Camping near Williston, North Dakota primarily centers around Lake Sakakawea and the Missouri River confluence, with sites ranging from 1,850 to 2,000 feet elevation. The region experiences wide temperature swings, with summer highs often reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping well below freezing. Most campgrounds operate seasonally due to North Dakota's harsh winter conditions, though some facilities remain accessible year-round with reduced services.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Bison encounters can be memorable at Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where campers frequently report wildlife visiting their sites. "While we were camped here, 2 small herds of bison grazed through the camp," notes one camper, while another mentioned, "I stayed until a herd of bison came through haha. Some of the campers ventured a bit too close to them in my opinion and got very loud/excited about it."
Fishing: Multiple species available at Blacktail Dam, located about 30 miles north of Williston. A regular visitor explains, "Decent fishing for pike, walleye and sunfish. We haven't camped here yet, but I would love too. We go out fishing for day trips." The dam's compact size makes it accessible for shore fishing in designated areas.
Historical exploration: Learn about regional history at Fort Buford State Historic Site, where visitors can explore military buildings and artifacts from the late 1800s. "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," shares one visitor. The site includes interpretive displays about Native American and military history.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained amenities at Blacktail Dam. As one visitor notes, "They keep the facilities clean!" Another camper commented, "They have a water station, dump station, showers that could use some attention, they have a nice playground for the kids, some picnic shelters, bathrooms and garbage cans."
Waterfront access: Sites with direct water views rank highly in camper satisfaction. At Blacktail Dam, "All camp spots are right on the water, though most of them have cat tails and thick vegetation making it difficult to get to the water." For boaters, one regular at Lewis & Clark State Park shares, "We always drop in our boat here. There are 2 good size lanes so a horrible backup person like myself has no problem!"
Family-friendly amenities: Activities for children enhance the camping experience. One camper at Lewis & Clark State Park reports, "There is a theater area with educational presentations for the kids. Also, there is an ice cream truck that comes through the campground at night." Many sites offer playgrounds, swimming areas, and educational programs during summer months.
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have restrictions on drinking water. At Juniper Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park, "The drinking of the water at the fill station is discouraged due to high levels of fluoride." Another camper noted, "There's quite a few 'drinking water' spigots marked on the map but when you get to them there is a sign with a drinking glass and a red slash through it."
Site availability challenges: During peak season, securing spots can be difficult at non-reservable campgrounds. One camper at Juniper Campground shared, "The absolute anxiety of getting here and not knowing whether we'd be able to get a spot or not is off the charts. We got here at about 1pm on a Sunday thinking there shouldn't be a problem, yet there were probably only about 4 spots left."
Seasonal closures: Many facilities close during off-season months. At Blacktail Dam, a spring visitor reported, "Everything was closed I'm here in April so I would have been the only camper had I stayed. But the bathrooms aren't open and the water is not on yet." Always check current operating status before traveling.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Look for designated swimming areas where available. At Blacktail Dam, "There is a swimming beach about 1.5 miles from where we had camped which was pretty central to the grounds. It's not a big beach area so busy days it can be a little crowded. It is nice and sandy and great for the kiddos, though."
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. One camper notes, "I think for families this would be a nice place to spend a weekend." The playground at Blacktail Dam receives positive mentions from several reviewers as being well-maintained.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs enhance family camping trips. At Juniper Campground, one parent mentioned, "Our kids especially enjoyed the ranger presentation on prairie dogs." These programs typically run during summer months and provide learning opportunities about local wildlife and history.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service options exist but aren't universal. At Fox Run RV Park near Williston city limits, sites include full hookups suitable for extended stays. "We stayed here while I was working we liked it alot," reports one long-term camper.
Site spacing: Consider privacy needs when selecting campgrounds. At Blacktail Dam, "Each site has electric that you share with your neighbor," while at Lewis & Clark State Park, sites are "Decently spread out."
Size restrictions: Larger rigs may face limitations at older campgrounds. At Juniper Campground, "When this place was built, they never envisioned large rigs. So if you have one over 30 feet, just be aware you might have to wiggle your way into a site." Always check length restrictions before arriving.
