The North Dakota Missouri River corridor near Washburn offers multiple camping experiences where water access, historic sites, and expansive cottonwood forests converge. Located at approximately 1,700 feet elevation, this region experiences a continental climate with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and cool evenings around 50-60°F. Camping areas along this stretch of river provide access to one of the few free-flowing sections of the Missouri, creating unique ecological and recreational opportunities.
What to do
Canoe adventures: At Cross Ranch State Park Campground, guided river trips are available with transportation services. "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.
Historical exploration: Visit the nearby Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, accessible via bicycle from several campgrounds. "Lots of hiking paths available and major views of the Missouri River," notes Erica V. from Cross Ranch State Park. The interpretive center provides context for the river camping experience with exhibits documenting the Corps of Discovery's journey through this exact region.
Fishing opportunities: Wolf Creek Campground offers direct lake access for fishing enthusiasts. "Great campground located right on Lake Sakakawea. Nearly every site has easy access to the water. Two boat ramps located at the campground and great shore access for fishing," explains Melissa M. The lake is known for walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass fishing.
Nature trails: Multiple interconnected hiking paths allow visitors to explore riparian ecosystems. "Beautiful, well-groomed, shaded hiking paths everywhere," according to Shandi C. These trails often follow historic routes and showcase native prairie plants, cottonwood stands, and river ecosystems with minimal elevation changes.
What campers like
Unique accommodations: Cross Ranch State Park offers tipi camping as an alternative to traditional tents or RVs. "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, "Only downside is the size and shape of it don't allow any warmth to be retained."
Lake views: Many campers appreciate direct shoreline access. "We arrived to a most perfect little spot and view of the water. We were fortunate in the regard of having no neighbors," reports Olson H. from Wolf Creek Campground. The open shorelines provide unobstructed sunset views across the water with minimal light pollution for stargazing.
Affordable options: Wilton City Park offers budget-friendly camping with basic amenities. "Can't beat $11/night though. There's a good cafe in town too," notes Kim H. This park provides electric hookups only with water available from a central spigot, making it an economical base camp for exploring the region.
Privacy between sites: Natural vegetation creates separation at many campgrounds. "The tall cottonwood trees provide great seclusion, and we didn't hear anyone all night," reports Cullen C. about Primitive Campground. Many campsites feature mature trees and understory plants that serve as natural privacy screens.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong winds are common in this region, particularly at higher elevations. "Very windy so definitely glad to be here protected below the dam and not up next to the reservoir!" notes Tim at COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground. The river valleys and protective tree cover can provide shelter from persistent prairie winds.
Insect preparation: Bugs can be prevalent, especially in protected areas. "It's below garrison dam and has many big trees, so it's protected from the wind which makes bugs an issue at times so be prepared for that!" warns Kyle O. Mosquitoes are typically most active during dawn and dusk hours from June through August.
Reservation systems: Different campgrounds use different booking methods. "Note that camp host does not accept registrations, all campers need to register through the Recreation.gov website," explains Melissa M. about Wolf Creek Campground. Some smaller parks operate on first-come, first-served basis while larger operations require advance planning.
Toilet facilities: Bathroom options vary significantly between campgrounds. "Loop One and Two have more modern bathhouses; each with two sinks, two stalls, and two showers. They were clean. Note that the lights are motion-detected; if you are in a stall too long, the light will go out!" advises Lee D.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Great camping facilites. Tent and camper sites. Yurts available and cabins available. Great hiking area, playground, ranger presentations," notes Karen Z. from Cross Ranch State Park Campground. Families should check campground maps as playground locations aren't always near all camping loops.
Swimming opportunities: Nelson Lake offers shoreline swimming access. "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. The shallow shorelines are ideal for younger swimmers as they gradually deepen.
Transportation considerations: Some primitive sites require carrying gear from parking areas. "The camp hosts provided wagons in the parking area for easy transport of camping supplies," notes Cullen C., which can be particularly helpful for families with younger children who can't carry their own gear.
Weather flexibility: Rangers often accommodate schedule changes due to conditions. "I received great help and flexibility from the park rangers when I needed to change the reservation date due to poor weather," shares Cullen C. This consideration is especially valuable for family camping where children's comfort is a priority.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Ball Park RV Park offers level sites in a city park setting. "It is very nice and at the city park. It is close to the road so I'm assuming you get road noise and I'm also assuming that during the summer of the park can be heavily used. But the flat spots are close and in the shade and have 30 amp service," explains Teresa T. Level sites reduce setup time and stabilizer needs.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with hookups offer onsite dump stations. "The dump station is actually in town near the bank," notes Larry R. about Sakakawea Park. RVers should plan their tank usage accordingly or map nearby dump facilities before arrival.
Electrical limitations: Many campgrounds offer electric-only hookups with varying amperage. "All sites have paved camper pads and electric hookups," reports Lee D. about COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground. Most sites provide 30-amp service, with 50-amp options limited or unavailable at some locations.
Campsite sizing: RV length restrictions vary by campground. "There were concrete pads plenty long enough for our 5ver," notes Mitchell F. about Sakakawea Park. Larger rigs should verify site dimensions when making reservations as many older campgrounds weren't designed for modern RV sizes.
