Wannagan Campground
4.5211 reviews99 23rd Ave. W. Suite B, Dickinson, ND 58601
Wannagan Campground
$10.00 - $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
Overnight use of single campsites is $10 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount, applicable only to the campsite occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Wannagan Campground, where the rugged North Dakota Badlands stretch endlessly before you. This remote sanctuary invites adventurers seeking an authentic primitive camping experience, far from the crowds and close to nature's raw magnificence. With essential amenities including vault toilets, hand-pump water wells, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings for evening gatherings under star-filled skies, Wannagan strikes the perfect balance between wilderness solitude and basic comfort.
Wannagan Campground accommodates both RV and tent camping, catering to a range of camping preferences. Its open layout is suitable for larger vehicles, but the primitive setup emphasizes a back-to-nature experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back through millions of years at Wannagan, where ancient petrified tree stumps stand as silent sentinels to a prehistoric past. These remarkable geological treasures, scattered throughout the area, tell the story of lush forests that once thrived where badlands now reign. History buffs and geology enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by these stone witnesses to Earth's incredible transformation, each formation a chapter in the region's deep geological narrative.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Badlands throughout the year at Wannagan. Summer brings azure skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and exploration, while winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland of snow and ice—though temperatures can plunge to bone-chilling extremes. Spring and fall offer their own rewards, but be prepared: rain can turn access roads into challenging adventures, adding an extra element of excitement to your journey into this remote paradise.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery by intrepid explorers, the campground's position within the badlands terrain creates its own natural amphitheater of adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking tapestry of the Dakota Prairie Grasslands, where Wannagan Campground serves as your gateway to nature's grand theater. Majestic buttes rise like ancient fortresses from the prairie floor, their layered walls painted in earth tones that shift with the changing light. Winding trails lead adventurers to hidden groves of petrified stumps, while panoramic vistas of the badlands unfold in every direction, offering photographers and nature lovers an ever-changing canvas of prairie beauty.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Dakota Prairie Grasslands, Wannagan Campground sits at the heart of North Dakota's spectacular badlands country. This geological wonderland showcases towering buttes carved by eons of wind and water, their stratified layers revealing the Earth's ancient history. Throughout this dramatic landscape, petrified tree stumps emerge like natural sculptures, creating a surreal outdoor museum where every trail leads to new geological discoveries.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes a handicap-accessible vault toilet available during summer months. No other specific accessibility features are documented.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and open, suitable for both RVs and tents. One review mentions parking pads accommodating vehicles up to 60 feet long.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are open with limited shade and privacy. One review notes that the campground is 'inside a small valley but no real protection or shade.'
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider choosing a site with shade or proximity to trails for easy access to scenic views.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsites are not highlighted, but sites with southern views and privacy are recommended by users.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Anytime as the campground is open 24 hours.
Check-out
Anytime within the limit of 14 consecutive days.
Stay Limit
Stay limit of 14 consecutive days.
Groups
No specific group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are generally large and open, suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Parking pads are up to 60 feet long.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Limited services after Labor Day and before Memorial Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations may be available online or through contacting the Medora Ranger District Office.
Walk-in AvailabilityRemote first-come-first-serve camping is available according to user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyReservations fees are applicable per site. Specific cancellation policies are not provided.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wannagan Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities that align with its rustic and natural setting. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to the Maah Daah Hey Trail provides excellent opportunities for exploration.
Hiking
The campground provides immediate access to the Maah Daah Hey Trail, known for its steep climbs and scenic overlooks. A user review highlights, 'Heading North on the trail a short distance and steep climb there is a bench and amazing view in all directions.'Biking
The campground offers access to biking opportunities, especially road cycling. E-bikes, however, are classified as motorized vehicles and restricted to established and paved roads.Wildlife viewing
The region provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. One review notes the presence of deer and coyotes in the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are potential options during the colder months, although specific details are not extensively covered.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are documented.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply. Fire rings are available at each campsite.
Hazards
General hazardsRattlesnakes are mentioned in user reviews as a potential hazard. Additionally, rainy weather can make roads difficult to navigate.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be in effect depending on current conditions. Visitors are advised to monitor Alerts and Fire Danger Status pages.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 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
Medora Ranger District Office is nearby; Dickinson houses hospitals and emergency services.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingPack-in, pack-out rules apply, and campers are advised to haul out their own garbage. No on-site trash or recycling facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresPotable hand-pump water wells are available. No specific lakes or rivers nearby.
Common complaintsSome users mention fracking activity near the campground causing truck traffic. Others mention difficulty navigating the gravel road leading to the campground during rain.
HostNo campground hosts are mentioned in the source materials.
Campground Map
99 23rd Ave. W. Suite B, Dickinson, ND 58601
Driving directionsFrom the Sentinel Butte exit on I-94, go east three miles and then 14 miles northeast on Road #726 to the camp.
Road #726 leading to Wannagan Campground is narrow, winding, and primarily gravel. User reviews indicate it can become challenging in rainy conditions. Driving cautiously is advised.Nearby places
Medora (10 minutes away per user review), Dickinson (approximately 45 miles away).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Medora, which is 10 minutes away from the campground according to user reviews. Supplies include gas stations, grocery stores, and basic amenities.
Camper Reviews
4.5
11 reviews
Wannagan Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's peaceful and remote setting, its proximity to the Maah Daah Hey Trail, and the stunning views of the ND badlands. Multiple users praise the clear night skies for stargazing and the scenic drive despite challenging road conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's scenic beauty, including 'sweeping vistas' and 'beautiful long view looking south.' The presence of basic amenities such as vault toilets, a hand pump for potable...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users express concerns about the narrow, winding, and occasionally bumpy gravel roads leading to the campground. Limited shade and the absence of electricity or cell service are other noted...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing sufficient supplies due to the remote location, driving carefully on the narrow roads, and preparing for potential encounters with wildlife such as rattlesnakes....
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground operates year-round but offers limited services outside the summer season. Peak summer months are popular for stargazing and trail activities, while winter conditions may limit...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautifully clear skies perfect for stargazing, we saw several large shooting stars.' 2. 'The drive in is about 20-30 minutes of loose bumpy gravel road, but our 99 camry made the drive just...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned in reviews, but users generally describe the sites as spacious and well-maintained.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
The vault toilet's handicap accessibility during summer months is highlighted, but no other accessibility features are mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain leashed. Users caution about wildlife in the area, including deer and coyotes, which may pose risks to unattended animals.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025