North Dakota State Parks
Frequently asked questions
1. Are North Dakota's state parks open year-round?
All state parks with full-time staff are open year-round, with reduced services during the off-season.
The "off-season" typically runs from October 1 until mid-May. In preparation for freezing weather, park staff begin winterizing the comfort stations and draining campground water lines after the last full weekend in September, or sooner, if the weather forecast is for an early hard frost.
However, primitive camping is available for those who enjoy the uncrowded conditions and beautiful fall scenery. Once the snow flies, roads to the campgrounds are not plowed, but the parks do maintain access for cross-country skiers, cabin renters and other winter facilities.
To see which parks are open in the off-season and what services are available, check each park's home page.
2. Do I need a campsite reservation?
About half of all state park campsites are on the reservation system. The remainder are first come, first serve. We do recommend making a reservation on holiday weekends and at selected parks on special event weekends.
If you are camping mid-week, generally a reservation is not needed.
3. Are there limits to the size of an RV that you can accommodate?
Most North Dakota state parks have a variety of different types and sizes of camping pads—including pull-through sites. If you have a particular need, talk to the park aide at the entrance, tell the customer service representative when you make your reservation, or check the site description when you make your reservation online.
4. Do I have to pay the daily park entrance fee if I'm just sightseeing?
All motor vehicles entering a state park are required by statute to display a valid daily vehicle entrance permit or annual vehicle permit year-round. The daily fee is $5 per vehicle, and the annual permit is $25. That permit covers both you and others in your vehicle. Consider what you and your family would spend for other types of entertainment... amusement parks, movies, concerts, or a round of golf.
Park user fees directly fund 100% of all park operating costs, including routine maintenance, supplies, utilities, programing, and a share of seasonal salaries.
5. I pull a car behind my motorhome. Do I need to purchase two vehicle entrance permits?
Your motorhome is considered your camping unit. Therefore, you need to purchase just one entrance permit, which goes on your vehicle. This applies only for motorhomes towing a second vehicle.
If you and your family are arriving in more than one vehicle, then all vehicles must have entrance permits covering each full or partial day they are in the park.
Pets are welcome, provided they are restrained either by a 6 ft. leash or portable enclosure. Please pick up after your pets in all public use areas. There are some restrictions, however. Pets are not allowed on state park beaches, or in any buildings, including cabins and comfort stations.
7. How do I get a job at a North Dakota State Park?
Job announcements for both full-time and seasonal employees can be found under the "General information" link to the left of this page.
If you are looking for a full-time job in the natural resources field, consider applying for a seasonal position. The North Dakota State Parks system employs from 70 to 120 seasonal employees each summer, for jobs ranging from ranger to maintenance. It's a great way to get experience and allows you the opportunity to show us your abilities.
