Theodore Roosevelt National Park borders Medora, North Dakota, with badlands formations characterized by colorful sedimentary layers and eroded buttes. The region experiences cold winters and hot summers with average July temperatures reaching 85°F. The Little Missouri River flows through many camping areas, providing water access but occasional flooding during spring thaws.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Buffalo Gap Campground serves as a strategic base for wildlife enthusiasts. "Beautiful views of the badlands. Easy access to trails for hiking and biking," notes Jessica S. about the campground's proximity to wildlife habitats.
Hiking the Maah Daah Hey Trail: Sully Creek State Park offers direct trail access with connections to longer routes. "Open views, good trails, great birding. The sites have electric, accessible water and dump site," reports Mac M., highlighting the trail connections available from the park.
Badlands photography: Cottonwood Campground in Theodore Roosevelt National Park positions visitors in prime photography locations. "We woke up to find bison all around us. Truly a beautiful and unique experience I'll never forget," shares Caitlin B., describing the photography possibilities.
What campers like
Natural shade protection: The Cedar Loop at Sully Creek State Park (now called Rough Riders) offers cooling relief in summer heat. "All of the sites at the cedar CG are primo, set up with privacy in mind," writes Delanie J. about the natural features.
Proximity to town attractions: Medora Campground positions campers within walking distance to town activities. "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 the convenient location.
Clean facilities: Buffalo Gap Campground maintains high standards for bathrooms and showers. "Flush toilets and sinks are available in a couple of locations in the loops. Showers and toilets are clean and all are individual rooms," Hannah W. notes, appreciating the cleanliness.
What you should know
Limited water pressure: Several campgrounds experience water pressure challenges. "The potable water pressure was low at Sully Creek, taking longer to fill tanks," reports one camper, suggesting visitors arrive with partially filled tanks.
Highway noise considerations: Sully Creek State Park offers more buffer from interstate noise than some alternatives. "Nice forest service campground located in the Little Missouri National Grasslands off Exit 18 just west of Medora, ND and Theodore Roosevelt NP," explains Mark J., describing the location relative to noise sources.
Seasonal facility closures: Most shower and laundry facilities operate seasonally. "We stayed here for 3 weeks while working the oil field. It was nice and quiet," notes Jesse S. about Trappers RV Park, which maintains more limited services in shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational activities: Red Trail Campground provides family-friendly amenities. "Playground was large and great for our kids (1,2,4,&8). Showers were clean and open late. C store was a lifesaver!!!" reports Jade K. about the family facilities.
Swimming options: Family campers appreciate the Medora city pool access. "Good recreation for kids, basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person," explains Beth B., detailing activity options for children.
Budget-friendly alternatives: For families watching costs, The Crossings Campground offers economical options. "Nothing fancy but a good location from both Theodore Roosevelt national parks. Full hook ups, but make sure you bring plenty of sewer hose if your RV is any size," advises Joe C., noting the value proposition.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: The Crossings Campground requires adaptability with utilities. "No frills, Made reservations same day got here it is all grass but has full hookups. Did not like that the hookups for water and sewer in our site was on the opposite side than any other park we stayed," warns Mark H., suggesting RVers bring extra-long hoses.
Site leveling challenges: Boots Campground presents positioning difficulties for some rigs. "Very close to neighbors and site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks. No tables or fire rings. Just hookups," cautions Clean Slate D., recommending additional leveling equipment.
Wi-Fi considerations: RVers requiring connectivity should note varying quality. "Bone basic FULL HOOK UP campground with rock solid smoking fast T-Mobile 5G. It's like somebody decided to put really spacious camp sites in their side yard aside from that," shares Michelle M. about The Crossings Campground, highlighting the connectivity strengths.
