Cross Ranch State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Cross Ranch State Park is along some of the last undeveloped stretches of the Missouri River. See the landscape as it appeared hundreds of years ago, when Native Americans were the only inhabitants...and later when Lewis and Clark made their way to the Pacific coast. The trails that criss-cross the park take you to a 5,000 acre nature preserve that’s home to mixed prairie grass, river bottom forests, woods, and roaming bison.
The weather in the park can get very cold in winter, with January’s average low just 2°F. In the summer, it warms up to an average high in the mid-80s. It rains 2-3 days a month for most of the year.
Spring 18-69 F
Summer 52-84 F
Fall 20-73 F
Winter 2-28 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Cross Ranch State Park
Cross Ranch State Park has 36 RV campsites with electricity and 21 primitive sites. If you choose to rent an RV, consider renting with RVshare. Every rental comes with nationwide insurance coverage, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a dedicated team that will work to make sure you have the perfect RV for your needs and your travel plans.
There are other campgrounds nearby you can try as well:
Bismarck KOA Journey
The Bismarck KOA Journey is near the ND Heritage Center & State Museum. You’re also near Historic Village, where you can see how life was lived in the early 1900’s, and to General George Custer’s home at Fort Abraham Lincoln.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wi-Fi: yes
Pet friendly: yes
Other amenities: pool, showers, laundry, bike rentals
Hillcrest Acres RV Park
Hillcrest Acres in Bismarck is a good place to make your basecamp while you explore Cross Ranch State Park and other nearby sites.
Water hookup: yes
Electrical hookup: yes
Sewer hookup: yes
Wi-Fi: yes
Pet friendly: yes
Other amenities: N/A
What to Do at
Cross Ranch State Park
Inside Cross Ranch State Park
There are lots of things to do at Cross Ranch State Park. Explore the history of the area and the plants and animals that make their home in the park.
Hiking: More than 16 miles of trails wind through the park, which is one of the few areas in North Dakota that offers a true primitive outdoor experience. Trails range from 2-5 miles and lead you near rivers or through native prairies.
Boating: There is a one-lane boat ramp and dock that allows boaters access to the Missouri River. Head out for some paddling or try your hand at fishing. You can also rent canoes and kayaks at the park.
Fishing: While boating on the Missouri River or fishing from shore, you may catch catfish, Northern pike, trout, or walleye.
Birding: There is a birding checklist available for the park. If you’re going to watch for birds, be sure to listen and move carefully - experienced birders travel less than a mile per hour on foot. Watch for signs of alarm in birds - a freeze in their posture, a cocked head, a partial raising of their wings - so you can stop moving until the bird calms down. Be sure to bring binoculars and a notebook to record your findings!
Outside Cross Ranch State Park
There’s a lot to do outside Cross Ranch State Park as well!
Restaurants
Sickie’s Garage Burgers & Brews
The creative burgers and sandwiches at this chain, which started in North Dakota, are what the restaurant is known for. There is also a full bar and an extensive beer list. The award-winning restaurant will also suggest burger and craft beer pairings. If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, try a hand-scooped malt or milkshake.
Type: Burgers
Location: Bismarck, ND
Pirogue Grille
The menu at this Bismarck eatery changes with the seasons, offering a combination of new and traditional dishes inspired by food from around the world. The restaurant makes all their sauces, breads, desserts, and ice creams from scratch with local meat and produce when possible. The menu features classically elegant dishes including seafood, chicken, and steak.
Type: American
Location: Bismarck, ND
Noodlezip
This casual restaurant features Asian noodle soups, bowls, and small plates, along with beer, Thai tea, Vietnamese iced coffee, and other delicious beverages.
Type: Asian
Location: Bismarck, ND
Shopping
Prairie Creek Pride of Dakota Store
Shop all things Dakota at this store! Find syrups, jams, jellies, sauces, candy, snacks, gift boxes and more. It’s the perfect place to pick up some treats to remind you of your trip, or to grab some gift boxes for special occasions.
Location: Bismarck, ND
Sightseeing
Dakota Zoo
The zoo, on the banks of the Missouri River, is home to over 600 animals of 125 different species. From alligators to moose to mountain lions, come learn more about the animals and their habitats.
Location: Bismarck, ND
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
See General George Custer’s home, reconstructed, along with the central barracks, granary, commissary, and stable. Visitors will tour the grounds as they would have been in 1875, the year before the cavalry rode to Little Bighorn. You can also see the Indian Village’s five reconstructed earth lodges.
Location: Bismarck, ND
Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center and Fort Mandan
This interpretive center along the Lewis & Clark route displays artifacts from every tribe the explorers encountered along the way, showing the culture of the Mandan Indians and sharing more about the winter of 1804-5. Visit Fort Mandan, a few miles away, where you can take a tour of the reconstructed site.
Location: Washburn, ND
How to Get to
Cross Ranch State Park
From Bismarck, ND: Take I-194 W to I-94 W toward Mandan. Take exit 147 for ND-25 N toward Center. Turn right onto ND-25N, then right onto 28th Ave SW, then right onto 16th St. SW. Follow signs into the park.
Entering Cross Ranch State Park
There is a fee to enter Cross Ranch State Park
Cross Ranch State Park Per Vehicle : $5.0
There’s no better way to find adventure and create memories with friends and family than by heading out on a road trip! Renting an RV with RVshare makes the trip easy and stress-free. Whether you choose to rent an RV near your home and make the trek, or fly into North Dakota and rent an RV for camping, you’re sure to have an adventure you won’t soon forget! We would love to see pictures of your travels - be sure to send us photos of your trip to [email protected] and tag us on social media. Your memories could be featured on our blog, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter page!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cross Ranch State Park
The foliage is dazzling in the fall, so that's the best time of year to visit Cross Ranch State Park. The park is open all year round, so you can feel free to visit anytime.
Cross Ranch State Park's climate is brisk during the fall and downright cold in the winter. Summers are relatively mild but wet, with at least eight days of rain per month.
Fishing is famous at the park. Anglers will be able to go for trout, walleye, bass, and even pike. Bobcats, deer, and wild turkeys abound. Occasionally, you can spot a bald eagle atop a majestic pine tree.
Yes, you must make reservations up to 95 days before arrival. Campsites with electricity are $25 per night while those without are $17 per night. There are five larger sites that can accommodate multiple RVs for $25 per night.
Cross Ranch State Park allows pets, but they must be on a leash that is no more than 8 feet long. There is a dog park for your dog to run and play.