North Dakota
Little Missouri National Grassland Logging Camp Ridge Dispersed Sites
Dispersed Camping
Logging Camp Ridge sits 12 miles south of Medora on a high bench overlooking the Little Missouri River breaks. Half dozen sites spread along the ridge offer 360-degree views of classic North Dakota badlands — striped buttes, juniper draws, and endless sky. This is dark-sky country with zero light pollution. Wind can be brutal, so bring extra stakes.
Access via the Maah Daah Hey Trail or Forest Service Road 739 from Highway 85. Road is maintained gravel for 8 miles, then rough two-track the final stretch. Impassable when wet — the gumbo clay becomes soup. No water, no shade, but incredible sunrise and sunset colors. Cattle present May through September.
Badlands ridge camping with endless sky views
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Medora, North Dakota |
| Miles from pavement | 12.3 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Rough dirt |
| Cell service | None |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 6 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | April-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |