Best Camping near Sakakawea Lake

Sakakawea Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Sakakawea Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Sakakawea Lake, ND. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Sakakawea Lake, ND (56)

    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri State Park Campground

    1. Little Missouri State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    36 Photos
    24 Saves
    Killdeer, North Dakota

    Little Missouri State Park is situated along the Little Missouri River, just a short distance west of where it empties into Lake Sakakawea. The park can be accessed by way of Killdeer, 20 miles to the south, or New Town, 45 miles to the northeast. This 4,600-acre park consisting of rugged Badland terrain and river wetlands was established in 1971, however has been increasingly encroached upon by oil drilling operations since 2011. Despite this, there’s still plenty of opportunity to get out and enjoy the scenery on more than 45 miles of hiking and riding trails throughout the park.

    The park offers 35 drive-in campsites, including primitive tent sites, modern RV sites with electricity, and large group shelter sites. Most sites are in open, grassy areas and are equipped with picnic tables and fire pits. The campground features vault toilets, a shower house, picnic shelters, and a dump station. As a popular equestrian park, there are horse corral, a round pen, and hay is available for purchase. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed. Camping is available from May through October. Individual sites are $12–$15/night; group sites are $60–$100/night; reservations accepted.

    From the campground at Little Missouri State Park, hikers and horseback riders have access to more than 45 miles of trails for exploring the nearby badlands on the adjacent public and private lands. Visitors can download a trail map from the park’s website, or obtain one at the park. Trails are color-coded to show their ratings, from easy to difficult, and interconnected segments allow for short or long hikes and rides. Equestrians are required to remain on designated horse trails, and riders need to obtain horse passes at the park. Visitors should inquire about trail conditions before heading into the badlands area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

      3. Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

      28 Reviews
      125 Photos
      138 Saves
      Grassy Butte, North Dakota

      Overview

      For groups visiting the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Juniper Campground Group Site is a great place to stay. Located four miles (6.4 km) from the entrance to the North Unit of the park, the Group Site is open from May through October.

      Recreation

      Hikers can access the Achenbach Trail and Little Mo Trail directly from the facility. The Achenbach Trail (17.7 miles/28.5 km), climbs from river bottomland up through the Achenbach Hills, drops to the river again, climbs to Oxbow Overlook along the way of a spur trail, and returns north of the river to the campground. Ask about the conditions of the river crossing before hiking. The Little Mo Trail (1.1 miles/1.8 km) is a self-guiding nature trail that begins at Juniper Campground and goes through river woodlands and badlands. Visit the Hiking and Trail Information page on the park website.

      Facilities

      Toilets, drinking water and picnic tables are provided at this facility. The site can accommodate tents, trailers and RVs. The group site can accommodate between seven and 60 people with a maximum of 20 passenger vehicles. There are no hookups; a dump station is available for campers. All wheeled vehicles and trailers must remain on roadways or pads.

      Natural Features

      The Little Missouri River is the central, unifying feature of this wild and broken land where, as a young man, Theodore Roosevelt ranched and hunted in the 1880s. The park is part of both the Northern Great Plains and the West, blending a rich natural beauty with diverse human history. The rugged topography, with its flora and fauna, also provides an opportunity to discover the badlands environment as Roosevelt once did. It is a place to experience a land and way of life that helped shape Theodore Roosevelt's attitudes and philosophy regarding conservation. Cottonwood trees surrounding the campsite turn golden in the fall. Although the campground is moderately forested, most of the campsites are in partial to full sun but visitors can cool off in the cold river when temperatures peak during summer.

      Nearby Attractions

      The town of Watford City has shopping, restaurants, amenities and a theater is located approximately 15 miles (24 km) to the north. The Little Missouri National Grassland is the largest National Grassland in the nation at 1.03 million acres (416,826 ha). It is located in western North Dakota and is managed by the Medora Ranger District in Dickinson, ND and the McKenzie Ranger District in Watford City, ND. The National Grassland provides additional recreation opportunities in the area.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)

      $30 / night

      • No image available

        4. Van Hook Area

        1 Review
        1 Save
        New Town, North Dakota

        This recreation area is part of Sakakawea Lake

        • Phone Service
        • ADA Access
        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • Market
        Camper-submitted photo from New Town Marina

        5. New Town Marina

        1 Review
        1 Photo
        3 Saves
        New Town, North Dakota
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • RVs
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Hills State Rec Area and Resort
        Camper-submitted photo from Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park

        7. Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park

        15 Reviews
        33 Photos
        59 Saves
        Epping, North Dakota

        In 1805, explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, along with their Corps of Discovery, crossed this region of North Dakota’s Badlands as they paddled up the mighty Missouri River. Today, Lewis and Clark State Park commemorates their passage through the area with this 490-acre recreation area on the scenic shores of Lake Sakakawea. The park is located in the upper, northwest corner of the state, about 20 miles east of Williston, off of ND-1804, and is one North Dakota’s best destinations for camping, boating, birding and hiking. The campground at Lewis and Clark State Park offers more than 100 tent and RV campsites, most of which are equipped with full or partial hookups. Both back-in and pull-through drives are available, and can accommodate large RVs and trailers. There are also 8 primitive tent sites and 5 group sites. Campsites are partially wooded for some shade, and come equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Campground amenities include water faucets, flush toilets, showers, playgrounds, a dog park, picnic areas, and Wifi service. A dump station is located between the campsite loops. Dogs must remain leashed unless in designated areas. Camping is available year-round; sites are $17–$30/night; reservations accepted. The recreation opportunities at Lewis and Clark State Park are abundant, both on land and water. More than 8 miles of hiking and biking trails explore the prairies and ravines in the park. These range from short, family-friendly interpretive paths to longer trails to scenic badlands viewpoints, and for unique bird and wildlife watching. For cooling off during the summer season, a sandy beach is available for sunbathing and swimming, and boat ramps are available for launching watercraft onto Lake Sakakawea. The park rents canoes, kayaks and SUPs for paddling fun. Also a popular fishing destination, anglers can cast for walleye and northern pike.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access
        Camper-submitted photo from Alpha & Omega RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands
        Camper-submitted photo from Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands
        Camper-submitted photo from Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands
        Camper-submitted photo from Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands
        Camper-submitted photo from Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands
        Camper-submitted photo from Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

        9. Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

        15 Reviews
        79 Photos
        2 Saves
        Grassy Butte, North Dakota

        Overview

        CCC Campground lies in the Badlands of North Dakota. There are a few trials located here. __There are 32 sites and 3 campground loops. The campground has 5 reservable sites. This is a pay and scan facility. Ensure that you have Receration.gov app downloaded on your phone prior to arriving. Scan QR code to make payment. This location also excepts cash, use the fee envelopes located at the fee tubes for cash payments.__

        Recreation

        Maah Daah Hey Trail that goes for 150 miles, Ends at Burning Coal Vein Campground. Sunset loop which is a short 2-mile hike that connects the Maah Daah Hey Trail and the Long X trail. If you are looking for a day hike, there is a 11-mile loop Maah Daah Hey Trial to the Long X Trail. Where you will see dramatic views of the badlands and prairies of Western North Dakota. The Little Missouri river runs along the northern part of the campground.

        Facilities

        Maah Daah Hey Trail that goes for 150 miles, Ends at Burning Coal Vein Campground. Sunset loop which is a short 2-mile hike that connects the Maah Daah Hey Trail and the Long X trail. If you are looking for a day hike, there is a 11-mile loop Maah Daah Hey Trial to the Long X Trail. Where you will see dramatic views of the badlands and prairies of Western North Dakota. The Little Missouri river runs along the northern part of the campground.

        Natural Features

        Here you will be surrounded by colorful buttes. During your stay you may have Prong horn, mule and white tail deer going through your site. On rare occasions Big horn sheep can be seen grazing in the area. This area is great for birders, plant enthusiast during the spring and summer months. Perfect all year for the outdoor adventurers.__

        Nearby Attractions

        Right across the river is Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Watford City is a 15 min drive north on HWY 85 for any supplies that you may need.__

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Reservable
        • RVs

        $10 / night

        • No image available

          10. McKenzie Bay Rec Area

          1 Review
          Dunn Center, North Dakota

          This recreation area is part of Sakakawea Lake

          • Phone Service
          • RVs
          • Tents
          • Group
          • Standard (Tent/RV)
          • Market
        Showing results 1-10 of 56 campgrounds

        Pet-friendly camping near Sakakawea Lake

        Recent Reviews In Sakakawea Lake

        118 Reviews of 56 Sakakawea Lake Campgrounds


        • Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground
          August 17, 2024

          COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground

          Very pretty and clean campground

          Sites a larger than most campgrounds we’ve been to. Grounds are well kept. Only electrical service at the sites. Potable water is available at the dump site on the way in to the campground.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
          August 2, 2024

          Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

          Wonderful little campground

          I arrived very late in the night, but I’m so happy I stayed here! There were plenty of first come first serve sites. 49 was where I stayed and it was tucked away enough that I had privacy. The campground was very quiet until a herd of bison came through haha. Some of the campers ventured a bit too close to them in my opinion and got very loud/excited about it. The bathroom was clean, but for some reason like a sauna at night! 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!

        • Camper-submitted photo from Alpha & Omega RV Park
          May 23, 2024

          Alpha & Omega RV Park

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        • Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Carlson Lake
          October 23, 2023

          Nelson Carlson Lake

          Super quiet at night

          All sites are along the lake. There are dumpsters, a boat ramp, picnic tables, two pit toilets and fire pits. The middle section of the campground has three tall flood lights that light up the middle section. The two ends are fairly dark. There was no traffic at night. We had the place to ourselves in October.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
          October 16, 2023

          Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

          Great Experience

          The National Park North Unit and Campground(CG) is easy to find off US-85. We showed our Access Passes to get into the park and then proceeded to mile marker 5, where the CG is located. We pulled up to the information and sign-in board for this first come, first serve CG at about 11:30 AM Mountain Time(interesting that when we got to the north unit area, our phones went back to central time, and after a quick Google search, we found out that the north unit runs on central time). A gentleman let us know that he had just pulled in and grabbed a campsite near the entrance/exit and that we’d probably only fit in site 8(this CG is all dry camping) as the perimeter campsites, both back-ins and pull-throughs, were too short for us. The other longer sites were already taken. We proceeded to pull through site 8, which is a long, quarter moon-shaped asphalt site. We maneuvered around to stay away from tree branches and stay on the pad. The picnic table and stand-up barbecue were on the driver’s side, but since the sites are nicely spaced out, this was not a problem. We then filled out our registration envelope, placed $14 cash(Access Pass discount) in the folder, put the tab on our post, and deposited the envelope in the registration area. We could have also written a check or used a credit card to pay. We got on and off 1 bar on Verizon. We did have a good shot north for Starlink. They have a vaulted toilet and flush toilet building along with potable water at the dump station. There are about a half dozen sites for longer rigs, such as 32, 42, and 43, 49, with 5 being the best site. We had our two dogs with us, and there was plenty of room to walk them around the CG. There was plenty of bison poop in the CG, but we didn't see any during our two-night stay. Watford City is 17 miles north and has your major amenities. We enjoyed using this CG as a base to explore the North Unit.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands
          September 16, 2023

          Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

          Beautiful views and access to a great trail from the campsite

          It was an awesome campground. The views from the campsite were beautiful and there’s an access to the Maah Daah Hey trail from the campground. There’s no shade so it can get hot and you can see every other campsite but it’s still really awesome!

        • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground
          August 12, 2023

          Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground

          Really Nice

          This is our first visit here, North Dakota does a great job with their state parks campgrounds. Our 3rd SP visited on this trip ( Lake Metigoshe & Sully Creek were the others).

          Huge, well spaced campsites. Pretty much in immaculate condition. The park was busy, hardly any vacant spots but still very quiet. Plenty of folks had their boats, & plenty of room to park them. Very scenic area.

          We've been to plenty of state parks across the USA. Looks like North Dakota might have the best ones.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
          August 7, 2023

          Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

          Great for TRNP North Unit

          First time we ever boondocked in our 5th wheel. This place is nice & peaceful, well except for the 2 steer that went through our site lol.

          Trey have one modern restroom, no showers. Excellent basecamp for the north unit. Plenty of wildlife & scenery to find.

          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. Camphost was great. Watford City about 20 minutes away for groceries & gas.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Riverside Park - Beulah
          August 2, 2023

          Riverside Park - Beulah

          Overnight

          There are 8 electric RV sites according to the map but it looks like there's a few more here. The sites are grass. We found sites pretty level on the way but on the south side they are steep, better for tents. There are bathrooms and a shower but they were in terrible shape, I wouldn't use them. Otherwise it's nice and quiet. Disc golf, playground and a ball field are here.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Kota Ray Dam
          July 31, 2023

          Kota Ray Dam

          Not as expected

          Picked a site online from the website. Looked like a nice long back in by the lake. Turns out it had a big hump in the middle of it and the power was on the wrong side a to far away to reach. Went up the hill and found a place to park in site three while the guy I called checked to see if it was reserved . Luckily it wasn’t so I was able to set up and get the air going Other thing to mention is I’m in a 28 foot travel trailer. The road in if you can call it that was pretty worn out. First part was bumpy and patched tar. The rest was gravel so had to go slow It’s a bare bones park that doesn’t see much attention. But if you wanna be alone, this will work. Only three of us here. Bugs are a bit of a problem here as everywhere this time of year. Little no see ‘ems are the worst. Just a few Skeeters. I’m told there’s a dump station, but haven’t looked at it yet. Was looking for a quiet place to wait out the heat for a few days that had power. So it works for that. And I’m beholding to Jeremy at the office in town for helping with the reservation switch. I would suggest you come here first before picking a site. The ones on the loop on the hill are more level.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
          July 11, 2023

          Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

          My favorite to date!!!

          We weren't even here and parked... 15 minutes later and three bison come right past my camper. I knew we would see them but wow!!! I was in awe..it came right by me and I backed off and knew to respect it. It was on a mission and heading to the woods. Up to 2000 lbs and can travel 30mph!

          North side was quiet. We were worried about a campsite and got moving early to get here, but we stayed on a Monday and had no issues. We had our pick of quite a few spots. It got busier by the end of the day, but still spots open for campers. Also cant beat $14 to stay. No electric but it does have a place for water and to dump. Bathrooms are actually really nice and clean, no showers. We did not have cell reception but so travel with Starlink.

          Convenient to drive the scenic route and to hike.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
          June 27, 2023

          Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

          Well kept

          Beautiful, well maintained campground. Lots of different site to include pull thru, back in, walk in tent sites and a group site. New bathroom on site. Walking distance to the cannonball creations. There is also a dump station here unlike Cottonwood Camp in the South unit.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Kota Ray Dam
          June 5, 2023

          Kota Ray Dam

          Good For Families

          We love Kota Ray. Its small, the swimming beach is pretty decent, the campsites aren't too terrible (I wish some of them were just a bit more level), the bathrooms are usually cleaned well and they have lots of picnic shelters. The fishing is good and it's a great little pond for kayaks and paddleboards. Only electric at sites, no water hookups.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park
          June 5, 2023

          Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park

          Beautiful & Clean

          This campground is beautiful. They keep it very well kept. They mow weekly, facilities are very clean, the playgrounds are nice and kept up, the roads (all paved) and rv pads (most gravel) are very nice and the place has tons of trees (except on the beach so bring a beach umbrella!). There is a very nice shower house with 3 shower stalls and flush toilets as well as 2 vanities. There is a general store that carries lots of fishing gear, some groceries (e.g. ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, buns, bread, chocolate, marshmallows, Graham crackers, ice cream), they have shirts, sweaters, hats, some frozen foods, camping supplies and lots more. Lewis & Clark is our favorite place to stay. The beach is super sandy with some, but not many rocks, lots of drift wood and the water is shallow for a long ways so it's great for kids! Hope you love it as much as we do!

        • Camper-submitted photo from Little Missouri State Park Campground
          June 2, 2023

          Little Missouri State Park Campground

          Absolutely incredible!

          This place is a steal for the price they charge! I watched the sun rise over the ND badlands! The Campground was immaculate, the ranger on duty was super helpful, and I had the whole grounds to myself (it was on a Tuesday). 100% reccommend!!

        • Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
          November 30, 2022

          Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

          This is a wonderful campground for shorter stays!

          I really enjoyed this campground. The roads and parking pads are paved! The bathroom was recently built and it is clean and well maintained with running water and flush toilets. Also, the camp hosts were very friendly and helpful with tips on what to see and to do in and around the park.

          North

        • Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
          July 6, 2022

          Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

          Upscale Primitive Camping

          This is a delightful place surrounded by wildlife. I was able to get really close to buffalo (safely from the truck). This campground is on the north side of the Little Missouri River across from the CCC Campground which I actually preferred even though it was more primitive. The sites here are denser, and it is more populated, but there were still a lot of sites available when I was there on 7/5. . There are no hookups. There are bathrooms and running water available and a sanitary dump….an advantage over the CCC. It looks like the recently built new bathrooms which are grade A. It is convenient to auto touring and hiking trails.  I am on a walk about to visit all the national parks and TRNP is one of my favorites so far.

        • Camper-submitted photo from Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands
          July 4, 2022

          Ccc Campground (Nd) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

          Best Kept Secret In North Dakota

          I loved this place. I wanted a quiet, uncrowded campground to spend the 4th of July weekend. I got more than I bargained for. This beautiful place with sweeping 360 degree views was virtually empty. There was a campground host and one other RV in the entire campground. There were a few tents on 7/2, but they left. The sites are well spaced. There are vault toilets that would be barely adequate if the place where full. Potable water is available only by hand-pumping….not so great if you are trying to fill you fresh water tank. There is no sanitary dump on the property. These detractions are the reason it is not a 5. 

          The campground is the beginning/end of the 144 mile Maah Daah Hey trail. I hiked sections of this trail two days in a row and it was completely delightful. The trail and campsite are on the south side of the Little Missouri River and the visitor center for the national park and the Juniper campground are on the north side. Caution: the river marks the dividing line between Central and Mountain time zones. The weather around here can be dramatic. There were two intense thunder storms the last two nights.

        • Camper-submitted photo from White Buffalo RV Park
          June 27, 2022

          White Buffalo RV Park

          Not a Campground

          The name is no longer White Buffalo. RD RV Park is not really setup for overnight campers. There are no showers, toilet or water. This facility is for long term guests that are fully self contained. The owner was friendly enough, although we only spoke on the phone. I put a $30 check in a drop box, plugged into the electric and slept there.

        • Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground
          June 24, 2022

          COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground

          Primitive camping fun

          Arrived as a severe thunderstorm approached. Two days of windy during the day yet despite wind gusts going from 25-50 mph there was not a bug in site so you give and take. The primitive camping area was very dry after a downpour and once the clouds disappeared beautiful sunset each night. Even with neighbors, the area was very quiet of others. The sounds from Mother Nature were singing her melodies to keep us entertained. Nothing better than waking up to the sound of wind in the leaves and birds singing their songs. Bathroom located at the end of loop 4 was decent for quick use. Not a lot of traffic on the roads outside of people using the bathroom at the end. 10/10 highly recommend for we will be returning in week and a half.



        Guide to Sakakawea Lake

        Camping near Sakakawea Lake, North Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the water, there’s something for everyone.

        What to do:

        • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. At the Little Missouri State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "We were surrounded by miles of hiking... the views were gorgeous." This park is a great spot for those who love to hit the trails.
        • Fishing: Head to Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground for some fishing. A visitor shared, "I had a very clear view of the water... the place was very clean." The lake is known for its fishing opportunities, making it a perfect spot for anglers.
        • Boating: If you have a boat, Fort Stevenson State Park Campground is ideal. One reviewer said, "Surrounded all the way around by Lake Sakakawea, it makes a great spot for boating." Enjoy the water and the scenic views.

        What campers like:

        • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Lewis & Clark State Park, a visitor noted, "The facilities are very clean... the roads (all paved) and RV pads (most gravel) are very nice."
        • Spacious Campsites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites. A review for Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground mentioned, "Huge, well spaced campsites... the park was busy, hardly any vacant spots but still very quiet."
        • Natural Beauty: The stunning views are a big draw. One camper at CCC Campground (ND) — Dakota Prairie National Grasslands said, "The views are just awesome. 360 deg. Large sites spaced far apart."

        What you should know:

        • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like CCC Campground, have fewer amenities. A camper mentioned, "There’s no shade so it can get hot and you can see every other campsite but it’s still really awesome!"
        • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. At Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park, one camper shared, "There were plenty of first come first serve sites... until a herd of bison came through haha."
        • Weather Variability: The weather can change quickly. A visitor at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground noted, "The primitive camping area was very dry after a downpour... beautiful sunset each night."

        Tips for camping with families:

        • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds. At Fort Stevenson State Park Campground, a reviewer mentioned, "There is a fun play area for the kids and an amazing hiking trail around the entire state park."
        • Safety First: Always supervise kids near water. A camper at Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground said, "The beach is super sandy... great for kids!"
        • Plan for Meals: Some sites may not have cooking facilities. A visitor at Lewis & Clark State Park noted, "The only thing keeping me from giving 5 stars is our electricity box at our site was completely unusable."

        Tips from RVers:

        • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Roughrider RV Resort mentioned, "We couldn’t maneuver the rig to get our black tank connectors more in the center."
        • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Some campgrounds may have limited dumping options. A visitor at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground said, "Potable water is available at the dump site on the way in to the campground."
        • Stay Connected: Check for cell service. A camper at Juniper Campground noted, "We did not have cell reception but so travel with Starlink."

        Camping near Sakakawea Lake, North Dakota, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent or an RV. With beautiful parks and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

        Frequently Asked Questions