Dispersed camping opportunities exist near Underwood, North Dakota, situated along the shores of Lake Sakakawea at an elevation of 1,850 feet. The area features rolling prairie terrain with cottonwood groves along the waterways, creating natural windbreaks during North Dakota's often breezy conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, with winter temperatures dropping well below freezing.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Sakakawea: Boating, fishing, and swimming access available at Fort Stevenson State Park Campground, located near Riverdale. "This park is surrounded by beautiful lakes and fields of wheat. Shower was great," notes one camper. The park offers boat rentals and multiple swimming beaches.
Historical exploration: Visit reconstructed sites at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground near Mandan. "Fort Abraham Lincoln was General Custer's headquarters before he left for the Little Big Horn. Lots of hiking and history and wildlife," reports a visitor. Tour the block houses, General Custer's home, and other historical structures.
Hiking trails: Explore well-maintained paths at Cross Ranch State Park, 40 miles southeast of Underwood. "Beautiful, well-groomed, shaded hiking paths everywhere," states one review. The trails follow the Missouri River, offering wildlife viewing opportunities and interpretive signs about the area's natural history.
What campers like
River access: Cross Ranch State Park Campground provides direct Missouri River frontage. "Good sized sights, well sheltered by trees. Clean water access to the river for swimming, dogs, fishing," writes one camper. The primitive walk-in sites offer the best river views.
Unique accommodations: Alternative glamping in Underwood, North Dakota area includes teepees and yurts. "Great experience camping in an authentic Tipi. The Tipi has a wood floor and cots, with plenty of room. It kept us and our things dry during a rainstorm," shares a visitor at Cross Ranch.
Spacious sites: Fort Stevenson State Park Campground offers well-designed camping areas. "The campsites are spacious. There are few great hikes that are kid friendly," notes one review. Many sites include shade trees and level parking pads.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong winds can affect camping comfort. Pack appropriate gear and secure tents properly. "Be sure to have clothing/sleeping bags appropriate for the nighttime temperatures," advises one Cross Ranch visitor about their tepee stay.
Reservation needs: Summer weekends fill quickly at popular parks. "This campground was CROWDED. Every spot was full," reports a Cross Ranch camper. Make reservations 90+ days in advance for holiday weekends.
Campsite privacy: Primitive Campground offers better seclusion than many area campgrounds. "The tall cottonwood trees provide great seclusion, and we didn't hear anyone all night," notes a camper. Most walk-in sites require using provided wagons to transport gear from the parking area.
Traveler
