Camping options near Washburn, North Dakota center around the Missouri River, which creates a natural corridor through the region's rolling prairie landscape. The area sits at approximately 1,700 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 80°F during peak season. Winter camping remains available at select locations where temperatures can drop below 0°F, requiring proper cold-weather gear and equipment.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Cross Ranch State Park Campground offers river access with canoe and kayak rentals for Missouri River exploration. "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 camper Afton L.
Historic site visits: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground provides access to reconstructed historical areas. "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!" notes Kristi D. The park includes a trolley that connects historical points and runs into Mandan.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Sakakawea offers prime fishing access with boat launch facilities and cleaning stations. Many campers report successful catches along the shoreline. The downstream area below Garrison Dam provides alternative fishing spots with river access via walking paths from the COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Cross Ranch State Park Campground receives praise for site layout. "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," reports Shelly S. The natural barriers between sites create visual privacy despite proximity.
Clean facilities: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground maintains high standards for bathrooms and showers. "The park staff was super friendly, bathrooms were the cleanest I have seen," writes Kristi D. The park includes modern shower facilities alongside more basic toilet options throughout the grounds.
River views: Many camping areas offer direct views of the Missouri River. "I had a very clear view of the water and the place was very clean. The sites were spaced out well enough where my neighbors weren't too close to me and I hardly heard any of them throughout the day or night," notes a camper at Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most rv sites near Washburn, North Dakota operate on limited schedules. A Prairie Breeze RV Park runs from April to November with "self-check in cash or check only" according to Kody Bear A. Winter camping options exist but with reduced services and facilities.
Water access variations: Lake Sakakawea State Park Campground turns off water in the off-season. "We arrived in 1 October and they had shut off the water so the bathrooms and showers were not functioning," notes Lisa M. Plan accordingly with water containers when visiting in shoulder seasons.
Campground layouts: Center RV Park offers full hookups but with minimal amenities. "This is really more of a man camp for permanent campers then a weekend camper spot. You have full hookups and no bathrooms or other services," reports Teresa T., noting the utilitarian layout designed primarily for long-term stays rather than weekend recreation.
Bug preparedness: Insects can be significant depending on season. "Only complaints were the long haul from the parking area, the vaulted toilets smelt very bad but could of been from the heat! (Vaulted toilet, no sink) And the bugs!!! Tons of flying ants and ticks everywhere, but we managed!" warns Brandi M. about Cross Ranch State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: COE Lake Sakakawea Downstream Campground includes play areas for children. "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," advises Lee D. The campground also features hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
Educational opportunities: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park offers ranger presentations. "There is a nice visitor center with terrific displays, many about Lewis and Clark, also a reconstructed Mandan encampment," notes Janet R. These programs provide learning opportunities that engage children while teaching local history.
Swimming areas: Lake Sakakawea State Park includes designated swimming areas that remain calm even in windy conditions. "Beach is amazing with little bay area that is calm even on windy days for the kayaker or paddleboarder," reports Patti E., making this location ideal for families with younger children who want water recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking rv sites near Washburn, North Dakota, consider loop locations carefully. At Cross Ranch State Park Campground, "The sites are 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," notes a camper.
Water management: At A Prairie Breeze RV Park, site drainage varies significantly. "My only complaint-- #21 was underwater after an overnight rain. A pond of about 2-3 inches of water completely surrounded my rig. I looked around and I seemed to be the only one with that much water," reports Mev W. Check site elevation when selecting spots during rainy seasons.
Power considerations: For larger RVs requiring consistent power, Lake Sakakawea State Park provides both 30 and 50 amp service in designated loops. "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," explains Kyle O.
