Hazelton Recreation Area, located along ND-1804 in Hazelton, North Dakota, is a campground that has drawn a mix of campers, anglers, and road-trippers over the years. With a 4.5-star average from 38 reviews, it sits in a quiet rural setting near the Missouri River and Lake Oahe, offering a straightforward outdoor stay without extra frills. This review gathers what visitors have said and what the available data shows, so you can decide if it fits your travel plans.
Hazelton Recreation Area at a Glance
The campground sits at ND-1804, Hazelton, ND 58544, United States, in the America/Chicago timezone. It is listed as a Camping Ground, and the data indicates on-site parking, wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, and a boat ramp. Dogs are allowed, and amenities include public toilets, showers, and Wi-Fi. The site also lists a camping fee and camping registration. For reservations or more details, the official website is recreation.gov, and the phone number is +1 701-255-0015.
What Do Visitors Like About Hazelton Recreation Area?
Visitor feedback for Hazelton Recreation Area is generally positive, with many reviewers highlighting its quiet and clean environment. Some note drawbacks such as dusty roads, lack of a dump station, and sites that can feel close together. The overall sentiment suggests a pleasant, low-key camping spot that works well for anglers and those seeking a peaceful getaway, though it may not suit everyone.
1. Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere
Several reviewers describe the campground as quiet and peaceful, even though it is close to the freeway. Rob called it "nice, quiet, spacious," while Loren Pierce noted it is a "nice quiet place during the week." Ian Rodriguez appreciated that it is "close enough to Bismarck but far enough to be a great, quiet spot." These comments suggest that noise is not a major issue for most visitors.
2. Cleanliness and Maintenance
Many visitors praise the cleanliness of the campground. Sue Tesky said it is a "nice clean campground," and Sue mentioned it was "nice, green & clean" during her Memorial weekend stay. Jessica Nelson also described it as a "clean, quiet campground." However, Loren Pierce noted that the vault toilets "are not very clean," indicating that experiences can vary.
3. Amenities and Facilities
Reviewers frequently mention practical amenities. Carol Mueller noted a "nice playground," pit toilets, tables and grills at each site, and water availability. Frank McGarry highlighted "potable water standpipes" and power stations with 20, 30, and 50 amp service. Amelia Doll observed a fish cleaning station. Some reviewers, like Karene Barker, pointed out the absence of showers and a dump station, which was a downside for them.
4. Electrical Hookups and Site Types
There is some discrepancy in the number of electrical sites. Tony Edgecombe mentioned "30 sites with electric at each site," while Sue Tesky stated there are "only 12 electrical spots" and many more primitive spots. Carol Mueller noted that many sites are not available but registration is possible for those that are. This suggests that campers should verify current availability and hookup options when booking.
5. Scenery and Location
The campground's location near the Missouri River and Lake Oahe is a plus for many. Noel Zingg appreciated the "view of Missouri River," and Ian Rodriguez noted it is "on the Missouri River." Tony Edgecombe mentioned "fantastic sunsets." However, Karene Barker found the view "pretty boring" and noted it is "not close to the water," so expectations may vary depending on the site.
Visitor Highlights
Paraphrased summary of what visitors mention most — not direct quotes.
14 visitor mentions analyzed · 9 positive · 3 mixed · 2 critical
Quiet and spacious campground with a peaceful atmosphere.
Clean facilities and well-maintained grounds noted by several visitors.
Friendly park rangers who patrol daily and warn about weather.
Electrical hookups available with 20, 30, and 50 amp service.
Sites can feel close together with little privacy, like a trailer park.
Dusty roads due to dirt and gravel mix, coating everything.
No dump station or showers, which some visitors found inconvenient.
Great for fishing on Lake Oahe and close to the Missouri River.
Dark skies ideal for night photography and stargazing.
Playground available, making it family-friendly.
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Facilities and Amenities: What Should You Know?
Hazelton Recreation Area offers a range of facilities based on the listed data. The campground has on-site parking and is wheelchair-accessible with a designated car park and entrance. A boat ramp is available for water access. Dogs are allowed, so you can bring your pet. Amenities include public toilets, showers, and Wi-Fi, though some reviewers noted the absence of showers and a dump station. Each site typically has a table and grill, and there are water fill stations. Electrical service is available at some sites with 20, 30, and 50 amp options. The campground operates on a fee basis and requires registration. For reservations and current details, visit the recreation.gov website or call +1 701-255-0015.
Is Hazelton Recreation Area Worth Visiting?
Hazelton Recreation Area is worth considering if you seek a quiet, basic camping experience near the Missouri River and Lake Oahe. It suits anglers, road-trippers, and families looking for a clean, affordable spot with electrical hookups. However, if you require full hookups, a dump station, or spacious private sites, you may want to explore other options. It is best for those who prioritize peace and simplicity over resort-style amenities.
What Are the Potential Limitations?
The data does not establish current seasonal availability, crowd levels, or real-time conditions. Some visitor reviews are several years old, so facilities and policies may have changed. The number of electrical sites is inconsistent across reviews, and the presence of showers is listed in the data but disputed by some visitors. Always verify details with the official source before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Hazelton Recreation Area have electrical hookups?
- Yes, according to visitor reviews and the data, some sites offer electrical hookups with 20, 30, and 50 amp service. However, the number of electrical sites is reported differently by visitors, so it is best to confirm when booking.
- Are pets allowed at Hazelton Recreation Area?
- Yes, the data indicates that dogs are allowed at the campground.
- Is there a dump station at Hazelton Recreation Area?
- Based on multiple visitor reviews, there is no dump station at the campground. Some reviewers noted this as a downside.
- What amenities are available at Hazelton Recreation Area?
- The data lists public toilets, showers, Wi-Fi, a boat ramp, and on-site parking. Visitor reviews also mention a playground, fish cleaning station, and water fill stations. Some amenities may be limited or seasonal.
- How can I make a reservation for Hazelton Recreation Area?
- Reservations can be made through the official website at recreation.gov or by calling +1 701-255-0015. The data indicates that camping registration is required.
Final Verdict
Hazelton Recreation Area offers a straightforward camping experience with a focus on quiet relaxation and access to the Missouri River and Lake Oahe. While it lacks some amenities like a dump station and full hookups, its clean environment, friendly rangers, and affordable rates have earned positive feedback from many visitors. If you are looking for a simple, peaceful getaway in North Dakota, this campground is worth considering.
This review was compiled from information gathered from various public sources and visitor reviews, then organized into general informational content. Details may change over time and should be verified with the official source before planning your visit.
