Burning Coal Vein Campground
4.5010 reviewsApproximately 30 miles south of Medora, ND on Forest Highway Road 3 and one mile south of Forest Road 772.
Burning Coal Vein Campground
$6.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for a single campsite is $10 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount, reducing the fee to $5 per night. The discount applies to the site physically occupied by the pass holder only. Payments must be made via cash or check.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Burning Coal Vein Campground, where solitude meets adventure in North Dakota's Little Missouri National Grassland. This hidden gem beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its direct access to the legendary Maah Daah Hey Trail, while ancient juniper and towering ponderosa pines create a natural sanctuary far from the crowds. Here, the wilderness whispers stories of the past as you settle into one of the most peaceful camping experiences the northern plains have to offer.
Burning Coal Vein Campground provides primitive camping opportunities with options for tent and RV camping. It is ideal for secluded camping and small group visits.
Historical SignificanceThe campground bears witness to one of nature's most fascinating phenomena – a coal vein that once burned beneath the earth's surface, slowly smoldering for untold years and sculpting the dramatic landscape you see today. Though the underground fires have long since cooled, their legacy lives on in the unique geological formations and the evocative name that reminds visitors of the powerful forces that shaped this extraordinary land.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of the northern plains, where each season paints the landscape with its own unique palette. Winter transforms the campground into a pristine wonderland of snow and silence, while summer brings warm, golden days perfect for trail adventures, punctuated by refreshing afternoon showers. But it's the nights that truly steal the show – countless visitors marvel at the brilliant canopy of stars that emerges when darkness falls, creating an astronomical display that rivals any planetarium.
ElevationNestled within the rolling expanse of the Little Missouri National Grassland, the campground sits at an elevation that perfectly captures the essence of the northern badlands – high enough to offer sweeping vistas across the prairie, yet sheltered enough to provide intimate camping spots among the trees.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by a landscape that defies expectations. The rugged badlands terrain creates a dramatic backdrop of sculpted buttes and colorful rock formations, while groves of columnar juniper stand like ancient sentinels alongside majestic ponderosa pines. This remarkable convergence of ecosystems creates endless opportunities for discovery, from hidden valleys to panoramic overlooks along the renowned Maah Daah Hey Trail that winds through this geological wonderland.
Geological RegionBurning Coal Vein Campground occupies a remarkable position within the Dakota Prairie Grasslands, where the Little Missouri National Grassland showcases nature's artistic prowess. This is badlands country at its finest – a mesmerizing tapestry of eroded buttes, deep coulees, and surprising oases of columnar juniper and ponderosa pine forests. The landscape tells a dramatic story of ancient seas, volcanic ash, and the famous underground coal fires that once smoldered here, leaving behind a transformed terrain that continues to inspire awe in every visitor who ventures into this remote corner of North Dakota.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features or reviews are provided in the authoritative sources or user comments.
Sites SizeThe campground has eight campsites, including one site that can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet long and parking pads up to 60 feet. User reviews indicate most sites are back-in and carved into the landscape for wind protection.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews such as those by Kimberleigh Simon highlight the presence of many trees in the campground, providing privacy and shade.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites offer privacy and shade due to the surrounding trees. Some sites may not be level, but are far from being inconvenient.
Best CampsitesCampsites are generally described as spacious, with one site accommodating a 30-foot RV. Sites are carved into the landscape for wind protection.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
Stay limit of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guest limits are not specified in authoritative sources but assumed standard for the USDA Forest Service, which typically ranges around 8 guests.
Groups
Group camping sites are not mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes eight back-in sites carved into the landscape to offer wind protection and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations may be made via USDA Forest Service platforms or USDGS.gov, although specific reservation sites are not named.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe authoritative source does not specify walk-up availability, but user reviews suggest the campground operates somewhat primitively, which may include walk-up options.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation details are not provided but may align with USD Forest Service policies.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Burning Coal Vein Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for nature enthusiasts, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and scenery exploration.
Hiking
The campground serves as a trailhead for the Maah Daah Hey Trail, a renowned hiking destination. The Juniper Spur trail leads to scenic overlooks showcasing unique geological features.Biking
Mountain biking is an option, but E-bikes are classified as motorized vehicles and are prohibited on trails. Users must follow USDA Forest Service guidelines.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located near rare ND pine forests and the Little Missouri River, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing. No specific species are mentioned in the reviews.Winter Activities
Minor opportunities for winter activities may exist due to year-round access, but no specific winter recreation options are indicated.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned in the reviews or authoritative sources.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be in effect. Visitors should monitor current conditions at Alerts and Fire Danger Status pages.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews advise caution regarding rattlesnakes. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be in effect based on current conditions, which visitors must monitor.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.6 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
The Medora Ranger District (99 23rd Ave. W. Suite B, Dickinson, ND 58601) provides assistance and is approximately 30 miles away. The nearest hospital is likely in Dickinson, ND.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified.
Trash and recyclingPack-in, pack-out rules apply. There are no trash cans or recycling facilities in the campground. Campers are advised not to dispose of trash in vault toilets.
Proximity to water featuresThe Little Missouri River is approximately one mile away, accessible via nearby roads.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention the lack of trash cans and missing directional signs, which complicate navigation. Roads leading to the campground are washboard and gravel, which may be challenging for some visitors.
HostNo information about campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
Approximately 30 miles south of Medora, ND on Forest Highway Road 3 and one mile south of Forest Road 772.
Driving directionsApproximately 30 miles south of Medora, ND on Forest Highway Road 3 and one mile south of Forest Road 772. Some areas of access to the campground pass through private land. Visitors must respect private landowners and stay on the road.
The campground is accessible via dirt and gravel roads. User reviews highlight challenges such as washboard roads and 'clinker' conditions. Road conditions can vary by season, but most vehicles should be able to navigate them with care.Nearby places
Medora, ND (30 miles south
approximately 45 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, camping equipment, and fuel, are available in Medora, ND, approximately 30 miles north of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
10 reviews
Burning Coal Vein Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Burning Coal Vein Campground are generally positive, highlighting its quiet atmosphere, scenic location, and rustic charm. Common praises include the well-maintained vault toilets, privacy provided by the trees, and bright, starry nights.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews emphasize the campground's seclusion, scenic views, cleanliness, and proximity to trails. Jed Arnold praises the "quiet" area and bright stars. Kimberleigh Simon mentions the campground is...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of cell service, uneven sites, and difficulty following highway signs due to missing markers. Rose and Mike Farmer criticize limited access to the Little Missouri River....
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should prepare for pack-in, pack-out conditions and bring cash or check for payment. One reviewer suggests driving to the lookout for cell service and another advises caution on washboard...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open year-round but has limited services between Labor Day and Memorial Day. Visitors in colder months should prepare for primitive conditions. Summer reviews highlight the...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This area is so quiet, and the stars are bright!" - Jed Arnold; "The campground is very well kept!" - Kimberleigh Simon; "Vault toilet. Fire rings and picnic tables at each camp site." - Jesse Roth;...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews indicate one campsite can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet long, while others are suitable for smaller RVs or tents. Sites are back-in and carved into the terrain for wind...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences for disabled campers.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. User reviews appreciate pet-friendly policies but emphasize cleaning up after animals.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025