Best Campgrounds in North Dakota For Your Next Adventure

Readers, are you planning a camping trip to North Dakota? North Dakota offers stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and unique experiences. But with so many options, how can you find the perfect campground to make your adventure unforgettable? I’ve been camping in North Dakota for years, and I’ve carefully evaluated each campground to find the top picks for every type of camper.

This guide will cover the best campgrounds in North Dakota. I’ll analyze their features, amenities, and locations to help you discover the perfect spot for your next outdoor escape. From rustic campsites to luxurious RV parks, North Dakota has something for everyone! So, grab your tent, pack your gear, and let’s embark on a journey to discover the best campgrounds North Dakota has to offer.

North Dakota Camping & The Best Campgrounds

North Dakota may not be a well-known camping destination compared to states like California or Oregon, but there is a lot to offer. The state is home to diverse landscapes, including scenic prairies, rugged badlands, and sparkling lakes. You can find campgrounds offering a wide range of amenities and experiences, from primitive sites to full-hookup RV parks. The best campgrounds in North Dakota provide a chance to immerse yourself in nature and create unforgettable memories.

Planning Your North Dakota Camping Adventure

Choosing the Right Campground

Before booking your trip, it’s vital to consider your camping preferences and needs. Do you want a secluded spot with limited amenities or a campground with full hookups and recreational activities? What type of activities interest you? Knowing your preferences will help you narrow down your options and select the perfect campground for your adventure.

Booking Advance Reservations

North Dakota’s campgrounds are popular, especially during peak season. To secure your spot, book reservations in advance, especially during popular weekends or holidays. You can find booking information on the campground websites or through various reservation services.

Understanding North Dakota’s Seasons

North Dakota experiences four distinct seasons, and weather can be unpredictable. Pack appropriate clothing for all conditions, including warm layers for cooler evenings and rain gear.

Best North Dakota Campgrounds for Families

These campgrounds are perfect for families seeking a fun-filled camping experience with kids:

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park: The campground offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including hiking trails, a swimming beach, and a historical fort.
Lake Metigoshe State Park: This park offers beautiful lakefront campsites, swimming beaches, and a playground. It’s a great base for exploring the park’s hiking trails or enjoying water activities.
Sullys Hill National Game Preserve: This preserve provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and see wildlife. The campground offers wooded sites with a playground and a visitor center.

Best North Dakota Campgrounds for Hikers and Backpackers

These campgrounds are ideal for hikers and backpackers seeking immersive wilderness experiences:

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: The park has multiple campgrounds, including the scenic North Unit Campground, offering breathtaking views of the rugged badlands. Multiple hiking trails range from easy to challenging and offer scenic vistas. Whether you choose a short day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, you’ll enjoy stunning views.
Maah Daah Hey Trail: This 144-mile trail traverses the stunning badlands of North Dakota, offering a challenging but rewarding backpacking experience. You can find campsites along the trail, offering a chance to enjoy solitude and immerse yourself in nature.
Sheyenne National Grassland: This grassland offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of North Dakota’s open prairies. With miles of hiking trails, you can explore the area’s diverse ecosystems and discover stunning views.

Best North Dakota Campgrounds for RVers

These campgrounds are tailored for RVers with full hookups and amenities:

Lake Sakakawea State Park: This park offers multiple campgrounds with full hookups and easy access to the largest lake in North Dakota. You can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, or simply relax and admire the lake views.
Cross Ranch State Park: This park offers full hookups, a dump station, and a scenic setting along the Missouri River. You can explore the park’s hiking trails or enjoy views from the riverbank.
Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site: This historic site offers a campground with full hookups and a unique historical experience. Explore the reconstructed trading post and learn about the area’s rich history.

Best North Dakota Campgrounds for Boaters

These campgrounds are situated near lakes or rivers perfect for boating enthusiasts:

Lake Sakakawea State Park: With ample shoreline and access to the largest lake in North Dakota, this park is a boating paradise. You can enjoy fishing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, or simply cruising across the water.
Devils Lake State Park: Known for its excellent fishing, Devils Lake State Park offers a campground with lakefront access and boat ramps for easy launching. You can cast a line for walleye, perch, and other species or explore the lake’s scenic shores.
Lake Metigoshe State Park: This park offers a campground by the lake with a boat launch and a marina. You can explore the lake’s pristine waters or relax on the beach.

Best North Dakota Campgrounds for History Buffs

These campgrounds offer historical sites and attractions for those who love history:

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park: The park’s campground offers easy access to the historic fort, providing a glimpse into the past. You can explore the fort’s buildings, learn about its history, and even witness re-enactments.
Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site: This site offers a campground with access to the reconstructed trading post and a visitor center. You can learn about the history of the fur trade and the area’s native peoples.
Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site: This site offers a campground with access to the remains of ancient Native American villages. You can learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage and explore the site’s interpretive trails.

Best North Dakota Campgrounds for Wildlife Viewing

These campgrounds are surrounded by natural habitats ideal for wildlife viewing:

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: This park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and prairie dogs. You can spot wildlife from the trails, drive the scenic loop, or attend ranger-led programs.
Sullys Hill National Game Preserve: The campground offers opportunities to see various animals, including bison, elk, and deer. The preserve has a wildlife drive and hiking trails for observing these magnificent creatures.
Cross Ranch State Park: Along the Missouri River, you can observe birds, beaver, and even bald eagles. The park offers scenic overlooks and hiking trails where you can soak in the beauty of the river and its wildlife.

Best North Dakota Campgrounds for Stargazing

These campgrounds offer dark skies with minimal light pollution, perfect for stargazing:

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: The park’s remote location and limited light pollution offer unparalleled stargazing opportunities. You can set up your telescope or simply look up and be amazed by the Milky Way and other celestial wonders.
Sheyenne National Grassland: This grassland offers dark skies for stargazing. You can enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars and watch shooting stars streak across the night sky.
Lake Metigoshe State Park: Away from city lights, you can enjoy dark skies with spectacular views of the constellations.

Top North Dakota Campgrounds to Consider

Here are some of the best North Dakota Campgrounds for your next adventure:

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park: This park offers a campground with various amenities, including electricity, water, and a dump station. It’s located near the historic fort, offering historical experiences.
Lake Metigoshe State Park: This park offers a campground with stunning views of Lake Metigoshe, perfect for enjoying water activities and exploring the park’s hiking trails.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park: This park provides various campgrounds with breathtaking views of the badlands, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. You can choose from developed campgrounds with amenities or more primitive options for backcountry adventures.
Sullys Hill National Game Preserve: The preserve offers a campground with wooded sites and access to hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. Enjoy a chance to see bison, elk, and other animals in their natural habitat.
Cross Ranch State Park: This park offers a campground with full hookups and a scenic setting along the Missouri River. Explore the park’s hiking trails or soak in the beauty of the river and its wildlife.
Lake Sakakawea State Park: This park offers a campground with full hookups and easy access to the largest lake in North Dakota. Enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, or simply relax and admire the lake views.

North Dakota Camping Tips

Here are some essential tips for a successful camping trip to North Dakota:

Pack for all weather conditions: North Dakota’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack for warm days, cool nights, and possible rain.
Bring plenty of water: Especially during hotter months. Make sure you have enough drinking water for yourself and your family or pets.
Protect yourself from bugs: Mosquitoes and other insects can be abundant, especially in the evening. Bring bug spray and wear appropriate clothing.
Respect wildlife: North Dakota is home to a variety of wildlife. Always keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing animals.
Leave no trace: Pack out everything you pack in, and leave the campground as you found it. Minimize your impact on the environment.

North Dakota Campgrounds FAQ

What are the best campgrounds in North Dakota?

North Dakota offers a variety of campgrounds to suit your preferences. Some top picks include Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, Lake Metigoshe State Park, and Sullys Hill National Game Preserve. Each offers unique attractions like the badlands, historic sites, lakes, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

What are the most popular times to camp in North Dakota?

Peak season for camping in North Dakota is typically from late June to early September. This period coincides with the warmer weather and longer days, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, campgrounds can become crowded during peak season, so booking in advance is recommended.

What are the best campgrounds in North Dakota for families?

Several campgrounds in North Dakota are perfect for families, offering amenities and activities like playgrounds, swimming beaches, and easy access to hiking trails. Some great options include Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, Lake Metigoshe State Park, and Sullys Hill National Game Preserve.

Conclusion

North Dakota is a state filled with natural beauty and outdoor adventures. From rustic campgrounds to luxurious RV parks, the state provides a wide array of camping experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking stunning views of the badlands, exploring historic sites, or enjoying water activities, you’ll find the perfect campground to create unforgettable memories.

Ready to plan your next adventure? Check out our other articles on exploring North Dakota’s diverse landscapes and attractions!

As you plan your next adventure in the heart of North Dakota, remember that these campgrounds offer not just a place to rest your head, but a gateway to exploring the state’s diverse landscapes and hidden gems. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the serene shores of Lake Sakakawea, or the historical significance of Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, you’ll find a campground that perfectly suits your needs and preferences. Beyond the camping experience itself, these locations provide a chance to connect with nature, embrace the spirit of the Great Plains, and create lasting memories with family and friends. So pack your gear, choose your campsite, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes of North Dakota.

From the towering buttes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park to the sparkling waters of Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota offers a diverse range of camping experiences. Each campground possesses its own unique character, catering to different interests and levels of adventure. Whether you’re seeking a secluded retreat amidst the wilds or a family-friendly haven with amenities galore, you’ll discover a perfect match for your camping style. So, take your time, explore the possibilities, and choose the campground that promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of North Dakota.

As you journey through the state’s diverse landscapes, remember that each campground offers a starting point for exploring the region’s unique treasures. Step into the footsteps of Theodore Roosevelt in the rugged Badlands, witness the majestic beauty of the Missouri River, or uncover the rich history of the state’s pioneer past. Beyond the campgrounds, North Dakota offers a wealth of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and more. So, embrace the spirit of adventure, explore the hidden gems of North Dakota, and create unforgettable memories in this captivating state.

Escape to North Dakota’s breathtaking landscapes! Discover the best campgrounds for your next adventure, from stunning lake views to serene forests. Book your stay today!