Free Camping in North Dakota
Discover 2 free and dispersed camping spots
Best Seasons
Summer, Fall
Climate
Continental with cold winters and hot summers
Terrain
Badlands, Prairie
Free Spots
2 locations
Camping Spots (2)
Little Missouri NG – Paddock Creek
Free dispersed camping around Little Missouri NG, North Dakota. Badlands breaks with scoria with space for established pullouts and a few level clearings by Medora South. Primitive conditions with no trash pickup or hookups. Limited water Arrive early to claim a legal, existing site, pack out all waste, and verify current fire restrictions and seasonal road closures.
Little Missouri NG – Magpie Road
Free dispersed camping at Little Missouri NG – Magpie Road in North Dakota. Badlands breaks and scoria roads with informal pullouts and some level clearings near Magpie. Primitive conditions with no hookups or trash service. Limited water Arrive early, use established sites, pack out all waste, and check current fire restrictions and seasonal road closures.
Popular Camping Areas
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park Area
- Little Missouri National Grassland
- Sheyenne National Grassland
Important Regulations
- Extreme weather awareness
- Fire restrictions
- High wind precautions
Permits: Most camping is free
Complete Guide to Free Camping in North Dakota
North Dakota provides unique Badlands camping with Theodore Roosevelt National Park area, prairie landscapes, and wide open spaces.
Best Free Camping Areas in North Dakota
North Dakota offers diverse free camping opportunities across badlands, prairie, rivers, grasslands. The most popular areas include Theodore Roosevelt National Park Area, Little Missouri National Grassland, Sheyenne National Grassland, each offering unique landscapes and camping experiences.
When to Visit North Dakota for Camping
The best times for free camping in North Dakota are during summer, fall. The state's continental with cold winters and hot summers means weather conditions vary throughout the year, so planning your visit during optimal seasons ensures the best camping experience.
North Dakota Camping Regulations
Before camping in North Dakota, it's important to understand local regulations. Most camping is freeMost dispersed camping follows standard federal guidelines, but some areas may have specific restrictions.
What to Expect
Free camping in North Dakota typically involves camping on public lands managed by the Forest Service, BLM, or state agencies. Expect primitive conditions with no hookups, but incredible natural beauty and the freedom to explore badlands, prairie, rivers, grasslands at your own pace.