Campers visiting Washburn, North Dakota have access to multiple outdoor recreation opportunities along the Missouri River corridor where elevations range from 1,650 to 1,700 feet. The area experiences hot summer days with cooler nights and seasonal temperatures that can vary by 40-50 degrees in a single day. River access points around Washburn serve as popular fishing spots for walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass.
What to do
River activities: Cross Ranch State Park offers canoe and kayak rentals with shuttle service for river trips. "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! The park ranger picked us up at Sanger boat launch and brought everything back to the park entrance," reports Afton L.
Hiking trails: The trails at Cross Ranch connect to longer national trail systems. According to Lisa M. at Lake Sakakawea State Park, "Great hike along the shoreline Trail, and also apparently north country Trail, and here that goes all the way across to Vermont."
Historic sites: Multiple historic attractions are accessible from camping areas. "Up the road was an extremely interesting National Historic Site we visited," notes Shelly S. about the historic sites near Cross Ranch. The area contains significant Lewis and Clark sites and Native American cultural points of interest.
What campers like
River views: Riverfront sites provide unique camping experiences. At Primitive Campground, Cullen C. reports, "The camp hosts provided wagons in the parking area for easy transport of camping supplies. I highly recommend staying in a site along the river for a great water view right from your site. The tall cottonwood trees provide great seclusion."
Spacious sites: The COE campgrounds feature extra room between sites. "VERY spacious sites! Electric only, but it's camping right! Clean bathrooms and showers. The best part is that they have many paths down to the Missouri River for some great fishing," writes Erin A. about COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground.
Clean facilities: Most developed campgrounds maintain good amenities. Shandi C. notes about Cross Ranch: "This place has it all! Beautiful, well-groomed, shaded hiking paths everywhere. Playgrounds. Big fields. Clean water access to the river for swimming, dogs, fishing. Good sized sights, well sheltered by trees."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The region experiences strong winds and rapid temperature changes. At COE Lake Sakakawea, Krussell observed: "Despite wind gusts going from 25-50 mph there was not a bug in site so you give and take. The primitive camping area was very dry after a downpour and once the clouds disappeared beautiful sunset each night."
Reservation timing: The best sites fill quickly during peak season. "Group spots here are fun but you need to book the day they come available to reserve or you will miss out!" advises Kyle O. about Lake Sakakawea State Park.
Free camping options: Budget campers can find no-cost sites at Nelson Lake near Center. "This is run by the county and 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," explains Teresa T. These sites lack toilets or water but offer free lakeside camping.
Tips for camping with families
Specialized accommodations: Cross Ranch offers unique lodging options beyond standard campsites. "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 Zachary N., though he cautions "the size and shape of it don't allow any warmth to be retained."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Karen Z. notes Cross Ranch has "great camping facilities. Tent and camper sites. Yurts available and cabins available. Great hiking area, playground, ranger presentations."
Water activities: Beaches and swimming areas provide summer recreation. At Sakakawea Park, c G. reports finding a "beautiful spot right by the river with large camp spots and grass lawn by every spot. Large playground, clean bathrooms. Cheap."
Tips from RVers
City park options: Several towns offer affordable municipal camping with basic hookups. At Washburn City Park, Kim H. reports: "Small city park at edge of town. There's a bicycle path to the Lewis and Clark center and the town diner and museum are close enough to walk to. There is a train but I've only heard it once."
Hookup availability: Electrical connections are most common, with water and sewer less available. According to Thomas C. at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream, "Sites are larger than most campgrounds we've been to. Grounds are well kept. Only electrical service at the sites. Potable water is available at the dump site on the way in to the campground."
Site selection: Some of the best places to camp near Washburn, North Dakota require careful site selection. Teresa T. notes about Governors Centennial Loop: "While you are right next to the river, can't really see it from most of the RV campsites. There are some cool tent sites though with a terrific view. The sites are really not very private but at least they are under the trees out of the sun and wind."
