Hazelton Recreation Area
4.3141 reviewsU.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, HAZELTON RECREATION AREA, 6175 HWY 1804 SW, HAZELTON, ND, 58544
Hazelton Recreation Area
$14.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$18.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $18 per night for electric sites and $14 per night for non-electric sites. A $10 non-refundable reservation fee may apply. A $10 change fee applies for modifying reservations.
About this campground
Nestled along the eastern shores of Lake Oahe, Hazelton Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 30 scenic campsites where the Missouri River transforms into a vast prairie lake. Choose from 18 primitive sites perfect for those seeking a back-to-nature experience, or opt for one of 12 electric sites offering modern conveniences. Just a stone's throw from Bismarck, North Dakota, this waterfront haven serves as your gateway to endless adventures—cast a line into productive fishing waters, launch your boat into the expansive lake, take a refreshing swim, explore prime hunting grounds, or simply spread a blanket for a memorable lakeside picnic.
Hazelton Recreation Area provides multiple camping options including primitive sites and RV-friendly sites with electrical hookups. The campground caters to both short-term stays and RV camping but does not offer luxury or group accommodations.
Historical SignificanceThe waters of Lake Oahe tell a story of transformation and heritage. Born from the mighty Oahe Dam—a marvel of engineering completed under the Flood Control Act of 1944—this massive reservoir forever changed the Missouri River valley. The lake carries the name of the historic Oahe Indian Mission, established in 1874, serving as a lasting tribute to the Native American communities who first called these lands home. Today, visitors can feel the echoes of history while creating their own memories along these storied shores.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Hazelton unfold under brilliant blue skies, with dry conditions and comfortable temperatures creating perfect camping weather. Prairie breezes dance across the water, offering natural air conditioning on warm afternoons. While winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, be prepared for North Dakota's legendary cold—those frigid months showcase the area's rugged beauty but demand proper gear and respect for nature's power.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere prairie meets water, Lake Oahe stretches an impressive 231 miles, creating one of North America's most stunning reservoir landscapes. The surrounding mixed-grass prairie rolls down to the water's edge, punctuated by dramatic steep draws where hardy trees cling to the slopes, creating pockets of shade and shelter. This diverse habitat attracts an abundance of wildlife—watch for graceful deer picking their way to the water at dawn, pronghorn antelope bounding across distant ridges, and countless waterfowl painting the sky during their seasonal migrations.
Geological RegionThe Missouri River's transformation into Lake Oahe has created a geological wonderland spanning 231 miles of prairie reservoir. The landscape tells an ancient story through its mixed-grass prairie ecosystem and distinctive steep draws that carve dramatic paths to the shoreline. These natural corridors, formed over millennia, now serve as scenic gateways between the vast prairie tablelands and the shimmering waters below, offering visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing dialogue between land and water.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible amenities such as an accessible dock, vault toilets, and a playground. However, specific details about ADA compliance or accessible campsites are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as varied in size, ranging from standard electric sites to larger primitive spaces. Reviews mention 'large camp sites,' indicating that they accommodate multiple setups.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are located in an open field with limited tree cover, reducing privacy. One user mentioned, 'Open field site provided very little shelter from the massive storm,' while another noted limited shade.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid odd-numbered electric sites to minimize mouse presence (per user reviews). Site #7 offers a slight lake view; site #30 is near water's edge.
Best CampsitesSites with better views include #7 (lake view) and #30 (water's edge view).
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 consecutive nights allowed during each visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per campsite.
Groups
Group camping sites are not available at Hazelton Recreation Area.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOpen field layout with sites grouped into primitive and electric areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 to September 30. Non-reservable outside of peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are 100% reservable with zero-day booking window. No walk-up availability.
Cancellation Policy$10 fee for modifying or canceling reservations. Late cancellations incur an additional penalty forfeiting the first night's recreation fee. Changes and cancellations managed via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Hazelton Recreation Area provides a variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating, frisbee golf, picnicking, and playground access for children. Visitors frequently enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, especially during weekdays.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Hazelton Recreation Area, with Lake Oahe hosting species like walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch. However, some users noted limited shore access: 'Unless you have a boat, there isn’t really any place to fish.'Swimming
Swimming areas are available in Lake Oahe, although specific details about designated spots or safety measures are not included in the source materials.Boating
Boating is one of the primary activities at Hazelton Recreation Area. The campground features a boat ramp with ample parking, picnic tables, and a fish cleaning station. These facilities make it convenient for visitors engaging in water-based recreation.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area supports a rich variety of wildlife, including deer, pronghorn, grouse, and waterfowl, making it suitable for wildlife viewing. However, specific viewing areas or organized wildlife activities are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Water sports such as boating and fishing are popular at Lake Oahe, but there is no specific mention of kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding for the Hazelton Recreation Area.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires permitted in designated fire rings or grills only. Fireworks are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10 PM, though some reviews mention loud music and disturbances.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife (mice reported in odd-numbered electric sites per user review). Storm exposure due to open field layout mentioned in review by Elizabeth M.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest emergency services are available at Oahe Project - Bismarck Office for emergencies (contact info: 701-255-0015, dial 911 for immediate emergencies).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, and campers must use designated receptacles rather than fire rings or grills for trash. Recycling options are not specified.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is near Lake Oahe and includes a boat ramp with parking and adjacent picnic tables.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include lack of dump station, limited shade, and bathrooms requiring maintenance. User reviews: 'Bathroom was atrocious,' 'No dump station.'
HostCampground rangers described as friendly and helpful in multiple user reviews.
Campground Map
U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, HAZELTON RECREATION AREA, 6175 HWY 1804 SW, HAZELTON, ND, 58544
Driving directionsFrom Bismarck, ND, take University Drive south (road becomes Highway 1804). Continue 25 miles south. Recreation area will be on the right side of the road.
Road is paved and accessible year-round. No indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain were provided.Nearby places
Hazelton: 14 miles east.
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies can be found in Hazelton (14 miles east). Linton offers a butcher shop and market nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.3
41 reviews
Hazelton Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hazelton Recreation Area suggest that it is a clean and tranquil campground with basic amenities. While many campers praise its quiet atmosphere, large campsites, and proximity to the Missouri River and Lake Oahe, others note drawbacks such as the lack of showers, dump stations, and limited shade.
Review Summaries
Based on 41 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive highlights include cleanliness ('Good clean place to camp'), tranquility ('Quiet and clean'), and child-friendly features like the playground ('Nice playground for the kids'). Many...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the absence of showers ('Showers would be great!!!'), dump stations ('Wish it had a dump station'), and limited privacy and shade ('Open field site provided very little...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users suggest bringing bug spray ('Apply bug spray liberally'), planning ahead for reservations ('You have to book 2 nights minimum'), and preparing for the lack of shade ('Nice facility...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Weekends tend to be busier, particularly in the electric sites. Weekdays are quieter, with some users reporting solitude. Summer visits are associated with heat and limited shade, while spring and...
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Camper Quotes
- 'Great campground nice and clean.' - KC Jones
- 'Bathroom was atrocious and needed a clean.' - Hannah M
- 'Potable water standpipes, not a lot of shade trees but enough to sit under, power station...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite feedback includes: - Site 007: 'Slight lake view...quiet.' (Sandy C) - Site 011: 'Very quiet and relaxing.' - Site 012: 'Too loud after 10 pm.' (Jeff V) - Site 016: 'Open field site...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as vault toilets and an accessible playground are mentioned but not elaborated upon. User feedback does not include specific experiences from campers with disabilities.
Based on 41 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed, and pet waste must be promptly disposed of. No specific reviews address pet-friendly features, but the rules are clear on leash length and cleanliness.
Based on 41 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025