Searching for the best camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands, ND? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands, ND. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
$20 - $60 / night
"I visited this campground for 1 night while driving across North Dakota. It's super easy to access from I-94, but you feel like you're a million miles away from the interstate."
"Cottonwood Campground was a very welcome oasis in the prairies of North Dakota."
"It was easy to come from Medora, North Dakota to the site, but it appears that you only get an entrance and exit on the Medora side."
"The road in was fairly flat, and basically right off the highway. You can have the option of lots of privacy as well. Most of the sites are quite a distance away from each other."
$30 - $60 / night
"There's a picnic table, but it was very hot outside without shade. There's a great creek within walking distance that you can cool off in and let the dogs run around."
"Medora Campground boasts a prime location near Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the charming town of Medora."
"It was right next to an equestrian area, so some horses being trained and whinnying just next door."
"We had total privacy, a fire pit that you could see the bluff from, trees all around, and the only thing you heard were horses from the horse camp area."
$20 / night
"General: Small (37-site) forest service campground in two loops near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. No hookups or cell service (despite proximity to the highway)."
"Isolated Some camp sites are real gems A variety of sites depending on what you want- camp on the hill in grassland if you want to watch sunset/sunrise- or get one of the camp sites that are nestled behind"
$27 - $46 / night
"We stayed at Red Trail campground in Medora, ND in September 2021. This is a great little park right outside Theodore Roosevelt National park."
"Walking distance to downtown and very short drive to the national park! The site was kind of unlevel but the laundry machines were great!"
"Close to interstate. Which you can hear. Heard a train go by a few times. Lake gets a few fisherman throughout the day. Only 4 spots which filled up before dark. No water or dump."
"The highway can be a bit loud but it’s not that bad. It looked like 4 spots and decent enough size. Great views of the lake."
$40 / night
"The location is great as the park entrance is just a few miles away, along with the gateway town of Medora. Reservation and check in was all digital which was nice."
"Very close to neighbors and site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks. We're pro members and couldn't figure out how to get the pro discount. No tables or fire rings."
"Well off the beaten path. The campground was completely empty when my wife and I stayed the night. There’s a nice trail with the trailhead right next door. Also has a water well. Will stay again."
"There is a short trail right from the site that leads up to great viewing spot complete with a bench. I believe the fee is $6 a night, bring exact cash or a check, no change to be made."
ScoutMet a Ranger on the way up, he said good luck. It was full. They now only have 15 spaces set up there
ScoutCampsites in valley in Badlands. Nice and clean. No power, no dumps, hand pump for water
GuideI was under the impression that this was a dispersed campground, but it is not ($10 per site). It is about 11 miles south of Medora and the TRNP.
Sites are level, hard gravel with a firepit and picnic table. Sites are well separated with plenty of trees and brush between sites. Vault toilets are newer and clean. Last 8.6 miles of road is well maintained gravel and wide enough for all types of RV, but unsure if there are pull-through sites.
Minimal flying bugs … no repellant required although we did set a citronella candle out.
Elevation: 2710’. We had site #5 and had great views and privacy.
GuideWe got here late right before sunset. A lot of the number of sites taken, but we did find one. We stayed on lot 12, and it worked for and overnight. Great sunset. Not as secluded we like but was quiet.
TravelerA red dirt road with a series of pull-in spots large enough to accommodate a camper or RV. Spots are spaced out a couple hundred feet. Other than your fellow boondockers, there’s no one else in sight. The views are picturesque.
ScoutAccessible and easy to find. It has sites with fire pits and tables. No camping on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
TravelerFairly nice sites most have some privacy I’m on the back in side, so these are smaller spots and some are pretty small so I’m glad I have a small class B
Guide...the hill is pretty steep and a couple sharp turns. If you are towing just make sure you are comfortable with that. It's a one lane road up the ill with blind spots so go slow and yield. Remember you'll have to come back down! Beautiful views though nicely spaced out spots.
TravelerCampsites are marked, a bit crowded so get there early to get a desired spot. Overall views are stunning.
Camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands offers a unique experience filled with stunning landscapes and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are several campgrounds to choose from, each with its own charm.
Camping near Dakota Prairie National Grasslands, North Dakota, provides a great mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What trails and areas are shown on the Little Missouri National Grassland map?
The Little Missouri National Grassland map typically highlights the Maah Daah Hey Trail system, which spans over 140 miles through the badlands, connecting the north and south units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The map also shows key areas like the Burning Coal Vein, Bennett Creek, and Wannagan Creek regions. Dispersed camping areas are marked, including Scoria Pit dispersed sites which offer excellent stargazing opportunities. Coal Creek Campground is also featured, located about 10 miles south of Medora on a well-maintained dirt/gravel road.
Where is Buffalo Gap Campground located in Dakota Prairie National Grasslands?
Buffalo Gap Campground is located in the Little Missouri National Grassland section of Dakota Prairie National Grasslands in southwestern North Dakota. The campground is situated approximately 20 miles south of Medora, making it a convenient base for exploring both the grasslands and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The campground is accessible via Highway 85, with a turn onto a well-maintained gravel road leading to the site.
What amenities are available at Wannagan Campground in Dakota Prairie National Grasslands?
Wannagan Campground offers basic facilities typical of more rustic Forest Service campgrounds. Amenities include vault toilets and potable water access. The campground provides picnic tables and fire rings at each site. There are no electrical hookups or shower facilities available, making it best suited for tent camping or self-contained RVs. For those seeking more amenities, nearby Red Trail Campground in Medora offers full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections, though it tends to be dustier during windy conditions.
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