Tent campsites near Watford City, North Dakota provide access to the unique terrain where the Great Plains meet the Badlands. Summer temperatures frequently reach the high 90s, creating challenging conditions for campers unfamiliar with prairie environments. Winter camping requires extensive preparation as temperatures regularly drop below zero and strong winds sweep across the unprotected landscape.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several trails near Bennett Campground offer chances to see bison and prairie wildlife in their natural habitat. According to one visitor, "There are some nice long hiking trails, bison and other prairie critters. This is wide open country with no real facilities."
Historical exploration: Fort Buford State Historic Site provides tent camping with access to significant historical landmarks. One camper noted, "Amazing place to learn about history of North Dakota. This is where Sitting Bull and his son surrendered and Lewis and Clark Trading Post. They do demonstrations on old time trades."
Water recreation access: Summer months offer fishing opportunities at several access points within driving distance of Watford City. A regular visitor to Snowden Bridge reports, "This is my go to for overnights and day trips. Right along the Missouri River. Great fishing access, wooded and close to town."
What campers like
Remote solitude: The isolation of camping areas around Watford City provides quiet experiences rarely found in more developed regions. At Fort Buford, a camper experienced, "The CG is free. They want you to check in at the Confluence Visitor Center. Nobody has pulled in around us. Nothing better than free camping with solitude these days!"
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. As one Snowden Bridge visitor shared, "Have seen great wildlife, excellent summer stargazing. Not a very big spot and only two camp sites close to the vault toilet."
Minimal development: Many campers appreciate the rustic nature of tent sites in the Watford City region. At Elkhorn Campground, a visitor found, "Campsites in valley in Badlands. Nice and clean. No power, no dumps, hand pump for water."
What you should know
Water supply limitations: Most primitive campgrounds near Watford City require bringing your own water supply. A camper at Elkhorn Campground discovered, "Hand pump was hard to pump which produced light brown water which wasn't something we wanted to drink, so bring in your own water."
Registration systems: Several campgrounds use self-registration with minimal oversight. According to one camper at Elkhorn, "$6 cash or check, put the money in the envelope and drop it in the box, clip the tag to your site #. Not a busy spot, there was only one other person camping when we were there mid first week of August."
Road conditions: Unpaved roads lead to many tent camping areas, requiring appropriate vehicles and extra travel time. Visitors should verify current conditions before departure, especially after rainfall.
Extreme weather preparation: The open landscape means campers face direct exposure to weather conditions with limited natural shelter. Temperatures swing significantly between day and night even in summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Heat management strategies: The intense summer heat requires planning for shade. At Bennett Camp, one visitor reported, "In the day time the temperature gets really hot and the restroom has a smell come out. This site was very big and could hold a couple tents."
Wildlife education opportunities: The prairie ecosystem provides excellent opportunities to teach children about native species and habitats. Bring field guides specific to Dakota wildlife.
Navigation considerations: Limited cell service means paper maps or downloaded directions are essential when traveling with children to remote tent campsites.
Activity planning: Most primitive campsites lack structured activities, so families should bring their own entertainment. Consider astronomy guides, wildlife identification cards, or historical information about the region.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV amenities: RV camping near Watford City typically means dry camping without hookups. At Elkhorn Campground, visitors noted the complete absence of RV services while still accommodating smaller rigs.
Size restrictions: Most primitive campgrounds cannot accommodate large RVs. One Fort Buford camper specified, "We camped here in a 35 ft 5th wheel. Lots of great history with the old forts (Buford and Union) nearby."
Supply planning: The distance from services means RVers must arrive fully stocked with essentials. Nearest supply points may be 30+ miles from campsites on rough roads.
