Tent camping near Medora, North Dakota provides access to the Little Missouri National Grasslands, which spans over one million acres of public land. The badlands terrain features eroded buttes, colorful sedimentary rock layers, and native prairie grasses. Summers can reach temperatures above 90°F while spring and fall offer milder conditions with nighttime temperatures often dropping 30-40 degrees below daytime highs.
What to do
Hiking the Maah Da Hey Trail: Access points near Elkhorn Campground connect to this 144-mile trail system traversing the badlands. "Any campsite along the MDH is a welcome site. This was one we hiked into just when the sun was beginning to set," notes camper Brittany about Elkhorn Campground.
Visit Theodore Roosevelt historic sites: Camp near the former president's ranch property. "Nearby is Elkhorn Ranch Unit trail leading to Theodore Roosevelt Ranch site. No buildings but interpretive signage," explains Jim M. who stayed at Elkhorn Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The grasslands support bison, feral horses, and prairie wildlife. "There was a large beautiful herd of feral horses bedding down with their little ones here in the evening," reports Joseph G. about the area near West River Rd Medora ND Dispersed camping.
What campers like
Secluded campsites with good spacing: Many campgrounds provide privacy even during busy seasons. "Nice and clean. No power, no dumps, hand pump for water," notes Steve D. about Elkhorn Campground.
Access to unique geological features: The region offers distinctive formations and landscapes. "Fun little place to camp, and fun little hike to the Butte, or hop on the Maah Da Hey Trail and hike for miles," writes Brenda R. about Burning Coal Vein Campground.
Affordable camping options: Most established sites have reasonable fees. "Nice, cheap, quiet and well spaced campground," confirms Cora H. about Burning Coal Vein Campground, where sites typically cost around $10 per night with self-registration envelopes.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Many campsites have limited or questionable water sources. "Hand pump was hard to pump which produced light brown water which wasn't something we wanted to drink, so bring in your own water," advises Jim M. from his stay at Elkhorn Campground.
Weather preparedness essential: The open prairie experiences dramatic weather patterns. "Thunderstorms rolling over the prairie is something you'll never forget!" explains Lynn G. about her experience at Bennett campground.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to some sites requires careful driving. "Beautiful but confusing. The road was deserving a 4WD," reports Maddy T. about West River Rd dispersed camping area, noting she "ended up the road car camping in what was essentially a turnout."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with basic amenities: For families, sites with toilets and water make extended stays more comfortable. "Site had large picnic table and fire ring. Nice view of landscape and Trailhead nearby," notes Jim M. about Elkhorn Campground.
Bring adequate water supplies: Limited reliable water sources mean families should pack extra. "This site has a water pump, fire rings, and tables," explains kevin T. about Bennett camp, though water quality varies across locations.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: The badlands experience extreme temperature shifts between day and night. "In the day time the temperature gets really hot," warns kevin T. about camping at Bennett, making proper clothing and sleeping gear essential.
Tips from RVers
Small RV-accessible sites available: Some campgrounds accommodate smaller recreational vehicles. "This was a small rv park we stayed at for 3 night there is space for around 7 units. And some tent space as well," shares Jesse S. about Visitors Center - Beach.
Road access considerations: RV drivers should research routes carefully. "The short road in was in need of a bit of repair, but most vehicles could get through it, just a bit of a rut from people getting stuck in mud. Rather narrow as well, could definitely only accommodate one way traffic as a time," cautions Erin G. about Burning Coal Vein Campground.
Boondocking preparation: Many sites lack hookups but offer peaceful settings. "No hookups - one vault toilet - picnic tables and fire rings at each site. Boondocking only. National Forest land - part of the Little Missouri River Grasslands. Hiking from park. Outstanding views - BIG lots - peaceful," summarizes Rhonda M. about tent camping at Burning Coal Vein.
