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Best Dispersed Camping near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

56 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Theodore Roosevelt National Park offer primitive, free sites on public lands. The most popular area, Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking (Scoria Pit), sits approximately 10 minutes from the national park entrance. Additional options include Buffalo Gap Road Dispersed Camp, Camels Hump Lake, and West River Road sites. These areas provide varying levels of accessibility and scenic vistas of the North Dakota badlands.

Road conditions vary seasonally at these dispersed sites. The main access road to Scoria Pit features a gravel surface suitable for most vehicles in dry conditions. Several campers noted one section being "a little washed out, but generally easy access." Sites are available along pullouts on the main road, with the most scenic spots located atop the bluffs. Larger RVs and trailers should remain in lower elevation sites, as the upper areas have limited turnaround space. No amenities exist at these locations; campers must pack in all water and supplies.

Weather conditions demand preparation when camping in this region. Strong winds frequently sweep across the exposed bluffs, particularly at higher elevation sites. Cell service is generally good throughout the area, with Verizon and AT&T providing reliable coverage. Wildlife sightings may include mule deer, wild horses, and rattlesnakes. According to reviews, the area becomes busier around sunset as day visitors to the national park seek overnight accommodations. The night sky offers exceptional stargazing opportunities when conditions permit. Sully Creek State Park, located nearby, provides water and dump station access for a small fee.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

54 Photos of 5 Theodore Roosevelt National Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

56 Reviews of 5 Theodore Roosevelt National Park Campgrounds

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Amazing Views, Easy Access, Quiet Stay

    Arrived the afternoon 07/27/24 and had no issues finding a spot. Went past where Google maps took us for Scoria Pit and up the hill to sit atop on the bluffs for some amazing views! No amenities, but the location and quietness around us was very much worth it. Good location a little off the highway near Theodore Roosevelt NP. One section of the road was a little washed out, but generally easy access.

  • Issa F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2023

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    A Breathe of Fresh Air

    Pulled up to the first campsite which was very easy to get to. Very peaceful. Around 9:30pm another camper pulled up next to me which seems like bad camping etiquette but maybe this is considered overflow since there’s enough space for two. I ended up moving to a different spot. Tried to make my way down to the petrified forest hike which is five miles down the dirt road but the last half mile was too washed out for my van to make it. Visited early June.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Overnight after Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Found this site close to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Road in is pretty good, any right should be able to make it. There are several sites in the camping area, some could fit big rigs. Smaller rigs can get into any of the other sites. Despite being near the Interstate, it was really quiet at night. Great Verizon signal on this location. Starlink had some of the fastest connections we have seen.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    No fee camping

    Camped for 1 night before going to theodore roosevelt national park the nxt day! It was nice! A lot of campers. Lots of spaces! Please be noce and clean after

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    West River Rd Medora ND Dispersed

    Cow Country

    Beautiful but confusing. I originally went to dispersed camping on the other side of the highway but it was completely full!

    Despite the one negative review, I decided to scope out west river. There wasn’t a closure like they mentioned so I thought I was in the clear. But when I pulled into what I thought would be a spot, the road was deserving a 4WD. I went anyway and crossed paths with a couple of locals out there shooting. It didn’t scream safety.

    Looking back, I’m sure it could be multi-use and fine to camp. Either way, I ended up the road car camping in what was essentially a turnout. I was awoken to the mooing of cows bright and early.

  • James W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Spectacular

    This is one of my favorite campsites to date. It’s totally dispersed camping, and there’s a lot of dirt road dust, however our site was super quiet and dark for beautiful stargazing. The other five star reviews are in my opinion legitimate. 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. We almost went here for a second night, but got a first come first serve site inside the park for the next night.

  • Abraham The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2021

    Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking

    Primo boondocking

    Just a dirt road with ample pullouts for camping/RVs. 2wd/low clearance is no problem on the dirt road. It's a right turn after the first cattle guard, previous reviewers were saying they had trouble finding the spot, I'd recommend Gaia gps or something similar.

Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota, where you can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Experience stunning landscapes, wildlife, and the freedom to choose your own camping spot.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking offers breathtaking views from the top of the bluff, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate nature's beauty.
  • Campers have reported excellent Verizon service, ensuring you can stay connected while enjoying the serene environment.
  • This area is known for its quiet nights, despite being near the Interstate, allowing for a peaceful camping experience.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota

  • When visiting Buffalo Gap Rd Dispersed Camp, be aware that there are no facilities, so come prepared with all necessary supplies.
  • The access roads are generally good, making it suitable for various types of vehicles, including larger rigs.
  • This spot is located within Little Missouri National Grassland, providing a unique opportunity to camp in a natural setting without the need for permits.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Camel Hump Lake

  • The area around Camels Hump Lake features several loops with private spots, ideal for those seeking a more secluded experience.
  • This location is perfect for swimming and fishing, with picnic tables available for a comfortable day by the water.
  • While there are no toilets or drinking water, the scenic pond and recreational opportunities make it a great choice for a hot day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free camping near Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

Dispersed Site - Grassland Boondocking offers excellent free camping close to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Located just off the highway, this area features multiple dispersed sites with amazing views of the badlands. The dirt road is generally accessible for 2WD vehicles with low clearance, and you'll find ample pullouts for camping. Another option is Buffalo Gap Rd Dispersed Camp, which provides free camping opportunities near the park. Many campers use these areas as convenient bases for exploring the national park while enjoying peaceful, no-cost camping experiences.

What amenities are available at scoria pit dispersed camping areas near Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

Scoria pit dispersed camping areas near Theodore Roosevelt National Park are true boondocking sites with no amenities. At West River Rd Medora ND Dispersed, you'll need to be fully self-contained as there are no facilities available. These areas offer no water sources, toilets, trash services, or hookups of any kind. While amenities are non-existent, the trade-off comes in spectacular views, peaceful surroundings, and dark skies perfect for stargazing. For those needing basic facilities, Patterson Lake Boat Ramp offers toilets while still providing free camping opportunities in the region.

What are the rules for dispersed camping in Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

Theodore Roosevelt National Park itself does not permit dispersed camping - all camping within park boundaries must be in designated campgrounds or backcountry sites with permits. However, dispersed camping is allowed on the adjacent national grasslands. At Camels Hump Lake, standard dispersed camping rules apply: stay on existing sites, pack out all trash, and leave no trace. When camping on public lands near the park, maintain a low impact by using established fire rings when available, staying on durable surfaces, properly disposing of human waste, and keeping your stay to 14 days or less. Always check current regulations before your trip as rules may change seasonally.

How does backcountry camping differ from dispersed camping in Theodore Roosevelt National Park?

Backcountry camping in Theodore Roosevelt National Park requires permits, occurs only in designated wilderness areas within park boundaries, and has specific regulations for minimum distances from trails and water sources. You must register for backcountry permits at visitor centers. In contrast, dispersed camping is not allowed within the national park itself - it's only permitted on surrounding public lands like national grasslands. When dispersed camping near the park (but outside its boundaries), you can generally camp wherever you choose on public land, don't need permits, and can often drive directly to your site. Both options require proper waste disposal and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, but dispersed camping typically offers easier access and fewer restrictions.

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