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Best Campgrounds near Tioga, ND

48 Reviews

Campgrounds near Tioga, North Dakota include a mix of lakeside destinations and park-based facilities, most notably Lewis & Clark State Park and Tobacco Garden Recreation Area along Lake Sakakawea. The camping landscape encompasses a range of accommodation types with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals available at multiple locations. Tioga City Park provides in-town camping with electric hookups and shower facilities, while more remote options like Kota Ray Dam, approximately 15 miles southwest of Tioga, offer waterfront sites with a more rustic experience.

Road conditions and accessibility vary significantly across these camping areas, with many campgrounds featuring gravel roads that may be rough during certain times of year. Most developed campgrounds provide at least basic amenities like toilets and drinking water, though hookup availability differs between locations. Weather considerations are important, as North Dakota experiences distinct seasons with hot summers and extremely cold winters, making most campgrounds seasonal operations running approximately May through October. Campground popularity increases during summer months, particularly at waterfront locations. According to one visitor at Kota Ray Dam, "The campsites aren't too terrible, though I wish some of them were just a bit more level. The swimming beach is pretty decent, and it's a great little pond for kayaks and paddleboards."

Waterfront camping experiences receive particularly positive reviews, with Lake Sakakawea access being a major draw for many visitors. Lewis & Clark State Park features a sandy beach with shallow water that extends quite far from shore, making it popular for families with children. Several campgrounds in the region balance natural settings with practical amenities. Tobacco Garden Recreation Area combines lakeside camping with conveniences like a grocery store and restaurant. The campgrounds vary in size and privacy levels, with some offering more secluded sites while others have more open layouts. As one camper noted about Lewis & Clark State Park, "The 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 and RV pads are very nice and the place has tons of trees."

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Best Camping Sites Near Tioga, North Dakota (41)

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Recent Camping Photos near Tioga, ND

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Recent Reviews near Tioga, ND

48 Reviews of 41 Tioga Campgrounds

  • Cynthia O.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Northgate Dam Rec Center

    Beautiful and Quiet

    My husband and I stayed one night on our relocation trip from Alaska.  The location was beautiful and peaceful.  The campground was very clean.  I wish we had been able to stay longer.  The $10 fee is certainly reasonable!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Watford City Tourist Park

    Camp within the City

    This little spot is within the town of Watford City… ambitiously named

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park

    Nice park, but ..

    Sites were nice with water and electric hookups. Decently spread out. Unfortunately, camp hosts were ghosts. Supposedly 4 hosts. Walked by 2 of them and they were off duty. I was too tired to locate the others. Ranger at check in said the host(s) would come by to sell firewood. Never saw one. No campfire 😞.

  • P
    Jul. 4, 2025

    Trenton Lake Recreation Area

    Very Basic, Looks to be Poorly Staffed

    In the main camping area, about 20 sites with generally level concrete pads, but close together with no screening between sites.  Several campsites had trailers but no occupants.  Camping area is across from the boat ramp to the lake, but does provide decent lake views.  Posted price of "full hook-up" was $35.  Hmmm.  Electricity, yes, but no sewer connection that we could find and (despite faucets) several signs declaring "non-potable water." Scattered picnic tables (no table at many sites).  Bathrooms locked and unavailable.  Some of this might have been sorted by staff members, but no one appeared from the time of our arrival till the time of our departure (pay envelopes and a slot).  Although June 30th, the place had the feeling of not being open for the season.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 20, 2025

    White Earth Bay Recreation Area

    Nice grassy area

    We stopped and would have happily stayed. There's Electric there's bathrooms not sure if there's a dump station or water. The electric meters are all locked. You can't seem to reserve things online. I called the phone number I found and nobody answered. So we'll keep moving. Also remember it's 10 mi in and into a bay which is a dead end so 10 miles back out. Too bad would have been fun to get to know it.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 19, 2025

    Little Beaver Bay Campground

    Very nice

    The campground is a little bit oddly laid out if it were full I would feel like you were on top of one another. But we're here by ourselves middle of April 2025 it is very nice very peaceful. The water is much lower and farther away so there's a big beach to play on that wouldn't be there normally. But there are pit toilets there is a water faucet there's electric there's very nice tables and there are several tables that are covered. I have a feeling it'll be a nice quiet evening. I wanted to amend my report because we walked around and there are three places to camp. One is down by the water in primitive campsites which are very nice. Two is the little Campground I stayed in. If you take the road to the top of the hill there's another larger more sophisticated Campground at the top along with a dump station and trails. There aren't very many trees so it would be hot in the summer but it's nicer than I thought it was.

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 19, 2025

    Blacktail Dam

    Cute

    I think for families this would be a nice place to spend a weekend. Everything was closed I'm here in April so I would have been the only camper had I stayed. But the bathrooms aren't open and the water is not on yet so we'll probably head over to a state park instead. But if you had small boats or wanted to fish it's very cute you can see the water from every campsite and pretty much can access the water from every campsite. Probably well used by the locals.

  • Buck G.
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Northgate Dam Rec Center

    Quite and relaxing

    Easy access plenty of space. Good Quiet and relaxing

Guide to Tioga

Camping near Tioga, North Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Swimming: Many campers enjoy fishing at places like Blacktail Dam. One reviewer mentioned, “There isn't a lot of water access for shore fishing and swimming is prohibited in most areas,” but they still found a sandy swimming beach about 1.5 miles away that was great for kids.
  • Hiking: The Juniper Campground is a fantastic spot for hiking. A camper shared, “The campground was very quiet until a herd of bison came through,” highlighting the unique wildlife you might encounter while exploring the trails.
  • Exploring Nature: At Lewis & Clark State Park, visitors can enjoy the scenic views along Lake Sakakaque. One review noted, “This is a nice, large campground along the North Shore of Lake Sakakaque, ND.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Lewis & Clark State Park. A visitor remarked, “They keep it very well kept. They mow weekly, facilities are very clean.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the large, level spots available at Blacktail Dam. One camper said, “All camp spots are right on the water,” making it a pleasant place to relax.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The playgrounds and sandy beach at Lewis & Clark State Park make it a hit with families. A reviewer mentioned, “The beach is super sandy...great for kids!”

What you should know:

  • Bring Your Own Supplies: At Blacktail Dam, it’s important to note that “NO firewood” is provided, so be sure to bring your own.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Juniper Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper noted, “There is one modern restroom, no showers,” so plan accordingly.
  • Busy During Holidays: Expect crowds around holidays. One visitor at Blacktail Dam mentioned, “It does tend to get quite busy, with minimal camping spots,” especially during the 4th of July.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Pack Beach Gear: If you’re heading to Lewis & Clark State Park, don’t forget your beach umbrella! A reviewer suggested, “Bring a beach umbrella!” since there are lots of trees except on the beach.
  • Bring Extra Toilet Paper: Facilities can run out quickly. One camper at Lewis & Clark State Park advised, “Bring your own toilet paper tho, they run out quick.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. A family at Blacktail Dam enjoyed the playground and sandy beach, making it a great spot for kids.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Electric Hookups: If you’re staying at Juniper Campground, be aware that there are no electric hookups. A reviewer mentioned, “This place is nice & peaceful,” but it’s essential to be prepared for dry camping.
  • Space for Larger RVs: Some campgrounds may have limited space for larger rigs. A camper at Juniper Campground noted, “If you have one over 30 feet, just be aware you might have to wiggle your way into a site.”
  • Stay Connected: If you rely on cell service, be prepared for limited reception. One visitor at Juniper Campground mentioned, “We did not have cell reception but so travel with Starlink.”

Camping near Tioga, North Dakota, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots in Tioga?

For camping around Tioga, Northgate Dam Rec Center offers excellent value with sites situated on a beautiful pond, providing recreation opportunities and playground facilities. Another good option is Tioga City Park, which offers water access and is conveniently located in town. For those looking to explore beyond the immediate Tioga area, Lake Sakakawea has several quality camping options within driving distance, including Little Beaver Bay and Lewis & Clark State Park.

When is the best time of year to go camping in Tioga?

The optimal camping season in Tioga runs from late spring through early fall (May-September), with summer offering warm days perfect for water activities at places like Watford City Tourist Park. July and August provide ideal temperatures for outdoor recreation, though these months can be busier. Note that many campgrounds have limited or no services in the off-season, with some closing completely. At American Legion Park, gates may be locked during off-peak periods. Spring and fall camping offers fewer crowds but requires preparation for variable weather conditions.

What amenities are available at Tioga camping sites?

Camping sites around Tioga offer varying amenities. Lewis & Clark State Park provides water and electric hookups, restrooms with showers, picnic tables, playground, and an amphitheater. Sites are paved with good access to Lake Sakakawea within walking distance. Little Beaver Bay Campground features electric sites with beach access when water levels permit. Many local campgrounds offer basic facilities like vault toilets, while RV-specific parks like 4 Bears RV Park provide full hookups despite sometimes having tight spacing between sites.

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