Cabin camping near Underwood, North Dakota provides access to Lake Sakakawea, the third largest man-made reservoir in the United States with 1,530 miles of shoreline. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, with evening lows in the 50-60°F range. Winter cabin stays require preparation for temperatures that can drop well below freezing, especially from November through March.
What to do
Hiking trails: Fort Stevenson State Park Campground offers several kid-friendly hikes with lake views. One visitor noted, "There are a 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."
Water activities: Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground has a designated swimming area with calm waters. According to a review, "Beach is amazing with little bay area that is calm even on windy days for the kayaker or paddleboarder. Boat dock with ample parking. A must stay for the water enthusiasts!"
Historical exploration: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground features restored military buildings and Native American sites. "We walked the on a slant village, the forts overlooking the Missouri river and of course General Custer's house and the barracks. Such a neat parks with lots to do!" reports a camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Cross Ranch State Park Campground offers well-spaced cabins surrounded by natural buffers. A visitor mentioned, "The spots, well they were close but situated in a way that you weren't sitting staring at your neighbor. There were trees and foliage between the rows so it was comfortable."
Clean facilities: Many cabin rentals provide access to well-maintained bathrooms. At Beulah Bay Rec Area, "The campground does have cabins and they are well kept and clean. Lots of family activities like horseshoes, basketball court, frisbee golf, and volleyball."
Water views: Hazen Bay Rec Area provides cabins with lake access. "Hazen Bay has easy access to the water. Full hook ups which is nice!" notes one visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal amenities: Some parks limit services in spring. A Lake Sakakawea visitor warned, "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."
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for group cabins. "Group spots here are fun but you need to book the day they come available to reserve or you will miss out!" says a camper about Lake Sakakawea.
Weather considerations: Lake breezes can provide relief during hot summer days. "Pick a site with a view of the lake and the breeze is wonderful," suggests a reviewer at Lake Sakakawea State Park.
Supplies: Bismarck KOA offers cabin stays with nearby conveniences. "We needed a site for a night in the middle of a trip. This was it. Typical KOA. Clean, close to major roads. Easy to find. Easy to book online."
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: Beulah Bay Rec Area offers numerous recreational options. "Lots of to do! Boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding. Cabins, primitive campsites with great views and Full hook up RV sites... playground, basketball, volleyball, frisbee golf, horse shoes, on site store for ice, food and wood."
Kid-friendly swimming: Choose cabins near protected swimming areas. "There is a swimming beach (quite rocky, but large)" at Fort Stevenson State Park, making it suitable for families with children.
Special accommodation types: Cross Ranch State Park offers unique sleeping options. "We rented a canoe and 2 kayaks and were transported to Washburn and floated/paddled our way to Sanger boat launch. (Approx 9 miles) It took us about 3 hours and it was so beautiful!" one family reported.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When reserving cabins or RV sites at Fort Abraham Lincoln, consider proximity to facilities. "Plenty of space between campers. Lots of young families RV camping here."
Hookup variations: Utility options differ between parks. At Lake Sakakawea, a camper noted, "Elbow woods, sanish, and van hook loops all have 30/50 amp and water for campers, there is also a primitive loop. Elbow woods is more spaced out and has great views of the lake."
Generator regulations: Some parks restrict generator use in the evening. A Lake Sakakawea visitor commented, "Primitive sites are also very nice but the generator rule (off after 8:00 p.m.) is ridiculous. It is sweltering hot (thank goodness for nice breezes) and people are up playing and having fun until 11:00 p.m."
