Wolf Creek Campground (Nd)
4.1650 reviewsU.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, GARRISON PROJECT OFFICE, P.O. BOX 527, RIVERDALE, ND, 58565, USA
Wolf Creek Campground (Nd)
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
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
Camping fees are $14 per night during peak season from mid-May to mid-September. Out-of-season camping is not available for reservations.
About this campground
Perched along the sweeping southern shoreline of Lake Sakakawea, Wolf Creek Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience with 67 primitive campsites that put you right at the water's edge. This hidden gem draws outdoor enthusiasts seeking everything from dawn fishing expeditions to sunset paddling adventures. Beyond the campground's boundaries, the fascinating Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery and Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center await exploration, adding layers of discovery to your lakeside retreat.
Wolf Creek Campground offers primitive camping facilities with 67 designated sites, primarily catering to tent and RV campers. No group camping facilities or luxury options like glamping are available.
Historical SignificanceThe waters of Lake Sakakawea tell a story of human ingenuity and natural adaptation. Created by the mighty Garrison Dam, this reservoir has become the heartbeat of North Dakota's outdoor recreation scene. Visitors can delve deeper into this legacy through tours of the National Fish Hatchery, where millions of fish begin their journey each year, or explore the Power Plant to witness the massive turbines that harness the lake's power for the region.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Wolf Creek transforms into a sun-drenched paradise where moderate temperatures and crystalline skies create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Campers consistently rave about the spectacular sunsets that paint the lake in brilliant oranges and purples, while gentle breezes carry the sounds of lapping water through peaceful evenings. When winter arrives, the frozen lake becomes a completely different playground, drawing ice fishing enthusiasts to drill through the ice in search of walleye and northern pike.
Natural Features and SceneryRolling grasslands meet endless water at Wolf Creek, where expansive meadows slope gently down to the lake's edge. Nearly every campsite boasts unobstructed views of Lake Sakakawea's vast blue expanse, allowing you to wake up to shimmering sunrise reflections and fall asleep to the gentle rhythm of waves. The open landscape creates a sense of freedom and space, while direct water access means your kayak, fishing rod, or swimming spot is just steps away from your tent.
Geological RegionWolf Creek Campground occupies a unique position where North Dakota's prairie ecosystem meets one of the state's largest bodies of water. The southern shore location places campers at the intersection of grassland habitat and aquatic environment, creating exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. This convergence of landscapes, shaped by the Missouri River's transformation into Lake Sakakawea, offers a diverse recreational playground where anglers, birders, and water sports enthusiasts all find their perfect outdoor escape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityPlayground and boat ramp facilities are accessible.
Sites SizeMost campsites are noted as spacious, but some are reported as too small for larger campers, RVs, or fifth wheels.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are generally close together, reducing privacy for visitors. However, some isolated sites provide better privacy.
Total Campsites67 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose sites further apart from neighboring sites. Lakeside campsites (e.g., spots 38 and 39) are recommended for easy access to fishing and scenic views.
Best CampsitesUsers have specifically praised sites close to the shore for their views and access to fishing. Site 001, 038, and 039 are mentioned positively.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights during a visit, within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One camping unit (RV/tent) allowed per campsite
- doubling up is not permitted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as 'close together' but some private options exist. Campsites are primitive with picnic tables and grills.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season runs from May 15 to September 14 annually. All sites are closed for reservations outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided about walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservation cancellations must be made ahead of scheduled arrival. Cancellations on the day prior to arrival incur $10 fee and first night's camping fee. Additional fees apply for late cancellations. Changes to reservations incur $10 fee if altering dates outside existing reservation.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wolf Creek Campground boasts a wide range of activities including boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, hunting, and ice fishing during winter. Younger visitors are drawn to the playground, while volleyball courts and horseshoe pits cater to all ages.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available but limited in scope. User reviews mention a lack of trails for hiking or biking.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Lake Sakakawea, with record fish caught here. Popular species include walleye, sauger, northern pike, muskie, and chinook salmon. Shore fishing is accessible directly from the campground, and fish cleaning stations are provided.Swimming
Swimming is explicitly mentioned as a recreational activity at Lake Sakakawea, but details on designated swimming areas or facilities are missing.Biking
Some biking opportunities exist, but user reviews note the lack of dedicated trails for biking and hiking.Boating
Boating is highly popular, with amenities like an accessible boat ramp and boat dock available. Activities include motorized and non-motorized boating, kayaking, and canoeing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is facilitated by the adjacent Wolf Creek Wildlife Management Area, which supports deer, pheasant, grouse, rabbits, and squirrels during open season.Beach activities
Camping spots closer to the beach offer a more sand-like experience compared to rocky areas. Beaches provide opportunities for sunbathing and beachcombing.Cultural and Educational Programs
Amphitheater programs are held on Saturday evenings at the Downstream Campground. Nearby attractions include guided tours at the Garrison Dam Power Plant and environmental education programs at the Audubon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice fishing and hunting.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and sailing are popular at Lake Sakakawea. The campground provides easy access to water activities through its boat ramp and dock.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but users report issues with fire pits being poorly maintained and located too close to neighboring sites.
- Quiet hours are reported inconsistently enforced. Some users noted loud music and parties continuing until 3 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsReported nuisances include lack of garbage bins in restrooms, overgrown sites, wasp presence, and potential aquatic invasive species requiring CLEAN, DRAIN, and DRY efforts for boats.
Active alertsNo specific alerts or advisories reported.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.4 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
Emergency services are not specifically detailed, but the nearest city, Riverdale (approx. 2 miles away), likely hosts necessary services such as hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 14 (annual)
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are absent in bathrooms, which has led to user complaints about inconvenience when disposing of items such as baby wipes and feminine products.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated on Lake Sakakawea with 'easy access to the lake' and 'beautiful shorelines.'
Common complaintsFrequent issues include double bookings, poor enforcement of quiet hours, dirty bathrooms, site overgrowth, and lack of garbage cans in restrooms ('Where are we supposed to put baby wipes, feminine products, catheters?').
HostCampground host services are variable. Users report both positive ('Brian, best host ever') and mixed experiences ('host not friendly').
Campground Map
U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, GARRISON PROJECT OFFICE, P.O. BOX 527, RIVERDALE, ND, 58565, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bismarck, ND: travel north on US-83/ND-1804 approximately 55 miles, turn left onto ND-200/6th St. NW and travel approximately 7.5 miles, turn right onto 37th Ave NW and travel 1 mile then turn right onto 7th St. NW travel 1 mile and turn left onto 36th Ave NW, travel approximately 2 miles and arrive at campground. From Minot, ND: travel south on US-83 for approximately 50 miles, turn right onto 32nd Ave NW and travel for 1 mile, turn right onto 8th St NW and travel 4 miles, turn right onto 36th Ave NW and travel for 1 mile and arrive at campground.
The campground is accessed by paved roads for the majority of the route, but approximately 8 miles of gravel road are reported by users when approaching the campground, such as described: 'About 8 miles of gravel road.' Seasonal closures or other challenges were not mentioned.Nearby places
Riverdale, ND (approx. 2 miles)
Bismarck, ND (approx. 55 miles)
Minot, ND (approx. 50 miles)
Nearby supplies
The nearest city, Riverdale, ND (approx. 2 miles), likely provides groceries, fuel, and other essentials for camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.2
50 reviews
Wolf Creek Campground (Nd) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Wolf Creek Campground highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences. While many appreciate the natural beauty, proximity to water, and fishing opportunities, others criticize the campground's management, cleanliness of bathrooms, and lack of quiet enforcement.
Review Summaries
Based on 50 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include serene surroundings, clean vault toilets, accessible shore fishing, and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds. Many users praise the "beautiful and peaceful" environment...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common concerns include lack of trash bins in bathrooms, under-managed sites with long grass and weeds, noisy parties during weekends, and generator disturbances. Double booking and poorly defined...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience. Several reviews suggest avoiding spots near party-prone areas during weekends and bringing trash bags to manage waste.
Based on 50 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer weekends are noted for noisy parties and crowded conditions, while weekdays and off-season visits offer a more peaceful experience. Winter activities like ice fishing are available but not...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Been coming here for decades...quiet...good shady camping...great shore fishing...clean toilets." - LaVern Fredriksen
2. "Drove from PA and stopped here twice. Amazing place! During the week...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site reviews indicate mixed experiences:
- Campsite 001 (East End): "Beautiful shoreline sites."
- Campsite 038 (East End): "Very peaceful! Reasonable price for primitive sites."
- Campsite 049...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews highlight features like accessible vault toilets, playgrounds, and boat ramps. However, areas needing improvement include trash disposal facilities.
Based on 50 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are generally welcome at Wolf Creek Campground, but reviews mention issues such as dogs leaving waste behind without cleanup during crowded weekends.
Based on 50 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025