Best Campgrounds near Minot, ND

Several good camping spots surround Minot, North Dakota, with options ranging from state parks to private resorts. Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground has roomy sites where campers can see the lake from their tents or RVs. Fort Stevenson State Park Campground works well for campers who want to hike or fish during their stay. Roughrider RV Resort has full hookups but some spots might be too small for bigger RVs. This place sits close to Minot, making it easy to get supplies or visit town. Roads to these campgrounds can get rough when it rains, so check conditions before driving out. Trees at many of these sites help block the sun and give some space between neighbors. Remember that water and bathrooms at some campgrounds shut down in colder months. Most people camp here from late spring through early fall when the weather isn't too hot or cold. Fishing is good at both Lake Sakakawea and Fort Stevenson for campers who bring their gear. Minot has restaurants and stores when you need a break from camp cooking. Always look up the rules and weather before your trip to avoid problems.

Best Camping Sites Near Minot, North Dakota (33)

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Recent Reviews near Minot, ND

59 Reviews of 33 Minot Campgrounds



Guide to Minot

Camping near Minot, North Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Explore the outdoors: The area around Minot is perfect for hiking and fishing. Campers at Fort Stevenson State Park Campground rave about the scenic trails and the chance to fish in Lake Sakakawea. One visitor said, "The trails around the lake were great and the food at the marina was OK."
  • Enjoy water activities: Many campgrounds, like Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground, provide access to swimming beaches and boating. A camper noted, "They have spots for group camping that you can have 2-3 RVs on or private single camp spots."
  • Visit local attractions: Check out the nearby shops in Garrison, as suggested by a visitor at Fort Stevenson State Park Campground, who mentioned, "If you have a chance head into Garrison and do some shopping on their main street."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Old Settlers Park highlighted, "The bathrooms are replenished and cleaned daily and fully stocked with CHARMIN ULTRA toilet paper which is an absolute luxury at a simple campground."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds, such as Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground, offer roomy campsites. One camper said, "The campsites are spacious. There are few great hikes that are kid-friendly."
  • Friendly management: Campers often mention the helpful staff. At Roughrider RV Resort, one visitor noted, "Management was super nice. Let us have a late checkout and even brought a few pieces of firewood for free."

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or trains. A camper at Old Settlers Park mentioned, "Expect road and rail noise at both."
  • Tight spaces: If you're in an RV, be cautious about site sizes. A review for Roughrider RV Resort warned, "If you decide to stay here try to avoid row 90-96 as they are very tight."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full amenities. A visitor at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground noted, "Only electrical service at the sites."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. Fort Stevenson State Park Campground has a fun play area for children, making it a great spot for families.
  • Plan for quiet time: Some areas can be quiet, which is perfect for families. A camper at Old Settlers Park mentioned, "It was nice for privacy but felt a little eerie at times."
  • Pack for activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. Campers at Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground enjoyed the spacious sites for family activities.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site dimensions: Before booking, ensure your RV fits the site. A review for Roughrider RV Resort highlighted the tightness of some spots, saying, "We couldn’t maneuver the rig to get our black tank connectors more in the center."
  • Utilize dump stations: Some campgrounds may not have sewer hookups. A visitor at Roughrider RV Resort mentioned, "The worker let us know her co-worker told us to pull in the wrong way and we could clear the sewer obstacle."
  • Stay connected: Check for cell service before you go. A camper at Roughrider RV Resort noted, "We got 3 bars on Verizon."

Camping around Minot, ND, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family adventure, there's something for you in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in and around Minot, ND?

Minot offers several camping options within a reasonable drive. Rice Lake County Park provides free primitive campsites close to Minot with no hookups, making it ideal for a quick weekend getaway. Old Settlers Park is another option with easy access to US-2, offering clean facilities and free showers. For those willing to drive a bit further, Buffalo Lodge Lake is a small campground near Minot with first-come, first-served sites. Other options in the broader area include Mouse River Park, Butte City Park, and several campgrounds around Lake Sakakawea, all within driving distance of Minot.

Are there RV parks with full hookups in Minot, North Dakota?

Swenson Valley View RV Park provides full hookup sites in the Minot area. While not the typical KOA with pools and playgrounds, it offers well-groomed grounds and peaceful surroundings despite some highway noise. It's particularly suitable for those working in the Minot area. Roughrider RV Resort is another excellent option with full hookups, clean and new restrooms, paid showers, and on-site laundry facilities. Management is noted for being exceptionally friendly and accommodating with late checkouts. Both parks are conveniently located just minutes from Minot, making them ideal bases for exploring the area while enjoying the comforts of full hookup camping.

Which specific campgrounds like Mellow Moose or Roughrider are recommended in the Minot area?

In the Minot area, Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground comes highly recommended with huge, well-spaced sites in immaculate condition. Many consider it one of the best campgrounds in North Dakota, offering beautiful waters, breathtaking views from the Elbowwoods loop, and proximity to the Garrison dam and National fish hatchery. For those seeking water access, Wolf Creek Campground on Lake Sakakawea provides excellent shore access for fishing with nearly every site having easy water access and two boat ramps. While Mellow Moose is available near Minot with reservable sites and basic amenities, Roughrider RV Resort consistently receives praise for its friendly management, clean facilities, and peaceful riverside location.

What tent camping options exist near Minot?

Roughrider RV Resort offers beautiful tent sites next to the river in a well-maintained setting. The grounds are described as magical for tent camping with a peaceful atmosphere. For a more rustic experience, Butte City Park provides tent camping opportunities, though amenities may be limited during winter months. Other tent-friendly options around Minot include Old Settlers Park, which has designated tent sites but can feel quiet during weekdays, and Buffalo Lodge Lake for a more primitive experience. North Dakota state parks within driving distance like Lake Sakakawea and Fort Stevenson also offer excellent tent camping with more amenities and scenic locations.