Cabin camping near Stanton, North Dakota offers options on the shores of Lake Sakakawea, which spans over 178 miles with 1,500+ miles of shoreline. Most cabins in this region sit at elevations between 1,800-1,950 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F during peak camping season from May through September. Winter cabin camping requires advance planning as many facilities close or operate with reduced services.
What to do
Water activities at the lake: Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground offers excellent access points for kayaking and paddleboarding. "Absolutley love this campground! Primitive campsites are very spacious and most having sections of shade during the entire day. Beach is amazing with little bay area that is calm even on windy days for the kayaker or paddleboarder," notes Patti E.
Hiking nearby trails: Cross Ranch State Park Campground features multiple hiking options through diverse terrain. "Beautiful, well-groomed, shaded hiking paths everywhere. Playgrounds. Big fields. Clean water access to the river for swimming, dogs, fishing," writes Shandi C. The park also maintains a network of trails suitable for various skill levels.
Visit historic sites: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park includes reconstructed military buildings and Native American cultural sites. "There is a lot do do nearby with hiking trails, fishing, historical sites and so on. Just far enough out of town but easy to get to on a nice highway," according to Glenda W. The park offers ranger-led interpretive programs during summer months.
What campers like
Spacious cabin sites: Fort Stevenson State Park Campground receives high marks for its well-designed layout. "The campsites are spacious. There are few great hikes that are kid friendly. There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large) and there is usually another beach with red rocks (lots have leaf fossils!) that you can get to pending the water level," explains Emily R.
Clean facilities: Bismarck KOA maintains high standards for their cabin and bathroom areas. "Nice shrubbery and trees throughout, a pool during the summer season, dog park, and playground. Will definitely be staying here again," says Chelsea R. The KOA's bathhouses are regularly cleaned and maintained throughout the day.
Lake views: Beulah Bay Rec Area offers cabins with direct water views. "Lots of to do! Boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding. Cabins, primitive campsites with great views and Full hook up RV sites," notes Brandi M. Many cabin sites include fire rings positioned to maximize lake vistas.
What you should know
Seasonal facility limitations: Some parks have restricted services in spring. "Lots of sites to choose from. Not too close together. Reasonable price. Only downside is the park is open early but no water, flush toilets or showers until May 15! There a few vault toilets so pick your site accordingly," advises Lynn P. at Lake Sakakawea State Park.
Generator restrictions: Cross Ranch State Park Campground prohibits generator use after certain hours. "Only downside is the size and shape of it don't allow any warmth to be retained, so be sure to have clothing/sleeping bags appropriate for the nighttime temperatures," mentions Zachary N. about the park's Tipi accommodation option.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites require advance booking, particularly during summer months. "Elbow woods is more spaced out and has great views of the lake. Group spots here are fun but you need to book the day they come available to reserve or you will miss out!" warns Kyle O. about Lake Sakakawea State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Playground for the kids can be seen from most sites. Convenient showers nearby," reports Glenda W. The playground equipment includes climbing structures suitable for various age groups.
Swimming options: Fort Stevenson State Park provides multiple water access points. "There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large) and there is usually another beach with red rocks (lots have leaf fossils!) that you can get to pending the water level," shares Emily R. Families should pack water shoes for comfort on the rocky shorelines.
Educational opportunities: Indian Hills Resort provides fishing programs for children. "We discovered that most are camping here to fish, there is a really good landing and a bait shop on the campground so it is very accommodating for that, and the fishing is excellent on sakakawea," notes Kyle O.
Tips from RVers
Weather considerations: Bismarck KOA offers cabin options when weather challenges tent camping. "Some shady sites but well protected from the wind that occurs here," mentions Corrie. The campground's layout uses natural features to minimize wind exposure.
Road noise awareness: Glen Ullin Memorial Park cabins may experience some ambient sound. "Lots of rumble strip noise from the nearby roads. If you are in a camper with the air running then you would be ok," warns Cathy. Sites further from the main road tend to be quieter.
Satellite reception: Tree cover affects connectivity at some cabin locations. "There are a lot of mature trees here, so that satellite could be iffy depending on the site," observes MickandKarla W. at Bismarck KOA. RVers relying on satellite internet should request more open sites when booking.
