Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park encompasses this established campground along the Missouri River, managed by North Dakota State Parks & Recreation with sites accommodating RVs up to 70 feet. The campground operates year-round with electric and water hookups, though campers pay both camping fees ($15-70 per night) and a separate $7 daily park entrance fee.
The facility divides into north and south loops, with reviewers noting the north loop offers river views while maintaining the same amenities. Sites vary significantly in layout—some pull-through spots function as shared double sites where neighboring campers may arrive from opposite directions. MickandKarla W. experienced this setup, explaining "most, if not all of them, are actually set up as two sites. So, if you were to arrive after your neighbor, you will actually be backing into your site." The campground provides clean shower facilities and restrooms, with rangers patrolling regularly.
Historical attractions sit within walking distance, including reconstructed cavalry barracks, Custer's house, and a Mandan Indian village. Paved bike trails connect the campground to these sites and extend 10+ miles into Bismarck, offering sites around Bismarck for extended stays. Wildlife sightings include bald eagles near the river, and families appreciate the playground and open spaces between sites.
Access requires navigating through Mandan from Interstate 94, with some reviewers mentioning rough road conditions. The Missouri River provides fishing opportunities, though boat launching isn't available and designated swimming areas don't exist. Kristi D. found "bathrooms were the cleanest I have seen" and noted mosquitoes can be problematic during summer visits. Reservations are available, and the campground tends to fill on weekends before clearing out Sunday afternoons as visitors return to work schedules.
Description
Located on the grassy plains near the confluence of the Missouri and Heart rivers, Fort Abraham Lincoln is North Dakota’s oldest state park. Established in 1907 to commemorate a 1700s US Army outpost, the park offers a look at America’s early years, as well as even longer ago when the Mandan peoples called this area home. The park is located about 7 miles south of the town of Mandan, and about 200 miles east of Fargo. In addition to its historical significance, the park is also noted for its diverse, high prairie landscape and exceptional views. More than 16 miles of multiuse trails are available for summer and winter roaming among the park’s prairies, woods, and shrublands.
Abraham Lincoln State Park offers more than 100 tent and RV campsites, in addition to camping cabins and Cheyenne tipis. Most sites are open and grassy, and equipped with electrical and water hookups, picnic tables and fire pits; pull-through sites can accommodate large RVs and trailers. Amenities in the campground include both flush and vault toilets, showers, water faucets, playgrounds, picnic shelters, Wifi service, and a dump station. There are also corrals available for horse campers. Additional park features include a visitor center, coffee and gift shop, and an outdoor amphitheater. Dogs must remain leashed unless in designated areas. Camping is available year-round; sites are $17–$25/night; tipis are $35/night, and cabins $60/night; reservations accepted.
There are plenty of things to do at Fort Abraham Lincoln, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing, but the main attractions are the park’s historical area and Mandan village. The historical area has replicas of Lieutenant Colonel George Custer’s home, as well as a barracks building, stables and blockhouses. Tours are available during summer months. The Mandan On-a-Slant Village—named so for the sloping ground it rests on—features several “Earthlodges” constructed in similar fashion to those used by the native peoples for homes and meeting places. A trolley runs through the park with stops at both historic locations, in addition to going to the nearby town of Mandan.
Reservation Info
- Reservations can be made online or by calling the call center (800-807-4723).
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundFort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground is located in North Dakota
Address
4480 Fort Lincoln Road
Mandan, ND 58554
Coordinates
46.76759869 N
100.84392831 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 4/2/26- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 32 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/2/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 4/2/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 32 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/2/26
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 13 min from Bismarck, ND
- 1 hr 49 min from Minot, ND
- 2 hrs 44 min from Fargo, ND
- 3 hrs 36 min from Grand Forks, ND
