Best Campgrounds near Medora, ND

Camping in the Little Missouri Grasslands near Medora, North Dakota offers terrain ranging from flat prairies to rugged badlands formations. The red scoria rock roads lead to panoramic vistas at higher elevations, with night temperatures dropping significantly even in summer months. Cell service varies dramatically between campgrounds, with coverage generally better at higher elevations.

What to do

Hike to Petrified Forest: The petrified forest trail accessible near Cottonwood Campground provides unique geological exploration. "We also saw wild horses running through the prairie. Also the petrified forest hike is a must!" notes Dallas H.

Explore badlands on horseback: Campers at Sully Creek State Park (now Rough Riders) can access equestrian trails throughout the badlands. Mac M. reports, "A perfect campground for equestrian campers or those visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Just 3-4 miles from Medora ND and park entrance. Open views, good trails, great birding."

Bird watching opportunities: The riparian areas near campgrounds support diverse bird species. Janet K. observed at Sully Creek, "Great birds!! Chats, American Redstart, Cedar Waxwings, Spotted Towhee, Eastern Kingbird and more!" Birding is particularly productive during spring and fall migrations along the Little Missouri River.

What campers like

Quiet primitive sites: The Cedar Loop at Sully Creek offers secluded spots. "It has nice facilities, great shaded primitive sites, access to the Mah Dah Hey trail that goes along the Little Missouri River," reports Delanie J. The campground recently changed names from Sully Creek to Rough Riders.

Free grassland dispersed camping: Grassland Boondocking provides no-cost camping options with sunset views. Lynsey M. explains, "We stayed 2 nights in July in this area and it was great! Plenty of spots, so we didn't feel like we were on top of other campers. Close to the National Park which was why we stayed."

River access and walking trails: Many sites feature paths to the Little Missouri River. According to Dallas H. at Cottonwood Campground, "We stayed in site #9 and it had a walking trail to the water and it overlooked the mountains." These trails provide access for fishing, wildlife viewing and sunset photography.

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Summer months fill quickly at established campgrounds. Scott D. notes about Cottonwood Campground, "Was very pleased I could get a First Come/First Served site. The campground was clean, quiet, and had very nice bathrooms. Host were great and friendly."

Water quality issues: Some visitors report unpleasant-tasting water at certain campgrounds. Tyler M. cautions about Cottonwood Campground: "The one criticism I have of this campsite is the potable water tasted horrible."

Weather preparedness: The grasslands experience significant temperature swings and high winds. Rooftop tent campers at dispersed sites should consider location carefully, as Lynsey M. explains, "The top ridge is so windy the first night we stayed we were whipping around all night but the second night we stayed on the lower ridge and the wind was much better."

Tips for camping with families

Look for shade: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Patti E. recommends certain areas at Buffalo Gap Campground: "The campsites are perfectly fine... Sites are shaded and private. Not one single generator!!"

Consider proximity to amenities: Campsites near Medora provide easy access to town facilities. Beth B. at Medora Campground shares, "Good recreation for kids, basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person. Medora is a small town, easy to bike or walk."

Early arrival essential: Busy season campgrounds fill by mid-afternoon. Arrive before noon to secure sites. Hannah W. notes about Buffalo Gap, "Although you cannot see the interstate, the campground is super close to I-94 and it's loud. If you're a light sleeper, this may not be the place for you."

Tips from RVers

Site selection considerations: Some sites present leveling challenges. Clean Slate D. warns about Boots Campground: "Very close to neighbors and site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks."

Shower facilities vary: Free shower options exist at certain campgrounds. Charles C. praises Buffalo Gap: "The OMG was the individual shower rooms with radiant heat that was motion activated." This makes longer stays more comfortable during dusty summer conditions.

Supply planning crucial: Limited shopping options mean bringing essentials. Beth B. advises Medora Campground visitors: "No grocery store, only small convenience store so make sure you stock up if you are staying for a few days." Most campgrounds near Medora stock firewood but not food supplies.