Dispersed camping options near Sentinel Butte, North Dakota provide access to the surrounding badlands at elevations ranging from 2,300 to 2,700 feet. The area sits at the western edge of North Dakota where the grasslands transition to more rugged terrain. Summer nighttime temperatures often drop into the 50s even when daytime highs reach the 90s, making evening campfires welcome during peak season.
What to do
Hiking the cell tower trail: At Scoria Pit dispersed camping, follow the red rock road past the first cattle guard. "After the first cattle guard, it's the first right! The coordinates might not be correct. If you cross a second cattle guard, you went too far," notes camper Alice C. from Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking.
Birding opportunities: The Little Missouri River corridor hosts diverse bird species. "Great birds!! Chats, American Redstart, Cedar Waxwings, Spotted Towhee, Eastern Kingbird and more!" reports Janet K. at Sully Creek State Park, which offers prime viewing locations along the river corridor.
Petrified forest exploration: The petrified forest trail provides unique geological features. "The petrified forest hike is a must!" advises dallas H., who stayed at Cottonwood Campground in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which offers direct access to this distinctive trail system.
What campers like
Morning wildlife viewing: Dawn offers prime wildlife spotting throughout the region. "We woke up to find bison all around us. Truly a beautiful and unique experience I'll never forget," shares Caitlin B. about her stay at Cottonwood Campground, where wildlife often ventures near campsites.
Panoramic vistas: The elevated terrain provides expansive views across the badlands. "The panoramic vistas the next morning were incredible and made the night drive completely worth it. We'll definitely be back!" notes camper "ez" at Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking, describing the views from the cell tower area.
River access: Multiple sites offer access to the Little Missouri River. "We stayed in site #9 and it had a walking trail to the water and it overlooked the mountains. We also saw wild horses running through the prairie," reports dallas H. about Cottonwood Campground, highlighting the combination of water access and wildlife viewing.
What you should know
Hot water reliability: Water quality varies between sites. "The one criticism I have of this campsite is the potable water tasted horrible," notes Tyler M. about Cottonwood Campground, a consideration for campers planning to fill water containers.
Highway noise: Interstate proximity affects some campgrounds. "You can hear the highway traffic on I94, but it isn't bad," reports Gary M. about Camel's Hump Lake, which offers only four camping spots that fill quickly.
Seasonal weather challenges: Summer brings variable conditions. "Rooftop tent campers be aware 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," advises Lynsey M. at Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking.
Tips for camping with families
Morning routines: Plan for limited facilities at dispersed sites. "We were able to use all the facilities at the Painted Canyon Visitor center for morning rituals (aka teeth brushing bathroom in a toilet, face washing etc)," explains Lynsey M., who stayed at Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking with family.
Recreation options: Some campgrounds offer dedicated activities. "Good recreation for kids, basketball/volleyball/gaga ball and city pool at front of campground $5/person," notes Beth B. about Medora Campground.
Site selection for shade: At Buffalo Gap Campground, location matters for comfort. "Some campsites 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 campsites nestled behind trees for more seclusion," advises a camper about site options and their advantages.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. "Site 7 is very hard to get level. We had to buy more leveling blocks," reports Clean Slate D. about Boots Campground, where full hookups are available but terrain is uneven.
Shower availability: Free shower access varies by location. "Clean, warm, free showers!!" reports Janet K. about Sully Creek State Park, contrasting with campgrounds that charge per shower or offer no facilities.
Spot selection strategy: Early arrival improves options. "There are about 5-7 pullouts that I could see. Each are private with plenty of space. There is a lot of people looking for spots on a Monday. Get here early. It's worth it!" advises camper "goose10091203" about the limited spots at Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking.
