Tioga, North Dakota offers RV camping options throughout a region characterized by prairie landscapes and proximity to Lake Sakakawea. The area experiences extreme seasonal temperature variations with summer highs reaching 85°F and winter lows dipping below 0°F. Most camping facilities operate seasonally from May through October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Boating access: Lewis & Clark State Park provides convenient boat launch facilities with two spacious lanes accommodating even inexperienced boaters. "We always drop in our boat here. There are 2 good size lanes so a horrible backup person like myself has no problem!" notes a visitor to Lewis & Clark State Park.
Educational programs: Summer evening presentations at Lewis & Clark State Park offer family-friendly learning opportunities focused on local history and wildlife. "There is a theater area with educational presentations for the kids," mentions a regular camper.
Water recreation: Lake Sakakawea's shoreline provides swimming options during summer months when water temperatures reach comfortable levels. "The water is like being in Ocean with big waves. They hold many awesome eventful weekends during season," shares an enthusiastic visitor.
What campers like
Ranger presence: The consistent security patrols and helpful staff at Lewis & Clark State Park create a safe camping environment. A camper explains: "As soon as we got settled in the Park rangers checked on us. They did patrols all the time around and were super friendly! We had one storm while we were there and they gave us the emergency plan as fast as they could."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Sakakawea attracts anglers throughout the camping season with multiple fish species available. "This is one of our favorite places to camp because fishing is awesome out there," mentions a regular visitor to Lewis & Clark State Park.
Pet-friendly areas: Several campgrounds permit dogs with designated swimming areas for pets along shorelines. "It's a great place to brings the dogs. There are plenty of trails and the dogs love swimming in the lake," reports a return visitor.
What you should know
Varying site privacy: Most campgrounds offer limited separation between sites, particularly in RV sections. "We were lucky as we camped here in late August 2018, the week prior they had record highs of 109! We had our choice of tent sites, and were right on lake front," notes a camper at Lewis & Clark State Park.
Insect activity: Prepare for significant bug presence, especially during warmer months near water. "Lots of bugs and flies, but we managed!" explains a tent camper describing their experience.
Water access limitations: Despite lakefront locations, potable water spigots can be sparse at campgrounds. "Fill up your fresh tank at the dump station before going to your site because there are very few accessible spigots near the camp sites," advises one RVer.
Tips for camping with families
Evening treats: Watch for mobile vendors that travel through camping areas during summer evenings. "There is an ice cream truck that comes through the campground at night," mentions a camper at Lewis & Clark State Park.
Recreation facilities: Several campgrounds maintain playgrounds and sports facilities for children. "About any activity you can think of is available here, such as disc golf, soccer, basketball, archery, one mile nature trail, six mile bike trail and boat rentals for the large lake," notes a visitor.
Aurora viewing: On clear nights away from city lights, northern light displays may be visible from camping areas. "The trails and the beach were quite exciting as the nights that were clear had the Aurora borealis in the background. So beautiful," shares an impressed camper.
Tips from RVers
Campground layout: The 4 Bears RV Park offers casino access but presents logistical challenges for large rigs. "We had to back up so close to the next row, it was nerve racking. The casino is walking distance, but really really really inconvenient because the entrance is on the opposite side of the building," warns a visitor to 4 Bears RV Park.
Hookup reliability: Check electrical service upon arrival as some power pedestals may require attention. "Sites were nice with water and electric hookups. Decently spread out," mentions a recent visitor to Lewis & Clark State Park.
Firewood availability: Campground hosts may sell firewood, but availability varies by staffing. "Ranger at check in said the host(s) would come by to sell firewood. Never saw one. No campfire," reports a disappointed camper.
