Best Glamping in North Dakota

Escape into nature and disconnect from your daily life with glamping in North Dakota. Find the best glamping in and around North Dakota. The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect glamping campsite for your next adventure.

Best Glamping Sites in North Dakota (39)

    Shari  G.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora, ND

    1. Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    66 Reviews
    305 Photos
    239 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Overview

    For people visiting the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Cottonwood Campground is a great place to stay. Located five miles (8 km) from the entrance to the South Unit of the park, the campground is open year-round. To make a reservation for the group site please visit this the Cottonwood Group Site (ND ) page.

    Recreation

    Hikers can access the estimated 70 miles (21 km) of trails within a short distance of the campground. Visit the Hiking and Trail Information page on the park website or stop at a Visitor Center for more details. Located immediately adjacent to the Little Missouri River and filled with Cottonwood trees bird watching in the campground can be a rewarding experience. Watch for Bison that can be seen traveling through the campground on their way to a stop at the river. Just a few miles from the campground is the Peaceful Valley Ranch. A former ranch from Theodore Roosevelt's time, the location also serves as one of the best sites in the park for outstanding night sky viewing.

    Natural Features

    The Little Missouri River is the central, unifying feature of this wild and broken land where, as a young man, Theodore Roosevelt ranched and hunted in the 1880s. The park is part of both the Northern Great Plains and the West, blending a rich natural beauty with diverse human history. The rugged topography, with its flora and fauna, also provides an opportunity to discover the badlands environment as Roosevelt once did. It is a place to experience a land and way of life that helped shape Theodore Roosevelt's attitudes and philosophy regarding conservation. Cottonwood trees surrounding the campsite turn golden in the fall. Although the campground is moderately forested, most of the campsites are in partial to full sun but visitors can cool off in the cold river when temperatures peak during summer.

    Nearby Attractions

    The town of Medora has shopping, restaurants, amenities and the Medora Musical is located approximately five miles (8 km) to the south. The Little Missouri National Grassland is the largest National Grassland in the nation at 1.03 million acres (416,826 ha). It is located in western North Dakota and is managed by the Medora Ranger District in Dickinson, ND and the McKenzie Ranger District in Watford City, ND. The National Grassland provides additional recreation opportunities in the area.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $10 - $60 / night

    Denise  D.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Medora Campground near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Medora Campground near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Medora Campground near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Medora Campground near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Medora Campground near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Medora Campground near Medora, ND

    2. Medora Campground

    39 Reviews
    121 Photos
    148 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    If you're looking for campgrounds in Medora, ND, consider Medora Campground. Conveniently located on the west side of Medora, the Medora Campground is the perfect place to set up your basecamp for adventure in the Badlands. You can choose between our hook-up spaces or our primitive camping area, whichever makes your Medora experience perfect. Facility amenities include: -150 campsites of varying sizes. -FREE Wi-Fi -Access to bathroom and shower facilities -RV waste station -Playground for the kids -And a new General Store with many of the provisions you might need -- plus a laundry facility to help clean up your gear after a day in the Badlands.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 - $60 / night

    MickandKarla W.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area near Medora, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area near Medora, ND

    3. Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area

    27 Reviews
    78 Photos
    109 Saves
    Medora, North Dakota

    Just south of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and a couple miles from the town of Medora, Sully Creek State Park is located in the heart of North Dakota’s Badlands. This small park provides easy access to the Little Missouri River for paddlers and anglers, and serves as a launch point for the 170-mile Maah Daah Hey and the 50-mile Maah Daah Hey II trails. These two scenic trails invite hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders to discover the Badlands’ peaks, plateaus, prairies, and wetlands—just as Roosevelt saw them more than a century ago. Sully Creek also makes an ideal basecamp for exploring the nearby national park in a quieter setting, or if the park’s facilities are full.

    Sully Creek offers 41 spacious campsites in three open, grassy areas: Whitetail Flats, Cedar, and Little Muddy Breaks. Whitetail Flats offers open, grassy, pull-through sites that can accommodate large RVs; Cedar is a wooded loop with pull-through and back-in sites for smaller RVs and tent campers; Little Muddy Breaks is an open area designated for horse campers, and features corrals and a round pen. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, and there are vault toilets, a shower house, drinking water, and a dump station available; hookups are not available at this location. Dogs are permitted in the park, but must remain leashed. Camping is available from April through November. Campsites are $12/night; reservations accepted.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Kristi D.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground near Bismarck, ND

    4. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    103 Photos
    119 Saves
    Bismarck, North Dakota

    Located on the grassy plains near the confluence of the Missouri and Heart rivers, Fort Abraham Lincoln is North Dakota’s oldest state park. Established in 1907 to commemorate a 1700s US Army outpost, the park offers a look at America’s early years, as well as even longer ago when the Mandan peoples called this area home. The park is located about 7 miles south of the town of Mandan, and about 200 miles east of Fargo. In addition to its historical significance, the park is also noted for its diverse, high prairie landscape and exceptional views. More than 16 miles of multiuse trails are available for summer and winter roaming among the park’s prairies, woods, and shrublands.

    Abraham Lincoln State Park offers more than 100 tent and RV campsites, in addition to camping cabins and Cheyenne tipis. Most sites are open and grassy, and equipped with electrical and water hookups, picnic tables and fire pits; pull-through sites can accommodate large RVs and trailers. Amenities in the campground include both flush and vault toilets, showers, water faucets, playgrounds, picnic shelters, Wifi service, and a dump station. There are also corrals available for horse campers. Additional park features include a visitor center, coffee and gift shop, and an outdoor amphitheater. Dogs must remain leashed unless in designated areas. Camping is available year-round; sites are $17–$25/night; tipis are $35/night, and cabins $60/night; reservations accepted.

    There are plenty of things to do at Fort Abraham Lincoln, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing, but the main attractions are the park’s historical area and Mandan village. The historical area has replicas of Lieutenant Colonel George Custer’s home, as well as a barracks building, stables and blockhouses. Tours are available during summer months. The Mandan On-a-Slant Village—named so for the sloping ground it rests on—features several “Earthlodges” constructed in similar fashion to those used by the native peoples for homes and meeting places. A trolley runs through the park with stops at both historic locations, in addition to going to the nearby town of Mandan.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $85 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground near Bottineau, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground near Bottineau, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground near Bottineau, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground near Bottineau, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground near Bottineau, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground near Bottineau, ND

    5. Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    41 Photos
    49 Saves
    Bottineau, North Dakota

    Located about 26 miles northwest of Dunseith, and sharing a border with Canada, Lake Metigoshe is North Dakota’s largest state park. Encompassing an area of more than 1,500 acres in the Turtle Mountains, the park was established in 1938 as a year-round retreat. Prior to settlers arriving in the area, this forest and lake country was home to indigenous Blackfoot, Hidatsa and Assiniboine peoples. The name Metigoshe is derived from a native phrase translated “clearwater lake of scrub-oaks.” While the park contains numerous lakes, which can be explored by foot or paddle, most of the facilities and activities can be enjoyed on or near the shores of Lake Metigoshe. Summer activities include fishing, boating, paddling, swimming and hiking; winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and sledding.

    Lake Metigoshe State Park offers numerous tent and RV camping areas, including the Washegum and Maid O’ Moonshine campgrounds, as well as several primitive camping areas. The wooded campgrounds feature more than 80 pull-through and back-in sites with electricity and water hookups. Some of these sites are ADA accessible. These campgrounds provide water, flush toilets, and showers; a dump station is located between the two sites. The primitive tent areas are dispersed near the shore of Lake Metigoshe, and feature 40 drive-in and walk-in sites. These areas provide vault toilets only. The park also offers three group campsites, two group dorms, and several cabins. Other amenities in the park include an Outdoor Learning Center, kids’ playgrounds, amphitheater, dog park, and picnic shelters. Campsites are $17–25/night; group sites are $25/night; cabins and dorms range from $60–$125/night.

    There are plenty of things to see and do during a camping vacation at Lake Metigoshe. Summer months offer plenty of water activities: catch some rays or take a dip at the park’s swim beach, fish for bass, crappie, walleye and perch, or rent a kayak or canoe and go for a paddle. Try the park’s 2-mile water trail that links four lakes togethers (some portages required). For exploring the woods and wetlands by foot, there are 15 miles of multi-use trails available for hikers and mountain bikers. Pick up an interpretive brochure to learn about the park’s flora and fauna on the 3-mile Old Oak Trail, or head out on any of the other paths to look for moose, deer, pine martens and grouse. Many of these trails are open in winter months for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There is also a 3.7-mile snowmobile trail. Trail maps are available at the park’s visitor center.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Turtle River State Park Campground near Larimore, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Turtle River State Park Campground near Larimore, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Turtle River State Park Campground near Larimore, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Turtle River State Park Campground near Larimore, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Turtle River State Park Campground near Larimore, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Turtle River State Park Campground near Larimore, ND

    6. Turtle River State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    62 Photos
    44 Saves
    Larimore, North Dakota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Grahams Island State Park Campground near Fort Totten, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Grahams Island State Park Campground near Fort Totten, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Grahams Island State Park Campground near Fort Totten, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Grahams Island State Park Campground near Fort Totten, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Grahams Island State Park Campground near Fort Totten, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Grahams Island State Park Campground near Fort Totten, ND

    7. Grahams Island State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    28 Photos
    69 Saves
    Fort Totten, North Dakota

    Named for Captain Duncan Graham, one of the first known settlers in the area, Grahams Island is located in North Dakota’s Devils Lake. Located approximately 100 miles west of Grand Forks, this is the state’s largest natural lake—yet its shoreline and surface area constantly change due to its being in a closed drainage basin. The island is accessible via a bridge from the north; the state park is located a couple miles from the bridge, on the southeast point of the island. The park provides a year-round recreation destination for every kind of outdoor enthusiast, but fishing and water play are the most popular. Many just come to Grahams Island to kick back and enjoy a taste of “Island Life.”

    With more than 150 campsites available, Grahams Island has an option for every type of camper. Spacious pull-through sites provide partial and full hookups for RV and trailer campers, primitive sites offer wooded seclusion for tent campers, and numerous group sites can accommodate large parties. The park even offers a few partially-furnished cabins. Campsites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, and the campground features drinking water, flush and vault toilets, showers, picnic shelters, playgrounds, dog park, and sports courts. Dogs are welcome, but must remain leashed unless in designated areas. Camping is available year-round, however some facilities may be closed during the winter season; sites are $17–$30/night; cabins $60/night; reservations accepted.

    Large and fairly shallow, Devils Lake is a hotspot for fishing, including some of the state’s best ice fishing. The park hosts several regional and national fishing tournaments, but casting for walleye, perch, white bass, and northern pike is a year-round activity. Fishing services in the park include a bait shop, boat launch, marine gas pump, and fish cleaning station. Other lake activities include paddling, sailing or relaxing at the swim beach. During the summer season, 2 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails are available for exploring the islands local woods, and in winter, 3 miles of cross-country ski trails are groomed for winter swooshing.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park near Epping, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park near Epping, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park near Epping, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park near Epping, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park near Epping, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park near Epping, ND

    8. Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park

    15 Reviews
    33 Photos
    59 Saves
    Epping, North Dakota

    This recreation area is part of Sakakawea Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Janet R.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Icelandic State Park Campground near Cavalier, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Icelandic State Park Campground near Cavalier, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Icelandic State Park Campground near Cavalier, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Icelandic State Park Campground near Cavalier, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Icelandic State Park Campground near Cavalier, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Icelandic State Park Campground near Cavalier, ND

    9. Icelandic State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    41 Photos
    23 Saves
    Cavalier, North Dakota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $17 - $25 / night

    MickandKarla W.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Bismarck KOA near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Bismarck KOA near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Bismarck KOA near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Bismarck KOA near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Bismarck KOA near Bismarck, ND
    Camper-submitted photo at Bismarck KOA near Bismarck, ND

    10. Bismarck KOA

    12 Reviews
    29 Photos
    15 Saves
    Bismarck, North Dakota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
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Showing results 1-10 of 39 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews in North Dakota

355 Reviews of 39 North Dakota Campgrounds


  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Mel Rieman Rec
    Oct. 8, 2023

    Mel Rieman Rec

    Beautiful site, with good amenities

    Stopped here on our way through North Dakota, perfect site with flushable bathrooms, good water and a beautiful sunrise.

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Ransom State Park Campground
    Jul. 3, 2020

    Fort Ransom State Park Campground

    Nice experience by the Sheyenne River and Grasslands

    This is a year round multi-use state park along the forest-lined Sheyenne River and near the Sheyenne National Grasslands. There are miles of trails through all kinds of habititats from forest to prairie to riparian shores and the water trail. In winter there is great cross country skiing and snowshoeing and summer of course has camping, canoeing, hiking, and nature watching. This seems to be a big park for horse campers and they are well set up for that with corrals and designated horse campgrounds. There is a standard campground for car camping, campers and RVs with the usual amenities, then there is the so-called "primitive" campground which is for tents only, either in drive in tent campsites, or at walk-in tent sites that are very spacious and right on the river! Very nice. The "primitive" tent area has quiet rules including no use of generators, so we like that. The tent area did not have its own water source though, so you do have to walk across the river bridge to the main campground to get water. Also, while there were no problems about flooding on our trip, the sites are in a lowland area adjacent to the river floodplain so could be a concern at times of heavy rain. Other options, should you want to go for historic lodging or "glamping", there is the option to reserve a covered wagon or pioneer cabin to stay in, or a fully equipped really amazingly cool yurt with a loft that could host a large family or group. If you like hiking or canoeing or horseback riding or nature exploring, there are alot of good options here for the summer camper. Things are quieter right now as there as fewer campers due to  covid, they are also a little short staffed and the grounds look a tad bit rough around the edges and in need of a bit of maintanence. Also, the park was established on the grounds on an old fort which seems to have had some historic controversy, and the main park entrance sign was burned in a recent protest event so be aware of that when you are trying to find the park. And, while staying at the park, visit the exhibits in the visitor's center to learn more about the history of the area and the old fort so you can put all this into respectful context.

  • Mary S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground
    Aug. 8, 2018

    Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground

    Beautiful park - fantastic place to explore with children

    What a great park for families! That was my first thought. It just looks like a great place for kids to play. There's a playground, wide open spaces, easy trails, a river, and remnants of the fort and an Indian village. There's a paved bike path that you can take from the campground all the way to Bismarck (10+ miles). Or you can ride over to the cavalry and infantry areas of the fort and to the Indian village.

    There is a separate $7/day entrance fee in addition to the camping fee. We chose a primitive site (no water, no electric) because those sites are along the river, and the fee was $17. Sites with electricity and water are $25. There are also a couple tipis for $35 and two cabins for $60. There is a clean shower facility plus other restrooms. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, and there's a dump station. We have camped at so many Forest Service sites that all these amenities make it feel like glamping!

    My only complaint is that there is no path from the primitive sites to a restroom other than the road. It would have been nice if there were a few paths between sites. No one wants to take a long route to a restroom in the middle of the night. And cutting through an occupied site is poor camping etiquette.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Turtle River State Park Campground
    Sep. 12, 2021

    Turtle River State Park Campground

    Unique spot

    Campground was set up a little funny but not hard to locate site once driving around about 3 minutes. Pretty wooded area in hell hole North Dakota. Will never be back here but did enjoy my stay at the hidden gem in a very very boring state.

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Heart Butte Reservoir (Lake Tschida)
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Heart Butte Reservoir (Lake Tschida)

    Busy boat launch but friendly and respectful campers

    Five primitive campgrounds with wells and vault toilets. The two stars are for how this place is taken care of. Not well kept.

    Decent fishing for North Dakota. Try your hand at catching crappie, walleye, catfish, perch, white bass, pike, bluegill, large and smallmouth bass. Bait store nearby!

  • Teresa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kidder Recreation Area
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Kidder Recreation Area

    It is small and designed for tent campers

    There's a short row of camp spots in the sun for campers. Seems like a good portion of it is full of people who are here all the time. The rest of the campers are in the back of their truck, which i'm not opposed to, but they're in pretty tough shape and very old. I will say this is one of the least safe places. I have felt in North Dakota.

  • Stephen C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground
    Apr. 12, 2024

    Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground

    Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

    Planning a hike to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in North Dakota motivated me to learn more about the diverse landscapes and natural wonders of the U.S. national parks. It is remarkable to see the diversity of environments protected in these parks, from rugged mountains to vast deserts and dense forests. As I prepare for my outdoor adventure at Fort Abraham Lincoln, I am inspired to consider future trips to explore the beauty and biodiversity preserved in the US National Park system, which I learned more about by reading https://www.agmglobalvision.com/u-s-national-parks. Each visit promises an unforgettable experience of immersing yourself in the splendor of nature.

  • Brandi M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground
    May. 31, 2020

    Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground

    Beautiful State Park

    This State Park is in North Dakota near the Canadian border. With a very large body of water that has many amenities from fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding. There are bike & canoe/kayak rentals right outside the park and a couple different campgrounds to choose from inside the park, ours was just a few feet from the lake and fishing dock. Depending on which campground you choose you will either have a vault toilet or a more convenient bathroom with toilets & showers! Staff was very nice and accommodating. There was even an Ice cream truck that rolled thru everyday for the kiddos!

  • Amurican L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park
    Aug. 29, 2020

    Lewis & Clark State Park — Lewis And Clark State Park

    Rangers! Park Rangers Everywhere !

    Lewis and Clark didn’t seem like much, but as soon as we got settled in the Park rangers checked on us. They did patrols all the time around and were super friendly! We had one storm while we were there and they gave us the emergency plan as fast as they could. Most campgrounds could care less, they assume you know the deal. I commend the staff at this place, it’s what true North Dakota’s do for each other.

    We also had plenty of space in our campsites and the area is super clean. The trails and the beach were quite exciting as the nights that were clear had the Aurora borealis in the background. So beautiful.

  • SwitchbackKids
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Jul. 27, 2017

    Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Quaint, quiet, scenic campground oasis in the prairies of North Dakota

    Cottonwood Campground was a very welcome oasis in the prairies of North Dakota. Along our year-long trip, we slept in a lot of campgrounds, but Cottonwood stands out as just what we needed at the time: quiet, spacious, and beautiful sites, nestled right up along the Missouri river, perfect for taking a dip at the end of a long day of hiking.

    We spent four days at Theodore Roosevelt National Park: two in the south unit and two in the north unit. (We also loved Juniper Campground in the north!)

    Cottonwood Campground was a great place to crash for two nights. It was cheap, comfortable, and quiet. It allowed great access to the heart of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. We even ran into a Teddy impersonator at the Visitor Center!

    In the south, near Cottonwood Campground, we loved the beautiful scenic drive, the views from Buck Hill, Wind Canyon Overlook, and the Petrified Forest (a bit of a drive around the park).

    You can read much more about our four days in the park on our blog: Switchback Kids (Theodore Roosevelt)

  • Janet R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Icelandic State Park Campground
    Jul. 3, 2020

    Icelandic State Park Campground

    Quiet nature and hisotry on the prairie

    This is a small quiet state park in northeast North Dakota that offers a nature preserve with rare plants and birds in a cool bur oak-basswood  stand with spring fed fens around it. A nature trail with little footbridges carries you through. There is also a native prairie restoration, and historic exhibits about the different cultural groups who made their homes here from prehistoric times to today.  A nice little oasis! The campground is set on a pleasant little reservoir, as we are tent campers we loved that the tent area was in the so called "primitive" area  with only tents, with sites all along the shore and close to the nature preserve. It was a weeknight, and no one else was there so it was very peaceful! Fo folks who have campers or rvs, there are three well set up loops with hookups and all the amenities. We also appreciated that they have a dog park on site! I havent seen that in a state park before. The staff was really friendly and helpful. Due to covid restrictions there are more rules to follow and limited programming etc, but you can still swimm and fish and boat on your own. The only drawback is that you can hear road noise from trucks on the highway nearby which is noticeable at night.

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    May. 23, 2021

    Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Where the buffalo roam

    Camped late April for 5 days, so it was offseason one pit toilet open one water spigot open in the campground.  There are two loops, the south look which is tenting and smaller sized trailer sites but it was not yet open while we were there,  The North Loop is mainly pull through sites and can handle larger sized RV's.  This is dry camping, there are no hookups.  You can experience some nice hiking and opportunities for wildlife viewing.  Buffalo were common visitors while having coffee in the morning.   Elk, deer, wild horses were common as well as hawks and prairie dogs.  Currently Western North Dakota is experiencing a drought, and being early in the season for the campground, it was dry and dusty but did not prevent us from hiking and exploring the park.  There is a convenience store in Medora ND right outside the park entrance that you can purchase basics but there was no grocery store.  Part of the scenic loop drive is closed due to road erosion but you can still travel most of it though its an out and back with turnarounds for larger vehicles. We would defiantly camp there again, but if you need the luxuries of an RV "park", you will not find that here.  The campground is well maintained and clean.

  • Stephanie Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Aug. 18, 2016

    Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Nice NP Campground Convenient to I-94

    I visited this campground for 1 night while driving across North Dakota. It's super easy to access from I-94, but you feel like you're a million miles away from the interstate. Arriving at the Teddy Roosevelt NP main entrance late in the day, the booth was closed and the "Campground Full" sign was up. I decided to check for myself and I'm glad I did. They sometimes put the campground full site up when the ranger leaves for the night- always check for yourself.

    The campsites were basic- picnic table, fire ring, and close proximity to some basic bathrooms. My site was grassy and easy for a tent. The campground didn't allow hammocks or anything attached to trees. The rangers were very friendly and actively patroling the campground. There were NP events at the campground each night.

    The cost for a site was $16 (and 20$ to enter the park if you don't have a pass). You cannot get change from the ranger and you cannot use a credit card to register. The closest place to get change, firewood, gas, etc. is Medora which is about 7 miles away. The convenience store there has anything you might want.

    There are lots of great hikes accessible in the park, but the park is not crowded like other National Parks, so be sure to get a trail map and directions for hiking as all trails are not well marked.

  • Matt S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Sep. 4, 2016

    Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Theodore Roosevelt NP - Cottonwood

    What can I say, I went to Theodore Roosevelt National Park just to hangout with my brother and do some camping. I had very low expectations considering it is located in North Dakota. Let's just say that of the dozen National Parks and Monuments that I have visited and camped in, Theodore Roosevelt is my second favorite.

    I saw more wildlife than I have in any other park. There were very few people so it felt like we had the park to ourselves. The scenery was fantastic with so many different things to see. There is a South and North unit and they are both amazing, although the North unit is my favorite.

    The Cottonwood campground is in the South Unit. It was great. The toilet near are campsite was a pit toilet, but it was clean. I must admit, I prefer a flushing toilet, especially when I am paying money to camp. Having said that the rest of the campground was quiet with some great scenery. Aside from not having flushing toilets, the reason it gets 4 stars instead of 5 is the campground needed more shade trees. It did get hot during the day.

    Wildlife walks through the campsite regularly. I woke up one morning with a buffalo walking 10 yards from my tent. I was sitting down and eating lunch at the picnic table and a beautiful snake with lots of colors just slithered through. If you want an experience with nature and have the opportunity to see bluffs, trees, badlands and a petrified forest, you need to stay at Cottonwood.

  • Stefanie Z.
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Settlers Park
    Sep. 8, 2020

    Old Settlers Park

    Small and cute, clean bathrooms

    We stayed 3 nights in early September, Fri-Sun. I was a bit surprised at how few people were there - 2 or 3 long campers and we were the only tent campers. It was nice for privacy but felt a little eerie at times. That being said it was nicely maintained and I have to mention the bathrooms are replenished and cleaned daily and fully stocked with CHARMIN ULTRA toilet paper which is an absolute luxury at a simple campground lol. The showers are also pretty nice and the facility is heated. So appreciated. It has a little pavilion, a playground, “beach”, a couple cute bridges, a big grassy field for stargazing or throwing the ball around, a disc golf course, and of course you’re right on the river which is cool. Swimming is allowed at your own risk. I’m giving it five stars mostly for how well kept the bathrooms were, but it did feel a little desolate at times. I get it’s the end of camping season though and it was a little cold at night so that’s probably why. There are a few stray cats and dogs wandering about at times. We are good sleepers and this didn’t bother us much but there are heavily trafficked train tracks a couple hundred yards away from the campground so if you are a light sleeper or are bothered by trains this might not be the place for you. Umm all in all it’s a cute and peaceful little park that made a nice home for a few nights. It’s patrolled by police throughout the day too. We’d probably stay there again if we ever happen to go to Minot. Oh! There’s a decent North Dakota style winery (sweet fruit wines) a couple miles down the road with a lovely view and even some hikes. Worth a visit - Pointe of View. Ok, done now I promise.

  • Mary S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Cottonwood Campground — Theodore Roosevelt National Park

    Peaceful camping in Theodore Roosevelt NP

    This campground in Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora ND has 76 sites. Half of the sites, the even-numbered ones, are not reservable. Sites 55-66 are walk in tent sites; parking spots and grills for these sites are numbered so you have a specific site.

    We arrived before 10:30 am on a Sunday and sites were being claimed quickly. There were 7 of us choosing sites at that time. The hosts had a whiteboard that listed available sites; we took a photo of the list and chose quickly as we drove around because sites that were listed as available were already being claimed. We ended up on a reservable site that was open for the next several nights. The host couple was really on the ball and their attention helped keep the site selection process orderly.  After you put your tag up, they fold it over later in the day and mark your departure date. This is a practice that is used in many campgrounds.

    Cottonwood has been full every day since Memorial Day so you can't show up in the evening or possibly even mid-afternoon and expect to find an open site.

    This campground has no hookups but has flush toilets, sinks, potable water spigots, a sink for washing dishes/disposing of grey water, a place for filling water tanks, trash disposal and firewood for sale. There are charcoal grates for cooking that can also be use for campfires, but there are no fire rings; your campfire will be a few feet off the ground in something that I think of as a grill!

    Showers? No, but there area couple campgrounds in Medora that have showers for $5.

    If you stay here, you're obviously here to see Theodore Roosevelt NP. Both the campground and park are worth a visit. The scenery is incredible and gave us a new view of North Dakota. There is a hike near Pleasant Valley Ranch where you can use a few trails to make a 5+ mile loop that will show you everything the park has to offer - Little Missouri River (and you have to cross it at the beginning and end), prairie dog towns, bison herds and beautiful scenery. I highly recommend this as a way to see the park from a better vantage point than the highway.

    One complaint - the position of our site (#19) had some people think it was acceptable to cut through our site on their way to the bathroom. Do you walk through someone's home to shorten your walk? Didn't think so but 3 people did within 30 minutes.

  • a
    Camper-submitted photo from Medora Campground
    Jul. 21, 2022

    Medora Campground

    Clean and quiet

    Large campground with plenty of open spots when we got there. Nice showers and bathrooms, saw two while looking for our spot. Even can fill up your propane if needed. Cute like yurt like tents shaped like covered wagons. Free WiFi. $30 for tent spot.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Cross Ranch State Park Campground
    Oct. 17, 2021

    Cross Ranch State Park Campground

    We love this state park!

    This park is our favorite go-to campground. All sites have electrical and the two dump stations are easy to pull into and use. There are many hiking trails here and they are kept mowed and in great condition.

  • Ariel R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground
    Oct. 23, 2021

    Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground

    Amazing campground!

    We LOVE camping here! The North Hill campground is small, quiet, and perfect proximity to the water. Site 103 has good trees for 1 hammock. Toilet facilities are nice and clean. There is a great playground, and a great dog area! Our only complaint is the mosquitos, which are pretty unavoidable. Bring a great bug spray and your kayak and you’ll be set for an amazing camping trip!

  • Elizabeth S.
    Camper-submitted photo from International Peace Garden
    May. 1, 2021

    International Peace Garden

    Seclusion at it's finest!

    My husband and I have stayed at this campground twice now and both visits were amazing!  We like to choose sites surrounded by trees and this place does not disappoint.  Plus, the raised tent platforms are a huge benefit!  The sites are huge, the bathrooms are clean, there is a ton of firewood available, and it is not crowded.  If you are in the area, this is a must visit!!!

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Grahams Island State Park Campground
    Apr. 23, 2023

    Grahams Island State Park Campground

    Nice Campground in Devils Lake Area

    This is a nice State campground in the Devils Lake Area. It has wooded and semi private sites in the primitive tent area. One part of the camper trailer area can be fairly wide open. Great place to launch your boat, fish station to clean your catch and nice swim area and playground for the kids. Devils Lake area itself can be somewhat of a boring area unless you love fishing

  • Jennie S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground
    Sep. 15, 2020

    Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground

    Beautiful place to camp.

    I’m a tent camper. I stopped here for one night while taking the high line on a road trip. The drive in is hilly and has spectacular views. It is well worth the few extra miles. The camp is clean. It is very family oriented. There were many tent campers. I was in the Washgum Loop on campsite #66 and the interpretive trail and and a nice area to view the lake was right next to my campsite. If you had your own kayak you could definitely drop in from here. The park service personnel were exceptionally, happy, informative and kind. I walked the full Old Oak interpretive trail and the pamphlet that you pick up on the way in to camp was nice to have. There is poison ivy here. There was some on my campsite and some on the interpretive trail.

  • Peyton L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground
    Sep. 21, 2020

    Lake Metigoshe State Park Campground

    Fun trails!

    Spent a day and a half walking every trail available in the park. All of them were well marked and well maintained. The terrain in easygoing with great views of all the little lakes and occasionally some wildlife. It was a great trip and am glad I went in September when all the leaves are changing colors!

  • Kevin
    Camper-submitted photo from Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area
    Sep. 23, 2020

    Sully Creek State Park — Sully Creek State Recreation Area

    Good campground

    Primitive campsites were secluded and surrounded by the trees. The trees were needed as there was a ton of wind that day. We were close to some of the horse corrals which was an added bonus as we don’t typically see that sort of things. Clean toilet/shower facilities.