The Medora region sits at approximately 2,300 feet elevation in western North Dakota, characterized by the colorful buttes and clay formations of the badlands. Summer temperatures consistently reach 90°F during daytime hours, with significant cooling at night due to the arid climate. The area receives limited rainfall, creating dusty trail conditions during dry periods.
What to do
Maah Daah Hey Trail access: Coal Creek Campground connects directly to this notable trail system. "We stayed 2 nights in July in this area and it was great! Plenty of spots, so we didn't feel like we were on top of other campers... We did drive to a Rough Rider State park for a shower which was 5$ a person (totally worth it after multiple muddy river crossings on our hike)," reports Lynsey M.
Bison viewing: Cottonwood Campground offers frequent wildlife encounters. "We woke up to find bison all around us. Truly a beautiful and unique experience I'll never forget," shares Caitlin B. The campground provides convenient access to Theodore Roosevelt National Park's wildlife viewing areas.
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution makes Medora ideal for night sky observation. "It's all about the park. The campsites are perfectly fine. The park is stunning," notes Morgan Y. about Cottonwood Campground. Clear nights offer exceptional visibility of the Milky Way and constellations.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Scoria Pit Dispersed Camping offers well-separated camping areas. "Plenty of spots all the way to the cell tower on the top bluff. Nice gravel road. Even if you stop before the top, explore the space. Beautiful vistas all around," explains Kathy S.
Clean facilities: Buffalo Gap Campground maintains high cleanliness standards. "There are two shower rooms in the Mandan loop (appears to be the RV loop) - one requires quarters and one does not and they are side-by-side). Water is hot. Flush toilets and sinks are available in a couple of locations in the loops," reports Hannah W.
Affordable options: Free and low-cost camping exists throughout the region. "This was a real gem. Very close to the entrance to Teddy Roosevelt NP, it was perfect for our camper. Big rigs would be fine there, but I did not see any drive through sites... It was only $6 a night and that was not a discount, that was full price!!!" shares Charles C. about Buffalo Gap Campground.
What you should know
Limited shade: Many campsites lack tree coverage. "Rooftop tent campers be aware the top ridge is so windy the first night we stayed we were whipping around all night but the second night we stayed on the lower ridge and the wind was much better," advises Lynsey M. about Scoria Pit Dispersed Camping.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit near Interstate 94. "The interstate was just over the ridge, out of site but you knew it was there. This is I-90 in Western ND, so traffic noise was not an issue at all," notes Charles C. about Buffalo Gap Campground, while other reviewers mention the audible highway sounds at Camel's Hump Lake.
Water quality concerns: Potable water availability varies by location. "The one criticism I have of this campsite is the potable water tasted horrible," reports Tyler M. about Cottonwood Campground. Bringing drinking water supplies is recommended for many locations.
Tips for camping with families
City pool access: Medora Campground offers direct access to municipal swimming facilities. "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," shares Beth B.
Playground options: Children-friendly amenities exist at select locations. "Great host family. Front desk was very helpful. They escorted us to our spot. Playground was large and great for our kids (1,2,4,&8). Showers were clean and open late. C store was a lifesaver!!!" writes Jade K. about Red Trail Campground.
Wildlife education: Many campgrounds provide opportunities for children to observe native species. "Buffalo in the campground. Quiet, private enough, clean pot toilets, secure bear garbages. Just amazing!" notes Glenn I. about the dog-friendly Cottonwood Campground, making it ideal for family nature education.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks," cautions Clean Slate D. about Boots Campground. Bringing extra leveling equipment is advisable for most sites in the region.
Limited grocery options: Stock up before arrival. "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. about Medora Campground.
Site selection strategy: Choosing the right spot significantly impacts camping comfort. "Choose your tent only walk in site carefully. Most (esp those next to river) have no shade. This means it's hot in the sun and exposed in thunderstorms," warns Bryan P. Requesting upper elevation sites during summer can provide better air circulation and reduced bugs.
