugged badlands terrain between 2,000-2,800 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with limited rainfall, creating dusty trail conditions that challenge riders but reward with exceptional visibility across the varied landscapes.
What to do
Trail riding access: Sully Creek State Park provides direct access to the Maah Daah Hey Trail system for horseback riding excursions. "Beautiful campground outside of Theodore Roosevelt NP. Nice to have 3 loops separated by use and rig size- big rigs, horses and small RVs and tents," notes Janet K. The park serves as a trailhead for extensive rides through the badlands.
Bird watching opportunities: The diverse habitat around Medora supports numerous bird species. Janet K. reports from Sully Creek: "Great birds!! Chats, American Redstart, Cedar Waxwings, Spotted Towhee, Eastern Kingbird and more!" Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify species along the river corridors.
Explore historic sites: Visit Theodore Roosevelt's Elkhorn Ranch site, accessible from Elkhorn Campground. "Nearby is Elkhorn Ranch Unit trail leading to Theodore Roosevelt Ranch site. No buildings but interpretive signage," explains Jim M. The 35-mile unpaved road requires all-wheel drive vehicles during wet conditions.
What campers like
Separated camping loops: Buffalo Gap Campground offers distinct camping areas for different user preferences. "Campground was clean and well maintained, camp hosts were friendly and knowledgeable about the area. Easy access, nice parking pads, have picnic tables and fire rings at each camp site," reports Jessica S., who appreciated the organization of the facilities.
Well facilities: Many equestrian campers value the water access for horses. At Buffalo Gap, visitors find "RV dump and potable water in campground. Does not have hook ups and have limited times to run a generator," explains Jessica S. This provides essential services while maintaining a more natural camping experience.
Affordability: Budget-conscious visitors appreciate the reasonable fees. Charles C. notes about Buffalo Gap: "It was only $6 a night and that was not a discount, that was full price!!!" Free hot showers further enhance the value at certain campgrounds, offsetting the primitive nature of the sites.
What you should know
Seasonal name changes: Recent administrative changes have affected some park names. Delanie J. reports about Sully Creek: "This park is no longer known as Sully Creek and changed names to Rough Riders. It has nice facilities, great shaded primitive sites, access to the Mah Dah Hey trail that goes along the Little Missouri River."
River conditions vary: The Little Missouri River runs through multiple campgrounds but water levels fluctuate dramatically. During summer months, the river often becomes too shallow for meaningful recreation but remains sufficient for horse watering at designated access points.
Limited connectivity: Most equestrian-oriented campgrounds have minimal services. At Magpie Campground, David H. notes it has "8 camp spaces, mostly hunters, no cell coverage." This remote location requires self-sufficiency and advance planning for any communications needs.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Medora Campground offers numerous recreational options for children. Amber W. shares, "Good recreation for kids, basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person. Medora is a small town, easy to bike or walk."
Grocery planning: Stock up before arriving as local options are limited. Beth B. advises: "No grocery store, only small convenience store so make sure you stock up if you are staying for a few days." Bring sufficient food for your entire stay, particularly if camping with children who may have specific dietary needs.
Unique sleeping options: Consider alternative accommodations beyond traditional tents or RVs. Tori K. notes at Medora Campground: "I believe that you can rent covered wagons here to sleep in as well if you are looking for a truly unique and western experience. Maybe not authentic to the Oregon trail days since you will have a real house door, but still super neat that they offer this!"
Tips from RVers
Level preparation: Some equestrian campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional equipment. At Boots Campground, Clean Slate D. warns: "Very close to neighbors and site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks." Bring extra leveling equipment if traveling with a larger rig.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites at horse-friendly campgrounds often prioritize trailer space over privacy. Lisa C. cautions about Boots Campground: "Sites are small, tight and un-level... Site 2 gives you room to park and put chairs out, some of the others are so close you can almost touch your neighbor standing in your door!"
Road quality awareness: Access roads to equestrian campgrounds can be challenging. Jim M. reports about reaching Elkhorn Campground: "Traveled about 35 miles on unpaved road in RAV4 AWD." These road conditions can deteriorate quickly after rain, so check weather forecasts and road status before attempting access with larger rigs.
