Beaver Creek Recreation Area
3.7273 reviews8055 HWY 1804 SW, Linton, ND 58552
Beaver Creek Recreation Area
$14.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$22.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by season and campsite type. Peak-season rates (May 11 - Sep 10) are $22 for Standard Electric, $16 for Standard Non-electric, and $16 for Tent Only Non-electric. Non-peak rates (Sep 11 - Sep 30) are slightly lower: $18 for Standard Electric and $14 for other campsite types.
About this campground
Nestled along the expansive shores of Lake Oahe, Beaver Creek Recreation Area welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with 61 thoughtfully positioned campsites, including 45 sites featuring convenient 30-amp electric hookups. This waterfront haven beckons anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike, where days unfold between casting lines into pristine waters, exploring winding nature trails, and watching children's laughter echo across the playground as the sun sets over the lake.
Beaver Creek offers a mix of camping options including RV sites with electric hookups, tent sites, and primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceThis sacred landscape carries deep historical resonance, with Lake Oahe and its dam bearing the name of the Oahe Indian Mission, a significant cultural landmark established in 1874 among the Lakota Sioux people. As you explore these waters and shores, you're traversing lands that have witnessed centuries of indigenous heritage and the enduring connection between the Lakota Nation and this magnificent river valley.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of South Dakota's dramatic seasons at Beaver Creek, where summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for lake adventures—though seasoned campers recommend preparing for the heat, as electrical systems can occasionally struggle with high air conditioning demands. As autumn paints the prairie in golden hues and temperatures become refreshingly crisp, early-season visitors should note that water services traditionally conclude after Labor Day, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful shoulder season while planning accordingly for dry camping conditions.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data awaits documentation, visitors will discover a landscape perfectly positioned within South Dakota's rolling terrain, where the gentle topography creates ideal conditions for both lakeside relaxation and prairie exploration.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by Lake Oahe's remarkable 2,250-mile shoreline, where your campsite serves as a front-row seat to one of America's most impressive reservoirs. The surrounding mixed grass prairie rolls endlessly toward the horizon, punctuated by dramatic steep draws where resilient trees cascade down to meet the water's edge. This stunning convergence of prairie and lake creates an ever-changing canvas of colors, textures, and wildlife viewing opportunities that transform throughout the day.
Geological RegionCarved into the legendary Missouri River Valley, Beaver Creek Recreation Area showcases the raw beauty of the Great Plains meeting water. The campground rests within a fascinating geological tapestry where ancient river processes have sculpted steep draws through the mixed grass prairie, creating sheltered ravines where groves of trees thrive in stark contrast to the open grasslands above. This unique topography offers diverse ecosystems and microclimates that support an abundance of wildlife and provide campers with varied landscapes to explore.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeCampsites vary from standard to pull-through but reviews mention uneven terrain and backward configurations.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy, with some offering lake views and others configured in a less desirable way, as noted by user 'Shannon H.'
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPrimitive sites are highly recommended for privacy and views. "Drive in going the wrong way" to improve RV orientation for certain pull-through sites.
Best CampsitesSite #41 has been noted for steep unlevel terrain. Primitive sites are described as 'fantastic.'
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limited to 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per campsite.
Groups
No specific group site details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features pull-through sites and primitive sites. Some pull-through sites are configured 'backward,' requiring unique entry to improve orientation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen annually from May 11 to September 30. Reservation availability starts June 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are 100% reservable with zero-day booking windows. Walk-ups are not available.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be changed or canceled through Recreation.gov or the contact center. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations for individual sites incur the loss of the first night's fees. Modifications made outside original dates incur a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Beaver Creek Recreation Area offers a range of activities including boating, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Hiking trails and playgrounds add to its appeal, but some activities are impacted by seasonal water levels.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and offer great opportunities for scenic views. User 'Janice H' mentioned, 'Hike trail, swimming section and boating/fishing.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, including walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. Some reviews highlight bank fishing and low water levels that affect usability.Swimming
Swimming is available, although designated swimming areas and safety measures were not explicitly detailed.Biking
Biking trails are available but limited information is provided about the terrain or difficulty. User 'Chris B' biked 5 miles along the shoreline and found it 'beautiful all around.'Boating
Boating is a significant highlight with ramps and docks available. However, low water levels have impacted usability, as noted by 'Dean S': 'There is not enough water to safely launch a boat.'Wildlife viewing
Users have observed a variety of birds and large wildlife in the area, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.Winter Activities
No specific details about winter activities are provided.Water Sports
Water skiing and canoeing are explicitly mentioned among the water sports offered.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings or grills.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated. Complaints include "neighbors were very noisy until 2 AM."
Hazards
General hazardsLow water levels have been reported, rendering boat ramps unusable. Electrical service issues have caused breaker outages during high temperatures. The campground is situated in a 'hole,' resulting in poor phone and internet service.
Active alertsSeasonal water shutdowns occur after Labor Day, even when freezing temperatures are not imminent. Low water levels affect usability of ramps. Electrical issues persist during hot weather.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
For emergencies, dial 911. The nearest emergency services are located in Linton, ND (16 miles away). Emergency phone access is available in the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 11, 2025 - September 10, 2025 (Peak Season); September 11, 2025 - September 30, 2025 (Non-Peak).
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are mentioned but recycling is not explicitly stated. Many reviews suggest the lack of maintenance in some trash facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Lake Oahe, offering access to a three-lane boat ramp and two docks. "Water was extremely low and none of the 3 ramps were usable" was noted by some users.
Common complaints"The roads are in bad shape" and "30-amp service is outdated." Complaints about water shutoffs after Labor Day and poor cell service are recurring. Restroom cleanliness is inconsistent, with reviews stating "filthy, covered in bugs and spider webs."
HostCamp hosts are described as "very friendly and helpful." Hosts patrol the campground but some reviews noted lack of enforcement for quiet hours.
Campground Map
8055 HWY 1804 SW, Linton, ND 58552
Driving directionsFrom Bismarck, North Dakota, take University Drive south (road becomes ND Highway 1804) and continue south for approximately 50 miles. The road will intersect with ND Highway 13. Turn right and continue on ND Highway 1804 south for approximately 3 miles. Recreation area is on the right side of ND Highway 1804. From Linton, North Dakota, travel 13 miles west on ND Highway 13 to junction of ND Highways 13 and 1804, then travel west another 3 miles. Recreation area is on the right side of ND Highway 1804.
The campground is accessible via paved roads (ND Highway 1804), and the directions are straightforward, but user reviews indicate some issues with road conditions within the park. "The roads are in bad shape all over the park" and "asphalt roads could use some work" are common complaints.Nearby places
Linton, ND: 16 miles (approximately 20 minutes)
Bismarck, ND: 58 miles (approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Linton, ND (16 miles away), offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
3.7
73 reviews
Beaver Creek Recreation Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with criticism focusing on electrical issues, water availability, and cleanliness. Positive comments highlight the scenic location, spacious sites, and fishing opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 73 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground's peaceful environment, scenic lake views, and well-maintained grounds. 'Richard A' stated, 'It was peaceful and quiet and the view of the lake is wonderful.'
Based on 73 reviewsCommon Concerns
Electrical outages, poor shower and toilet cleanliness, low water levels affecting boat ramps, and lack of cell service were recurring complaints. 'Jodi H' mentioned, 'The bathrooms need to be...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing additional water as hookups are unavailable at sites, avoiding certain loops during hot weather due to dust and weeds, and checking water levels if planning boating...
Based on 73 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are highly popular but often bring electrical issues due to air conditioning usage. Early fall offers cooler weather but water facilities are often shut down prematurely.
Based on 73 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Nice campground - great location!' - Shannon H. 'Nice camp site, very helpful when you book a site.' - Lillian K. 'We enjoyed the cleanliness of the facilities and freshly mowed areas.' - Tricia B.
Based on 73 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 41 was noted for being extremely un-level, as stated by 'Dugan S': 'The picture on the reservation page cleverly omitted the site's steep incline.'
Based on 73 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility were available.
Based on 73 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users noted that pets are welcome but must remain leashed. 'Otis H' mentioned small dogs barking as the only issue during his stay.
Based on 73 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025