Dispersed camping options near New Town, North Dakota offer direct access to Lake Sakakawea and the Dakota badlands terrain. The region experiences temperature extremes with summer highs reaching 85°F and winter lows dropping below 0°F. Camping availability in most locations is seasonal, typically from May through September, with limited winter accommodations.
What to do
Hiking the Maah Daah Hey Trail: Access this scenic trail system from Ccc Campground, which serves as a trailhead for both the Maah Daah Hey and Long X trails. "We did a great 11ish mile mountain bike loop by heading up Maah Daah Hey and down Long X," shares Nicole C., who visited in early October.
Fishing at Kota Ray Dam: Cast for perch and other species at this small lake located at Kota Ray Dam. "Perch are hot right now. Along with a few other species in this little lake. Fun place to go for the weekend far enough out of town to feel like a getaway," notes Kori P., who found the fishing particularly good in July.
Wildlife viewing in Theodore Roosevelt National Park: The North Unit offers opportunities to see bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs. "While we were camped here, 2 small herds of bison grazed through the camp," reports Chris A. at Juniper Campground, adding that the Labor Day weekend was the first time in two years the campground had been full.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location provides excellent night sky viewing. "Be sure to look up at night…the stars are amazing! I saw three shooting stars and you could clearly see the Milky Way and everything!" writes Stephanie W. about her experience at Juniper Campground.
Badlands hiking trails: Many campers appreciate the distinctive terrain and trail systems. "The horse and hiking trails are unbelievable. The campgrounds themselves are quiet. You'll experience starry skies and the howls of coyotes," notes Jessica S. about her time at Little Missouri State Park Campground.
Lake activities: The region's water access points provide recreational opportunities. "Great place to boat and had a couple fun playgrounds for the kids," reports Ashley B. about the pet-friendly camping at Mountrail County Parshall Bay Recreation Area, which features boat-in access and water recreation options.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically in this region. "October can be cold! It got down below freezing in the first week of October," warns Nicole C. about camping at CCC Campground, adding that "It gets windy" and recommending sites in the B loop for wind protection.
Limited amenities at some sites: Several campgrounds have minimal facilities. "There's no hookups here. Generators are allowed 60 decibels at 50 feet," explains Tammy P. about Juniper Campground, while Brett D. notes about Summit Campground: "No amenities but a great place to stay for a few days for free. 14 day limit on camping."
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "Right on the highway so loud traffic all night," mentions Nevin C. about Summit Campground, while Emma A. confirms "There is steady road noise from I-85. A fair amount of large trucks passing most of the time."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: When camping with children, choose sites with recreational facilities. "Great place to boat and had a couple fun playgrounds for the kids," notes Ashley B. about Mountrail County Parshall Bay Recreation Area, making it a good option for pet-friendly camping near New Town, North Dakota with families.
Attend ranger programs: Educational opportunities enhance family camping experiences. Lee L. shares this about Juniper Campground: "Plenty of trees provide privacy in this nice National Park campsite that's just a short walk to the banks of the Little Missouri River. Has the standard National Park features, but our kids especially enjoyed the ranger presentation on prairie dogs."
Select water recreation sites: Lakes and ponds provide family entertainment options. "We love Kota Ray. Its small, the swimming beach is pretty decent," explains Leah N., adding that "The fishing is good and it's a great little pond for kayaks and paddleboards," making this an excellent pet-friendly option for families camping with dogs near New Town.
Tips from RVers
Arrive with tanks prepared: Water access can be limited at some campgrounds. "The only water is a well that you have to pump yourself with a handle, so come with your black/grey tanks empty and water tank full," advises Holly E. about CCC Campground.
Check site dimensions before booking: Some campgrounds have size limitations or challenging terrain. "When this place was built, they never envisioned large rigs. So if you have one over 30 feet, just be aware you might have to wiggle your way into a site," warns Bob M. about Juniper Campground at Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Consider leveling challenges: Site terrain varies significantly across the region. "I wish some of them were just a bit more level," notes Leah N. about Kota Ray Dam, while Kerry K. found "a big hump in the middle" of their site that complicated setup for their 28-foot travel trailer.
