Summer Camping in North Dakota

Summer Camping in North Dakota

Discover the best summer camping across North Dakota. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.

12+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: June through August
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Elkhorn Campground
Photo coming soon
Star
4.8
(16)
Elkhorn Campground
Sentinel Butte
Dakota Prairie Grasslands

Summer brings endless daylight to explore the legendary Maah Daah Hey Trail right from your tent, with horseback riding and hiking through the same badlands that captivated Theodore Roosevelt.

Tents
RVs
2
Ccc Campground (Nd)
Star
4.7
(101)
Ccc Campground (Nd)
Watford City
Dakota Prairie National Grasslands

Summer brings the Badlands to life with 150 miles of the Maah Daah Hey Trail accessible right from camp, where horseback riders and hikers can traverse dramatic buttes under endless prairie skies.

Tents
RVs
3
Bennett Campground
Photo coming soon
Star
4.6
(27)
Bennett Campground
Grassy Butte, ND
Dakota Prairie Grasslands

Summer brings long daylight hours to explore the Maah Daah Hey Trail's rugged terrain by bike or horseback, returning to spacious, secluded sites under star-filled prairie skies.

Tents
RVs

About Summer Camping in North Dakota

Summer camping in North Dakota unveils a landscape of dramatic contrasts, where the rugged badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park meet endless prairie grasslands and the serene waters of Lake Sakakawea. This often-overlooked destination offers campers authentic wilderness experiences without the crowds found in more popular western states.

Best Time

The prime summer camping season in North Dakota runs from late May through early September, with peak conditions occurring during June and July when wildflowers blanket the prairie and wildlife activity reaches its zenith. June offers the advantage of longer daylight hours, lush green landscapes, and moderate temperatures in the 70s and low 80s, though occasional spring storms can still occur.

Season Highlights

  • Warm weather and long days
  • Swimming and water activities
  • Full amenities and services
  • Family-friendly activities

Campground Locations

Showing top 12 campgrounds near Summer Camping in North Dakota

Map of campgrounds near Summer Camping in North Dakota
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Map Key
1
Elkhorn Campground
2
Ccc Campground (Nd)
3
Bennett Campground
4
Hankinson Hills Campground
5
Jorgen'S Hollow Campground
6
Juniper Campground Group Site (Nd)
7
Wannagan Campground
8
Summit Campground
9
Burning Coal Vein Campground
10
Eggerts Landing
11
Hazelton Recreation Area
12
Downstream Campground (Nd)
View all 12 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Hiking through badlands formations and prairie grasslandsMountain biking the Maah Daah Hey Trail systemWildlife viewing (bison, wild horses, pronghorn, eagles)Horseback riding on designated trailsPhotography of landscapes and wildlifeStargazing under dark prairie skies

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve popular badlands campgrounds like Elkhorn and CCC Campground at least two months ahead for July and August weekends, though weekday sites often remain available for spontaneous trips.
  • 2Bring plenty of water, as summer temperatures in the badlands can be deceiving—low humidity masks dehydration risks.
  • 3Pack layers for dramatic temperature swings; evenings can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs, especially in exposed prairie locations.
  • 4A quality tent with strong stakes is essential, as prairie winds can be relentless and afternoon thunderstorms develop quickly.
12 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Summer Camping in North Dakota

Summer Camping in North Dakota FAQ

We've ranked 12+ summer campgrounds in North Dakota based on weather, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds with shade, water access, and good summer conditions.
June through August is prime summer camping season in North Dakota. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while July and August are peak season.
For summer camping in North Dakota, bring sun protection, plenty of water, cooling gear, and light layers for cooler evenings. Bug spray is essential in many areas.
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