The best camping near Little Missouri State Park

Hike, fish, or paddle in these picturesque badlands near Lake Sakakawea. Hop on your trusty steed through 45 miles of rugged trails through canyons, valleys, and hills. A total of 81 horse corrals are available throughout the park.

Pack your binoculars to view wildlife, such as eagles, coyotes, hawks, and deer. Eagles and hawks soar overhead looking for a meal. Listen for packs of coyotes squealing, barking, and howling to each other at night as they hunt. Deer hop over your trail or stick their heads up in the high grass.

Fish in the river to catch your dinner for the night. The river is muddy, so you might need some nifty bait to land bluegill, carpsuckers, and catfish. If you're lucky, you might find walleye and fingerling pike.

A total of 28 seasonal campgrounds offer electrical hook-ups. Three primitive campsites have spots for tents. Groups can rent a group shelter for convenience. Five handcrafted cabins provide glamping options.

• Primitive Campsites: Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at one of the three available primitive sites.
• Group Shelter Campsites: Perfect for gatherings, these sites include shelters and accommodate multiple camping units.
• Modern Campsites: Enjoy the convenience of electricity at one of the 28 modern campsites within the park.

• Book your campsite 95 days in advance to secure your preferred dates.
• Use the online reservation system or call the call center at 800-807-4723 for assistance.
• Check the park's cancellation policy and reservation information beforehand to understand the terms.
• Explore nearby camping options if your desired campsite is unavailable.

The best time to visit Little Missouri State Park is between May and October when the park is open. The summer months offer warm weather ideal for exploring the trails, while spring and fall provide cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. Winter visits are not possible as the park is closed during this season.

• Remember to purchase a horse pass if you're planning to ride, with daily and annual options available.
• Keep pets on a leash, and utilize designated off-leash areas for their enjoyment.
• Stay prepared by checking trail conditions with park staff, as they can change with the weather.
• Respect private land by keeping to designated trails and leaving gates as you find them.
• Download the free Avenza maps app for access to all North Dakota State Park and Recreation Area maps.