The area around Underwood, North Dakota sits in the upper Missouri River basin at approximately 2,000 feet elevation. The Missouri River forms Lake Sakakawea nearby, creating numerous camping options with waterfront views and river access. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with prairie winds that can reach 25-50 mph, particularly around Lake Sakakawea's more exposed campsites.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Missouri River below Garrison Dam offers excellent fishing opportunities at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground. "There are many paths down to the Missouri River for some great fishing and if you are a polar bear swimming," notes camper Erin A., who called this "probably one of my favorite campgrounds."
Hiking trail network: The trail system connects multiple camping areas with "mowed paths that wind through wooded areas." One camper at East Totten Trail Campground mentions, "There's a bicycle path to the Lewis and Clark center and the town diner and museum are close enough to walk to." Several trails are part of the Lewis and Clark and North Country trail networks.
Canoe and kayak rentals: Water activities are popular with rental options available at several locations. "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!" reports Afton L. about their experience.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campgrounds throughout the area offer larger-than-average sites. At Wolf Creek Campground, "Nearly every site has easy access to the water," according to Melissa M., who noted the "quiet, primitive campground with large campsites." Sites feature "well mowed grass" and most have picnic tables.
Riverside privacy: Many campsites have natural buffers between neighbors. "The tall cottonwood trees provide great seclusion, and we didn't hear anyone all night," writes Cullen C. about their experience at a walk-in primitive site. "There are some cool tent sites though with a terrific view," notes another camper about waterfront locations.
Wildlife viewing: The riverside location creates good wildlife watching opportunities. One camper described their stay: "The sounds from Mother Nature were singing her melodies to keep us entertained. Nothing better than waking up to the sound of wind in the leaves and birds singing their songs."
What you should know
Weather conditions: Strong winds are common in this prairie environment. "Two days of windy during the day yet despite wind gusts going from 25-50 mph there was not a bug in site so you give and take," notes one camper at the downstream campground. Another mentions being "glad to be here protected below the dam and not up next to the reservoir!"
Insect awareness: Bugs can be significant during certain periods. A camper at Primitive Campground reported, "There were an insane amount of flies there. You get attacked by a hoard of flies by just opening in the door." Yellow jackets were mentioned by another visitor who was "chased inside our van to eat dinner!"
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds have different reservation systems. "Note that camp host does not accept registrations, all campers need to register through the Recreation.gov website," explains one visitor to Wolf Creek Campground. Loop 1 at some campgrounds cannot be reserved and remains first-come, first-served.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: For families with children, campground loops with modern play equipment are available. One camper suggests: "Loops One and Two have playgrounds; the one in Loop Two appears more modern so if you have kiddos who like playgrounds, I would recommend this loop."
Free camping alternatives: Budget-conscious families can find no-cost options at Nelson Lake where "there are a number of spots to stop and camp. There's no services but fire rings. And you simply pull in and park next to your site," according to Teresa T. who noted it's "very close to Center."
Water activities: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Underwood offer water access for swimming. "Clean water access to the river for swimming, dogs, fishing," reports one camper. Another mentions, "Beautiful view right by the water. Nice and quiet." Families with dogs will find multiple spots where pets can cool off.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are common, but water and sewer connections vary by campground. At Sakakawea Park, "They have a handful of spots with water and electric and a few primitive spots," notes Teresa T. Another camper added, "Very quiet and can't be beat for $20 water and electric."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. One RV camper warned about site 35 at East Totten Trail: "It was not fit for a camper. Very Hilly... We ended up leaving it unleveled while camping." Consider bringing extra leveling blocks for certain locations.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have on-site dump stations. A visitor to Washburn City Park mentioned, "The dump station is actually in town near the bank." For pet-friendly camping near Underwood, RVers should confirm dump station locations in advance, especially for longer stays with dogs.
